The perfect harness for an assistance dog: our experience and insights
At Cooper & Quint we believe that a good harness for an assistance dog starts with listening: to the owner and to the dog. Recently we were able to work with Rianne and her psychiatric assistance dog Snobben on a completely custom-made harness for an assistance dog. What started with a bag full of old harnesses and a list of frustrations, ended in a beautiful end result that makes both dog and human happy.
During this process, we learned how important the small details are: how a brace is attached, how a dog moves in a certain model, and most importantly — how much personal preferences can differ, even among dogs. In this blog, we share everything we learned about choosing, fitting, and making the right service dog harness. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for the perfect fit , we’re happy to share our experience with you.
Why an assistance dog?
For many people, an assistance dog is not just a buddy, but literally a support in daily life. Assistance dogs offer help with practical tasks, but also with mental challenges. They provide structure, safety and peace. Thanks to assistance dogs, people can live, travel, work and participate in society independently.
What types of assistance dogs are there?
We distinguish different types of assistance dogs, each with their own specialization. Here is an overview of the most common types:
1. Guide dogs
- For people with a visual impairment.
- They help with navigation, avoiding obstacles, and recognizing important landmarks such as sidewalks or crossings.
2. Signal dogs
- For the deaf or hard of hearing
- They alert their owner to sounds such as the doorbell, telephone or smoke detector.
- They often do this by gently tapping or leading towards the sound.
3. Mobility assistance dogs
- Helping people with physical disabilities.
- Can pick up things, open doors, push wheelchairs, operate light switches, and much more.
4. Medical detection dogs
- Warn about medical conditions such as:
- Diabetes (hypo- or hyperdetection)
- Epilepsy (seizure detection or warning)
- Narcolepsy
- They can recognize changes in scent before an attack occurs.
5. PTSD Service Dogs
- For people with post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Provide emotional support, help with panic attacks, and provide a sense of safety (e.g., “holding space” in crowded spaces).
6. Psychiatric assistance dogs
- For people with mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, etc.
- Can recognize and interrupt behavior (e.g. dissociation), encourage routine, or assist in social contact.
7. Autism Guide Dogs
- For children or adults with autism.
- Provide peace, security, and structure.
- Can also help with social interaction or preventing someone from running away.
Every dog and every task is different. And that is why every assistance dog deserves a harness that truly suits its job.
Assistance dog, service dog or therapy dog: what is the difference?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but there are differences:
Assistance dog and service dog basically mean the same thing: a specially trained dog that supports someone with his or her disability on a daily basis. These dogs have access to many public spaces.
A therapy dog, on the other hand, usually works under the supervision of a professional (e.g. a psychologist or occupational therapist) in a temporary or clinical setting.
Why is a good harness so important?
A harness for an assistance dog is more than a practical aid. It is an extension of the cooperation between dog and human. Where a dog sometimes walks in a harness for fifteen minutes, an assistance dog often wears his harness for hours a day. While traveling, working and sometimes even while resting.
A good harness:
- offers comfort, even when worn for long periods,
- supports the task (e.g. guiding or applying pressure),
- prevents physical complaints or restriction in movement,
- ensures safety and a good connection between dog and owner.
The story of Rianne & Snobben
When Rianne came to us with her assistance dog Snobben, her bag was full of harnesses. Each with their own story – and their own limitations. Some harnesses were too stiff, others slid away. Sometimes the brace was uncomfortable. And above all: Snobben simply did not want to do his guiding work in certain harnesses.
“We have long thought that a Y-harness would be the best option because of the ergonomics,” says Rianne.
"In his spare time, Snobben likes to wear y-harnesses. But when he was working, he just didn't want to lead well in such a harness. He lost the connection, and I had to constantly encourage him to apply pressure."
In a straight-front harness — the type he was trained in — it did click. The forward pressure needed for guiding felt natural to him in it.
Learning from experience: customization is not a luxury, but a necessity
Together with Rianne we analyzed every piece of gear she brought. What worked well? What didn't? And why?
"I was most pleased with a leather harness that we used, but the hooks were a disaster on the train. And there were all kinds of rings and straps on it that had no function for us, just got in the way," says Rianne.
This is how the idea for a custom-made harness for her assistance dog came about, completely tailored to Snobben and Rianne. No frills, just functional simplicity with a comfortable fit and smart details and of course stylish.
What should you pay attention to when buying an assistance dog harness?
When purchasing a harness for your assistance dog, please consider the following:
- Fit and size – Does the harness fit your dog’s body shape?
- Freedom of movement – Can your dog walk, sit and lie down freely?
- Material choice – Lightweight, breathable and durable?
- Bracket mounting – Easy to attach, even at awkward angles.
- Task-oriented design – Is the harness suitable for the job your dog does?
- Dog's Personal Preference – Really listen to what your dog likes.
There is no universal "best harness". What works for one service dog may not work for another. And that is exactly why customization is so valuable.
Have your harness custom made at Cooper & Quint
At Cooper & Quint we lovingly create custom-made service dog harnesses , where functionality, comfort and the unique bond between dog and owner are key. Each harness is handmade, tailored to the dog's body and the tasks it performs.
Are you curious about the possibilities or do you want to have a custom-made harness made? Feel free to send us a message - we are happy to think along with you, and work with pride on the best for your assistance dog.