Ruffwear's newest version Approach Dog Pack is perfect for day hikes & light overnight stays! It is rugged and loaded with features, yet lightweight & comfortable for your pup!
The Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack is a great camping and trekking dog backpack that is ideal for day hikes or light overnight adventures. The saddlebags are radially and sit on a built-in/integrated harness ensuring the pack fits comfortably and stays stable on your dog's back..
The Approach Pack has a perforated, molded foam chassis so it is breathable and has a flexible fit. Plus, in 2022, the pack was updated with more from fade-resistant materials, an updated flopper stopper system for easier use when stabilising the panniers, and more streamlined saddlebag volumes.
ADD any dog leash to your order & SAVE 10% on the leash! Use 'SETSAVE10' at checkout
Sizing
Measure around your dog's girth/chest - just behind your dog's front legs & at the widest part (so measure around it just like you were measuring around your own chest). Click here for a video on how to measure your dog's chest.
It is important for the pack to fit snug. Just like with saddlebags on a horse the pack should fit snugly so it stays stable and doesn't shift and rub.
**Ruffwear recommend sizing 'down' if your dog is in-between sizes.
Do NOT size up just to get extra capacity - always choose according to chest measure.
Size
Fits Chests Measuring
Capacity
Weight of Pack
XS
43-56cm (17-22")
5 L
0.33kg
S
56-69cm (22-27")
10 L
0.43kg
M
69-81cm (27-32")
13 L
0.50kg
L/XL
81-107cm (32-42")
21 L
0.59kg
* NOTE: it is not recommended that your dog carry more than 20% of their body weight in their dog pack (including the weight of the pack). If your dog is new to dog packs, start with an empty bag and gradually work up from a light to a heavier load as your dog gets accustomed to wearing the pack.
Features
Side Stash Pockets Keep Gear Organised - the panniers have 2 zipped compartments per side so your dog can carry their food, water, leads, bowls or other trail essentials. The zippers are coated to run smooth & there are external gear loops.
Designed for Stable Gear Carry - the saddlebags are radially cut & designed for weight forward carry. Plus there are flopper stoppers to help stabilise the pack & it's contents.
Handy padded handle on the back - the padded back handle & girth straps allow you to assist your dog over rocks & obstacles in a controlled & comfortable manner.
Two leash attachment points - there is a single-piece aluminium V-ring just at the front of the back handle & a reinforced webbing loop sitting further back behind the handle.
5 adjustment points - the pack can be adjusted & snugly fitted to a wide variety of dog shapes. With proper fitting, the pack will should stay stable (not slide back and forth) & should not interfere with your dog's range of motion.
Low-light visibility trim - reflective trim runs across each side of the pack for improved visibility in low light. There is also a light loop to attach The Beacon safety light (sold separately)
How to Fit & Adjust the Approach Pack
Learn about the Key Features of the Approach Pack
Materials
Shell: 150 denier polyester
Harness chassis: Laminated, molded bonded mesh and perforated foam
Ruffwear Approach Dog Backpack - Day Hiking & Overnight Adventures
J
Jarrod
Sturdy, comfy and durable!
My Dog loves his backpack. He barely noticed it on his back, cambering over and under trees was no issue for him, and there was plenty of room for everything he needs!
P
Philadelphia H.
Still an adventure pup in training ..
Indy loves her Approach Pack - Ruffwear Dog Backpack for Day Hikes & Overnight Adventures!
She's still a pup but she's learning how to be an adventure doggo. The second I pull it out she knows we are up to something. It is easy to get on and the clips and adjustability of it see that it fits her now and when she becomes fully grown.
Even empty it doesn't flop around to annoy her. She LOVES wearing it and it doesn't seem to restrict her ability to move naturally.
We are looking forward to bigger adventures together with it.
IG: @phila_holmes
D
Dee
Highly recommend the Approach Pack for large dogs
Great quality and fit, snug with little movement, maremma behaves better when wearing it on walks. Love all the features, no complaints, great product.
J
Julie N.
The pack fits really well and I love the way the front under leg straps are angled back as there seems to be less risk of chafing.
We are very happy with our purchase.Rummy is feeling comfortable in his new harness which is easy to fit and put on and keeps him safe and comfortable on his walks. It’s durable and easily washed with quality fittings.
My Whippy Jet is loving the freedom to walk without his neck feeling restricted. The harness is incredibly great quality and looks fabulous. I receive so many compliments.
The harness is flexible and seems comfortable, the design allows for a spread of any force rather than putting pressure on the front of the neck, and I particularly appreciate the material extending beneath the clips so I can snap them closed without catching my dog’s very fine fur in them, or my fingers!
Skye loves it, she can sleep and wear it all day comfortable. It is super light but strong as she tends to pull when excited. Other brands I've had causes her to wheeze due to her pulling as the harnesses would place pressure on the chest unevenly. Don't have this problem now, it's wonderful, highly recommend.
The fit and styling is perfect for my JRT. Canine Spirit have been so helpful in finding the best fit. I can’t wait to start running training with my pup in her new gear!!