I adopted an 11-lb chi mix (looks like chiweenie) a few months ago and sometimes I spiral about keeping her safe and comfortable when I bring her with me absolutely anywhere I can. There are 2 things I have really been wanting to get input on from any other outdoorsy small dog owners:
Ergonomic way to carry her if she gets tired/terrain is difficult: I have this front-facing dog carrier that I used once on a hike when it got too difficult. This seemed like a great option because I could wear it at the same time as my backpack and feel balanced, and like I could easily protect her if I did stumble. But I noticed that she was kind of slumped down and her hind legs sort of jutted out at an odd angle and I just felt like……this cannot be good for her joints/spine. Maybe she just needs a smaller one but I have some doubts about this concept and I have no idea who I could ask about it….
Anyway, I wonder if anyone else has navigated this question? I see a lot of sling-type carriers and dog-carrying backpacks that seem more supportive for her, but I also really like the idea of having her strapped to my chest for the reasons mentioned above.
Dog boots?? How necessary are these?? We've experimented a little with socks and she does not tolerate having stuff on her feet. They're also really difficult to put on. I'm concerned about the rainy/snowy season and protecting her feet–which would also be ideal on some hikes too.
submitted by /u/celerygrin
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