As a dog training instructor, I've had the opportunity to test a variety of harnesses on numerous breeds during our training sessions. Today, I'm excited to share my experiences with two popular options: the Ruffwear Front Range Harness and the Wilderdog Harness. Both harnesses have their merits, but they serve slightly different purposes and audiences. Let's dive into a detailed comparison, starting with my general rating:
Ruffwear Rating
Wilderdog Rating
Our Review Process
We take harness reviews seriously because we know how important a good fit and functionality are for both the comfort and safety of our dogs. Our review process for the Ruffwear Front Range Harness and the Wilderdog Harness involved a series of tests designed to assess each harness across five key categories: Comfort & Fit, Durability, Ease of Use, Safety Features, and Versatility. Each harness was tested on real dogs in real training and lifestyle situations. Let’s see how they compare:
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Comfort & Fit
Ruffwear Harness
This harness features a padded chest and belly panel, ensuring comfort during prolonged use. The adjustable straps provide a snug fit for a variety of dog shapes, which we've tested extensively in our obedience classes. My students often report that their dogs seem very comfortable, with no signs of irritation.
Wilderdog Harness
Made with a simpler, more streamlined design, this harness also uses durable materials but has less padding compared to Ruffwear. It fits well enough on most dogs, though some smaller breeds might find it a bit rigid. The harness lacks a contoured design to prevent rubbing or chafing, which could be problematic during prolonged use.
Durability
Ruffwear Harness
It’s built to last. Even our most adventurous canine companions haven't been able to wear it down easily. The harness features tough, reinforced stitching and high-quality hardware that stands up to frequent use and washing.
Wilderdog Harness
This harness is durable, but its minimalist design means there are fewer protections against wear and tear. It holds up well in normal conditions, but during intense activity, like trail running, it shows wear a bit faster.
Ease of Use
Ruffwear Harness
It’s a breeze to put on and take off, which is a huge plus during busy training sessions. The buckles are secure yet easy to clip, and adjustments can be made quickly — a feature that my team and I appreciate.
Wilderdog Harness
While still relatively easy to use, it takes a bit more effort to adjust, especially when dealing with a squirmy pup. Even when fitted properly, the harness tends to slip, especially when using the front clip.
Safety Features
Ruffwear Harness
The inclusion of reflective trim for low-light visibility and a strong loop for attaching a leash are standout safety features. These aspects ensure the dog’s safety on night walks or in low-visibility weather conditions.
Wilderdog Harness
It also features reflective stitching, but the overall design is more basic, with less focus on additional safety features. This makes it suitable for day-to-day use but less ideal for more hazardous environments.
Versatility
Ruffwear Harness
Excellently versatile. It’s suitable for walking, light hiking, and even more vigorous training. We’ve used it in a variety of settings, from city streets to country trails, and it performs well everywhere.
Wilderdog Harness
It’s great for everyday use but doesn’t adapt as well to environments where a more robust harness might be required. It's perfect for urban environments and casual walks, but for more rugged activities, I’d recommend Ruffwear.
Final Result
After careful consideration and extensive testing in a variety of training scenarios, the Ruffwear Front Range Harness emerges as the clear winner in our comparison with the Wilderdog Harness. Here’s why Ruffwear stands out:
- Superior Comfort & Fit: The padding and adjustable features provide a snug and comfortable fit, which is essential for long periods of wear. Dogs of all sizes seem more at ease in the Ruffwear harness during training and recreational activities.
- Enhanced Durability: Constructed with high-quality materials and robust stitching, the Ruffwear harness is designed to withstand the rigors of both urban and rugged outdoor environments without significant wear and tear.
- Ease of Use: Quick to fit and easy to adjust, this harness saves time and reduces hassle for both trainers and pet owners, making it a favorite in our busy dog training sessions.
- Advanced Safety Features: With reflective trim and strong leash attachments, it ensures the safety of dogs in various settings, particularly in low-light conditions.
- Versatility for All Adventures: Whether it’s a daily walk, a training session, or a hiking trip, the Ruffwear harness is adaptable and reliable in any situation.
Comparison Winner!
Ruffwear Front Range Harness
All-around perfect harness for every day use and training, balancing comfort, durability and functionality.
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Overall, the Ruffwear Front Range Harness offers a combination of features that cater to active dogs and safety-conscious owners, making it the top choice for those who need a dependable harness for all types of adventures with their dogs. For more detailed information, you can check out our full reviews:
I started working under a professional dog trainer at the young age of 14, when 4-H first opened my eyes to the wonderful world of dogs. I was captivated and knew I had found my calling. This passion led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness in Animal Science/Pre-Vet at the University of Central Missouri, where I deepened my knowledge and understanding of animals. Following my graduation, I took the leap to start my own business, focusing on dog training across a wide range of activities. I've trained dogs in skills and manners, Tricks, Freestyle, Service Dogs, Agility, Disc, Dock Diving, and Bikejoring.
In addition to running my own business, I managed the training department for a local pet hotel in St. Louis. For the past 2 years, I've had the incredible opportunity to work as a dog training and behavior instructor at The Academy of Pet Careers. This role has allowed me to share my knowledge and experience with aspiring dog trainers, shaping the next generation of experts in this field. Teaching at the academy is profoundly rewarding; not only do I get to impart practical skills and theoretical knowledge about various aspects of dog training and behavior, but I also learn from my students' fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. This experience has enriched my understanding of dog training, fostering a collaborative and ever-evolving environment that benefits both humans and their canine companions.
Joseph Schifano is the President of The Academy of Pet Careers and Founder of DogNerdly.
With over 20 years of professional pet experience, Joseph got his start as an owner/operator of a 7-figure, all-inclusive pet care business. From there, he purchased The Academy of Pet Careers with a hopes of improving the quality of care provided by industry professionals. This role allowed Joseph to rub shoulders with some of the biggest names in the industry, and gain knowledge in every aspect of pet care.
After witnessing the popularity of social media influencers and the amount of misinformation being taught to pet parents, Joseph decided to create DogNerdly. The goal was to provide science-backed education for the average dog nerd in order to create a world where dogs and humans can live a more harmonious and empowered lifestyle.
