Best Dog Backpack for Alaskan Malamute (2024) – Top 4 Choices

Finding the right dog backpack for your Alaskan Malamute can be a challenge, with so many options available. But with a breed that’s known for its active and adventurous nature, it’s essential to have a backpack that can handle your dog’s needs.

When looking for a backpack for your Alaskan Malamute, consider the following factors: size, durability, comfort, and storage capacity. Look for a backpack that is designed for larger breeds, with sturdy materials and a comfortable fit for your dog.

Additionally, make sure the backpack has ample storage space for all your necessary items, including water, food, and other supplies. With the right backpack, you and your Alaskan Malamute can hit the trails and embark on new adventures together.

Before looking at the packs, here a few things to consider.

When choosing a dog backpack for your Alaskan Malamute, here are some important factors to consider:

• Size and fit – Alaskan Malamutes are a large breed, so you need to make sure the backpack fits your dog comfortably without slipping off or restricting their movement.
• Weight capacity – Alaskan Malamutes are also heavy dogs, so make sure the backpack you choose can support their weight without sagging or causing discomfort.
• Durability – Alaskan Malamutes are strong and adventurous dogs, so you need a backpack that is built to last and can withstand rugged use.
• Comfort – Look for a backpack that has padded straps and breathable materials to keep your dog comfortable and cool during extended use.
• Convenience – Consider a backpack with multiple pockets and compartments that can be easily accessed on the trail.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best dog backpack for your Alaskan Malamute and enjoy all the outdoor adventures together!

With that said, let’s look at 4 backpacks that are great for hiking with Alaskan Malamutes.

Best Dog Backpack for a Alaskan Malamute

Pettom Dog Saddle Backpack 2-in-1 Saddlebag & Vest Harness

The Pettom Backpack is an excellent choice for Alaskan Malamutes on day hikes and overnight trips. With its 2-in-1 modular design, it can be used as a standalone vest harness or a full backpack. The saddle bags can also be easily detached for rest breaks.

It has ample space for a leash, food, water, treats, and other essentials. However, it runs a bit large, and the zippers could be improved with an attached tab or tassel.

The backpack is available in green or red and has the following dimensions: (Medium) 16 inches x 5 inches x 10 inches with a capacity of 14 liters (854 cubic inches) and weighs 1.8 pounds. It features reflective stripes and trim for low-light visibility, adjustable compression straps, a top safety handle for quick restraint, a D-ring for attaching a leash, and removable saddlebags for stream crossings.

The backpack is made of waterproof material, has a breathable mesh lining, and a weight-forward design for natural movement. The Pettom Backpack offers good value for its features and usability, making it a top contender for the best dog backpack for Alaskan Malamutes.

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Ruffwear Approach Full-Day Hiking Pack for Dogs

The Ruffwear Approach Full-Day Hiking Pack is ideal for day hikes and has enough space for overnight trips. Compared to the Ruffwear Palisades Pack, this backpack has a lower profile and is more affordable. Although some people have reported difficulties in adjusting the straps and balancing the pack, it is still a great choice for your Alaskan Malamute.

• Available in four colors: Campfire Orange, Meadow Green, Orange Poppy, and Pacific Blue.
• Dimensions: (Medium) 16.5 inches x 15.5 inches x 8 inches.
• Capacity: 13 liters (793 cubic inches).
• Weight: 1 pound.

Key Features:

• Reflective stripes and trim for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
• Weight-forward design allows natural movement while walking.
• Easily accessible pockets with tabs on the zippers.
• 5 points of adjustable harness for a secure fit.
• Padded straps to prevent skin irritation and chafing.
• Padded handle for lifting or restraining.
• Two leash attachment points.
• External gear loops for extra items.

The Ruffwear Approach Full-Day Hiking Pack is an affordable and well-designed option that offers a lot of features for its price.

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Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack

The Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack is a top-notch option for your Alaskan Malamute. This pack was designed with the help of a Colorado sled dog veterinarian to ensure a comfortable and ergonomic fit. It boasts two large saddlebag pockets and includes ample padding in all contact points with your dog. Some users have reported issues with the straps slipping, but overall this pack provides excellent value for its price.

• Available Colors: Azure Blue, Heritage Black, Heritage Red.
• Dimensions: (Medium) 13 inches x 9 inches x 11 inches.
• Capacity: 24 liters (1,464 cubic inches).
• Weight: 1 pound.

Key Features:

• Large 24-liter capacity.
• Durable rip-stop 210 Denier nylon construction.
• High-quality YKK zippers with tabs and tassels for easy opening and closing of pockets.
• Reflective strips on the front, rear, and side panels for better visibility in low-light conditions.
• Extra padding under the straps and buckles for comfortable fit and support.
• Metal D-ring for leash or lead attachment.
• Ventilation-enhancing air mesh panels on the undersides.
• Rounded safety handle for easy grabbing.
• Back harness can be adjusted separately from the pockets.
• Adjustment tabs on the top that open for quick tightening or loosening of the straps.

At the lowest price among the packs reviewed, the Mountainsmith K-9 is an unbeatable bargain.

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Ruffwear Palisades Pack – Medium

For extended backcountry adventures, Ruffwear’s Palisades Pack is a top pick. With a dual-system design featuring a harness that can be used on its own or attached to saddle bags with clips, this pack offers versatility not found in other options.

However, it should be noted that the pack is not waterproof, so items inside are vulnerable to moisture. This can be mitigated by lining the pockets and pouches with plastic bags and securing them to keep water out.

The Palisades boasts a large 17.5-liter capacity and features expandable pockets with multiple zippered openings, a cross-load compression system for a secure fit, and removable saddlebags for easy water crossing.

The pack also includes a pair of collapsible 1-liter BPA-free water bottles to keep your Alaskan Malamute hydrated on the trail. With an anodized aluminum D-ring leash attachment point, a padded safety handle, and tabbed zippers, this pack is packed with features and is ideal for weekend trips and more serious backpacking adventures.

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