Have a wee adventure pup who may want or need to hitch a ride? Ruffwear have just released a new lightweight, technical dog carrier that is secure & comfortable (for both you & your dog!)
Ruffwear Hitch Hiker Dog Backpack Carrier Size Chart
To find the best size Hitch Hiker Dog Backpack Carrier Pack:
Measure around your dog's girth/chest at the widest point behind their front legs.
If your dog is exactly between sizes, you can use your dog's back length to help determine whether to size up or down. Back length is from the base of their neck, where their collar sits, to the base of their tail.
** Your dog's chest measure is the primary measure to determine size. Only use the back length if they are exactly in-between sizes.
How high or low your dog will sit in the bag will depend on your dog's unique shape.
Have a puppy?
If your dog is still young and has a little more growing to do, you can try holding the tape measure around their chest at the cut-off measure between the sizes (so 43cm or 56cm). This may help you estimate the growth room left in that size.
You could prop them up inside the pack with a soft towel if they are still very little.
Share even more adventures with your canine sidekick with the Hitch Hiker Dog Backpack Carrier – a lightweight, technical dog carrier designed so dogs can hitch a ride when needed. The dual locking zippers create a wide opening so you can easily load or unload your pup. Once your pooch is in the pack, the integrated harness will keep them comfortable, secure and facing forward so they can see the trail ahead. Air mesh side panels at the base boost air flow so they don't get too hot.
For the human, there is a external grab handle that helps you lift and shoulder the pack when your dog is in it. Once on your back, the pack has been designed to evenly distribute your dog's weight and there are cinch straps to pull your dog secure & close. The torso length of the pack is also adjustable.
For your comfort, there are padded shoulder pads, a breathable back panel and a supportive hip-belt. Plus pockets on the hip belt allow you to store your essentials like pick-up bags, treats, and most phones. You can also stash a soft flask, packable bowl, or other extras in the external zippered stretch pocket which is at the base of the pack.
Available in 3 sizes based off your dog’s girth measurement, and comfortably accommodates dogs up to 18kg/40 lbs.
The human hip belt fits waists 53-149 cm (21-58").
How to Choose the Best Size Ruffwear Hitch Hiker Dog Backpack Carrier
Available in 3 sizes - Choose primarilybased on the measurement of your dog's girth - which isaround the widest part of their chest.
If your dog is exactly in-between sizes, you can use your dog's back length to help you choose. Back length is from the base of the neck (where the collar sits), along the spine to the base of the tail. Note: Remember the chest measure is the most important!
Size
Dog's Chest Measure
Max Back Length
XXS
33-43cm (13-17")
48cm (19")
XS
43-56cm (17-22")
56cm (22")
S
56-69cm (22-27")
61cm (24")
Learn How to Sit Your Dog in the Hitch Hiker Dog Backpack Carrier
Key Features of Ruffwear Hitch Hiker Dog Backpack Carrier
Built in adjustable harness with cinch straps - keeps your dog secure & comfortable
Dual locking zippers that open wide!- so you can easily load up or unload your pup!
Air mesh side panels - for better breathability, air flow & temperature management
Adjustable, padded shoulder straps, torso length & hip belt - adjust it so it sits comfortably on yourself as well
Zippered hip belt pockets - for essentials & fits most phones
Zippered external stretch pocket on back - ideal to fit a fit soft sided water flasks (up to 500ml)
Reflective trim for better visibility in low-light - plus a light loop to attach a The Beacon (sold separately)
Sizing based on your dog's girth measurement; comfortably accommodates dogs up to 18kg or 40 lbs
Care
Hand wash only with mild detergent. Air dry.
Materials
Shell (bluesign® approved): 150D polyester (40% recycled) ripstop with nonfluorinated DWR and PU coating
We love the harness! Our furry girl is comfortable and looks super stylish in her new get up. We have tried other harnesses but found this to be the best by far, its sit well on her body that allows for stability and comfort. We have gone for hikes and the handle, and areas and the way the harness fastens allowed us to easily hold on to her to make sure she is safe and secure when needed. :) 5 Stars
Excellent lightweight raincoat. The XS size is slightly large on my Tibetan Terrier, but as she’s only 10 months I expect it will be perfect once she’s full grown (around 10-11 kg). Very impressed that I was contacted after ordering to check sizing as the size id ordered was different to a previously purchased harness. Amazing service.
Great length and super lightweight, but very strong even when the dog pulls suddenly.
Doesn’t tangle easily, even when walking two dogs (Tibetan Terriers approx 12 kg each). Love the clip attachment on the handle.
Using it on a frenchie that has had cruciate ligament surgery and has to be on a leash at all times. I bought the harness as well on the recommendation of a dog physio.
