Balance Assistance Harness™ for service dogs

BAH Harness size: 

Primary Assistance Handle: Select one

A) Flexible Balance Handle (vertical)     Default standard option

This leather handle is positioned vertically on the harness.  It is stabilized to provide excellent feedback and communication with your dog. Mounts low on the harness saddle with quick-release buckles, and is kept upright with heavy-duty O-rings. Folds flat by unclipping the quick-release buckles and pivoting back. (A brace strap may be added to stabilize the handle loop, depending on the height of your handle, shown at right.) This flexible handle will soften and slump over time. Good for counterbalance, and light momentum while walking.

B) Semi-Rigid Balance Handle ($)     Highly recommended!

Same looks and features as the above option, but a bit stiffer.  Reinforced with rawhide for firmer feel and increased feedback. This handle is designed to hold its form and stand upright, making it accessible for grasping without bending over which assists with orientation. The handle will form to the angle of your hand grip over time. This is the firmest, most vertical handle option for the BAH. Good for counterbalance and stability contact for orientation. (Not a brace handle–it will flex with direct pressure to diffuse movement and minimize torque on the dog.) The Brahma core option is recommended for most users; rawhide core handles can be soaked and reformed to custom shape, if needed

C) Clip-on handle ($)

Minimal, low profile option clips onto heavy-duty d-rings toward the top of the harness saddle. Handle lays down when you let go of it. Feels looser than the other options. Easily replaceable, if needed. Ideal for a short grab-handle. Good for counterbalance, getting up from a seated position, or for occasional momentum assistance.

Available as a Short Grab Handle sized so it’s just enough to get ahold of for the shortest handle possible.

D) Flexible Leather Support Pull Handle ($)

E) Semi-Rigid Leather Support Pull ($)

The NEW Support Pull Handle is designed for heavier momentum and pulling needs. Provides optimal pulling pressure distribution. Handle attaches to heavy-duty d-rings with spring snap clips. “Mouse ear” loops keep the handle in position at a slight angle back. This handle drops a bit when you let go of it, has a looser feel than A or B, but is best for those who need moderate gait stabilization or a sturdy momentum pull. Available flexible or semi-rigid. The Brahma core option is recommended for most users; rawhide core handles can be soaked and reformed to custom shape, if needed We recommend a clip-on balance handle as an additional option. A brace strap may be added to options C-G to stabilize the handle loop, depending on the height of your handle. 

Available but not recommended: Leather Guide Handle ($):

Available in Flexible or Semi-Rigid Leather

Leather guide handle allows for light-duty leading or momentum. Attaches to the front edge of the harness with quick-release buckles, and angles back behind metal support handle for proper leading or momentum contact. Velcro stabilizers hold the handle in position (not easily removable). Available as a flexible handle or a semi-rigid handle (the semi-rigid handle is reinforced for a sturdier feel). Custom made to desired length. Semi-rigid option is recommended for most users. NOTE: this is an older handle style and is not typically recommended. The Support Pull handle is the best choice for most people, as it is sturdier and offers more support than the Leather Guide handle version.

Additional BAH handle options: Select if desired

Same as described above, an additional handle can be longer, or shorter, than the primary handle to allow the dog to assist with additional tasks. For example, you might choose primary option B) Semi-Rigid Balance Handle for walking and additional option 1) Basic Pull-Strap for getting up from a chair.

Choose Latch Option for Girth and Belly Straps:

• Quick-Release Buckles (Default standard option): All metal buckles are easy to operate. Spring-loaded side release style requires little pressure to open.
• One-Hand latch operation ($): D-rings placed near the quick-release make it easier to grasp the straps and fasten with one hand.
• Magnetic Latches ($): 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. See the videos tab to see it in action.

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

NEW as of June, 2025! We have a new online form to submit your measurements! Measurements can be submitted BEFORE or AFTER you place your order.

1. Read through the information booklet.
2. Measure your dog and the person's wrist/hand height. Check out the size chart to determine what size harness you'll need.
3. Place your order! You can do this here online, or by phone.
4. If you're ordering online: First, select the harness size, primary handle type, and so-on from the drop down options. You can also indicate accessories you'd like to order.  The Complete Information Booklet has more information on all of these options, and if you need further assistance, feel free to give us a call or email!
5. Add any notes that you feel are important to your order.
6. Click Add to Cart
7. Remember to submit your measurements! Click the "measuring instructions and submission form" button, then complete the form.

*Final price depends on the options that are selected. 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. 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). You must contact us directly to request rush service. We can accept rush requests as our workload allows, BEFORE your order has been confirmed.  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:

Harness FAQs

Compatible Harness Accessories:

BAH Replacement Parts are available:

This harness has been designed with interchangeable straps for the greatest flexibility; perfect for adapting a harness to fit a new dog or user (Does not apply for fixed balance handles; Rigid brace handle not compatible with this harness). See replacement parts here.

Leather care is easy! Don’t worry too much, and don’t be afraid to use your items — we promise leather is incredibly resilient, and regular weather won’t hurt it. If you think your item looks dirty, dry, or just need a little extra love, pouring a little leather conditioner on a cloth, and rubbing it in like lotion will usually do the trick. Baths and a jaunt in the river are just fine, but you might want to offer a little conditioner to your products afterwards. Saltwater can be harsh, so after a visit to the ocean, a good rinse in fresh water and proper conditioning will help preserve and protect your treasured leash or collar. See our Leather Care page for more specific information.

Luckily, the harnesses are easy to clean and maintain! Simply apply leather conditioner regularly to keep harness supple & weather resistant and clean the wool lining using a brush and vacuum.

Your harness can also be hand washed if needed. Here is a video on how to hand wash your harness:

You can also find cleaning instructions in the Owner’s Manual.

Important Notes: 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.

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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. 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.

 

Our famous Lifetime Warranty and legendary customer support is standard with every custom-made BLD service/assistance dog harness.

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.)

Lifetime Warranty: 

We proudly stand behind the quality of our products. Custom made-to-order harnesses are guaranteed against defects in materials and craftsmanship for life!

• If your BLD harness ever breaks or is damaged from regular use due to materials or craftsmanship flaws, contact Bold Lead Designs for a replacement or repair at no charge. There is no time limit.
• Customer is responsible for shipping charges for warranty claims.
• Warranty does not cover things we cannot control, including chewing, damage from an accident, or customer alterations.
• Repairs or replacement components are always available! Even if you're outside of the Fit Guarantee window, or need a non-warranty repair, we're here for support.

No Returns or Refunds on Harnesses:

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.