When it comes to mobility assistance, having the right service dog mobility harness is crucial for both the dog’s comfort and the handler’s safety.
In a recent discussion with Katrina Boldry, founder of Bold Lead Designs and Mobility Dog Resource Group, we explored the essential features of a well-designed mobility harness, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to ensure the best fit for your service dog.
Understanding Mobility Assistance in Service Dogs
Before choosing a mobility harness, it’s important to understand the type of assistance your dog provides. Mobility assistance can include balance support, counterbalance, leading, pulling, and bracing: each requiring specific harness features to ensure safety and functionality.
While mobility can also refer to guide dogs or dogs trained to assist wheelchair users by opening doors, this discussion focuses specifically on stability and balance assistance for individuals who need support while walking.
Who Can Benefit from a Service Dog Mobility Harness?
A well-fitted mobility harness can be life-changing for individuals training or handling a service dog with various disabilities, including:
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Providing counterbalance and stability to reduce the risk of falls.
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): Supporting those with joint instability and helping with movement.
Parkinson’s Disease: Assisting with gait correction and reducing the likelihood of freezing episodes.
Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Offering steady support for those prone to dizziness or imbalance.
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): Helping individuals remain upright during sudden drops in blood pressure.
Spinal Cord Injuries or Neuromuscular Disorders: Providing physical support and bracing assistance.
Key Features to Look for in a Service dog Mobility Harness
Not all harnesses are created equal, and unfortunately, many that are marketed as mobility harnesses do not provide proper support. Here are green flags to look for:
Proper Fit: The harness should be well-fitted to your dog, with adjustable straps that ensure even weight distribution without putting pressure on sensitive areas.
Broad Pressure Distribution: A good harness distributes weight over strong, non-moving areas of the body, such as the rib cage and sternum, to minimize strain on joints and muscles.
Appropriate Handle Design: Whether you need a rigid or flexible handle depends on the type of assistance required. A well-designed handle should complement the dog’s movement without causing discomfort.
Quality Materials: A mobility harness should be made of durable, high-quality materials that can withstand daily use and provide consistent support.
On the other hand, here are red flags to avoid:
Buying from Amazon: According to Katrina Boldry of Bold Lead Designs, no harness on Amazon is built to provide true mobility support. These mass-produced harnesses often lack proper structural design and can even be harmful to the dog and handler.
Poor Fit or Pressure Points: Harnesses that put pressure on the dog’s shoulders, belly, or neck can cause discomfort, limit movement, or lead to long-term injuries.
Handles with No Purpose: Some harnesses feature handles that are arbitrarily placed, without consideration for proper weight distribution or handler safety.
Fit and Design Matter for service dog mobility harnesses
Choosing the right harness is not just about ethical considerations—it’s about long-term health and function for both the dog and the handler. An improperly designed harness can lead to strain injuries, joint issues, and chronic pain for your dog.
A well-designed mobility harness allows a dog to perform their job comfortably, reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
Think of it this way. You wouldn’t hike in high heels, you shouldn’t expect a dog to work in a poorly designed harness.
– Katrina boldry
FOUNDER OF BOLD LEAD DESIGNS and MOBILITY DOG RESOURCE GROUP
Different Types of Mobility Handles
Bold Lead Designs creates several types of handles, each suited for different mobility needs:
Rigid Metal Handles: Best for balance assistance and light bracing. They provide stability but should only be used when the dog is properly positioned and prepared to bear weight (this can be trained).
Flexible Leather Handles: Offer more movement and adaptability, ideal for counterbalance and proprioceptive feedback (helping handlers orient themselves in space).
Combination Handles: Some harnesses allow users to switch between rigid and flexible handles depending on the task at hand.
Proper Fit: Positioning Matters
Katrina emphasizes the importance of harness positioning. A mobility harness should sit correctly on the dog’s body to prevent injury:
Behind the shoulders: This is the dog’s center of gravity, making it the ideal place for weight-bearing straps.
Avoiding the neck and belly: Pressure in these areas can lead to discomfort and possible injury.
Freeing the shoulder joints: The harness should not restrict shoulder movement, as this can interfere with the dog’s gait and cause long-term joint problems.
Service Dog vs. Cane: Why Choose a Mobility Dog?
A service dog offers more than just physical stability. Unlike a cane, a trained mobility dog can respond to changes in the handler’s balance, preventing falls before they happen. Many dogs naturally adjust to their handler’s movements and provide a level of support that static mobility aids cannot.
Selecting a Mobility Dog: Health Considerations
Not every dog is suitable for mobility work. Key factors to consider include:
Size & Weight: A dog should be large enough to provide support without putting strain on their own body. Orthopedic Health: Dogs should be screened for hip dysplasia, elbow issues, and spinal health to ensure they can handle the workload. Gait & Structure: A properly structured dog will be better suited for mobility work than one with a compact or fragile frame.
For the most accurate assessment, Katrina recommends consulting a veterinary physical therapist rather than just a general vet, as they have specialized knowledge in biomechanics and movement.
Final Thoughts on SERVICE DOG MOBILITY HARNESSES
Finding the right mobility dog harness is a critical decision that affects both the service dog’s well-being and the handler’s safety. Investing in a properly designed, well-fitted harness ensures that the dog can perform their job effectively and comfortably for years to come.
For more resources on mobility dog gear and training, visit Mobility Dog Resource Group and Bold Lead Designs.
Need help training your mobility service dog? Check out my online courses to help support you on your service dog self-training journey.
Would you like to see real-life examples of proper harness fitting? Watch our full discussion with Katrina Baldry on YouTube for a hands-on demonstration!