Dog Carrier Backpack | K9 Sport Sack™ Review
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored review. However, I will always offer my readers an unbiased and honest account of my experiences. Your trust is very appreciated, and never taken for granted. ~Tonya, Dexter and Angel Nutter
Dexter The Dog and I love exploring and traveling. There are so many fun sights to see and mountains to climb. Dexter’s heart and soul loves a good adventure, but unfortunately, his body isn’t always up for the challenge.
Why Use A Dog Carrier Backpack?
Dexter is a 9-year-young, large Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who also has Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia. This disease affects Dexter’s mobility and stamina. When Dexter and I travel, I always take his dog stroller for times when he needs a rest. This works exceptionally well when we have smooth terrain. Sadly, we have had to forgo some great adventures because they were not accessible.
For years, I have been on the lookout for a dog carrier backpack that would safely and comfortably hold my almost 30 pound BFF. I realize, 30 pounds is a lot to carry, but having the option to check out some of these spots, even for short bursts is worth my challenge.
Then I saw it, the K9 Sport Sack™ AIR PLUS. This pet carrier stated it would hold 40 pounds! And the K9 Sport Sack™ looked solid and long enough to hold my incredibly tall dog. After reading all the specs and watching their videos, I had high hopes that the K9 Sport Sack™ would be the perfect solution for Dexter.
K9 Sport Sack™ AIR PLUS Review
When I opened up the AIR PLUS, I was impressed by the quality of the dog backpack. The design offers plenty of ventilation for Dexter and padding for me. The sides are fully ventilated and also double as side pockets. The shoulder straps are thick and large enough to take the brunt of Dexter’s weight. There is also a padded back side, to buffer my back from Dexter’s body. The backpack also comes with a detachable storage bag to hold your dog’s gear.
Looking at the K9 Sport Sack™ I decided to lay it out on the ground, feet side down. The zipper runs across one entire side, allowing plenty of open space for me to place Dexter inside. I then positioned Dexter inside the backpack by luring him with a treat and asking him to sit. I picked up one of Dexter’s front feet and placed it inside the neoprene lined front leg holes, then did the same with his second front foot. After his feet were in, I asked him to down. When he was in the down position, I zipped him in.
The K9 Sport Sack™ AIR PLUS has a lot of adjustable straps to cinch Dexter inside so that he doesn’t fall out. These straps also help keep Dexter from sliding or moving too much inside, adding to Dexter’s comfort and overall security. Once he was all cinched in, it was time to maneuver him onto my back.
My mom helped me get the backpack with Dexter inside on my back. I wanted to make sure during this process Dexter was safe and didn’t try to do anything silly. Up he went. My mom and I both talked to Dexter while he was in the K9 Sport Sack™. He seemed totally happy and secure, so I started to go for a walk with my mom by my side.
Everything went well. Dexter was happy inside, looking around. He wasn’t wiggling or trying to get out. He actually felt a lot lighter than I had expected. I thought it was going to be a big physical struggle on my part, since I’m not a hiker, but I was pleasantly surprised at how natural it felt.
I am so happy that I found the K9 Sport Sack™ AIR PLUS and Dexter fits inside! I intend to take the dog backpack on all of our dog-friendly trips. Whenever Dexter and I find ourselves in a location that is too tough for him to explore, I will use our K9 Sport Sack™ with confidence.
If you’re looking for a dog carrier backpack that is designed for safety and comfort, check out the K9 Sport Sack™ AIR PLUS. Use promo code Dexter (case sensitive) for 15% off your first order. Offer is valid for other K9 Sport Sack products.
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If you have a pet small enough I think this looks great! Unfortunately my pup is too big and way too heavy (maybe I’m just not strong enough haha) for something like this. But for smaller dogs this looks great!
🙂 Definitely, still for medium to small dogs.
Good that you wrote about this product. I was looking for similar product but was not able to find any info.
I’m so glad to help! It’s taken me a few years to find a dog backpack that would fit Dexter.
My mum would love this! I told her I would buy her a carrier for her wee dog because she is always carrying the pup about. Spoilt rotten puppy!
lol It’s great that your mum takes her places. 🙂
Oh my goodness, I need one of these for Peanut who doesn’t let me go anywhere without him. I’m going to have to check them out for my mom’s little dog as well.
Fantastic! Don’t forget the discount code at the end of the post. 🙂
How cute is this puppy backpack! My dog is much too big but my friend has something similar and carries her little puppy with her and he seems to absolutely love it.
🙂 Yes, Dexter just skirts the size of being able to use a dog backpack. The K9 Sport Sack is the only one I could find that would safely and securely hold him.
I have always been curious about these packs. Ruby likes to walk, but sometimes not as far as I do so it might come in handy. Glad to know Dexter enjoyed it and the pack also has plenty of ventilation.
The K9 Sport Sack really is a great dog backpack and super quality. The ventilation is such a great feature.
Dexter is so cute! I’ve been considering getting something like this eventually. My oldest boy is 10 and although, currently, he’s still super active and does well keeping up on our adventures, I know the day will eventually come when he needs some help getting around. I’d happily carrying him about if it means he gets to continue to be included in our pack’s adventures.
Thanks, Michelle. Yes, it’s all about finding ways to include our pets in our activities and adventures. Live life to the fullest!
I have a paralyzed dog and this would be so perfect for her! I didn’t know they had a backpack for this! How cool and I’m definitely going to be checking this out for my dog!
Glad to share! <3 I love seeing pet parents looking for ways to include their special needs dogs.
Oh my god, I need one of these for my Starky! He always wants to go everywhere with me and this would be PERFECT!
🙂 Don’t forget the discount code. The K9 Sport Sack is so sturdy and secure. You and Starky will love it!
I have not seen anyone wearing a Dog Carrier Backpack but that’s a great thing! It looks like Dexter really enjoys!
I’m so happy to have a safe option for Dexter when he can’t walk. <3
Wow, this is such a cool product! Between his stroller and this wonderful backpack there is NO stopping Dexter from any adventure! Question; is there by chance a hook for a leash just in case you wanted to also let him down for pottying or short walks? That would be ideal. Sharing.
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
Thanks, Cathy. I’m so happy to be able to help Dexter keep up with us on all of our adventures. There is a hook inside the K9 Sport Sack that attaches to the collar. I also have Dexter’s leash on while he’s in the sack.
Hmm I knew there were backpacks for cats but didn’t realize they had the same for dog owners. This is cute. Dexter looks comfy and happy with Mom. I’ll have to pin this for my fellow do loving parents. This would make a great gift idea for active dog moms our there who enjoy the outdoors. Thanks for sharing your review.
Thanks, Kamira for sharing!
oh my this is pretty neat.
I love it!
I’m looking for a backpack and this one is cute the way the dog sits up over your shoulder like a toddler. I need something enclosed though since I have cats
I would look for more of a carry bag for a cat.
The K9 Sports Sack looks like a winner! We’ve been looking for a backpack to carry our boy pup – and same concern, he’s small, but muscular and runs warm. This pack looks perfect, sturdy, and has built in ventilation – thanks for sharing this Tonya! Oh, and Dexter looked super cute – and you looked so darned happy! 🙂
I think so! I’m super happy I found the K9 Sport Sack. It’s in Dexter’s travel gear.
I have always wanted a straddle or some kind of bag or backpack to carry Babu in for our hikes. He is old and cannot walk for a long time, definitely have to look into getting one.
So glad to share. I’m super happy with it!
That K9 sportsac is really adorable. This is actually the first time I have seen a doggie carrier! I now wonder if they make one for cats…haha…although I really do not want to let my cats out of the house!
Ya, I’m not sure how a kitty would do. I would look for something more like a kitty stroller or carrier bag.
Dexter is super cute. I love dogs and a dog bag is a must accessory for any dog parent. It’s nice to know that the company has thought of everything that makes doggo comfortable.
Thanks, Suman. Yes, lots of great designing in the K9 Sport Sack.
what a terrific carrier for a smaller dog. Our Lucy would have enjoyed that, especially as an older dog. She liked to walk then got suddenly tired and had to be carried home!
This is also a good bet for someone who needs to get to a dog park or safe area away from home and hot wear their dog out too much. What took people so long to develop such a great idea!
🙂 Yes, our senior dogs go-go-go then crash. The K9 Sport Sack is great for them!
Dexter looks so cute and content. I think only one of my 3 dogs would like this because of the positioning they have to be in, but that one would love it!
Thanks, Beth!
I can see carrying Cookie like this 🙂 But it looks very well designed.
🙂 It’s a great design and construction.
I love this concept! Whenever I take my dog it’s because I want her to exercise but for long walks I can see how this would come in handy!
🙂 With Dexter’s disability, it will come in very handy.
That is a super nice doggie backpack! I have Huskies and know at least one of them would probably love to have me carry them like this! BOL! I always said if we had a sled, she’d be riding in it and not pulling it! This does remind me of the video that went viral of a man walking with his Husky in a backpack…have you seen it?! Thanks for the great review!
LOL Thanks, Dorothy. I think I did see that video. Maybe he was in a train or something?
Hi Tonya! Ive been looking for a backback or front pouch and havent seen one that works for my 18lb westie. This looks good…except I noted you mentioned your mom helping you to put it and Dexter on your back. Would you say this takes 2 people to put on safely?
Many thanks in advance
Jinny
Hi, Jinny. Dexter is 30 pounds at the moment. I didn’t feel comfortable trying to maneuver into the K9 Sack without assistance, particularly since this was our first go at it. I also wanted to make sure Dexter was happy during the process and my mom was there for backup to make sure he was happy (he was) and not about to leap out. You can also wear the pack on your front. Given Dexter’s weight and my age, I will likely always ask for backup while getting him back there. I’m not sure that would be necessary for 18 pounds. That said, I would still have someone the first time out to make sure your Westie is happy. 🙂
Thank you Tonya! You share so much value…always!! Truly appreciate you!
Thanks, Jinny. I appreciate that. <3
This looks really great. I have a cavalier with severe pain because of SM. He is very sensitive on his back and sides and can’t stand collar and leash anymore. Do you think it works anyway? Not too tight around the dog’s body?
Hello, Anja. Dexter too has SM. The thing I’ve learned from the SM groups I’m in is that all the dogs are so different in what they can tolerate and where specifically they do not like to be touched etc. The K9 Sport Sack is not tight. You have the ability to tighten the points to where you would like them. I do know 1 other Cavalier with SM using this pack too. I would suggest contacting K9 Sport Sack first and talk with them. <3