I use the Ruffwear Palisades, but I got the older version several years ago when it was on closeout. The new version is too small for 8-10 days worth of dog food. Hysson is modeling his pack in my avatar. Actually, the pack was almost empty then--even though it doesn't look like it--because it was the last day of a week's trip.

I really like having a pack that can be detached from its supporting harness. That way I can remove the pack when we are fording streams and connect a long line to the dog's harness rather than to his collar. There don't seem to be many of these around.

Hysson's pack also has removable/washable fleece sleeves for the underbelly straps. You could, of course, make these yourself for any pack.

Here is a summary evaluation of various dog packs that looks like a good place to start. I haven't looked at it in detail, though. I haven't had to look at the dog pack market for several years because Hysson and I are very happy with his Ruffwear Palisades.

Of course it is important that the pack fit your dog, so some trying on and sending back may be necessary, just as with a human pack. You already found out about the buckle in the armpit--no way! No matter how much padding you use, it will chafe your dog!