Caturday: An Escape-Proof Cat Harness?

It's Caturday, and I'm taking James out for a little stroll in his Ruffwear Webmaster harness. It was designed for dogs, but this is the closest thing I've found to to an escape-proof cat harness. It definitely feels more secure than PetSafe's Come With Me Kitty harness. Plus it has a handle, and cats should have handles.

Cat Physics

Cats are basically slow-moving liquids. They flow to fit the shape of any container, they spread out when left on a flat surface, and you can pour them. Keeping one in a harness can be a challenge. Most dog harnesses are not designed to be escape-proof. They fit comfortably around the chest and shoulders, and a determined dog can usually slither out of them. Cats are experts at oozing out of regular dog harnesses.

The Web Master harness is designed to be supportive, so it has an extra strap that fits further back on the dog's undercarriage. When fitted well, this strap sits behind the ribcage, around the abdomen. This prevents most dogs from backing out of the harness, because the belly strap is cinched down tighter than the ribcage.

Escape-Resistant

Cats are pretty amazing at getting out of harnesses, so I'm not going to declare this one to be escape-proof. However, the Webmaster does feel secure to me. I can pick up James by the handle, and he feels comfortably supported, not like he's about to slide out of the thing. Sometimes I hoist him up and stick him in trees just for kicks. I do put the harness on very snug, as tight as I can get it, for my own piece of mind.

Solstice is, unfortunately, too fat for the XXS web master harness. I can barely get the back strap buckle snapped, and she complains a whole lot about it. I'm currently looking for an inexpensive XS size to try on her, hopefully the rest of the straps won't be too big. She's basically got a normal-sized ribcage and then a giant expanse of catflab.

Other Options

I've heard good things about the Kitty Holster and Lupine's cat harness. Both of these prevent escape by adjusting snug around the neck, with no strap running up the chest between the belly and neck straps. I have not tried this style of harness on The Hellions yet, but they aren't particularly interested in escaping so they don't make very good product testers.

Do you have a harness for your cat?

Product Review: Ruffwear Quinzee Coat

Ruffwear's Quinzee coat is a well-insulated and extremely warm dog jacket designed to allow freedom of movement. It packs into an integrated stuff sack and takes up remarkably little space. The coat features a zippered neck to accommodate different body shapes, and reflective trim. The Quinzee is available in three colors and six sizes to fit dogs with chests 13-42" around.

Photo by Erin Koski

Until they released the Powder Hound, this was Ruffwear's warmest coat. The vest style means it can be worn as a layer over the Climate Changer, under the Sun Shower, and with a variety of other Ruffwear products. It's a puffer-style jacket, with loads of lofty insulation.

It's summer, but it has been hot in Southern California for months already. Still, Ru likes to be toasty on the occasional early morning walk. This coat is super durable, and I fully expect it to last the rest of Ru's projected lifespan (an estimated 12 years).

Pros: Allows freedom of movement, especially under the front legs. Chest panel helps hold in body heat. Zippered neck allows the Quinzee to fit wider breeds like French bulldogs. Works on deep-chested sighthounds as well.Warm and packable.

Cons: Weather resistant but not totally waterproof, so this does not make a good raincoat on its own.

Bottom Line: I'm planning on moving to somewhere with an actual winter soon, and I'm sure this will become a piece of everyday Ru gear.

Product Review: Ruffwear Doubleback Harness

Ruffwear's Doubleback Harness is literally the dog-lifting harness to end all harnesses. Often purchased as a mobility aid, this thing is actually built for hoisting your dog up cliffs. "Strong, safe, and secure" are understatements. Modeled after serious human climbing harnesses, it features doubleback fasteners, secure attachment points, and is strength rated to 2,000 lbs of force. The Doubleback Harness is available in four sizes to fit dogs with chests 17-42" around.

Photo by Erin Koski

Photo by Erin Koski

Let me start by saying that this harness is way to big for Brisbane. It's a L/XL, for dogs with chests 32-42" around, on my 26" dog. It's actually covering his bits so he would definitely pee all over it. Ruffwear's fitting video specifically states that the bottom pad on the harness should not go further back than the ribcage. Brisbane would wear a size small Doubleback harness, we happen to have this one because I snagged it on ebay for $45, listed as a Front Range.


The specialized Doubleback differs from other harnesses in a number of different ways. First, there's no leash ring at all. I'm assuming this is to prevent climbing accidents. The small tie-in loops at the front and back of the harness work decently with a regular leash, and Ruffwear's Knot-a-Leash has a big carabiner that works beautifully with the main handle. I think the lack of leash ring really drives home the point that this is a purpose-built piece of gear and not just a redesigned walking harness.

The doubleback fasteners are another climbing safety feature that a lot of people complain about when they purchase this for other uses. Plastic buckles have no place on a strength-rated harness, and the last thing you want halfway up a rock face is anything quick-release. Instead, the straps must be carefully laced through the buckles in a specific pattern for maximum security.

Photo by Erin Koski

The rear leg loops are the most obvious unique feature on this harness. These attach with the same doubleback fasteners, and can be stowed in a little pouch at the rear of the back plate when not in use. There is a handle that sits on top of the hips and allows for two-handed lifts that support the entire spine.

Ruffwear released a new 2016 updated version of the Doubleback harness earlier this year. Ours is the older style. The main difference is that the top and bottom pads on the newer harness enclose most of the straps that are sewn on top on the older style. The updated version also got rid of the red stabilizer pads on the rear leg loops, making the whole rear assembly significantly less bulky.

Pros: Strongest and most secure dog harness on the market. Actually escape-proof. The only purpose-built climbing harness for dogs. Allows for a comfortable lift that supports the entire spine.

Cons: Basically everything that counts as a con has either been fixed in the 2016 version or is related to off-label use of the Doubleback harness. The super-secure buckles mean the harness takes longer to put on than one with quick-release buckles. The back leg loop assembly on my harness is a bit bulky, but has been slimmed down in the new version along with the entire design.

Bottom Line: Even in a way-too-big Doubleback, Brisbane is totally cool with being lifted. I think the Help 'Em Up makes a better mobility harness, but this is definitely the safest piece of gear for adventuring.

Product Review: Ruffwear K-9 Overcoat

Ruffwear's K-9 Overcoat is a waterproof, fleece-lined winter coat. It features a large belly panel and incredibly durable construction. The outer fabric is smooth outdoor polyester that doesn't pick up burrs and stickers. This coat comes in three colors and six sizes to fit dogs with chests 13-42" around.

Photo by Erin Koski

I got a 40%-off Ruffwear coupon, and this is what I did with it. Sisci measures 22" around her chest, putting her right at the top of the size range for XS and the bottom for S. Ruffwear helpfully provides the back length and neck circumference measurements for their products, and the size small measured just right for the length of Sisci's back. I like my dogs' coats to be long enough to reach the bases of their tails and the small fits perfectly. 

This is a very easy coat to put on, and does not require any flexibility on the part of the dog. The neck is a fixed size, and the belly part attaches to the top part via plastic quick-release buckles. It is very easy to adjust, put on, and take off. Like the Sunshower jacket, the buckles are hidden in little pockets to protect them and keep them from irritating the dog.

Photo by Erin Koski

Pros: Super durable! These coats last forever, according to their many stellar reviews across the internet. Excellent for running through the woods or wearing to daycare. Nice and long for excellent coverage and warmth, these are definitely sized for long-backed dogs. Waterproof! Sisci and I went for a walk in a rare California rain shower and the K-9 Overcoat kept her nice and dry. Allows total freedom of movement while still protecting the chest and belly. Stays in place no matter what.

Cons: Can be a bit long on short-backed dogs. Non-adjustable neck can also make it difficult to get a good fit on some body shapes. Belly panel seems to be made to fit dogs with deep chests like pointers, may hang a bit loose on short-backed or fat dogs. Really the only bad I can find about this coat has to do with the fit on weird-shaped dogs.

Bottom Line: If you never want to buy a dog coat again, and want something that will last your dog's entire life, the K-9 Overcoat is for you.

We Went to Idaho

Last month the dogs and I took a road trip up to Boise, Idaho to visit my favorite cousins and my aunt. They moved up there from Los Angeles ten years ago and have been raving about how nice it is ever since. Over the summer they took a trip to Disneyland and joined them for a day, and they invited me and the dogs to come stay with them.

Brisbane and Sisci in their SleepyPod Clickit Harnesses

It took us two days to drive up there, with many stops along the way. California is very densely populated, and it was a bit weird to find places just off the highway that were empty enough for the dogs to run and play. We stayed in motels on the way there and back, I highly recommend Comfort Inn and La Quinta Inn for affordable pet-friendly accommodations.

Boise itself was lovely and wonderful! We've been in serious drought conditions for years down here, so it was refreshing to see so much green. I love cold weather and really enjoyed the sub-freezing temperatures. Brisbane and Sisci had a ton of fun hiking, playing ball, chasing squirrels, and digging for gophers. Their Hurtta and Ruffwear coats were very useful.

Ru...is a tropical dog. I tried putting his Hurtta snowsuit on him, but he mostly refused to walk. He ended up riding around in his Pet Flys Snugglebug or inside someone's coat anytime I made him leave the house. The nice part about staying with family is that there is usually a warm lap available for a tiny dog. Of course, when we got back to California it was 80+ degrees and sunny. I didn't miss the weather here at all.

Product Review: Ruffwear Load Up Car Harness

The Ruffwear Load Up Harness is a crash-tested vehicle restraint harness designed to provide crash-protection. It has been independently crash-tested by MGA Research Corp, but is not certified by the Center for Pet Safety. It is available in five sizes to fit dogs with chests 13-42" around.

Photo by Erin Koski

At the beginning of the summer, Ruffwear released some new products centered on road travel. The Load Up crash-protection harness was the most exciting thing announced, and one of the biggest questions was whether it would be tested or certified by the Center for Pet Safety. Our current crash-protection harnesses, SleepyPod Clickit Sports, have been the only certified harnesses for a while and I was excited about the prospect of a new one by a company I love.

When the Load Up harness was released, several people asked about certification via social media. Ruffwear's response was that they had the harness independently tested, but were not seeking certification due to the design of the harness. Their test dogs really preferred the harness with the tether attached way down at the back, and they found that this attachment point also kept their test dummies from flying off the car seat. However, this design means that the dog's head will move pretty far in an actual accident. Part of the certification for the Center for Pet Safety involved harness test results passing certain criteria for head excursion. The Load Up harness wouldn't pass these tests.

Photo by Erin Koski

Some of my houseguest dogs preferred this harness to the SleepyPod Clickit Sport, I think they found it less constricting. Brisbane hates it, but that might be because the medium isn't a great fit. The lower panel sits right in front of his bits, and when he tries to sit the harness pokes him. A small might work better.

Pros: Minimal restriction of movement, dog can sit and lay down comfortably. More comfortable for dogs that freak out in more restrictive restraints. Easy to put on and relatively simple to adjust. Crash-tested and strength-tested.

Cons: Not certified by the Center for Pet Safety. Low tether position means the part of the dog that will travel the furthest in a collision is the head. No leash ring makes it difficult to use as a walking harness. Long lower panel can stab boy dogs in the junk.

Bottom Line: Brisbane needs a size small to better evaluate this harness, but I don't think it will replace our Clickit harnesses.

Ten Reasons to Use a Harness

The most basic method of attaching a leash to a dog is via a regular buckle collar, so why use a more complicated body harness instead? Most of the time, the answer is that a harness protects the dog's neck and back. There are a wide variety of harnesses that serve many different purposes, but they all perform this essential function. Here are some of the reasons I use a harness:

Ru models his custom Fraggle Rock biothane harness.
Photo by Erin Koski

1. My dog is very small.

Josie in the Kurgo Go-Tech Adventure Harness
Photo by Erin Koski

 Small-breed dogs have very sensitive throats, and the pressure from a collar can collapse the cartilage of their trachea. A collapsed trachea doesn't happen all at once, it's a degenerative condition that develops over time. Many tiny dogs can walk on a regular collar for years without a problem, but it's difficult to assess how well their cartilage is holding up. Early symptoms include coughing and gagging as their throats literally close up. I have never walked Ru on a collar because I just don't feel the need to risk it.




2. My dog is very old.

A harness can give a senior dog a helping hand. Whether they need a little help getting down the stairs or a lot of help just standing up, the right kind of body harness can provide the needed support.


3. My dog is disabled.

Harnesses are also awesome for differently able pups of all sorts, from tripods to blind dogs. Many manage to compensate in amazing ways, but a harness can allow them to do it all, keep them safe, and provide support to give their working parts a rest.

Brisbane rocks the Help 'Em Up Harness
Photo by Erin Koski

3. My dog is injured.

Years ago, when we first x-rayed Brisbane's sore back, a veterinarian recommended I use a harness for him on a regular basis. Whether the problem is in the tails, the middle of the back, or the neck, he told me that it was best to distribute pressure and not pull Brisbane around by one end of his spine. Some harnesses also help provide support for dogs with reduced mobility.

Ru in the Midnight Pet paracord harness attached to the
Flexi Mini.
Photo by Erin Koski

4. I want to give my dog more freedom.

Though I'm not a fan of retractable leashes in most situations, I do use Flexis for certain outdoor adventures with my crew. When I use any kind of extra-long leash, I always attach it to a harness. This protects my dog's neck in the unlikely event that something causes them to bolt to the end of their leash. I can't predict earthquakes, poorly-timed fireworks, or stealthy joggers with no personal space, but I can make sure that the pressure is distributed across my dog's chest when they suddenly stop after accelerating for 15'.

Hellin wears the Mhu Ghu LED mesh harness
Photo by Erin Koski

5. My dog doesn't know how to walk on a leash yet.

While I've found collars to be more useful for communicating with a dog via a leash, harnesses are preferable for casual outings with dogs who are still figuring out this whole "leash" thing. Whether I'm working with a new puppy or a rescue fresh from the shelter, I want to protect their neck while they learn to move with me.

I like the SENSE-ation harness a lot better than the Easy Walk.
Photo by Erin Koski

6. I don't want my dog to pull me. 

Loose leash walking is a skill that must be learned, and many dogs need a lot of exercise while they are mastering the concept. There are a wide variety of harnesses that can help discourage pulling while preventing a strong dog from overpowering a smaller handler. Some regular Roman harnesses can be used as a front-clip no-pull harness.

The Urban Trails mushing harness by Alpine Outfitters.
Photo by Erin Koski

7. I do want my dog to pull me.

Mushing isn't just for winter anymore! There are a wide variety of dog-powered sports and activities out there. If I'm asking my dog to pull me on a skateboard, scooter, bicycle, or skis, I need to make sure he is comfortable. Harnesses designed for pulling tend to be thickly padded around the chest to help distribute pressure. Some dogs will cheerfully pull on a collar, but this can cause damage over time.

The Ruffwear Webmaster harness allows me to carry
Brisbane like a suitcase.
Photo by Erin Koski

8. I need to pick my dog up. 

Whether I am helicoptering my chihuahua out of harm's way or helping Brisbane up a particularly steep section of trail, a harness is essential for comfortable lifting. Not every harness is designed for this, though many can be used for emergency lifts. Those used for rappelling and parachuting have straps that go around the rear legs for extra security.

Brisbane holds a perfect stay while I take off the
SENSE-ation harness and put on the
DT Works harness.
Photo by Erin Koski

9. I need my dog to pick me up.

The job description of a service dog can include guiding and steadying their handler as they navigate obstacles that most of us barely notice. A vest may be enough to identify a hearing assistance or seizure alert dog, but a harness is necessary for those that provide mobility support. Some service dogs are even taught to brace their bodies to allow their handler to pull themselves up if they fall. Mobility assistance dogs need handles.

Annie, on the right, is the most talented escape artist I know.

10. My dog can escape from any collar.

I know a dog that can escape from martingale, slip lead, any type of head halter, and most harnesses. So far the only thing that can securely contain her is the Ruffwear Webmaster harness, and a prong collar. The Freedom No-Pull harness is also more difficult to escape than the average harness, though foster puppy Hellin managed it a couple of times.


Do you use a harness for your dog? Why?

Product Review: Ruffwear Float Coat Life Jacket

The Ruffwear K-9 Float Coat is a life jacket designed for active dogs and extended wear. It features a grab handle strong enough to actually lift a dog out of the water, reflective trim, and closed cell foam inserts that allow for a natural swimming position. It is currently available in two colors and six sizes to fit dogs with chests 13-42" around.

Photo by Erin Koski

The Ruffwear Float Coat shown in this picture is not the current model. Ours is almost 10 years old and still going strong. It is slightly faded in a couple of places from being stored in my car, in the sun, for months at a time. I think it has a spot of beach tar on one side. It has been used extensively and remains beautiful without showing much wear.

Brisbane normally hates wearing clothing, this is one of the few things he will wear without complaint.

When Brisbane was a pup, I used to take him to a tiny beach inside the harbor where there were no waves. We could play fetch without him getting swamped by waves. The only problem was that the beach was situated near the mouth of the harbor, and so there were often boats passing by. Brisbane mostly wanted to swim out to get his ball, but occasionally he would spot a boat and decide to paddle out into the channel. I was always worried that he would get too tired to swim and just sink out there, so I got him a life jacket.

Being a total dog nerd, I wanted to get Brisbane The Best Dog Life Jacket. At the time, my options appeared to be the flimsy big box store life jackets that often didn't make it out of the store unscathed, or the Ruffwear Float Coat.  Since Briz did quite a bit of running on the beach, I really needed something that would allow him to move freely without chafing even when he was wet and sandy.

My very first interaction with the Ruffwear company was nearly a decade ago when I bought this life vest. According to his chest measurement, Brisbane should wear a size small. However, at the time the Float Coat fitting chart gave both the chest circumference and length, and by length Briz would fit into a size medium. I contacted Ruffwear to ask which measurement I should use, and they said to go ahead and get the one that fit his chest measurement. They have since updated the fitting guide with that information, while providing both the length and neck circumference for each size to help get the best fit for every dog.

Pros: Allows enough freedom of movement to wear on a long hike or a hard run. Helps boost swimming confidence for newbie dock divers and beginning swimmers. Ridiculously durable. Obviously comfortable.

Cons: The straps on ours tend to slip looser after a few hours. I believe this issue has been fixed on newer models.

Bottom Line: Hands down the best dog life jacket on the market. Better pick a color you like because you'll be looking at it for years to come.

Product Review: Ruffwear Turnup

The Ruffwear Turnup is a bouncy fetch toy made from natural rubber. It is durable, floats, and has a hole for stuffing treats inside.

Photo by Erin Koski

When the Turnup first arrived, I was skeptical. The rubber felt flimsy, and the packaging came with a warning that it was not intended to be chewed. With two big holes in it, surely it must sink!

I'm pleased to report that the Turnup massively exceeded my expectations. I holds up just fine to Brisbane's OCD chomping. It does float, though not very high in the water. It also can be filled with kibble, and it's plenty tough.

Pros: Fits in a Chuckit ball launcher! Bounces erratically! Holds up way better than a tennis ball and doesn't get all slimy and gross.

Cons: Only comes in standard tennis ball size, so may present a choking hazard for larger dogs. Cost 4x the price of an Ultraball.

Bottom Line: It probably won't replace our marvelous orange Chuckit ball, but this is definitely a worthwhile investment for dogs who destroy tennis balls.

What is your dog's favorite fetch toy?

Product Review: Ruffwear Bark'n Boot Liners

Ruffwear Bark'n Boot Liners are socks that go under Ruffwear dog boots. They are intended to improve fit, reduce irritation of dewclaws, and make the boots more comfortable. The boot liners are available in four sizes that match up with the various boot sizes.

Photo by Erin Koski

Brisbane's Grip Trex boots keep his feet from getting torn up when he is lure coursing, but he can't wear them all day long. The strap on these boots cinches down right over his front dewclaws, and after a few hours he starts to get hot spots under those claws.

The Bark'n Boot liners are intended to wick away moisture, and moisture is a big part of the hot spot formation process. I'm not totally certain how well they work when wet, however. Brisbane loves to stick his feet in his water bucket after a good run, and if I leave the boots on they inevitably get soaked.

Photo by Erin Koski

These socks shouldn't be worn by themselves. They have no grip at all, and Brisbane slides around on the hardwood floor before I get the boots on him.

So far they seem to be working, Briz has not had any irritation under his dewclaws since we started using the Bark'n Boot Liners. They do make the boot-putting-on process take twice as long, though

Pros: Seem to make the boots less hateful for Brisbane. Fairly easy to put on, and do appear to reduce irritation.

Cons: Putting on socks under boots takes forever, and is basically impossible on a super-excited dog. Some people have a lot of trouble with the boots falling off as soon as the socks get wet.

Bottom Line: The guy at R.E.I. laughed when I told him I was buying socks for my dog.

Have you ever put socks on your dog?

Product Review: Ruffwear Front Range Harness

The Ruffwear Front Range Harness is a Roman-style harness that allows freedom of movement while remaining comfortable for extended wear. It is currently available in four colors and five sizes to fit dogs with chests 13-42" around.

Photo by Erin Koski

Since Brisbane has developed some hip arthritis, he hasn't been quite as enthusiastic about his Norway-style harnesses. I think it is because the front strap on those sits across his upper arm and causes him to put more weight on his sore back end. At any rate, he was visible unhappy wearing his Comfortflex and rolled leather harnesses, so I needed to find a really good alternative. Something that would fit him really well, leave his upper arms and shoulders free to move properly, and that wouldn't require me to touch his feet while putting it on.

Ruffwear delivered all that and more when they released the Front Range harness this summer. This might be the most comfortable harness in Brisbane's wardrobe, I also think it looks pretty snazzy. The Front Range girth strap has a clip on either side, so I don't have to pick up Brisbane's foot or thread a strap through a small loop to get it on. The straps also have a little bit of stretch down where they attach at the bottom, so the section has some give and moves with him.

Photo by Erin Koski

The neck section can be adjusted so that it is properly tight. I recently learned some things about harness fitting and changed the way I adjust my dogs' harnesses. To keep the shoulder straps from altering their gaits, I adjust the neck of Roman-style harnesses down so tight they just barely slip over their heads. This means the chest piece that goes between Brisbane's front legs must be long enough to reach all the way from the base of his neck down past his elbows. Not every harness can adjust small enough in the neck without pulling the girth strap into Brisbane's armpits, but the medium Ruffwear Front Range fits perfectly.

Other cool features of this harness include the front loop for leash attachment, and the hidden pocket for ID tags on the back. I don't need a front-attachment harness for Brisbane, but Ulysses could easily wear this as well.

Pros: Padded all over without being bulky or picking up dead grass and crud. Ergonomically-designed to allow free shoulder movement. Front leash attachment option is much easier on the shoulders than the Premier Easy Walk harness. Tag pocket silences the jingling so other dogs in the neighborhood don't know we're passing through. Slightly stretchy section of girth allows for greater freedom of movement and absorbs some shock. Plus it comes in pink.

Cons: Smallest size is still an inch too big for little Ru. Relatively small range of adjustment for each strap means this harness may not fit well on dogs with small necks and big chests. The front leash attachment point may not hold up to continuous pulling indefinitely. I am slightly concerned that the stretchy section will eventually wear out and make the harness fit differently.

Bottom Line: This harness seems to have been made for Brisbane. If the straps were black it would also match my phone case, car keys, seat covers, folding chair, travel mug, chihuahua purse, and hair.

Product Review: Ruffwear Roamer Leash, 2014

The Ruffwear Roamer is a leash made from stretch webbing. This year's model features Ruffwear's patented Talon Clip that allows it to be attached and removed with one hand. The current Roamer comes in four colors and two sizes, medium stretches from 5.5 to 7 feet, large stretches from 7.3 to 11 feet.

Photo by Erin Koski

I've owned a couple of Roamer leashes for several years now, and found them pretty neat. My original leash makes a great gangline for attaching to a pulling harness, and works ok for running though I find it a bit long. My biggest complaint was that my first Roamer leash was beginning to lose its stretch, the elastic was getting all worn out at the end near the clip. I've been having a lot of fun contacting companies about their products, so I went ahead and shot Ruffwear an email. I mostly just wanted to let them know that their product appeared to have a shelf life, given that my leash was only used occasionally and was basically in mint condition. Their response was to request a picture, and when I sent it they declared it to fall under their lifetime guarantee and sent me enough store credit to replace my leash.

This new Roamer is a fantastic improvement, they basically fixed all of my issues with the original. My size medium leash is the perfect length, long enough for running but short enough to not drag on the ground. I really like the Talon Hook on the handle portion, it doesn't require squeezing to open. I mostly wear this as an over-the-shoulder leash, which keeps Briz close enough to stay out of trouble. I love the new Wavelength stretch webbing, but time will tell whether it holds up or does what every stretchy this eventually seems to do. Seriously, nothing stays elastic forever.

Pros: Perfect length for hands-free use, absorbs shock nicely. The new custom hardware is sturdy and easy to use even when my hands hurt. It comes in pink!

Cons: Not everybody loves the Talon Hook on the handle, and the handle/belt section fits perfectly on my 5'3" 140lb body so may be too small for larger people to use the same way.

Bottom Line: The new Roamer gets a whole lot more use than my original. I still use the old one for teaching Ulysses to pull, but the new one also works as an everyday leash.

Product Review: Ruffwear Climate Changer Jacket

The Ruffwear Climate Changer is a jacket made from recycled polyester fleece, and can be used as a base layer or on its own. It is machine washable and has a zipper on the side rather than on the top or bottom. This year's Climate Changer comes in three colors and six sizes to fit dogs measuring 13.25-35.75" from neck to tail.

Photo by Erin Koski

This is a serious jacket for serious dogs, fortunately they make it in tinydog size, too. These jackets are more popular in places that have actual weather and seasons instead of perfect beach days year-round. The only other Climate Changer I've seen in person was on a friend from Minnesota's dog. It's toasty for our occasional chilly mornings, but Ru could just live in it year-round.

Most sweaters for tiny dogs are designed to be cute, and maybe convenient. This one is actually intended to keep the dog warm in places where the temperature can drop below freezing.

Photo by Erin Koski

The Climate Changer is also designed to allow freedom of movement while staying in place. The sleeves keep Ru's tiny armpits warm, and he loves the thick fleece.

Pros: Designed specifically to keep the dog warm during physical activity. Fast-drying fleece is super thick and super warm. Well-placed zipper allows for easy access while requiring minimal flexibility.

Cons: Wide neck allows the jacket to slip down the dog's shoulders. I really wish it had a drawstring or something, Ru occasionally slithers out of it when he's lounging on the couch.

Bottom Line: This jacket is serious overkill for Central California weather, which is why Ru loves it. It's a great way to keep a short-haired dog toasty.

Product Review: Ruffwear Knot-a-Collar

The Ruffwear Knot-a-Collar is a flat collar made from reflective climbing rope. The current model features a tag silencer, a leash ring that remains oriented on top of the neck, and a buckle-free design. It comes in four colors and two sizes to fit dogs with necks 14-26" around.

Photo by Erin Koski

Ruffwear's Knot-a-Collar has gone through several redesigns since I first became a fan of the company. The first one I ever saw was a breakaway design intended to hold tags and come off if the collar got caught on anything. This was eventually discontinued, and the Knot-a-Collar I own was introduced. Mine is an adjustable flat buckle collar with a leash ring, and is made from significantly thicker rope than the original or current models.

The current Knot-a-Collar is made from thinner rope than mine, and has no buckle. Instead, the size adjusts via a pair of sliding knots. It is truly a minimalist collar. Mine is a little more ordinary, but is still a collar made out of climbing rope. The round rope slides into Brisbane's coat nicely, and makes it look as though he isn't even wearing a collar. It does its job of carrying his identification tags and providing a leash attachment point without screaming "COLLAR!" or distracting from anything else on the dog.

Pros: Strong, sturdy, and guaranteed for life. Rounded rope slides into fur without breaking or matting. Keeps leash ring on top. Lightweight design is gentle on sensitive skin. Reflective trim gives night visibility.

Cons: Sliding knot design of current model may loosen up if adjusted poorly, making the collar easier to escape. The current Knot-a-Collar is 7mm rope and thinner than many people expect. Lacks a quick-release buckle in case of entanglement.

Bottom Line: This makes a great tag-holding collar for long-hair fluffy dogs, and also for dogs with thin coats and delicate skin, like sighthounds. It is a wonderful minimalist collar that is almost a necklace.

RuffWear Grip Trex versus Lure Coursing

Last time I took Brisbane lure coursing, he tore his feet up pretty badly. Last weekend we had another Tired Dog Good Dog event, and I wanted to protect his feet while letting him run until his legs fell off. Briz has several different sets of dog shoes, ranging from $10 Old Navy rain booties to $70 RuffWear Grip Trex.

I usually have a couple of sets of Briz-shoes in the car, so I started him in his zippered Gooby Epiks. Three out of four Epiks went flying at the first turn, I didn't even get a chance to take a picture before they were all scattered around the field.

For the next run, I wrestled Brisbane into his RuffWear Grip Trex. Briz is very intense when lure coursing, so I didn't have high hopes for these boots either. Happily, they stayed on for the entire three laps without slipping or twisting.

As soon as I put him back in his crate, Brisbane dipped one of his front feet in his water bucket. I had read some reviews from people who had difficulty keeping wet Grip Trex boots on their dogs, so I was prepared to go hunting for lost boots on the course.

On his second run, every single boot stayed put again, including the wet one. Brisbane normally hates wearing shoes, but lure coursing is so exciting that he forgot all about them. He wore the boots just fine in his crate for a couple of hours between runs without losing or twisting any boots, except the one he managed to get wedged between the bars of his crate. He was fine and I was right there to see it happen, but this was a possibility I had not anticipated.

Safety Tip: Don't leave boots on an unattended crated dog.

Brisbane also wore his RuffWear Webmaster harness to make handling him easier. Briz cannot think in the presence of lure coursing equipment. I would feel worse about my unruly and untrained dog if I didn't see pretty much every other cattledog owner carrying their dog off the field too. The Ruffwear Harness just makes it easier because it has such a convenient handle.

Product Review: Ruffwear Roamer Leash

The Ruffwear Roamer leash is a stretchable multi-function leash with an adjustable handle that can fit around the waist. The Roamer leash currently comes in two sizes and four colors to fit all but the smallest dogs.

Photo by Erin Koski

My Roamer leashes are 4 or 5 years old now, and the product has gone through some design changes since I bought them. The basic idea is still the same, this is a shock-absorbing leash designed for active dogs and their people. The handles on my leashes adjust large enough to be worn over my shoulder, but the newer model only gets big enough to fit around most people's waists. Ruffwear conveniently offers a belt for people that uses the same connector and can be added to turn the new Roamer into an over-the-shoulder leash.

The new Roamer is also a bit shorter than my leashes. These are fabulous for hiking because they give Brisbane a lot of room to move, but the older leash drags on the ground when he is walking right beside me. I don't have this issue when wearing the leash over my shoulder like a purse strap.

There are a lot of uses for a leash that essentially has a bungee cord in the center. The leash absorbs the shock from sudden stops, and prevents either party from feeling a sharp yank. I like them for running and bike riding, when I am moving quickly and Briz and I might not be moving in perfect synchronization. The Roamer is also great for hiking when we need more than 6' of leash to navigate boulders and other obstacles. I've used a Roamer leash on a dog that liked to pull excessively, and the leash conveniently stored up the energy she spent lunging and then used it to snap her back again with no effort on my part. I also like using these bungee leashes for skittish or fearful dogs to prevent the dog from getting a sharp correction when hitting the end of the leash.

Pros: The shock absorption feature has plenty of different uses, from training to just making adventures less stressful and more fun. The adjustable handle makes this a hand-free leash. There is a second handle incorporated into the unstretchy portion at the dog end for better control around traffic and other hazards.

Cons: The stretchy portion of one of my leashes is losing stretch, this may have a longer lifespan on the newer model. The plastic clip on my older Roamers is apparently prone to breaking, the Talon Hook on the current model can be difficult to open quickly for some people. A stretchy leash isn't a great idea for some dogs because it allows them more space than you'd think, often enough to investigate someones picnic or get within skunking range.

Bottom Line: I know that elastic has a finite lifespan, so I didn't expect these leashes to last forever. However, this isn't a product that I use on a daily basis and I am somewhat disappointed that one of my leashes is already reaching the end of its days of stretchiness. It will still make a nice long training leash, but I don't think I'd have bought it knowing it would only last a few years.

Product Review: Ruffwear Web Master Harness

The Ruffwear Webmaster is a harness designed to help safely lift a dog in a variety of situations. It features a handle placed at the back of the harness to help lift the entire dog and not just the front end. It comes in two colors and five sizes to fit dogs 13-42" around the chest.

Photo by Erin Koski

I love the Webmaster harness because it has so many different uses. It's original intention is for hiking, and it works great for helping Brisbane get up and over obstacles. Unlike every other harness I have ever seen, the Webmaster has a second belly strap well behind the first one. The handle is also well behind the shoulders, allowing me to lift Brisbane and carry him like a suitcase. When I try that maneuver with a typical short harness, like the Kurgo Go-Tech Adventure Harness, it only lifts the front of the dog and slides forward immediately.

Photo by Pawz in Action

The handle and lifting ability of the Webmaster also make it a fantastic mobility harness. Josie wore it for a while before I got her Go-Tech. I have also used it for helping Briz when he has a foot injury. It is ridiculously comfortable for the dog, padded all over the place so it doesn't rub or chafe at all. I also use it to tote Brisbane around when he is sedated, or too excited to walk. It is his preferred attire for lure coursing.

Pros: Comfy, well-padded. Supportive enough to lift the entire dog. Makes steering and aiding geriatric dogs very easy. Provides a good fit even on my oddly-shaped dog. Ours has been through the washing machine several times. Also durable enough to put on my friend's enormous Asian water monitor lizard and drag him around on pavement. Seriously, we've had this thing for at least five years and have done some ridiculous things with it and it still looks brand new.

Cons: At ~$60 this is a pretty expensive harness. I paid a lot more for this one because it came with the Ruffwear Palisades backpack. Tired Dog Good Dog Lure Coursing informs me that dogs can get their feet caught in the back strap when running all-out, though Brisbane doesn't have this problem because he has a long back and a short stride.

Bottom Line: This is an amazing harness that has seen some pretty serious use, and it still looks great. It was well worth the price and I expect it to last through multiple dogs. I used to loan it out, but ours has extra clips for attaching the backpack on top, and I worry about having to replace the entire $130 set if anything happened to the harness. I wish other companies made such functional and durable products.

Product Review: Ruffwear Sun Shower Jacket

The Ruffwear Sun Shower jacket is a rain slicker. This jacket is not insulated, so it still works on warm rainy days for dogs that live in Hawaii.

Photo by Erin Koski

I love Ruffwear because pretty much all of their products seem like they were designed by people who actually tested them and now use them on a regular basis. I'm pretty sure the Sun Shower jacket was designed by someone with a really hairy dog, maybe an Australian shepherd or an Old English sheepdog. The underside features a big panel that goes between the front legs and holds all the belly floof off the ground. Brisbane is lacking in the belly floof department, but I still appreciate that this jacket keeps his undercarriage dry.

Photo by Erin Koski

Putting the Sun Shower jacket on is simple. Brisbane's head goes through the neck hole, and then the belly flap clips to the top on either side. The plastic clips are hidden inside the jacket, so they aren't against the dog or exposed to the weather. The clips are also on an elastic strap, so there is some stretch to allow the coat to move with the dog.

Brisbane's Sun Shower is a size Medium, which fits him well from neck to tail. The belly clips adjust small enough to provide a good fit, Brisbane's chest measurement is actually in the range for the Small size, so I have to decide which is more important depending on the product. Briz wears a small Ruffwear life jacket, for example.

Pros: A rain slicker that won't overheat the dog in warm weather. Adjustable for a good fit even on my strange dog. Comes in five sizes to fit dogs 13"-46" around the chest. A XXSmall will fit Ru. The Sun Shower is good for layering over a warm jacket. Very waterproof, also comes with a detachable hood that Brisbane hates. Easy to put on the dog, does not require lifting feet and stuffing them through sleeves. Light and packable. This coat also stays put and doesn't slide to the side.

Cons: Getting the buckles buckled can be kind of annoying since they are hiding way inside some little pockets. Brisbane's jacket is not the current model so they may have already improved this. Otherwise there's really nothing bad to say except that we don't get to use this much because it's pretty much always cold when it rains here and it hasn't really rained in the last couple of years anyway.

Bottom Line: If Brisbane liked to walk in the rain we would use this more often. I fully expect it to last through multiple dogs, along with the rest of our Ruffwear gear.

Product Review: Ruffwear Grip Trex

Ruffwear Grip Trex are serious dog boots for serious dog activities. They are made with Vibram soles, just like human shoes.

Brisbane's 2009 Grip Trex

These are definitely Brisbane's favorite boots. The Grip Trex stay on remarkably well on all sorts of adventures, and they really do provide extra traction. Whether we're crossing a stream on slippery rocks or just running around the yard, the grip Trex stay exactly where they're supposed to stay. The only activity that has defeated the Grip Trex is the crazy ball-chasing sessions that destroy Brisbane's carpal pads. These boots don't go up high enough to protect that part of his leg, and they don't stay on when he's tearing up the turf to get the ball.

One of my absolute favorite things about Ruffwear is that they sell individual dog boots. I am hesitant to shell out $60+ for a set of dog shoes when I think we might leave one behind on the trail. I've gone as far as painting my phone number on every one of Brisbane's shoes in case some kind soul finds one on the sidewalk someday. The option to replace that one missing shoe is fabulous.

Armored feetsies!

Brisbane hates wearing anything that remotely resembles 'clothing', including padded harnesses and, of course, shoes. The Grip Trex are the shoes he finds least unpleasant. He'll usually walk in them instead of pretending that his legs don't work.

Briz has more sets of shoes than my husband. This is largely due to the fact that Brisbane has extra-sensitive feetsies. (Also, dogs go barefoot most of the time so Briz shoes tend to last longer than husband shoes.) Six years ago, Brisbane suffered a black widow spider bite on the bottom of one paw, which may have resulted in nerve damage. He is also a huge drama queen, so it can be difficult to tell how much discomfort he is actually feeling when walking on gravel or woodchips.

In addition to the spider bite, poor Brisbane is also extremely prone to foot injuries, from snapped-off nails to cuts from broken glass. Boots are a great way to protect an injured paw. When Briz has a hurt paw I usually make him wear two boots for balance.

I bought Brisbane's Grip Trex back in 2009, and five years later the design has changed. Were I too lose a boot now I would probably have to buy two and have different boots for his front and back feet.

Pros: Durable, tough, and at least were very well designed back in 2009. Stay put on the dog's feet and stay on during hikes. The option to purchase a single boot is genius and means I don't have to invest in an entire new set to just to replace one that is lost or damaged. Goes on with a single velcro strap. Brisbane seems to find them the most comfortable of all his shoes.

Cons: Design has changed so I can no longer get a matching replacement boot for my set. New design has many complaints and poor reviews saying the boot is now shorter and does not stay on as well, or irritates the front dewclaws. They don't come in not-really-a-dog chihuahua size.

Bottom Line: These stay on, and they bother my dog less than other boots. Even with the design change, I would not hesitate the replace these or purchase Grip Trex for another dog.

Product Review: Ruffwear Mt. Bachelor Pad Bed

Mt. Bachelor Pad, by Ruffwear is a portable bed that rolls into a compact and secure package with attached straps and a handle. The bottom is waterproof polyester and the top is soft and fuzzy.

The Bachelor Pad seems thin at first, but as soon as I threw it down on our hard floor it was a magnet for Brisbane and the cats. Mine is about 6 years old and the product has been updated a bit since then, but the basic design and functionality remain the same.

My favorite thing about the Bachelor Pad is the waterproof polyester bedding. I take it camping and all it takes is a quick shake to rid it of dirt and dry grass. It repels crud incredibly well.

The other awesome thing about this bed is that it rolls up tight and secures with  velcro straps. When unrolled, the straps then secure flat to the bottom and stay clean and out of the way. There is a short handle, and I sometimes snap a shoulder strap on and bring it when we walk to a sidewalk cafe or anywhere else Brisbane might want a comfortable spot to lounge.

Briz and I have been working on Dr. Karen Overall's Relaxation Protocol and some of the exercises from Leslie McDevitt's book, Control Unleashed. This bed makes the perfect mat for games where he needs to stay and relax, and now he is always excited to see it unrolled because it means it's time for training fun.

Pros: The Mt. Bachelor Pad bed is durable, light, portable, and perfect for outdoor use. It washes easily in the washing machine and my stupid cats haven't managed to destroy it by peeing on it. The bed is comfortable enough that the dogs will often choose it over thicker, plushier beds around the house. It's been kept in the hot car in the sun for months, washed repeatedly, and used on and off for six years now without showing any signs of fading or wear.

Cons: It's pretty expensive, and not quite light enough for ultralight backpacking.

Bottom Line: This will probably last forever unless your dog is a chewer or incredibly abrasive. Definitely one of my favorite dog items.