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ranked #112,252 most helpful
out of 571,544,897 reviews
★★★★☆
May Need to Size Up for Long-Haired Dog
12/10/14 - I have an 11-pound pom-mix who takes long walks and runs 2-4 miles a day. He's a good running buddy, but during walks pulls himself into a wheezing tizzy (even on his no-choke harness). I hunted for a front attachment harness to help curb this behavior and was very excited to see Ruffwear makes the Front Range. We own Ruffwear's web harnesses for our other two dogs and love their quality and design (one is over 10 years old and still is a great harness). It is really cool Front Range has both a front and back lead attachment. I'd definitely put both of those to use (front attachment for solo walks, back attachment for runs and dual-lead walks with his larger whippet "brother").
When I measured my pom-mix, he was 2" below the maximum chest/waist width for the XXS. It came today and is a beautiful harness. I love the bright orange which would make him stand out if we are in the woods or walking along the road (it is *very* reflective).
The front attachment is not obtrusive. Part of how Ruffwear pulls it off was making it from a nylon strap that is reinforced with some kind of heavy rubber. I am not sure if this is just on the small dog harnesses, but if I had a stronger breed--like a pit bull--I may be reserved about using it until I test it thoroughly. The back lead attachment is the standard Ruffwear metal loop stitched into the nylon which is very tough.
The ID pocket is a great idea. However, I think they make it a little too hidden. It took me a moment to figure out how to even open it, and the ID label is tiny. I will put one in, but will probably continue to use collars for ID. :)
The last issue (the most important) was how it fit my pup. I had to jam him into this first harness (XXS). It fit like a weenie skin. With the buckles all the way loosened, it was still very snug and the back seemed to bunch to the front--which probably wouldn't happen if it was bigger/longer.
So, I ordered the next size up (XS) and hope it fits better. I will add to this review when I try it out in a couple days--hopefully on an actual walk.
12/13/14 - The XS (next size up) came yesterday. The waist straps fit very well, and the overall length is perfect (no bunching). The straps around the head/shoulders are a bit loose--even on the tightest setting. However, my dog is perfectly comfortable and contained in his new harness. It also looks quite handsome on him.
We've walked 6 miles altogether. The front lead has been most excellent for keeping him at my side. When I walked him using the back attachment, he pulled but did not appear to have any issues with the harness putting pressure on his throat. Even though the front comes up higher than some harnesses, it appears the pressure is really just on the dog's shoulder and back.
We haven't run yet with it, but I have a feeling it won't be a problem. It appears more comfortable on him than a mesh no-choke harness we used. He seems much calmer on our walks an--for the first time--enjoys being "suited up."
An excellent harness, but definitely try it out in a store first or buy online from a store that offers free returns as it may not fit every canine body type or take a couple tries to find the right size (even with measurements).
1/8/15 - Still loving the harness! If it hadn't been for the sizing issue I'd give it 5 stars. Our little guy looks so handsome in it and is quite comfortable. Walking and running him in it has been great! Thinking of getting one for our border whippet.
December 2014 · Pet Supplies · verified purchase