{the dog blog of Outside magazine}

Posts Tagged ‘chest harnesses’

On Belay? Woof!
by Walker Parks | on August 31st, 2009 | in Features, Things Dogs Wear
I will now attempt the 5.12 dog-width crack

I will now attempt the 5.12 dog-width crack

Ever leave your pup at home because the terrain you’ll be tackling is too rough? Now you’ve got another option: add your pooch to your ropeline. The RuffWear Doubleback Harness is a full, strength-rated climbing rig that cups your dog by the backs of the hind legs and chest—just like a full chest harness on a human. The Doubleback can be used to catch a canine fall, lower him off rapel anchors, or hoist him into a helicopter. Available later this fall. (We’ll update you when they’re ready and have a price.)


Web Master Harness
by Walker Parks | on June 23rd, 2009 | in Swag the Dog, Things Dogs Wear
Maggie making off in her harness

Maggie making off in her harness

While Maggie is no Houdini when it comes to her traditional harness, she is an energetic walker who loves to chase down the unsuspecting cat in between vigorous sniffing sessions. The harness she has been wearing for years was a vast improvement over “leash on collar” walks, but there was definitely even more control when we walked with the Web Master. The harness was a bit more fitted than your standard harness, and the design of the harness prevented it from slipping around too much as Maggie walked. The support it provides really helped with the pulling, and when Maggie was off leash she was still able to run freely and didn’t seem hindered by the extra material/padding. The harness is lined with a soft material so it should not irritate the skin of dogs with even the shortest of coats. An added bonus is the handle on the back which made it easy to grab hold and lift Maggie into the car, as well as pick her up and move her quickly away from inappropriate snacks along the road or trail.