How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Backpack

There's nothing like hiking a mountain trail on a clear day with your four-legged pal. And there's always gear to bring along - water, snacks, frisbee, dog food, large dog clothes, tennis ball - so why not let your best friend haul some of it in a rugged dog backpack? Take advice from the experienced hikers at Big-Pooch Park and train your pal to enjoy wearing a dog backpack prior to your first hike. Here's their advice:
1. Start with an empty pack
2. Incorporate the backpack into daily walks
3. Gradually increase the amount of gear
Starting with an empty pack:
It is important to help your pal get accustomed to the feeling of wearing a backpack before you add weight. Begin by adjusting the pack to fit your pal's size. It should be snug, but not constricting. Then take your best friend on your normal walk using the usual leash. Stop halfway through your walk and strap on the pack, then continue as normal. If your pal makes it all the way home without a fuss then reward him or her with affection and treats. If your pal begins to fuss before getting home then take the pack off and reward him with affection, and try again tomorrow. Increase the interval each day until you make it all the way home. Then repeat, adding the backpack at the halfway point for a few days, until your pal seems comfortable enough to use the pack for the entire walk.
Incorporating the backpack into daily walks:
After your best friend becomes comfortable wearing the pack, it's time to gradually add gear. Start with small items and distribute the weight evenly; for example, put a foldable frisbee on one side, and some dog clothes on the other. Over a week, increase the gear each day until your pal becomes comfortable wearing a full pack. Remember to distribute the weight evenly and don't force it if your pal is not in the mood. Make it fun for him or her and you'll have fun too!!
Gradually increase the amount of gear:
After your pal is comfortable with all this new activity, begin adding more and more gear. Always remember to ease back if your best friend gets uncomfortable. Pack items that you will actually use on the trail so your pal get's use to the feel of the gear in the backpack. And don't forget to stop along the way and smell the roses... or at least get a cold drink of water and toss the frisbee around!!