How to choose the right harness for your assistance dog?

You're ready to order a harness, but you're not quite sure where to start?
No worries! This page guides you step by step to choose the model, options and size perfectly suited to your dog. 💙

Step 1: The shape of the harness

Each dog is unique and has specific needs:
choose the harness shape that is best suited to your body type
and his lifestyle is essential for his comfort and safety.

Straight back

This is the classic Y-shaped harness. It allows the chest area to be moved back , freeing the shoulder blade and elbow during walking. It's ideal for dogs that practice light guiding . It's the most versatile and comfortable.

X-Back

X-back : The back straps cross over each other. This design is closer to the elbows and allows for better shoulder movement , but is less recommended for prolonged harness wear. An appointment with an osteopath before purchase, and again after receiving the harness, is advised to ensure it is properly adjusted and positioned.

Parallel back

Parallel back : The back straps do not cross. This shape is closer to the elbows and allows for better shoulder movement , but is less recommended for prolonged harness wear. An appointment with an osteopath before purchase, and again after receiving the harness, is advised to ensure it is properly adjusted and positioned.

Harness T

Generally less recommended for extended wear, as it can be uncomfortable while walking . However, it may be better tolerated by some, particularly those who have difficulty with Y-harnesses due to pressure on the sternum causing digestive issues. It's not the first choice, but it remains a good option for dogs with special needs or guide dogs .

Find them here:

💛 Straight Back Harness Service Dog 💛 Straight Back Harness Service Dog

💛 Straight Back Harness Service Dog

175,00€
💛 X-Back Service Dog Harness 💛 X-Back Service Dog Harness

💛 X-Back Service Dog Harness

175,00€
💛 Parallel Back Harness Service Dog 💛 Parallel Back Harness Service Dog

💛 Parallel Back Harness Service Dog

175,00€
💛 T-Harness for Service Dogs 💛 T-Harness for Service Dogs

💛 T-Harness for Service Dogs

175,00€
View all

Step 2: The options

There are a multitude of options for customizing your harness
100% personalized and tailored to your needs.

Step 2: The options

Flocking

Add a flocking to your harness to personalize it: "assistance dog", "ignore me" or pictograms of your choice.

Sewn lining

Opt for absolute comfort: foam, sherpa, imitation leather or memory foam, the choice of the ideal lining is yours!

Reflective strips

Discreet but effective reflective strips, sewn directly onto the harness, ensure better visibility at night.

Cape modification

We adapt your existing cape so that it fits custom-made to your harness, guaranteeing perfect comfort and no discomfort.
View all

Find them here:

Flock printing option on bridge Flock printing option on bridge

Flock printing option on bridge

17,00€
Reflective strip option Reflective strip option

Reflective strip option

12,00€
Optional extra foam lining

Optional extra foam lining

12,00€
Optional flocking on harness

Optional flocking on harness

17,00€
Cape modification Cape modification

Cape modification

22,00€
Rigid bar

Rigid bar

34,00€
Mini'Link Mini'Link

Mini'Link

12,00€
View all

Step 3: Take measurements

Taking action is an essential step
to ensure a perfectly fitted and comfortable harness.
It must be done carefully .
Ideally with the help of another person for greater accuracy.

📸 Sending measurements

You can send your photos and/or videos of the measurements, clearly legible, by message to the Atelier (@atelier_des_toutous) or attach them when placing your order.

📏 Required equipment
  • A flexible measuring tape
  • The subject to be measured, in a standing position

All measurements must be taken as close as possible to the skin , without excessive sizing or tightening .

⚙️ Scouting steps

Before measuring, locate the following anatomical landmarks :

  • The coasts and their outline, especially the last coast
  • The elbows
  • The tip of the sternum (front of the thorax)
  • The scapulae (shoulder blades)

These reference points serve as a basis for correctly positioning the harness measurements.

📐 Measures to take
  1. Neck circumference : Measure lower than the collar, at the point where the harness will rest.
  2. Chest measurement: Measure around the rib cage at the point where you want the harness to end.
    ➜ It is usually behind the elbows, at about 3 fingers to a hand's minimum distance.
  3. Back : Measure the length from the collar (between the two scapulae) to the chest circumference on the top of the back.
  4. Belly : Measure from the tip of the sternum to the ribcage, under the belly.
  5. Shoulder length : Measure along the shoulder, from the tip of the sternum to between the two scapulae, on one side only.

⚠️ Important points
  • Seek help if necessary to ensure fair measures are taken.
  • Always measure behind the elbows , at least 3 fingers away from your hand .
  • Never let the harness extend beyond the ribs : it should not go all the way to the lumbar region .
  • Check that all measurements are consistent and legible before sending.

Step 4: All you have to do now is place your order

Choose the options and color you like,
And your personalized harness will be ready to join your companion!

And after all that?

To ensure your dog's comfort, safety, and freedom of movement, follow these simple steps after receiving your harness:

👉 Initial setup and verification
Place the harness on your dog and adjust the straps. Check that it does not compress the chest, neck, or shoulders, and ensure that your dog can move freely.

👉 Observation in motion
Let your dog walk and trot for a few minutes to test the harness in a real-life situation. Observe its gait: the harness should remain stable and comfortable.

👉 Gradual adjustments
If necessary, slightly adjust the straps for optimal support. Double-check that your dog moves freely and that the harness is comfortable.

👉 Consultation recommended
For a perfect fit and to prevent any risk of tension or discomfort, it is advisable to have the harness checked by an osteopath or a specialist professional before first use or after a few days.

👉 Regular maintenance routine and checks
Regularly check the condition of the straps and fasteners. Readjust the harness if your dog grows, changes weight, or its muscle mass changes.

A well-fitting harness ensures not only your dog's comfort, but also your safety and that of your companion on every outing 💙

Your questions, our answers

🤍 Can I order a custom-made harness for a dog of an atypical breed or morphology?

Yes, absolutely! 🐾
Our harnesses are made entirely to measure , precisely to adapt to all body shapes , whether it is a particular breed or an atypical build.
We offer different types of harnesses and can adapt the design to each specific request: strap width, attachment position, comfort according to body shape, etc.
Each piece is adjusted so that the harness fits perfectly and ensures both comfort and optimal support.

💛 Y or T harness: which to choose?

It really depends on each dog !


There is no universally “best” model , because every body shape, every posture and every sensitivity is different.

We always advise discussing harness selection with an animal osteopath, veterinarian and/or dog trainer before making any decisions.

Each form has its advantages and disadvantages :

  • The Y-shaped harness is often presented as freeing the shoulders (scapulae) more during walking.
    However, it exerts direct pressure on the sternum , which can, in some dogs, lead to digestive discomfort or gastritis .
  • The T-harness , on the other hand, is considered more restrictive , but often better tolerated by dogs with sensitive digestive systems.

👉 In summary, it's all about finding the right balance and individual adaptation .
The best harness will be the one that respects your dog's morphology, comfort, and natural movement.

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📚 Studies and references

Recent research highlights that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and that harness selection should always be individualized according to the dog's morphology, health, and locomotion.

💚 How long will it take to receive my harness?

Delivery times may vary throughout the year depending on order volume. Generally, they range from 4 to 12 weeks maximum. More precise information is always available at the top of the website!

🩵 Why is it recommended to consult an osteopath before or after the reception?

Consulting an animal osteopath before or after receiving the harness is always an excellent idea!

An osteopathic check-up allows you to:

  • ✅ Ensure that everything is okay in terms of joints and muscles,
  • 🩻 Detect any potential discomfort, tension, or pain that could influence the choice or adjustment of equipment,
  • 🎯 Guide towards specific adaptations to optimize comfort and proper harness positioning,
  • Prevent long-term compensations or discomforts.

This appointment is therefore beneficial both beforehand , to choose the most suitable harness shape, and just after receiving it , to check the fit and ensure that the dog is perfectly comfortable in its movements.

💙 What should I do if my dog ​​shows signs of discomfort or unease?
  • Check the dog's health

Make sure your dog has no visible injuries or pain. Observe its general behavior and mobility for any signs of discomfort.

  • Check the equipment and harness

Contact the workshop so we can check the harness settings and positioning together. Make sure nothing rubs, pinches, or could injure the dog.

  • Consult professionals if necessary

If the problem persists, consider consulting a veterinarian or a specialist (canine behaviorist, osteopath, etc.).

⚠️ Important reminder: The owner must always monitor the dog's overall health and the condition of the equipment each time it is used in order to avoid any risk of injury.

💜 Are there any accessories compatible with the harness?

Yes! We ensure that most accessories on the market are compatible with our harnesses.

In addition, we also offer accessories sold separately, specially designed to fit perfectly with our harnesses.

🩷 Do you work with associations?

Yes! We gladly collaborate with associations that train and provide assistance dogs to their beneficiaries.

We can offer tailored conditions to suit your organization's needs. Feel free to contact us to discuss this further 🩷

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