Fitting & Sizing

How do I put the harness on?

Over the head, one click, done — it takes 2-3 seconds.

  1. Hold the harness open with the logo facing up
  2. Slip it over your dog's head
  3. Close the belly strap — you'll hear the ITW buckle click into place
  4. Do the two-finger test (see below)

No paw lifting, no leg threading. Your dog barely notices it's happening.

Watch the fitting video → LINK

How do I get the perfect fit?

Use the two-finger test: slide two fingers flat between the harness and your dog's chest. If they fit snugly — the fit is right. Too loose and your dog can back out. Too tight and it's uncomfortable.

Do this check every time you put the harness on. It takes two seconds and makes all the difference.

Watch the Video -> Link

How do I adjust the straps?

Loosen or tighten using the adjustment slider on the chest strap. Pull to tighten, press the release to loosen. Always re-do the two-finger test after any adjustment.

Watch the 30-second adjustment video → LINK

How do I know which size to order?

Measure your dog's chest circumference at the widest point (usually right behind the front legs). Then match it to our size chart:

XS: 28-38 cm / 11-15 in — Under 4 kg / Under 10 lb
S: 38-50 cm / 15-20 in — 4-10 kg / 10-22 lb
M: 50-64 cm / 20-25 in — 10-20 kg / 22-44 lb
L: 64-78 cm / 25-31 in — 20-32 kg / 44-70 lb
XL: 78-96 cm / 31-38 in — 32-50 kg / 70-110 lb
XXL: 96-120 cm / 38-47 in — 50-64 kg / 110-140 lb

Between two sizes?

  • Wide or barrel chest (Bulldogs, Pugs, Corgis) → go one size up
  • Narrow or deep chest (Whippets, Shepherds, Collies) → go one size down

If you're unsure, reach out to us at support@dogshood.com with your dog's chest measurement and weight — we'll help you find the right size.

What if the harness doesn't fit my dog?

Reach out to us at support@dogshood.com and we'll help you find the right size. Include your dog's chest measurement and weight so we can get it right the first time.

My dog resists putting the harness on. What should I do?

Totally normal — especially if your dog has had bad experiences with complicated harnesses before. Here's what works:

  1. Let your dog sniff the harness first
  2. Lay it on the ground and let them investigate
  3. Reward them with treats when they put their head through
  4. Keep the first few sessions short — just wear it around the house for 10 minutes

After 2-3 times, most dogs start associating the harness with walk time instead of wrestling time. The key is that the Dogshood goes on so quickly (over the head, one click) that there's very little to resist.

Is the harness safe for puppies?

Yes — we offer sizes starting from XS (under 4 kg / 10 lb). For growing puppies, we recommend doing the two-finger test regularly and checking the fit every few weeks as they grow. If your puppy grows out of their current size, reach out to us at support@dogshood.com.

Front D-Ring

How do I install the Front D-Ring?

The Front D-Ring is a separate attachment. Installation takes about 30 seconds:

  1. Locate the chest loop on the front of the harness
  2. Thread the D-Ring attachment through the loop
  3. Secure it — you'll feel it lock into place
  4. Give it a firm tug to confirm it's seated

Do it once and it stays. No tools needed.

Watch the D-Ring installation video → LINK

What's the difference between the front ring and the back ring?

Your harness has two leash attachment points. Which one you use makes a big difference:

Back ring: For relaxed walks when your dog walks calmly beside you. Use in low-distraction environments when your dog isn't pulling.

Front ring (D-Ring): For dogs that pull. When your dog pulls forward, the front clip redirects their momentum sideways, gently turning them back toward you. It's physics — not force. Use this whenever your dog pulls, in reactive situations, or during training walks.

Important: If your dog pulls and you clip to the back ring, it works like a sled harness — your dog gets more leverage, not less. Start with the front ring and switch to the back only once your dog walks calmly.

Do I need the Front D-Ring?

If your dog pulls on walks — yes. The Front D-Ring redirects pulling through physics, giving you control without force.

If your dog already walks calmly beside you, the harness works perfectly on its own with the back ring. You can always add the D-Ring later if things change.

Add the Front D-Ring → LINK to product page

Shipping & Delivery

How long does shipping take?

Delivery takes approximately 10–14 business days. Personalized orders take a bit longer because each name patch is individually crafted for your dog.

You'll receive a tracking link by email as soon as your order ships.

How do I track my order?

You can track your order anytime here: Track Your Order

You'll also receive an email with your tracking link when your order ships.

Where do you ship from?

Each order is individually quality-checked before shipping. We ship worldwide with free shipping on all orders.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes — we offer free worldwide shipping on every order.

Product & Care

How do I wash the harness?

We highly recommend handwashing to avoid any damage. Wash in the sink with mild detergent or dish soap, rinse thoroughly, and air dry. Do not machine wash or tumble dry.

What material is the harness made of?

Tear-resistant fabric with non-elastic straps and soft sponge padding. The buckles are ITW Nexus military-grade hardware — the same buckle technology used in rescue equipment. All materials are breathable, lightweight, and chafe-resistant.

Is the harness waterproof or water-resistant?

The harness is water-resistant. It handles rain and light water exposure without issues, but we recommend air drying after heavy exposure.

Can my dog wear the harness all day?

We recommend using the harness primarily during walks, training, or travel. For extended periods indoors, it's best to remove it so your dog can fully relax. Prolonged wear can cause matting in long-haired breeds.

Does the harness have a handle?

Yes — there's a sturdy handle on the back for extra control in crowded areas, when assisting your dog over obstacles, or during training.

Can I use the harness in the car?

Yes — the harness works with most car seatbelt attachments to help keep your dog safe and secure during travel.

Can I attach a regular leash or only the Dogshood bungee leash?

Any standard leash works with your Dogshood harness. The bungee leash is optional — it absorbs sudden jerks and protects both your shoulders and your dog's neck, but it's not required.

Personalization

Can I order a new or replacement name patch?

Yes!
You can order it here directly -> Link
Or reach out to us at support@dogshood.com and we'll get a new custom patch made for you.

Can I change the name on my harness after ordering?

If you need to make a change, reply to your order confirmation email within 24 hours and we'll fix it before production starts. After that, the personalization process has already begun.

My name patch is damaged. Can I get a replacement?

Yes — reach out to us at support@dogshood.com and we'll take care of it.

Warranty & Support

What happens if the harness breaks?

Your harness comes with a lifetime warranty. If your dog manages to tear or break the harness, we'll replace it for free. Reach out to us at support@dogshood.com.

What if I'm not satisfied or encounter any issues?

We want you to be completely happy with your Dogshood gear. If you encounter any issues at all, email us at support@dogshood.com and we'll resolve it within 24 hours.

You have further Questions?