I've tried different brands of dog backpacks for hiking with my shih-tzu, Pippin. The K9 Sport Sack brand is by far his favorite to ride along inside! It is also my favorite because of the way it disperses the weight on my back while I'm hiking. We recently upgraded to the Knavigate option so that I would have more room for storage underneath for longer hikes. I LOVE the feature and the hip belt option as well! Pippin also loves the way he can see out over the shoulder of whoever is carrying him. The ONLY suggestion I would make is that I wish the water bottle pockets on the sides were made to accommodate larger bottles. I like to carry 32oz. bottles with me when I hike, and the pockets are just not big enough for that size bottle. Otherwise, awesome pack approved by me and my dog!

Used the pack for the first time taking our dogs to peak a mountain. It was our Border Terrier’s first trail and we were uncertain how he would cope with snow and scrambling on the tougher sections. He did did great until the steep, slippery down hill leaps and landings. At that point he was put in the pack. According to the group, he had a very satisfied look on his face. He didn’t struggle at all. I was happy because my hands were free for balance and safety. The pack did what it was intended for. Some modifications would be nice. 1) add a carabeaner for clipping in a harness, rather than a front one, which can only clip a collar, 2) as the pack is intended for more rugged adventures such as biking and day hikes, the bottom storage section needs to have enough space for day hike essentials. It could easily be made deeper. 3) a space for a water bladder or larger side pockets for more substantial water bottles.

Pleasantly surprised by quality of order. Heartfelt thank you.
I am able to carry doge as she is senior and cannot walk long. Now it's possible for her to join me on longer trails.

I've been looking for a backpack that could not only hold my dog but also hold my gear. I bought the small pack for my 15 lb dog and it fits perfectly. I'm glad I found this pack because it allows me to bring my 13 year old dog on hikes giving me the option to carry him when he gets tired.

I purchased this carrier for our camping trip to Colorado. We have a pug and at times he gets tuckered out quick, so we wanted a way to keep him with us on our hikes. Especially seeing where we live the elevations is 610 ft and where were were camping was 9,000 ft, having a comfy carrier was that much more important. I’m SO impressed!! I had my 28 pound dog strapped to my back for the entire hike, aside from potty/water/snack breaks and both Fenton and I were comfortable the entire time! (I know this because on several occasions he fell asleep to the point of snoring). When he was awake, he was smiling like crazy! Even fellow hikers commented on that! I’m so very happy with this purchase! On top of that, the customer service is top notch. I also ordered the sunglasses and a custom name patch. Unfortunately (?) I received the wrong one (Poncho) but was quickly sent the correct one (Fenton). That being said, we decided that “Poncho” is now Fentons trail name. ;). Thank you so much for this amazing carrier and accessories!!!