Question:Do you think it makes a big difference. I have 2 dogs, one with endless energy that I usually walk off leash. The other is a large breed that prefers to lay down along our walk. I was thinking about getting a doggie backpack for my energetic dog to drain his energy a little faster. Any recommendations?
Answers:
I train Service Dogs.. and one of the tools I use is a dog pack. My favorite is made by http://www.wolfpacks.com/ They have great construction and they'll assist you in fitting the dog.
The walking off leash thing would definately not be good while the dog is wearing a pack... he could get snagged on something.
Feel free to email me if you have more questions.
Only when I'm taking them to school ;-)
Yes, I have heard that many dogs, especially if they are a 'working breed' like to wear back packs. It makes them feel as tho they are doing a job. Don't make it too heavy tho'. Maybe the dog could carry your bottled water and ?
That's a good idea. Put a water bottle in each side and head for the trails! Just remember to alternate what side you drink from so puppy doesn't tilt. You could even pack a lite lunch to share, like a PB&J and some dog biskets.
I use a saddlebag-style backpack on my dog when we go on hikes. He carries the water bottles and his snacks. But I would never put weight on him or any dog to "drain his energy". That sounds a bit cruel. Plus I would never expect a smaller dog to carry weight like mine does - mine's a 100lb Newf/Lab mix and he only carries whatever four water bottles weighs.
FYI walking your dog "off leash" is probably illegal in your town. How about finding an offleash park in your area that you can take both dogs to? The active one can run around as much as he likes while the other one can stick with you or chill in the sunshine.
I use one on my dogs, it's useful and it gives them a job which is very important for dogs. I usually put in four water bottles, it's great to have them carry stuff especially when we took them to "Bark in the Park" at the time I wish I had two, one for each of them. I put the pack on the dog that has a tendancy to pull a lot. It does help make a 30 minute walk feel like a 45 minute walk with the extra weight and helps burn energy. Everyone who saw it thought it was a great idea.
Although if you're going to put back packs on, don't walk them off leash.
Yep, we make him carry his own water and such for hiking trips.
It doesnt slow him down at all, he goes just as long as he used to. He's a huge puppy though (so weight is kept minimal as he is still growing).
See if you can try on different styles-we had issues with a few of them. He just really didnt like the way the straps were so he would try to chew them off. He doesnt mind the new one at all though-likes having it on actually since it means woods and endless running.
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