Bottom Line
The Wilderdog Dog Backpack is a fun choice for dog owners seeking a simple, lightweight pack for urban walks and hikes with a little outdoorsy flair.
It has a lightweight design and spacious saddlebags. Plus, the built-in poop bag dispenser is a convenient feature, and we appreciate how easy it is to access waste bags during daily walks or short day hikes. *Shout out to the dog owners who don’t forget to pack out poo bags!
The pack performed well during testing in central Washington, but it lacks padding on the underside straps and rubbed on longer hikes. It doesn’t stay in place well, and the additional shifting can be an issue, especially for short-haired dogs. The zippers, though convenient, can open when brushed against obstacles, and some items can fall out on the trail, especially if the dog is off-leash.
Still, this pack offers solid value for those who prioritize simplicity, style, and everyday functionality over durability. If you’re seeking more secure, adventure-ready options, check out our guide to the best dog backpacks for top-performing alternatives.
How We Tested
We tested the Wilderdog Dog Backpack in central Washington over several weeks, using it on day hikes, daily walks, and overnight trips. Our testing included a mix of urban and backcountry environments, assessing the pack’s comfort, durability, and functionality in varied conditions, from dry trails to light rain and rocky terrain.
Quick Specs
Wilderdog Dog Backpack
Best Urban Hikes Dog Backpack
CleverHiker Rating: 3.4/5.0
Price: $70
Weight: 9.5 – 14.5 oz
Volume: 5L, 8L, 12L
Fits Chest Girth: 17-34 in.
Pros
- Built-in poop bag dispenser
- Large capacity
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant materials
Cons
- Lack of padding
- Zippers open in brush
- Straps could be more secure
Fit & Comfort
The Wilderdog Dog Backpack has a lightweight fit and is one of the easiest packs to adjust and secure. It has four adjustment points and a built-in harness, and we found that it conforms well to most dogs, though the fit isn’t perfect for every body type.
During testing, the pack remained stable on our 90-pound husky mix during hikes when on a leash. However, when off-leash, the bag shifted quickly as he leaped over obstacles or ran through brush.
There is also a lack of padding on the underside straps. While the minimal design keeps the weight down, dogs with sensitive skin or those prone to chafing may find this uncomfortable on longer hikes. Additionally, some owners of smaller dogs may want an extra-small option, and the current sizing doesn’t accommodate small breeds very well.
Weight Distribution & Capacity
The Wilderdog Dog Backpack boasts an impressive storage capacity, but it may be overkill for day trips. Available in 5L, 8L, and 12L sizes, it provides ample room for trail essentials, including water bottles, treats, leashes, and waste bags. The saddlebags might be oversized for certain dogs, particularly in the larger 12L size.
When the pack is fully loaded, the bag shifts more easily, and the pack can tilt when the dog shakes or moves quickly off-leash. A slightly longer saddlebag design might improve balance for dogs carrying heavier loads.
Durability
The Wilderdog Backpack is made with high-quality materials, but its durability is lacking, especially when compared to similar packs. It held up okay when brushing against rocks or branches on the trail, but because we’ve only tested the pack for a few months, the pack’s longevity has yet to be determined.
We noticed some minor fraying in the handle and straps, and the zippers are not very secure, which leads us to believe they may wear down quickly.
Ease of Use
The design of this pack is one of the easiest to adjust and put on right out of the box. The strap system is straightforward, even when stopping and adjusting on the trail, it didn’t take long.
The downside of the adjustment system is that it loosens easily when hiking, and we found ourselves adjusting the pack frequently during use, especially when the leash was attached to it.
Our favorite part of this pack’s design is the built-in poop bag dispenser. In fact, we hope other brands will consider their own version of this system. The poo bag feature makes it easy to stop and clean up after your dog and can hold a full roll of bags. One unfortunate downside is that, although the storage compartments are spacious, the zippers tend to slip open, making them less secure.
Safety Features
The Wilderdog Dog Backpack features a grab handle and reflective accents as standard safety measures. The leash attachment points are well-placed and handle sudden tugs quite well, but the stitching around these areas could wear down over time.
One drawback is the strap design. Dogs could slip or back out if not properly adjusted because the harness consists mainly of straps rather than a full-body panel. A backup leash connection to a collar or harness may provide additional security.
Weather Resistance
The Wilderdog Dog Backpack features a water-resistant fabric that does a good job repelling light rain and splashes. During our rain tests, water beaded on the surface, keeping the contents dry in mild conditions. However, in more extreme scenarios, such as prolonged exposure to rain or full submersion, water seeps into the interior within seconds.
Ventilation is another factor to consider. While the pack is lightweight and doesn’t trap much heat, the lack of padding and mesh panels means no additional moisture control underneath the straps. Hot environments could cause discomfort or chaffing for some dogs, particularly those with thicker fur.
Should You Buy the Wilderdog Backpack?
The Wilderdog Backpack is best for dog owners who hike casually or want their dog to have the ability to carry some of their things on long walks. It’s ideal for medium to large dogs but lacks inclusive sizing for smaller dogs or dogs with unique body shapes. While the investment may be worthwhile for frequent hikers and longer urban walks, more casual users might find a simpler, lighter alternative sufficient.
What Other Dog Packs Should You Consider?
If you’re considering the Wilderdog Backpack, it’s worth comparing it with other dog backpacks that have similar features and slight variations in capacity, fit, or durability. Our best dog backpack guide highlights a range of options for different needs, and here are three alternatives:
Outward Hound DayPak Review: The best small-capacity dog backpack for day hikes and casual outings, the Outward Hound DayPak features an ultralight, breathable design with expandable pockets. While the Wilderdog Backpack provides a larger capacity, the DayPak is a budget-friendly alternative for smaller breeds or those carrying only light loads.
Ruffwear Approach Review: Ideal for longer treks, the Ruffwear Approach offers a larger capacity (up to 21L) and a well-balanced weight distribution system. Compared to the Wilderdog Backpack, it has a more structured fit with a Y-shaped chest piece for added stability.
AlphaPak Adventurer Review: Our top overall pick, the AlphaPak Adventurer, has water-resistant recycled materials, a stable fit, and an innovative EZ Latch system allowing for saddlebag removal. It offers better versatility than the Wilderdog Backpack because of the dual-purpose harness and pack system.
