A hiking we will go! Whether you and your pooch are heading out for a hike or roughing it, a dog backpack will allow you to share the load.

While history shows our pooches were wild, instinctive creatures that travelled and hunted in packs, today’s canine has not only expanded his tribe membership to include humans and the family cat, but has also willingly accepted a new chore as the pack leader… or should I say the back-pack leader. Yes, it seems back-packing pooches are a growing trend and while Rover’s newfound love of toting supplies is a handy service to we humans apparently it also does our little guys the world of good.

Firstly, the fitted backpack can have a calming effect on dogs that are skittish. Similar to the Thundershirt used on pups who suffer meltdowns during particularly loud storms, the pack can hug the dog’s torso and provide a measure of pressure that is considered soothing by the wearer.

Related:Why Your Dog Needs a Life Jacket

They also give your pet a purpose or task that he can focus on during walks or hikes. Whether it’s carrying his water bowl and treats, small grocery items, or even camping equipment, a pack dog can actually carry up to 25 percent of his weight when properly distributed in saddlebags.

But before you toss the bundle-buggy and load Rover up like a pack mule, remember that like humans, dogs need to build up stamina before taking on a long hike with a heavy payload. Get him started slowly, with shorter walks and an empty back pack. Gradually build up the weight in the pack and the length of the journey.

Related:How To Outfit Your Pooch With The Right Dog Backpack

Tips for purchasing a pack for local/short walks:

Tips for purchasing a pack for mountain hikes or longer excursions:

If you’re wondering where to begin, here’s a shortlist of some of the top five back-packs on the market:

Outward Hound Kyjen Quick Release Saddlebag Backpacks

Ideal for shorter, local walks these backpacks are designed for dogs of all sizes and are affordably priced. Along with quick release saddlebags, lightweight materials and reflective accents, these packs include water bottle holders and mesh pockets for sundries such as keys, cash and of course, treats.

Kurgo Baxter Dog Backpack

Great for neighborhood jaunts, this affordable backpack is designed for medium dogs (30-85 pounds) with the Big Baxter version for dogs up to 110 pounds. Both offer sturdy handles for lifting Rover over rough terrain, an ergonomic spine support to protect his back, waterproof fabrication and a smaller harness which ensures better ventilation in warm weather climates.

Ruffwear Palisades

A bit pricey, this pack was created for the serious hiker and his dog that enjoy longer excursions with a heavier payload. The weight-forward packs are well balanced and won’t stress your dog’s neck or back. Padded handles and girth straps make it comfortable while two collapsible water bladders work as both a cooling system and extra padding.

Ruffwear Approach

A scaled down version of the Palisades, this backpack is made with ultra-durable 1680 denier nylon and offers an efficient weight forward pack. Padded girth straps and a Y-breast strap ensure a snug, comfortable fit for your pooch. While sturdy enough for trails, the packs units are not detachable which can prove problematic in heavily forested areas or when crossing rivers or creeks.

Granite Gear Alpha Dog Pack

Great for neighborhood jaunts, this affordable backpack is designed for medium dogs (30-85 pounds) with the Big Baxter version for dogs up to 110 pounds. Both offer sturdy handles for lifting Rover over rough terrain, an ergonomic spine support to protect his back, waterproof fabrication and a smaller harness which ensures better ventilation in warm weather climates.

Mary Simpson is an animal-loving writer and communications professional. A soft touch for anything stray, she shares her century home with an eclectic collection of rescues that include orange tabby Chico, tuxedo Simon, and jet black Owen. She enjoys running, politics, exploring local wine regions and is an avid supporter of the “shop local” movement.