Here at Mountain Dog, dog backpack carriers are one of the products we are asked about the most.
Backpack carriers have rapidly become popular among dog lovers, serving as a functional, yet fashionable, way to bring your best friend out and about (and really, who can resist a cute dog in a carrier?!)
So, you order your shiny new dog backpack, it turns up, it looks amazing, and you're all ready to get your dog fitted!
Which leads us to the age-old question - what is the best method for getting your dog into the carrier? Follow the below guidance, to get the best experience possible for you and your best friend.
Training
In the same way you would teach your dog to use the bathroom outside, or teach them not to nibble your feet (looking at all the puppies out there who seem to think they're mini sharks!), the carrier requires some reassurance and training.
Thankfully, dogs typically learn very quickly - especially with some encouragement and treats to sweeten the deal.
Remember, especially if this is your dog's first experience with a carrier, that this is unfamiliar to them at first! However, our dogs learn quickly, and with plenty of practice, encouragement, and some great experiences, your dog will soon become accustomed to the bag.
From our extensive experience and many years of sizing, fitting and using a range of carriers and brands, we've come up with the following top tips:
- Introductions! When introducing your dog to the carrier, make sure there aren't any distractions or loud noises, especially if your pup is nervous. A negative first experience could make your dog reluctant to try again.
- Familiarity! Once introduced, leave the bag within reach of the dog - this allows them to investigate it, and being in your home and around your dog, the bag will pick up any familiar smells. Please be sure to supervise during this step - we wouldn't want any investigative chewing!
- Lots of treats! Associating the carrier with yummy treats can go a long way in getting your dog excited to use the bag.
- Verbal praise! Reassurance from their human can help a dog feel at ease when in the bag - even praise them for simply investigating it.
Whatever you do, don't give up!
Ready To Try!
With your dog ready to try out the carrier, follow the below instructions depending on your type of carrier.
K9 Sport Sack
Step 1 - The backpack should be laid out on the ground, unzipped and unbuckled.
Step 2 - With the carrier fully open, have your dog lay in the carrier, with their rump at the base of the bag. Ideally, they should be sat in a 'sphinx' position or laying.
Step 3 - Work your dog's front legs through the leg holes, then buckle the collar closure up - doing these steps early helps stop any houdini dogs from wriggling out.
Step 4 - With your dog's rump still near the base of the bag, tuck their legs in if they aren't already - watch out for the tail!
Step 5 - With your dog secure in the bag, zip up the carrier to the very top.
Step 6 - Clip and cinch up the lumbar straps. Finally, attach the interior carabiner clip to your dog's collar.
Step 7 - Balance the bag safely on an flat surface, keeping hold of the bag using the backpack loop. Thread your arm through the shoulder straps, and lift, before putting the other strap on.
Hitch Hiker Carrier
Step 1 - The backpack should be laid out on the ground, with both of the dual zippers fully opened and all straps fully loosened.
Step 2 - With the carrier fully open, have your dog lay in the carrier, with their rump at the base of the bag. They should be sat in a 'sphinx' position, with the Ruffwear logo pointing to the ceiling.
Step 3 - Zip up the dual zippers along the side.
Step 4 - Ensure your dog's legs are correctly positioned, before buckling your dog into the integrated harness.
Step 5 - With your dog secure in the bag, cinch up the adjustment straps that you loosened in Step 1, for a snug fit.
Step 6 - Grab the handle to lift the dog upright, and put the backpack on. You can also use a lower table or a chair for this step, to help you put the backpack on.
How Do I Know It Fits?
The carriers we stock often appear deceptively small when not in use - don't be fooled! Remember, these carriers are designed to fit snug to your dog, and fit almost like a coat. Please ensure you try the backpack before deciding it's too small.
The dog should sit quite alert in the bag, almost in a begging position. Ideally, their paws will rest on your shoulders, with their head looking over the shoulders.
Important - If you plan to use this carrier for an event or holiday, we would recommend ordering well in advance. This allows you to train your dog to use the carrier, in time for the occasion, and ensure you have selected the correct size.
Still need help? Reach out to us via email bark@mountaindog.uk or via telephone on 01670 343010.