Some owners like using backpack harnesses because it lets pets tote some of their supplies, like poop bags and treats. If you use a backpack, be sure to get your dog accustomed to it before you hit the trails, first by hiking with the backpack empty, then slowly adding weight over subsequent hikes. “Just a recommendation, don’t put your cell phone or any electronics into the dog’s backpack,” says Aromaa. “They may just go for a swim." Callery, on the other hand, isn’t a fan of dog backpacks. “I think that a backpack harness could potentially be comfortable for a dog, but I do not prefer them,” she says. “They change your dog’s weight distribution, which could inhibit natural movement and make injuries more likely.”