Spring weather makes me want to go for a long hike with the entire family, and that means our dog, Bonnie, comes along, too. It's important to pack water, snacks, and extra layers for everyone, but since my daughters are young, they get tired carrying anything for too long. So I've been thinking about putting Bonnie to work. Check out this Kelty Chuck Wagon Dog Pack (medium, $50).
I so want this pack, since I have other packs (you know the ones for humans) made by Kelty and love them. They're well made, not too expensive, and really durable. This pack is great for dogs weighing 35 to 65 pounds, with a girth of 22 to 35 inches. The zippered compartments allow Bonnie to help carry the stuff we need, and she can even carry food and water for herself. I love that it's bright red, so we'll be able to see her easily in the woods. Depending on the size of your pooch, they also make this pack in small ($45) and large ($55).
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We've had this pack for our little guy for a couple of years. He could not be more proud to ware it. And, he gets to carry his own food and water on those long back-country trips.
1Awww...so cute!
2That's so cute! I would get that for my dog, except I think $50 is kinda steep. Dogs really like it when they have a job to do...including holding snacks for us!
3My pup has a pack! She loves it! Sometimes I put it on her when we are just kicking around the house. She trots around- we joke that she is a VIP- very important pup. Lots of important things to do! I don't have a Kelty pack- I found one else where for less money. Totally worth it.
4Really neat idea, not sure if I can get one of my doggies to wear. He chews everything off, including any type of collar I put on him for any time more than a long walk.
5That picture just cracks me up!
6AWW! I think I'm in love with that puppy! Does anyone know what kind of dog that is? Some sort of terrier?
7Cute!
8That's an Airedale Terrier. Cute as can be!
9love this idea! that's awesome
10My dog has this pack as well and the fit is great.
I recommend it for long hikes...at least 5 miles. I fill it with a simple dog first aid kit, treats, biodegradable poop bags and an extra leash (a very lightweight kind that you wouldn't normally use as a leash, just in case).
The thing about this pack is that it HAS to be balanced, otherwise it's going to slide around. If it's insanely hot out though, sometimes the pack can make your dog too hot...this happened on a nine mile hike, by the end of it I needed to carry it for her.
And I actually read somewhere that dogs like feeling like they're pulling their weight (literally). I'm not really sure if dogs feel a sense of accomplishment, but she doesn't mind the pack at all. It comes with a bear bell, which is a great idea actually if you hike alone because if a bear hears you coming it will most likely hide from you, but if you sneak up on it, things could escalate.
The most annoying thing is snide comments from hikers you pass: "Wow, you're putting your dog to work" and "Poor thing has to carry a heavy pack."
The most beneficial thing about it is if you have a very high energy dog, carrying a backpack can turn a very simple hike into a challenge for your dog and the more exercise they get, the better life will be for them.
11awwww thats so cute!
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