In this Ruffwear harness review, I’ll share my personal experience with the gear that has made a world of difference for my dogs.
If you have a large, high-energy dog, you know the struggle. Every walk can feel like a test of strength, a battle of wills, and a constant, low-grade arm workout. My two dogs, Yenni a Malinois/Shepsky mix and Shelly a German Shepherd, are beautiful, loving, and cuddly, but their love of squirrels and other critters means they can pull with the force of a small truck.
For years, I’ve tried everything. I owned a retail store for over 12 years and sold every kind of leash, collar, and harness you can imagine. And believe me, not all gear is created equal. I’m not sponsored by any of these brands; I just know what works, and I’ve found a “sweet spot” of products that have made our daily walks a pleasure instead of a chore.
The Ruffwear Flagline Harness: A Game-Changer
When it comes to harnesses, the Ruffwear Flagline Harness has been a game-changer. It is built to withstand the “dog life”—the mud, the water, the intense wear and tear. My senior dog, Cooper, was a master escape artist, and this harness kept him secure. It’s also the one I trust completely with Yenni and Shelly.
Ruffwear Flagline Dog Harness
Looking for a lightweight, secure, handled harness? The Ruffwear Flagline might just be what you need. With four snap buckles, it is easy to get a good fit for your dog. High quality material and craftsmanship, easy to clean by machine wash in cold water and hang dry. Front leash attachment as well standard top of harness.
The Flagline is incredibly lightweight and super easy to put on. With four adjustable clips, you are done. The best part for me is the handle at the top of the harness. For convenience, there is a sturdy metal D-ring to attach our leash on the top of the harness. There is also an option for a front attachment if your dog pulls on his leash, and you can also attach a little flashlight tag, too. Of course, there are reflective stripes built into the design.
The Fit is What Makes the Harness Work
Our 70 lb dog resembles a Malinois in the profile view—he looks like a square, equal height and length. He fits in a medium harness. I tried the L/XL on him, and it’s just way too big. Our 95 lb German Shepherd Tank is the standard profile of a rectangle: a longer body and shorter height. She fits an L/XL harness.
When you are adjusting the straps, remember to make sure the front of the harness is just over their breastbone, and you should easily be able to put two fingers (stacked on top of each other) between the straps and the dogs. You don’t want them too tight because you don’t want chafing. Always check the harness on your longer walks to make sure that there are no rubbing parts on your dog’s body. One thing I have noticed is that the buckles on the straps are made to loosen over a period of time and may need to be tightened. This is a well-made and carefully engineered harness, and it is worth the investment.
When our dog was recovering from TPLO surgery, he was prescribed a Ruffwear Web Master harness to help pull him up from a down position. The harness is machine washable and very quick to hang dry. It is a heavier multi use harness.
Ruffwear, Web Master, Multi-Use Support Dog Harness
This Web Master harness was recommended by our Vet for use during TPLO surgery recovery. It is very sturdy and offers great support for your large dog with the attached handle. Holds up very well to machine wash, air dry. Heavier in weight than the Flagline model but offers security in lifting your dog.
Leashes: Why the Right Material Matters
A good harness is nothing without a good leash. I’m a firm believer in two types of leashes that have made a world of difference:
- Biothane Leashes: This is a coated webbing that is a total game-changer. It’s waterproof, durable, and incredibly easy to clean. My dogs love to run through every puddle and stream, and this leash doesn’t get soggy, heavy, or smelly.
- Amish Leather Leashes: These are a classic for a reason. The quality is unmatched. They are soft and comfortable to hold, and they get better with age. A good Amish leather leash is a beautiful piece of equipment that will last a lifetime.
Viper Biothane Waterproof Lead
This is a favorite leash to use especially in rainy weather. It dries quickly and doesnt absorb odors. Biothane leashes stay soft and supple while remaining super strong at the same time. Solid Brass Hardware that won't rust and it is made in the USA. The leashes are offered in many colors, widths and lengths. The 15' and 33' lengths are perfect for teaching recall and off leash work.
Braided Leather Leash, 6-Feet x 3/4-Inch, Black
This is my go to for a strong, quality made leather lead that will last a very long time. Amish Latigo leather will soften and patina with age and feel buttery soft.
.
Martingale Collars: A Lifesaver for Training
While I love harnesses, a martingale collar is an excellent tool for training and general safety, When fitted properly, it tightens just enough to prevent the dog from slipping out of the collar, but it won’t choke them. It’s a great tool for building good leash manners and giving you peace of mind.
Ruffwear Martingale Collar
This is the collar that we chose for our 95 lb. German Shepherd. It is washable, sturdy, attractive and is reflective for night visibility. The collar is adjustable and our dog fits a size Large.
Hikiko Martingale Collar
This lightweight, adjustable, washable, reflective martingale style collar is a favorite. Size large works well on our 95 lb. GSD and our 65 lb. Malinois/Shepsky dogs. Comes in many colors too!
Booties: Protecting Their Paws
Ruffwear also makes the best booties on the market, in my opinion. Well made for the trails with a real Vibram sole, not just cute paw prints. The booties have adjustable straps and are very well made. They sell them in pairs, not sets of four to get the correct size since front paws are typically bigger than rear paws.
Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Shoes
Best boots out there. Sold in pairs, since front paws are usually larger than the rear paws. Make sure to size correctly by width. They stay on and have a real Vibram sole, not just cute paw prints. Works great for older dogs that need extra attention when dragging their paws.
When my senior dog, Cooper started to drag his rear paw, Ruffwear booties were my go to for saving his paws from scraping on the ground when he could no longer lift it himself. I learned to reinforce the toes with toe caps for men’s work boots. But, that’s another post.
Work Boot Toe Protectors
These self stick boot protectors extend the life of your work boots and your dog's booties! I used them for my senior dog's Ruffwear booties. My dog would drag his rear paw due to health issues and the tops of his paws would get scuffed. Adding these boot protecters to his booties extended the life of his booties. Easy to apply, 6 toe protectors in a package.
Conclusion
Finding the right gear for your dog can be a journey, but it’s worth it. When you’re comfortable and confident with your equipment, your walks become less about stress and more about enjoying time with your best friend. The gear I’ve shared here has been tested and loved by my dogs and me for years. It’s my secret weapon for happy, stress-free adventures.