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The best service dog harnesses for easy identification

You might have a service dog for a visual impairment or emotional support but often have strangers touch your companion when you’re out and about. Service dog harnesses let others know your companion is more than a cute pet, and that they have an important job of keeping you safe. We’ve rounded up the best and most comfortable harnesses on the market here to help outfit your noble canine.

A service dog harness either has a clearly marked “SERVICE DOG” badge or has space for you to attach an ID. These harnesses also feature special design elements like detachable dog backpacks, information card slots, easy-release buckles, and reflective bands.

Before deciding on your harness, it’s important to accurately measure your dog’s chest and neck girth for a comfortable fit. Mesh fronts, adjustable buckles, and breathable fabrics all ensure that your canine remains comfortable throughout the day. Take a look at our picks to see which one is most appropriate for your dog.

Industrial Puppy Service Dog Vest

Strongest Design

Industrial Puppy’s service dog harness features the strongest design in our lineup. A reflective front safety band, clearly printed and removable “SERVICE DOG” lettering, and a detachable side backpack make this vest functional for a hardworking canine. Mesh lining and durable nylon ensures comfort and durability.

Auroth Tactical Dog Harness

Most Comfortable

Your dog will look dashing and feel snug with this comfortable tactical harness from Auroth. Adjustable rings, durable plastic buckles, and larger-than-average pads prevent the harness from coming off, getting loose, or chafing. This harness includes a service dog badge you can attach on the side.

ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness

Best Training Features

ICEFANG’s service vest incorporates training features for young dogs still in school. Four metal buckles accommodate up to 1,000 pounds of pull pressure while a two-part design prevents escape. A no-pull front ring trains your dog to walk alongside you and outgrow aggressive tugging while two side loops allow your dog to carry important items.

Service dog harnesses are more than just stylish accessories for diligent working dogs. These vests offer practical features like service dog badges, side compartments, and reflective fabrics. Whether your canine is in training or a seasoned worker, give them the support they need with a comfortable and functional harness they can wear every day. Try a vest from our list today to ensure your service companion can accomplish their duties to the best of their abilities.

PawTracks Contributor
PawTracks Contributor
Looking for a fluffy and affectionate pup? Give the American Eskimo dog a try
Considering a spitz? Take a look at the American Eskimo dog
American Eskimo dog smiling at the camera

At first glance, you might confuse an American Eskimo dog with a shih tzu or even a Pomeranian. Or you might mix them up with the Canadian Eskimo dog, a 4,000-year-old animal that's native to America and was bred by the Inuit to pull sleds. But the American Eskimo dog (or Eskie) is a totally separate breed that's both beautiful and family-friendly. While no dog is right for everyone, you should consider this beastie if you want a unique and lovable pup. They might be exactly what your home needs to become complete.
Where does the American Eskimo dog come from?
Don't be fooled by the name, this pup came about in the 1800s and was bred by German immigrants as a farm dog. That means it's one of many spitz dogs, which also includes the malamute, Icelandic sheepdog, and Samoyed. The name was changed because of anti-German sentiments around World War I. Interestingly, this was a very popular show dog, and many performed in the circus and on stage! If you do wind up adopting an Eskie, you could get a regular old diva.
What is this breed like?
These fluffy friends can stay as small as 6 pounds in the toy size or up to 35 pounds, which can be standard, but they all have huge personalities regardless of stature. Because the American Eskimo dog was a working breed, they need a lot more exercise than you'd think just by looking. But they're highly trainable, loving toward people, and very energetic, so you should have no problem taking them on walks and to outdoor gatherings. If your routine already includes hikes or even strolls, the American Eskimo dog might be your perfect companion.

Who should get an Eskie?
This is a family dog through and through. Eskies require a lot of interaction and love — they sometimes misbehave if not given enough attention, which could include chewing up your favorite furniture or barking incessantly at seemingly nothing. That means you want to think carefully before committing to them, as you would with any pup.

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4 reasons why your dog might need a diaper (and which kind you should get)
When considering dog diapers, you need to think first about their purpose
Dog gets a green reusable diaper

Most dog owners luckily never need to reach for the diaper bag — we potty train our puppies and often enjoy the results for their whole lives. However, there are a few reasons why you might need to invest in dog diapers. Some of these are passing conditions, but as your pet ages, you may find that dog diapers become a part of your routine. It sounds a bit unpleasant, but with a little help, you can tackle it.
Why might my pet need them?
While most dogs will hopefully never have to wear any, they could wind up in doggie depends, temporarily or for life. Some pet parents use diapers when they know they won't be able to let their animal out to potty -- on a long plane ride for example. That's a good time for a one-off. Here are a few reasons you might need to stock your drawers with dog diapers.
They've gotten older
As pets age, sometimes incontinence sets in (and it could happen to you, too). This comes from the muscles of the bladder getting weaker and not performing as well, meaning a little bit of pee leaks through. It's much more common in female dogs, but can happen to any pooch.
She's in heat
Not totally unlike when a human has monthly bleeding, you might spot a bit of bloody discharge from a female dog in heat (fortunately, it doesn't happen as often, only a couple times per year). She also may urinate more frequently or even scent mark during this time.
He needs to be fixed
Before neutering, male dogs often mark, sometimes almost constantly, particularly if they can smell a female dog in heat nearby. If you're choosing not to neuter, you'll have to use a belly band a lot, though sometimes dogs can be trained out of this behavior with time and dedication.
They have a health condition
If your animal suddenly starts losing control of their wee, it's likely something simple, such as a urinary tract infection. Some long-term conditions like Cushing's disease, diabetes, and kidney problems could also be the issue. Work with your pet care team to ensure that a diaper won't interfere with topical medication or spread bacteria.

What kind of diaper should I get?
There are a few different kinds out there, depending on exactly what issue you're working on with your pet. Many male dogs, especially if they are really just scent marking, will require a . Female dogs in heat likely require a , but don't worry, there's a little hole for the tail. Do a bit of research including buying one kind and seeing if it works. Try to be as sustainable as possible and purchase cloth options that can go straight into the wash when possible.

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Ditching the pure breeds? Here’s how to find the right mutt for your family
Here's why a mixed-breed dog might suit you perfectly
A Chihuahua mix looks at the camera

We talk a lot about the official breeds around here, including the recently crowned most-popular dog, the Frenchie. But that ignores a huge subset of the pup-ulation: the mutts. You've probably met (and loved) all kinds of mutt dogs in your life. In fact, they make up a little over half of the dogs in the U.S., so you likely see more of them in your day-to-day life. Whether they're designer or pound pups, you might discover the perfect fit for your family in a mixed breed.

What is a mutt dog?
A mutt is any dog that is not an official pure breed, meaning one that has registered papers with two parents of the same breed. In the U.S., we have the American Kennel Club that determines which dogs fall under official breed guidelines and can ultimately compete or go on to make official baby dogs.

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