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A BLD exclusive design helps you travel effortlessly and avoid the pat down at TSA.

This versatile, metal-free, premium leather slip lead is ideal for frequent flyers who travel with service/assistance dogs or pets permitted to fly aboard airplanes. It's perfect for working dog handlers who visit secure sites including courthouses -- this leash will not set off metal detectors!

• Versatile, hardware-free all-in-one leash/collar design ideal for traveling
• Conveniently pass right through security checkpoints and metal detectors
• Dog remains safely leashed while your belongings are screened separately
• Can be worn as a harness by looping the lead under the dog’s chest and back through the collar for more control
• Easy to use slip-collar and leash combo fits any size dog
  
• Artisan handcrafted in Colorado, USA from premium, full grain leather

Order early before you need it! Please allow 3-5 business days for your order to be shipped, and time for transit once it is with a carrier (USPS, FedEx, etc.). We do not offer overnight or next day service.

Please note: Six foot long leashes are made with two pieces of leather braided together 24 inches below the handle due to the inherent size limitation of leather hides.

Video

Sizing

Width:

• Small (3/8” / 7mm. width): Best for smaller and medium sized dogs.
• Medium (1/2” / 11mm. width): Great for medium sized dogs, yet sturdy enough for large dogs. *Most popular choice! *
• Large (5/8” / 14mm. width): Great for larger dogs, or those that like a heavier, sturdy feeling leash.

Length:

Choose the overall length of the leash: 4 or 6 feet. Remember your dog’s neck will use some of the length so the functional leash will be shorter. Six foot leashes will be made with two pieces of leather, with a braided splice 2 ft. below the handle.

Black leather collar and leash combination shown as a slip-collar on a mannequin dog, made with no metal for TSA-friendly, easy security screening.

The Perfect Pace™ Works Differently: Dogs that have struggled with other collars, halters, or harnesses often accept the Perfect Pace willingly and respond with calm focus and attention. This lightweight, minimal design of this halter can be less annoying and aversive because the leash does not dangle under their chin or force them to turn their head. MANY professional dog trainers love this training tool, too! One customer phoned to share her admiration and called it “the closest thing to a magic bullet” she’d ever seen!

It's Not a Muzzle: Dogs can pant, eat treats, drink, and pick up toys while wearing this halter.

Please read and follow the instructions and reminders in the package before using this product.

Styles and Sizing

The Leather Perfect Pace is available in two styles:

Leather Perfect Pace DOG HALTER Style (teal package) - use with your own leash

The head halter only version has an O-ring at the end to connect your leash.

• Small, not available in leather – size up to the medium
• Medium, dogs 30-65 pounds, up to 16″ neck; Border Collie, Husky, Aussie, Smaller Retrievers, etc.
• Large dogs 65-100 pounds, up to 19” neck; Shepherds, Rottweilers, larger Retrievers, etc.
• X-Large dogs 100-140 pounds, up to 22” neck; Newfoundland, Great Danes, Mastiffs, etc. 

Measure your dog for the best fit: Measure around your dog’s neck snugly, just behind the head.

If in doubt, size up. A larger halter will fit a smaller dog, there will simply be more slack between the dog’s head and the leash clip. Not for dogs with short/flat muzzles.**

Leather Perfect Pace Halter LEASH Style  (orange package)

The all-in-one leash and halter version fits any size dog!**
The halter and leash are one continuous piece of material and self-adjusts to the dog’s head size. The leash portion is approximately 4ft. of leash in two different widths:

• Regular: 3/8” wide for most dogs
• WIDE: ½” wide for big dogs

The actual length of the leash portion will depend on the dog’s head/neck size. Leather version is not available in longer length, due to the size of cowhides.

** Dogs must be 20 pounds or larger. Do not use on smaller dogs or any dog with a short/flat face. Not recommended for brachycephalic dogs with shortened muzzles, dogs with breathing problems, soft or narrow tracheas or similar medical conditions; consult your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.

Important Info

Please read and follow the instructions and reminders in the package before using this product.

The Perfect Pace is NOT for dogs under 20lbs! Recommended for medium and larger breeds (over 20 lbs.) due to the way pressure is applied.

** Dogs must be 20 pounds or larger. Do not use on smaller dogs or any dog with a short/flat face. Not recommended for brachycephalic dogs with shortened muzzles, dogs with breathing problems, soft or narrow tracheas or similar medical conditions; consult your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns.

Training is the real solution to leash pulling, but tools can help reach that goal. Remember that no training device works on every dog. Any tool is only as good as the hands that use it.

Videos

The Perfect Pace NO PULL (Halter Leash and Dog Halter)

What to customers say?

Our goal at Bold Lead Designs is to help you find the right gear to make life with dogs better. Sometimes the right equipment can make all the difference in the world. Here are just a few rave reviews we've received:

"I received the 5’ Working Dog Lead and the Perfect Pace Leash today and I have just one word…Wow!  Wow, your customer service thus far has been exemplary.  Wow, the craftsmanship is impeccable. And wow, does the Perfect Pace leash work as advertised.  I took Daphne, my recently adopted one year old beagle/basset, for a walk using the Perfect Pace leash and it was the easiest, most stress free walk we have taken to date.  Thank You! Once again, THANK YOU!" - Ken D. Jul 7, 2017

"It's been two weeks since I received my order. I've held off writing you back because I wanted to make sure I could still tell you how GREAT the head harness is working!  As of today, it’s still working and has changed my life.  I couldn't believe the first time I put it on my lab.  He acted like a show dog prancing as I walked him.  No pulling or dragging me! 
His leaping at other dogs has been reduced to only the dogs who leap at him first.  And even then, I can easily pull him back with two fingers. I am now enjoying walking with him without having to dig my heels in whenever we pass another dog. He is so much calmer and I can walk with the leash in one hand even if I have to steer him away for any reason.  My husband couldn't believe it either the first time he walked with the Perfect Pace.
I am so happy and relieved that I found something that works!!! Many many thanks to Katrina Boldry for developing this harness!!!:  - Kathy W. 2/16/2016 

"Received our Perfect Pace Halter on Tuesday and I must tell you how amazing it is.  I almost never write product reviews and I would say never an unsolicited one but had to do it this time.  Our dog (LUPii) is a 6 1/2 month old yellow lab.  Sweet, smart, etc. but he is a puppy.  Even with a Gentle Leader (which was very helpful) pulling, etc. would be problematic at times.  An almost instant change with the PP.  Took him this morning to a fairly human and dog populated park--which we have been avoiding--and other than barking at all humans and dogs--he's very friendly--LUPii was totally manageable.  The PP literally stops him from pulling.  Wonderful product."  - BK from Chagrin Falls, Ohio.. 4/9/2021

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Double-ended connectors for Ultimate Safety feature our Locking Carabiner Snaps to ensure your dog stays securely attached to their leash.

Walk your dog with peace of mind knowing that you have two points of attachment to keep your dog safe. These leather safety cords are a backup attachment for Houdini dogs who somehow wriggle their way out of their gear or shake loose from the leash or harness.

Made with our specialty Locking Carabiner snap. Simply clip one end to a collar or harness, and the other end to a leash, or any other gear. Designed for use with head halters, training collars, martingales, front clip harnesses, or any type of training tool as a fallback plan in case of a slipped collar or broken buckle, or failed leash snap. 

Locking Carabiner Snaps (LCS) that securely lock closed so they don't come off accidently. 

Ultimate Safety Connectors Choose single or double carabiners. ONLY AVAILABLE IN BRASS

• Small Ultimate: 3/8" wide leather, approximately 5.5" long for small to large dogs. Made with rivets.
  • Double Locking Carabiner Snap 
  • Single LCS, one bolt snap
• XL Ultimate: 3/4″ wide leather connector is approximately 7.5″ long (20 cm) for large and giant dogs. Made wit screw posts.
  
  • Double Locking Carabiner Snap 
  • Single LCS, one bolt snap

Using Carabiners

How to use Locking Carabiner Snap:

1. Spin the lock to open (clockwise) and release the gate
2. Snap onto the dog’s collar or harness
3. Spin the lock closed (counterclockwise) to secure the gate
4. Always spin the lock completely closed when in use on the dog’s collar or leash to ensure the snap is locked

Caution! Locking Carabiner snaps must be fully locked closed when in use. Failure to spin the gate lock closed may cause the hook to bend out of alignment and fail. The lock sheath reinforces the hook part of the snap to make it secure. BLD’s leash warranty assumes proper use of this snap.

The perfect accessory to keep your training gear organized! BLD’s Leash Caddy is designed to hold your long line, keep it from getting all tangled up, and make it easy to store your training gear so it’s ready to grab-and-go anytime. Great for all sorts of things–be creative!

• Belt loop clips around any belt
• Keep your training gear organized
• Keep your car tidy–hang from head rest
• Great for carrying toys and training rewards
• Perfect for storing harnesses
• Works great for suitcases: tether luggage for easy travel
• Choose leather or Brahma material
• Made with stainless steel snaps (sorry, no hardware changes)

BLD’s Leash Caddies are handcrafted with double clips, allowing one end to hold your leash/gear and the other to attach to your belt. Made with durable stainless steel spring snaps and two stainless O-rings (sorry, no brass option available on this product).

This is THE OFFICIAL guide dog leash specifically designed for guide dog users and is trusted by some of the best-known guide dog training schools in the country.

BLD’s Guide Dog Lead is a 2-position multi-functional leash and is a perfect choice for anyone who prefers a simple, versatile, yet no-nonsense leash. This leash has bolt snaps on each end and can be configured into a long and short length.

Our Guide Dog Leads are crafted with a special braid pattern for reliability (no rivets or stitching to wear out).

Length:

This leash is 63 inches (160 cm) in overall length including snaps and can be adjusted to make a 52 inch and 34 inch long leash (132 cm and 86 cm). 

Hardware

Hardware:

Guide Dog Leads come standard with premium stainless steel bolt snaps (shown). They are the highest quality and most reliable snaps we’ve found. Special hardware or modification is available by request. Contact us for a custom order!

Need something different?

Custom orders are available! Guide Dog Leads can be made in other lengths, widths, and with different hardware. Contact us and let us know what you need.

Width/Size and Hardware

Material and Width Options:

• The Chestnut Guide Dog Leash comes in 9/16 inch width (14.3 mm)  medium size, stainless steel snaps at both ends. (Sometimes available with a LARGE SNAP at the dog end and medium size bolt snap at the handle end, as indicated.)
• The London Tan comes in 1/2 width (12.7 mm) and has medium size snaps solid brass snaps at both ends
• The Black latigo leather comes in 1/2 width (12.7 mm) and has medium size, stainless steel snaps at both ends

CHESTNUT English Bridle Leather in 9/16 inch width (14.3 mm) Chestnut is a rich red-ish brown color, and the texture and feel of English bridle leather is of unmistakable quality. It has the same characteristics as our London Tan. All hardware is stainless steel.

Our English Bridle Leather in LONDON TAN in 1/2 width has a supple, satin-smooth finish and satisfying hand feel that is simply unmatched. This high-end leather in London Tan, cherished in the 19th century for the finest horse tack, ages to a warm patina while keeping its light brown and orange tones. This full grain leather is 100% veg tanned with no metals or harsh chemicals from only the best North American cow hides. (“English” refers to the style of tanning rather than a location. Solid brass (gold colored) hardware is standard.

Our lovely BLACK LATIGO leather is solid black, and superior to ordinary leashes in texture and quality, cut from select from USA hides. It is incredibly durable, yet is very flexible. Feels great in your hands and will simply get better with age. 

A must-have training tool, Training Tabs let you get ahold of the dog when they're off-leash. Perfect training and off-leash exercises!

When worn on the collar, the tab touches the dog's chest to remind them they are in training without interfering with their movement. Great for obedience, agility, fly ball, nose work, and house-training, or anytime you might need to hold your dog back.

Size:

• Medium is 1/2″ wide, 8″ long (12.7 mm x 20 cm) with medium sized hardware
• Large is 5/8″ wide, 9″ long (19.5 mm x 23 cm) with large-sized hardware

Style:

• Loop with RING – small loop for a finger hold, secured with screw posts
• Braided – beautiful plait style is easy to grasp

Replacement thumb screw bolts for the Mobility Support Harness; the bolts hold the handle on the harness. This is the “new style” that screws into the female nuts on your harness support bars for harnesses made AFTER December 2015.

Choose the set of hardware you prefer (we will add Teflon plumbers tape to each bolt so it stays snug):

• Complete set: Includes a pair of round thumb screw bolts, a pair of tee thumb screw wing bolts, and 6 rubber washers. Just like the kit that came with your harness.
• Round Bolts: A pair of round knurled thumb screws plus washers.
• Wing Bolts: A pair of tee thumb screws plus washers.
• Locking Bolt Kit: for those who want to install a set of bolts that do not come unscrewed. Includes wing bolts (Tee thumb screws) and locking wingnuts. Installation requires tools including hex key (Allen wrench) and channel lock plyers and patience.

Select size based on the thickness of the support bar.

• Standard support bars use the standard size bolts (for 1/8″ thick support bars).
• TALL handles need the longer bolts to fit the heavy weight support bars (for 1/4″ thick support bars). See photos for details.

Tips for using your MSH handle:

• Always loosen the bolts before folding the handle. Failure to do so may ratchet the right side too tight and cause it to lock up.
• Always tighten the bolts after raising the handle. Not too tight, just a little snug.
• Place the rubber washer on the bolt before screwing into the harness handle.
• Keep a spare bolt handy at all times.
• If the bolts want to loosen too much, apply some Teflon plumbers tape to the threads of the bolts.
• Consult your harness Owner’s Manual for more info.
• All thumbs screws are standard “quarter twenty” thread bolts: SAE 1/4-20 

SOLD OUT

CUSTOM ORDERS ARE NOT AVAIALABLE AT THIS TIME

Description

The Everyday Working Harness was designed to be the best multi-purpose canine harness on the market. It’s for pet dogs, service dogs, sporting dogs, and hardworking canines alike! BLD’s Y-front harness design allows the dog to move, breathe, and work with minimal impact from the equipment. This versatile design can function as a walking harness, no-pull front clip harness, tracking harness, and balance support harness.

Custom made-to-order, this harness is handcrafted in our own workshop and has several customization options to fit your needs. Please scroll down to find more information on all of the options that are available.

Turnaround Time: Harnesses take 4-6 weeks to complete and are built to your specifications.

Before placing an order, please read through the Complete Information Booklet, available to read/download by clicking here:
EWH COMPLETE INFORMATION PACKET PDF

Details

BLD’s Everyday Working Harness (EWH) at a glance:

• Y-Front design and exclusive wide chest and belly plates provide proper pressure distribution around dog’s breastbone and ribs
• Ergonomically designed for minimal impact on the dog’s gait and movement
• Two leash connection points:
  • Front of dog’s chest
  • Top of the dog’s back
• Six (6) points of adjustment for a perfect fit, even on “hard to fit” dogs!
• Premium leather and quality hardware
• Comfort for all-day wear: No rubbing or irritation from synthetic straps
• Easy on and off with Quick-Release latches (magnetic latches available)
• Handle options for added functionality
• Optional simple leather handle and Velcro skirt for ID patches are available
• Backed by BLD’s famous Great Fit Guarantee

BLD’s wide, ergonomically shaped belly plate is specifically engineered to distribute nearly all leash or handle pressure under the dog’s chest to minimize, if not eliminate, impact on the dog’s neck and shoulders. With a leash attached to the top of the harness (on the dog’s back), when the dog pulls into the harness the force is directed under the prosternum and ribs to support the dog’s weight from the core of their body. This means the harness can be used for control/restraint while training, to lift/support the dog’s front end, tracking, nose work, or other sports.

When a leash is attached to the front of the harness (on the dog’s chest), the EWH is a humane and effective no-pull harness that can be used to direct the dog’s movement back to you to prevent leash pulling or to guide the dog’s movement.  

The EWH fits loosely on the dog’s body. If you’re looking for a snug, stable, and supportive service dog harness, please see our Balance Assistance or Mobility Support Harnesses.

For Service Dogs:

This is BLD’s ONLY harness for both personal assistance and attaching a leash! This one harness can replace your nylon no-pull harness and service dog vest while offering simple handle options for your assistance needs. As with all BLD harnesses, this one is durable and designed for a lifetime of reliable use.

• Optional Simple Handle (approx. 3”) offers assistance for the person including:
  • Counter-balance
  • Momentum pull
  • Getting up from a seated position
  • Handle is low-profile and lays down on the dog’s back
• Optional skirt with Velcro panel is perfect for attaching your service dog patches
• A Clip-On Bridge Handle can be added for additional functionality (D-Rings on top are required)

As with all BLD harnesses, the EWH is specifically designed around the handle. The EWH will accommodate ONLY the handle options available for this harness.

Sizing & Measurement

Sizing:

Select the size based on your dog’s weight and girth measurement. If your dog’s weight and measurements fall into more than one option, size down for a lighter harness or size up for a heavier, wider harness. We will review your dog’s weight, breed and measurements to assure the best size. Please see the size chart and diagram in the photos.

Medium

• 40-60 pounds (18-27 kg)
• 15-18” neck size (38-46 cm)
• Choice of girth range: 25-32” (63-81 cm)

Best for lighter framed dogs with narrow chests such as petite retrievers, Border Collies, Mini Aussies, Kelpies, Cattle Dogs, most Standard Poodles and doodles.

Large

• 55-85 pounds (25-38 kg)
• 17-22” neck size (43-56 cm)
• Choice of girth range 30-36” (76-91 cm)

Most Labrador and Golden Retrievers, heavy/sturdy built doodles, smaller German Shepherd Dogs, Greyhounds, Malinois, smaller bully breeds, and narrower dogs in the 85 pound range.

Extra Large 

• 80-125 pounds (36-56 kg)
• 22-26” neck size (43-66 cm)
• 34-38” ( 86-96 cm) girth

Heavy/sturdy built large breeds, dogs with broad chests, most GSD’s, Rottweilers, large retrievers, Pyrenees, larger bully breeds and smaller Newfies.

XXL 

• 120 pounds and up (54 kg or more)
• 25” and larger neck size (64 cm or more)
• 36-47” (91-122 cm) OR custom size larger

Giant breeds, Great Danes, Mastiffs, St Bernard, large Newfies

Harness Options

Choose Color:

• Black: Solid black latigo leather is our standard offering.  Because the leather is solid black all the way through it does not fade, it hides the appearance of scuffs, and wears beautifully over time.
• London Tan: Gorgeous vegetable-tanned English bridle leather. Color and shades will vary; each part of the harness may be a different shade, but all will develop a lovely, darker patina with use and age. 

Harness Top Shape: 

• Regular Top (standard option): Oval shape; Includes O-ring for attaching the leash.
• Skirt with Velcro Panel: Half-moon shape; Features 2” (5 cm) wide Velcro to attach patches (sold separately here.) – Great option for service dogs!

Top Options:

• Plain, no handle or D-rings (standard option)

• D-rings: Use D-rings for attaching a clip-on bridge handle (available separately) or accessories
• Simple Leather Handle: Approximately 3” tall(7.5 cm) and permanently attached via included D-rings
  • Control or restrain the dog if needed
  • Support the dog’s front end while loading/unloading from a vehicle, etc.
  • Allow the dog to pull into the harness
  • Great option for Service Dogs –offers counterbalance and momentum assistance for the person (see Bridge Handle option if a longer handle is needed)

Choose Latch Option for Girth Straps:

• Quick-Release Buckles (Default standard option): All metal buckles are easy to operate. Spring-loaded side release style requires little pressure to open.
• Magnetic Latches ($): These special latches are easy to use and are secure. Ideal for those with very limited strength and dexterity and allows for one-handed operation. The magnets self-align and hook closed when fastening the straps and easily release by pulling the red tabs. These latches include D-rings for easy grasp when fastening the straps on your dog. 

Easy neck buckle option:

With a latch on the neck strap, the harness easily clips around the dog’s neck, so the harness does not have to go over the dog’s head. A great option for dogs with big, broad heads, and/or to make it super-easy to take the harness off your dog. Choose a buckle on the left side of the dog’s neck, OR to have buckles on both neck straps:

• NONE: original style
• Quick-Release style on ONE neck strap Most popular!
• Quick-Release style on BOTH neck straps
• Magnetic Latch style on ONE neck strap 
• Magnetic Latch style on BOTH neck straps 

Lining: 

The top piece of the EWH is lightly padded and lined with smooth leather. Padding on the chest plate and belly plate are optional.

• Natural leather: Our standard option is the most durable, lightest weight, and lowest maintenance option
• Smooth Lining: Light padding and thin garment leather on the chest and belly plates
• Shearling wool/sheepskin): Includes shearling on the chest plate, belly plate, and the top piece.  Recommended!

Accessories

Clip-On Bridge Handle

Flexible leather handle with large spring snaps and a support strap that attaches to D-rings (be sure to order your harness with D-rings) Available in the following 4 sizes and will be made to match the harness hardware and leather colors:

• 6”
• 8”
• 10”
• 12”

*Important Note: The size is the overall measurement of the handle from top to bottom, including the snaps. The functional length of this handle is shorter than the size and depends on your dog’s unique shape. We recommend ordering one size larger than the length you want.

Cape/Vest 

BLD’s Service Dog Cape/Vest is a utilitarian accessory for displaying identifying patches, increasing visibility, and holding essentials, such as medicine, paperwork, a wallet, phone, clean up supplies, or other small items. Includes Velcro panels for attaching patches (patches available separately).

Order a cape ONE SIZE SMALLER than your harness:

• Small cape vest (DISCONTINUED)
• Medium cape vest (fits Large EWH)
• Large cape vest (fits XL & XXL EWH)

Service Dog Accessories for the EWH:

Velcro Patch: Patches backed with Velcro stick onto the optional EWH skirt, or to BLD’s vest/cape. No sewing required!  Choose one or a combination of patches to identify your dog’s status as a service dog. 

Leash Wrap / Double Patch: Specially designed as a leash wrap, this round two-sided badge Velcros around a leash or strap 1” or smaller. Looks great on the shoulder straps or the brace strap on a bridge handle. 

How to Order

You are ready to order a harness…Now what? Here is a quick list of the steps to take to place a harness order:

1. Read through the Everyday Working Harness Information Booklet PDF 
2. Measure your dog's height, girth, and neck 
3. Place your order! You can do this here online, or by phone
   1. If you're ordering online: First, select the harness size and options desired, and enter the details about your dog, including measurements 
   2. Click Add to Cart
      
4. Please keep an eye out for a call or email to confirm your measurements and details
5. BLD will confirm the details and provide a completion date for your order

We will confirm your order with you directly within 5 business days. Upon receiving your order, measurements and details will be reviewed by our harness experts. Rest assured we’ll reach out if we have any questions. Please be on the lookout for a message should we need to confirm any details with you.

Turnaround Time:  

Please allow 4-6 weeks for completion once all details are received.

Once ALL the measurements and details have been received we will confirm your order and provide a completion date, which is generally 4-6 weeks from the date of confirmation (not from date order is placed). Delay in getting this critical information to us will delay your order.

Rush orders may be available for an additional convenience fee as our workload allows. Contact us if you need your harness faster (subject to availability with a rush fee). We can accept rush requests as our workload allows, BEFORE your order has been confirmed. Contact us directly to inquire about rush availability. 

Rush fees:

• 3 week RUSH: add 10%
• 2 week RUSH: add 15%

*Rush fees are added to the cost of the harness and harness options ONLY 

Shipping price includes insurance and tracking via USPS Priority Mail (2-3 days in USA). Yes, we ship WORLDWIDE!

Still have questions? Visit our FAQ page for answers.

Need help with sizing? Don’t hesitate to ask! Contact us. We’ll take a look at your dog’s measurements to be sure you get the right size (before or after you place your order).

Important Notes

Dogs must be physically mature and of appropriate size, fitness and soundness for the work you would like them to perform. This means, your dog must be fully mature before using any handles on the harness. 

The EWH can serve as a regular walking harness and/or service dog harness on adolescent dogs. However, handles should not be used until the dog is fully mature and ready for advanced task work.

Not recommended for growing puppies. Due to the substantial nature of this harness, dogs should be 18 months or older. Additionally, the adjustment range is limited and may not be able to accommodate a pup’s rapid growth.

Dogs must be physically mature before training for harness work or performing high impact work, including pulling, until after growth plates are fused and joints are mature.  Consult a qualified veterinarian to assure your dog’s suitability for harness work.

Safety considerations: this harness is NOT to be used as a safety restraint. It is not crash test rated or intended as a seat belt harness, or a tie-out. Always supervise your dog while using this equipment, do not leave a dog unattended with any harness. Dogs should be physically mature to perform any load-bearing or pulling work. Not designed as or recommended for heavy or full-time wheelchair pulling, as this is a challenging asymmetrical task for a dog to perform.

Use only with handles & accessories designed and approved by BLD for this equipment.

Important Notes regarding service dogs that perform mobility assistance: please read this before ordering

Due to the custom nature of this special harness, returns and refunds are not available on this product. Dogs must be of appropriate age, size, fitness, and soundness for the work you would like them to perform. Dogs must be physically mature before training or performing high impact work in harness. High impact work includes pulling, guiding, counterbalance, and bracing. Harness work is not recommended until after growth plates are fused and joints and muscular system is fully developed, and a minimum age of 18 months. Consult a qualified veterinarian to assure your dog’s readiness and suitability harness work. Safety considerations: Mobility, stability, and balance assistance work are physically demanding; users assume all responsibility for the safety, health, and care of the animal and human alike. This harness is NOT to be used as a restraint or to control the animal, as a seat belt or safety restraint harness. Always supervise your dog while using this equipment. Do not leave a dog unattended with any harness. Not designed as or recommended for heavy or full-time wheelchair pulling, as this is a challenging asymmetrical task for a dog to perform. Please read and understand the harness owner's manual before use. BLD's harnesses are not for puppies or adolescent dogs. The adjustment range is limited and may not be able to accommodate a pup's rapid growth. It will cost you significantly more money if the dog outgrows the harness.  Use only with handles & accessories designed and approved by BLD for this equipment.

At Bold Lead Designs, we take the health and safety of your dog seriously. We have created these guidelines based on over 15 years of experience with this specialized equipment.  Our equipment is designed to allow an appropriately selected and trained service dog to reasonably assist a person with a balance, mobility impairment, or other disability that requires specialty service dog gear. BLD cannot and does not assess dogs' temperament, health or suitability to be a service dog. Fit and performance of the equipment can only be assured if the dog meets the minimum recommended guidelines, the user and trainer have reasonable expectations, and when the equipment is used responsibly for the purpose it was designed. 

Age, Size and Fitness:

• Dogs should be at least 18 months of age before training or working in a harness. The dog’s growth plates must be closed AND have a fully developed musculoskeletal system before training or working in harness. This is NOT the same as "full grown" which can happen months before a dog is physically mature.
• Full physical maturity happens for most large breed dogs at 18-24 months of age, with and giant breeds need even longer to mature. Please allow your dog time to grow and mature as rushing into harness work may cause injury and shorten your dog’s working life. Additionally, if the harness is ordered too soon it will cost you significantly more money if your dog outgrows the harness.
• Dogs MUST meet the minimum weight/measurement range set forth in the sizing guide for the harness to fit and function properly.
• Service dogs should be well-exercised, physically fit, and in good body condition (lean and muscular) throughout their working life. Consider implementing an exercise and fitness routine when the dog is “off duty” to keep him/her in good shape.
• Overweight dogs should never be expected to perform load bearing tasks; additionally, obesity contributes to serious health risks and can significantly shorten a dog’s lifespan by two years. 

Consult the Pros: We strongly advise all service/assistance dogs be examined by a qualified veterinarian (orthopedic/rehab specialist and/or canine sports medicine physical therapist) to determine if the dog is suitable for the demands of service dog work.

1. Radiographs (x-rays) of hips, elbows, and/or other tests are recommended to rule out dysplasia or other health conditions that may limit the dog’s ability to perform physical assistance. We recommend x-rays be evaluated by a radiologist, or reviewed and certified by OFA or PennHIP.
2. Understand that general practice veterinarians may not have experience with working dogs and the nuanced conditions specific to mobility dogs; for this reason a specialist is recommended whenever possible.

Likewise, harness users should consult a physician, occupational therapist and/or physical therapist to determine what medical equipment is appropriate for their disability and mobility needs. BLD harnesses are not intended to serve as, or to replace, a durable medical device such as a cane, walker, or crutch. Please understand that one should never lean on a dog to stay upright. Users should read, understand, and follow all instructions and information provided in the harness information and owner's manual before using the equipment. Improper use could put the dog and human at risk for injury. Additional Resources: To learn more about mobility dogs that provide balance and stability assistance, see recommendations developed by experts in the industry, and find links to research and other information, check out Mobility Dog Resource Group at mobilitydogresources.com.

In your dog’s best interest, please understand that BLD may decline or cancel an order if we believe a harness could be harmful to the dog because of age, size, or unreasonable expectations.

Guarantee

Great Fit Guarantee:

Fitting service is included with every new, custom-made harnesses during the first four weeks!

• If a fit adjustment is needed, we will correct it at no cost to you.
• Includes adjustment and new parts, if necessary, within four weeks of delivery. 
• If the mistake is ours, Bold Leads will cover the shipping
• If inaccurate details were given when the order was placed, we will still make the correction, but you would pay for the shipping and any price difference if applicable
• FYI, most refits involve exchanging a strap, we make it as easy as we can!
• Please pay special attention to the sizing guidelines and recommendations regarding age, health and fitness. Fit and performance of the harness can only be guaranteed if our guidelines are followed. (For example, if your dog is smaller than the weight and measurement range listed, the harness will not fit.)

Due to the custom nature of these specialized harnesses, and the labor intensive services we provide, there are no refunds or returns are accepted on service/assistance dog harnesses.