Feb 18 2009
Does your dog tag along on adventures?
One of the best things about the outdoors is allowing my black lab mix to tag along on hiking trips, camping trips, bike rides, walks and runs. I really can’t imagine going on a backpacking trip without him. It tires him out, and once we get into the country he is a different dog. He observes, watches, smells and seems to appreciate the world rather than on our usual walks through the neighborhood – been there, done that.
I know many other people like to take their dogs on outdoor trips. It wouldn’t be right to leave the dog behind. If you have a dog that tags along on your outdoor adventures, I really recommend a dog backpack. It makes perfect sense.
My 60-pound dog eats a lot of food. He needs quite a bit to keep him going over a three or four-day trip. I have my own pack and gear to carry. So guess what? He carries all his own stuff – toys, treats, food, water and poop bags.
If you are interested in a pack for your dog, the brand I use is the Ruffwear dog backpack. It’s durable to put up with my dog crashing over rocks, through the snow or through the brush. It also has enough room to store all his supplies for about five days. It seems comfortable enough, he doesn’t mind wearing it once it’s on.
The backpack would be perfect for hunting dogs who could be helpful by carrying some extra gear – even for day trips. Dogs love to have a job to do, especially working and sporting breeds.
Does your dog have a backpack?