Ruffwear Hitch Hiker Dog Backpack Carrier, River Rock Green X-Small, Secure and Padded

Ruffwear Hitch Hiker is a dog backpack carrier for carrying small dogs on adventures, with dual locking zippers and an integrated adjustable harness.

• Dual locking zippers open the carrier wide — making it easier to load and settle your dog.
• Accommodates dogs up to 40 lb (18.1 kg) — with integrated harness and cinch straps to help keep your pup secure.
• Plush EVA foam padding and air mesh side panels at the base — for cushioned comfort and airflow.
• Even weight distribution, padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, adjustable torso length and a supportive hipbelt — for more comfortable carrying.
• Hipbelt pockets and an external zippered stretch pocket — for carrying walk and outing essentials.

When a small dog needs to be carried during an outdoor adventure, this backpack carrier gives the dog a place to ride while leaving the human carrier’s hands free. The River Rock Green model is X-Small. Its wide-opening design helps with getting a dog in and out, while adjustable components support a more tailored fit for both dog and wearer.

How does the carrier help keep a dog comfortable and secure?

The integrated adjustable harness and cinch straps help secure your dog inside the carrier. Plush EVA foam padding cushions the interior, and air mesh panels at the base support airflow for temperature management. Dual locking zippers open the pack wide, giving you room to settle your dog before closing it for the carry.

• Use the adjustable harness and cinch straps to secure your pup.
• The base-level mesh panels allow airflow through the carrier.

What makes the backpack more comfortable to carry?

The carrier is designed to distribute weight evenly across the wearer, with padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, adjustable torso length and a supportive hipbelt. An external grab handle gives you a way to lift the pack by hand or shoulder it for carrying.

• Adjust the torso length to tailor how the pack sits on your body.
• The hipbelt pockets keep pick-up bags, treats and most phones within quick reach.

How do I choose the size and pack essentials?

This model is X-Small, and the carrier accommodates dogs weighing up to 40 lb (18.1 kg). Use the sizing chart and how-to-fit video to measure your dog and help choose the right fit. The external zippered stretch pocket has room for a soft flask, packable bowl or extra layer.

• Measure your dog with the sizing guidance before choosing the carrier.
• Use the stretch pocket for small outing items you want kept apart from the dog’s interior space.

The Ruffwear Hitch Hiker suits people who want to carry a small dog on outdoor outings, with adjustable support for the dog and a structured carrying system for the wearer. Its X-Small size, dog-securing harness and pockets for everyday outing essentials make it a dog carrier backpack designed for adventures together.

Read our guide: Dog kit by life stage: puppy, adult and older dog