Lets Talk Gear - A Harness Review

Hi, Alison here. Monks taking a well deserved break from writing blogs, Clever dog huh. Today I wanted to leave a review of some of the work harness mainly of the Guide verity that I have owned over my time having Assistance Dogs. It is one thing I'm asked multiple times a day.

Disclaimer: This is in no way a paid promotion for any products mentioned about. This is just a personal review of my experiences with the products and related companies.

So let me cover the 3 main harness producers I've used. The Good, Bad and furry.

#1 - Swedtech Guide Harness

Harnesses currently come in black and white and currently in two sizes, for small and medium Labradors like breeds. Their Harnesses come in two handles types for the guide harness, which are both extendable the difference being one has a leather grip.

When looking for I new harness I found Swedtech, I was instantly impressed and chose to buy because of the ball joint connector their harnesses have. I wanted a different type of connector than the commonly used clipped on ones I have seen with the handles for other companies. The ball fits very snuggle into the socket with the added hold from a bar of metal. two words; very solid. Even with the handle the harness I cant help but notice how lightweight this set up is which is fantastic as it will be better for monk. I'd be brave and say its the lightest harness I've used, even compared to Yup and BLD. I've also received high praise and amazing comments from members of the public on how smart Monk looks. Not only does it look smart but I feel it is most comfortable of the four harnesses Monk has used. It sits a bit higher on the body and the handle connects better with his shoulders. I was uncertain if Monk would be happy in it because the chest strap is higher then he is use to and with the metal handle, but he seems to be relaxed and very accepting of this set up. I do believe He gets better feedback about me through this harness making his work more effect.

#2 -Bold Lead Designs (BLD)

The BLD operate out of Colorado in the US. They offer a wide range of top notch service dog gear. The harness I selected was their heavy mobility guide harness which comes in standard, xl and giant sizes. I don't think they sell them with the guide handle anymore. The one I ordered wasn't really a proper guide handle though it provided more feedback than a normal pull strap would. I was very happy with this harness and used it with Bear and Monk. I was losing my sight during this time but was not yet blind (My sight is now deteriorated to the point I'm classed as blind). It was extremely well made with reflective stitching and fleece lining. The mobility handle was the best I've ever used and it had a special feature of being able to fold down. Bear and Monk were comfortable wearing it. This harness was the most expensive I have owned, between the cost and shipping. Despite use with two guide dogs the harness remained in such good condition that it was able to be sold to another partnership.

#3 Yup Collars

Yup Collars operates out of Trieste, Italy. They offer a wide range of harnesses in unique colours and patterns. They are the cheapest harness I have bought. I bought one guide harness and a mobility/guide harness. Both harnesses for Monk. I was pleased with my first harness (guide harness). Monk seemed comfortable in it. Despite having a handle that connected in the right spot, the feedback was not as good. One strap in the rabbit ears broke. Customer service is very good at Yup. Because I had only used this harness for 8 months, they offered to fix it for me free of charge. I sent it back and it was lost in the mail. In between I ordered a new harness through them. Mobility/guide Y front harness. Both handles were under par compared to BLD. The mobility handle bent and became wobbly and the same fault in the rabbit ears occurred. I had only used this harness lightly for three months. I sent this harness back to Yup Collars with the promise of a full refund. which I have now received. I do not believe they make quality assistance dog gear. I could not rely on what I was given and was left in danger when things broke. I do not believe the rabbit ears are fastened with the thought of how the handle would be used. Yes I would recommend Yup for regular walking harnesses, leashes and collars.

In summary …

When considering your harness its important to understand the differences in builds to make sure that it is helping your Assistance Dog work in the capacity you want them, there are large differences in harness and guide harnesses, not only in size be you must also be realistic on what to of dog you are putting in a harness as it must also be safe for them and you. Cost wise cheaper is convent but not better, like a good pair of shoes save and invest. Customised gear looks good but doesn't make it fit for propose, before you splash out on funky colours or attachments make sure the base is good solid and works for your team. All companies worth their weight will be happy to talk to you and answer any questions you may have so never be afraid to drop them an email no matter how big or small your question is.