I have a very active Papillon puppy that I purchased this backpack for. I love to walk and have a senior dog I walk with a stroller. I was looking for a way to take my senior and new puppy (doesn't have all his shots yet) out for evening walks. This ended up being perfect! I can take both out at the same time and get my walks in :-)
I also have 2 other types of backpacks lent to me that I have tried. This by far is the best backpack. I thought I would wear it in the forward position primarily but I only did that the first walk and now wear it on my back. The great thing is you can wear it either front or back facing and it's comfortable, light weight and easy to use. It does have a strap that goes around the waist which helps balance it. The description doesn't make that clear but it's there and very helpful. I don't need to worry about puppy wiggling out like the other 2 I have. I have used it about seven times now and puppy immediately goes quiet for the entire walk. I love this backpack!! I purchased the small and there is plenty of room in it for puppy to grow. Granted this is a small dog and will most likely only be 6-7 lbs full grown.

The carrier is very comfortable on my back and carrying it on my front. Bailey likes it too. It’s much softer than other carriers we’ve tried

We have tried the other backpacks and not only did it hurt my back but it was also uncomfortable for my dog.
It's also great that you can wear it as a backpack and on front. We prefer to carry Mugsley in front of us, so we can keep an eye on our mischievous little imp.
Thanks for a great product.
Muglsey's Mom