Problem

The dog gear needed while hiking, playing, and training is cumbersome to carry and doesn’t fit or organize well in a typical backpack. There is no way to separate dirty and slobbery dog toys from jackets, hats, and lunches in the main compartment. Doggy bags are often difficult to get to when needed, and there is no easy spot to stow the Chuckit without taking off the backpack.

Design

The pain-points I encounter while hiking with my dog influenced the design. I need quick access to doggy bags, a place to put the frisbee separate from my belongings inside, a place to store the ChuckIt, a pocket designated for a leash, and a way to safely carry my dog if she gets hurt in the backcountry. But I also want all of the handy features that come with a larger backpacking pack, like suspension, back ventilation, a hip belt, anatomically curved shoulder straps, hydration, a rain cover, and organizational pockets.

Construction

By mocking up paper prototypes, I can develop patterns and sew each component of the backpack together. I started with the shoulder straps, hip belt, and suspension back to ensure an ergonomic fit. Then, I created the exterior of the pack.

Solution and Special Attributes

A backpack that carries everyday-carry dog necessities, along with personal items you may also want to bring. A large compression pocket on the outside for frisbees and dog bowls keeps belongings in the main compartment clean and dry. Doggy bag dispensers on the hip belt ensure a baggie is always available. Magnetic attachment points on the bottom of the pack provide a way to stow a ChuckIt so both hands can be free.

Doggy bag dispensing hip belt

Make it easy to do the right thing with the Canamet 15. Be ready when the time comes by always keeping doggy bags within reach. Eyelets in each hip belt pocket smoothly and efficiently dispense replaceable doggy bag rolls.

Dog Rescue Harness

Stay prepared and explore the backcountry with peace of mind. The Canamet backpack comes equipped with a dog rescue harness in case of an emergency. The dog rescue harness uses adjustable velcro straps to fit and secure the harness to your dog and padding on the chest plate for comfort.

Exterior compression Frisbee Pocket

Dog toys get dirty and slobbery, keep them separate from the rest of your personal belongings and easily accessible. This large exterior pocket is excellent for frisbees, flat-fold dog bowls, and maps. 

Leash pocket

Designating a pocket for the leash keeps it from tangling with your other belongings and makes it easy to retrieve if needed. 

Stow-on-the-go chuckit attachment

Magnetic mounting points on the Canamet 15 allow you to quickly stow the ChuckIt without taking the pack off when you need to use both of your hands.The water bottle pocket and compression strap can also be utilized to carry the ChuckIt for more extended periods but requires the pack to be taken off and put back on. 

Features

• Dual side compression straps

• Tensioned breathable mesh back panel ensures ventilation and support

• Multiple torso size options with torso adjustability

• Internal hydration reservoir stretch sleeve - 3 Liter

• Top panel slash zippered mesh pocket

• Dual zippered hip belt pockets

• Ergonomic hip belt strap adjustment

• Ventilated shoulder strap and hip belt padding

• Integrated rain cover

• Dual side stretch mesh pockets

• Upper front panel slash zipper pocket with internal organization

• Lower front panel curved zipper pocket

• Spacious main compartment 

• Anatomic one-piece shoulder strap design contours the body around the neck and chest. 

• Adjustable sternum strap with safety whistle

• Dual-zippered panel access to the main compartment

• Removable internal spring steel frame creates low profile air space optimizing pack balance and ventilation.

Technical specs

Best Use: Day Hikes with Dog

Frame Type: Internal Frame

Gear Capacity (L): 15 liters

Gear Capacity (cu. in.): 1,220 cubic inches

Liquid Capacity (fl. oz.): 101 fluid ounces

Weight: 2 lbs. 6 oz. (without reservoir)

Fits Torso Length (in.): 17-20 inches

Fits Waist/Hips: 28-48 inches

Material(s): 600D Polyester Denier Canvas

Frame Material: Spring Steel

Number of Exterior Pockets: 9 + main

Hipbelt: Yes

Hipbelt Pockets: Yes

Bite Valve Shut-Off Switch: Yes

Wide-Mouth Opening: Yes

Hydration Compatible: Yes

Dimensions: 19 x 12 x 7 inches

Gender: Men’s

Size: Small