Ruffwear Harness Gear Guide 2025
We tried out lots of harnesses with Bob when he was young, until we landed on Ruffwear — and since then we haven’t felt the need to try anything else. From daily walks to serious terrain, a well‑chosen harness can make all the difference. Below is everything you need to know to pick the right Ruffwear harness for your dog.
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Contents
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Do I need a harness?
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Why fit, materials & quality matter
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What makes Ruffwear different
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Which Ruffwear harnesses are best for different needs
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How to measure & fit properly
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Harness care & maintenance
1. Do I need a harness?
A harness is useful for many purposes:
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Training & managing pulling
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Supporting elderly, injured or disabled dogs
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Working, service, or search & rescue roles
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Safety for adventurous walks, scrambling, or rugged terrain plus extra safety around town / traffic
Harnesses help distribute pressure more safely than collars, avoiding strain on the throat/neck.
Stop the rasping pull on your dog's neck and help train them to walk with you rather than pulling you.
Bob’s tip: a harness doesn’t fix pulling by itself, but it gives you safer, more effective control while you work on training.
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2. Why fit, materials & quality matter
Getting a fit that’s both safe and comfortable is crucial:
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Free movement of front legs with no rubbing or chafing
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Snug fit (one finger should slide between harness and body)
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Multiple adjustment points (at least 3–5)
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Strong webbing, durable hardware, breathable fabrics
A well‑built harness lasts longer, is better for the environment, and saves money in the long run.
3. What makes Ruffwear different
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Y‑shaped, ergonomic designs allow full shoulder movement
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Two or more leash attachment points (back & chest) for versatility
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Durable, eco‑friendly fabrics like bluesign®‑approved or recycled webbing
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Handles and support panels for assist and lift tasks
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Warranty and guarantee against defects
Bob’s tip: buy well and buy fewer. Ruffwear harnesses are safe, durable, and built to last.
Hi & Light Harness - perfect for deep chests, small necks/big necks and for dogs that don't like wearing a harness because it's very light!
4. Which Ruffwear harness is right for your dog?
| Harness | Best for | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Front Range | Everyday walks | Padded, four adjustment points, two leash attachments, reflective trim. Most popular all‑rounder. |
| Web Master | Hiking, scrambling, assist | Five adjustment points, belly strap, reinforced handle, great for escape‑proofing. |
| Flagline | Lightweight lift & assist | Six adjustment points, chest/belly panel, secure and comfy for long dogs (e.g. sighthounds). |
| Hi & Light | Running, minimal bulk | Low‑profile, debris‑resistant liner, four adjustment points, sizes down to XXXS. |
| Swamp Cooler | Hot weather | Built‑in evaporative cooling, handle, two leash points, great for summer hikes. |
| Doubleback | Technical climbs & lifts | Strength‑rated, full‑body support, seven adjustments, all‑metal hardware. |
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Front Range - brilliant 'every day' harness
5. How to measure & fit properly
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Measure the girth (widest part of ribcage, just behind front legs).
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Match to Ruffwear size chart. If between sizes, usually size up.
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Adjust straps so harness doesn’t twist or rub.
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Test movement: walking, running, turning, climbing.
| Size | Girth |
| XXXS | 23–33 cm (9–13 in) |
| XXS | 33–43 cm (13–17 in) |
| XS | 43–56 cm (17–22 in) |
| S | 56–69 cm (22–27 in) |
| M | 69–81 cm (27–32 in) |
| L/XL | 81–107 cm (32–42 in) |
Bob’s tip: don’t guess your dog’s size — measure, measure, measure.
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Flagline harness - perfect for escape artists, dog's that 'back out'' of their harness, long dogs and deep chested dogs
6. Harness care & maintenance
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Hand wash (or gentle machine wash if allowed) with mild detergent
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Air dry — no heat or tumble drying
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Rinse after muddy/wet use to avoid grit damage
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Inspect webbing, buckles, and stitching regularly
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Store flat or hung, not crumpled
Web Master harness - perfect for adventurous dogs and for escape artists.
Final Thoughts
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A harness is one of the most important pieces of kit you can buy for your dog.
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Fit and quality matter just as much as style.
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Ruffwear harnesses are built for adventure, safety, and comfort.
Still unsure? Message us and we’ll help you find the right match for your dog’s adventures.
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Quick Takeaway
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For most dogs: Front Range = the winner.
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For escape artists or serious hikers: Web Master.
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For lean/lanky pups: Flagline.
Still not sure? Just drop us a line — we’ll help match your pup to the perfect Ruffwear harness.