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The best dog backpacks for your adventurous pooch

For many, a dog carrier backpack might seem over the top. But for the explorer in search of beauty in remote nature, national parks, and the less-beaten path, they are a critical piece of equipment that ensures the safety of their four-legged friend. Get a leg up on your next adventure with the best backpack for dogs we’ve found on the internet.

Whether you are looking for a daylong hike or multiple days exploring the backcountry, equipping your furball with one of the best carrier backpacks for dogs is the way to go. Not only will they look super cool, they will also be able to stay warm, fed, and well taken care of in any situation. For dogs that need a bit more of exercise, a small amount of extra weight during the daily walks can promote a faster metabolism. Check out our favorite models.

Outward Hound Dog Backpack

Best Features

The Outward Hound Dog Backpack allows easy sharing of carrying the load with your pet. Just fasten this harness-style bag to your dog and store your keys, wallet, and other small items along with your dog’s snacks and water stash. The mesh material is breathable and will keep your dog fresh.

OneTigris Dog Saddle Bag

Best Style

If you want your dog look stylish and be prepared for the trail, the OneTigris Dog Saddle Bag will be your favorite one. Made of high-density cotton canvas and a retro design, this dog backpack has two main zipper compartments to carry food, waste-disposal bags, water, and even your dog’s favorite toys. Make sure that you don’t overload your dog and start with loads no bigger than 10% of their body weight.

Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack

Best Dual Function

If you are looking for an option that doubles as a harness, the Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack is the way to go. The included D-ring is a sturdy leash attachment point, and the padded handle and comfortable construction are super useful to lift and assist your dog on steep hikes. The two side pockets offer plenty of storage without creating strain on your pet.

Dogs love exploring nature. They quickly connect with their natural instincts and show a wonderful side of their personality that is asleep in domestic settings. Make sure you give your dog the chance to enjoy the great outdoors with this curated selection of dog backpacks and let the adventure begin.

Why you shouldn’t feed your dogs trail mix
3 reasons why dogs can't eat trail mix or their common ingredients
A Yorkshire terrier licks their lips and looks into the camera

At first glance, trail mix might look like a healthy snack for everyone in your home. It has a little sugar, some healthy fats, and a small number of carbohydrates to keep you going throughout the day. Sounds great, right?
Although people can eat as much trail mix as they please, the same isn't true for our canine friends. There are many ingredients in this popular combo that aren't safe for dogs to eat. Let's go over a few of the reasons why as we answer some of the most common questions:

Can dogs eat raisins?
Why can't dogs eat trail mix?
Which nuts are safe for dogs to eat?

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5 safe and fun adventures you can plan with your small dog
Your small dog can do just as much as a big one if you follow these tips
Cute small dog stands in front of a blurred background

As a small dog owner, you might gaze longingly at the humans who can play endless games of fetch with their shepherds and go for 5-hour walks accompanied by their collies. But you can have all sorts of good times with your little guy. Don't let their size stop you from planning outings together. While, of course, you'll need to work within your beastie's physical constraints, there are lots of things you can do while accommodating their diminutive size.

Hang at the dog park
This is the pastime of many dogs, both large and small. Don't stay away from the park just because your bud can't race around for hours on end. Many parks now specifically set aside sections for small breeds. Take your pup there to find friends of a similar size. If you want to foray into the big dog section (or there isn't an area available for your pup), you can always ask the group if the dogs in there are friendly to their little cousins.
Go for hikes
While it might take a little preparation (and possibly a dog sling), your tiny Fido can enjoy hiking, too. You should work up to this by doing a little bit more each day or each week until they're ready to strike out for a longer adventure. Also, be sure to prep with necessary accouterments, such as water, treats, possibly a dog carrier, and mushers wax if it's winter.
Travel together
One of the biggest benefits of having a little dog is they can go on planes and trains. If your pooch seems to enjoy exploring new places, take them with you on vacation. The fees to travel by air can be a little high and there are some rules (you need them to lie down quietly under the seat for the duration of the flight). But for many doggies, they prefer the flight to staying behind with a sitter.

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What to do when dog obedience training stalls
These tips may help you and your pet tackle dog obedience training regression
A woman training a dog

Signing up for dog obedience training is one of the first orders of business after you bring your new addition home. Your pup may have started strong and even graduated with flying colors. They sat, stayed, and came running to you like they were on the fast track for the Westminster Dog Show. Even better, they were housebroken — no more accidents to clean. Having a well-trained dog keeps your pup safe and you less stressed. 
What happens if, all of a sudden, that goes out the window? Perhaps your dog is still in training but suddenly stops following commands or struggles to progress to the latest lessons. Your pet may also have post-dog obedience training regression days or even years after graduating. 
It can be highly troubling for dog parents, who want the best for their pets and kitchen floors. Here’s how to get Fido back on track with training. 

Reasons dog obedience training stalls
Figuring out what triggered the slowdown or regression in training is essential in mapping out appropriate next steps. There are many reasons your dog may not be taking to training anymore.

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