Dog Packs for Hiking

By Miki And Julie Collins
Published on July 1, 1983
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Julie Collins and Trapper display the separate saddle that cushions the dog pack sold by Rae's Harness Shop.
Julie Collins and Trapper display the separate saddle that cushions the dog pack sold by Rae's Harness Shop.
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A small carrying pack works well for day treks.
A small carrying pack works well for day treks.
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The pouches on Alaska Tent and Tarp's high-volume model tie with drawstrings and permit the dog to tote a heavier load.
The pouches on Alaska Tent and Tarp's high-volume model tie with drawstrings and permit the dog to tote a heavier load.

When the winter snows finally melt up here in Alaska, we put away our dog sleds and skis. Why, we even let the huskies relax for a while–until summer comes and it’s time to bring out the dog packs!

We use these pint-size “saddlebags” for activities that range from short berry-picking hikes to major cross-country expeditions, and we’ve found that our pack-toting canines can really ease our burdens. A trained dog–in good condition–can carry up to a third of its own weight (and more than that for a short distance). That means that a 90-pound husky can support 30 pounds of dog food, camping equipment, berries, fish, or whatever else can be stuffed into a pouch.

It’s pretty obvious that the bigger the dog, the more it can pack. Malamutes are a good breed for packing, being large and sturdily built. Other sled dogs–such as our local “village” breed and Alaskan huskies are likely to have longer legs and lighter frames than malamutes, which limit the amount they can transport. Still, these other types are very tough and won’t wear out if they’re not overloaded. Large breeds such as Saint Bernards and Great Pyrenees are fine for packing, too, though thickly furred animals have a tendency to become overheated. But whether a dog is traditionally suited for packing or not, any canine–be it a mastiff or a Chihuahua–can be taught to carry its share of the load.

The Basic Dog Pack

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