How to Fit the Explore Harness on Your Dog

Getting Started with the Explore Harness

The Explore Harness from Cocopup London uses a 3-point step-in design that makes it straightforward to put on your dog. Before you begin, have the harness unbuckled and lay it flat on the floor with the chest plate facing up. The two leg holes should be clearly visible.

This guide applies to all Explore Harness variants, including the Theo Embroidered Teddy, NAKD Liquorice, and Silly Goose designs. Each shares the same fitting method, so choose the size that matches your dog's measurements.

Step-by-Step Fitting Instructions

1. Step 1: Measure Your Dog: Use a soft tape measure to get your dog's neck and chest girth. Refer to the size chart for the Explore Harness: XS (Neck 24-34cm, Chest 34-56cm), S (Neck 32-44cm, Chest 38-64cm), M (Neck 40-50cm, Chest 48-78cm), L (Neck 44-59cm, Chest 58-96cm), XL (Neck 56-80cm, Chest 68-110cm). Choose the size where both measurements fall within the range.
2. Step 2: Position the Harness: Place the harness on the floor with the chest plate facing up. Guide your dog's front legs through the two openings. The chest plate should sit across the sternum, not the throat.
3. Step 3: Secure the Safety Lock: Bring the two sides of the harness together over your dog's back and buckle them. Push the safety lock on the buckle until you hear a click. This prevents accidental unbuckling during walks.
4. Step 4: Adjust the Fit: The Explore Harness has fully adjustable neck and chest straps. Tighten or loosen each strap so that you can slide two fingers comfortably between the strap and your dog's body. The harness should not twist or shift when your dog moves.
5. Step 5: Attach the Lead: Use the front D-ring for no-pull training or the back D-ring for traditional walks. Both are reinforced and suitable for everyday use.

Harness Specifications at a Glance

• Explore Harness - Theo Embroidered Teddy: The Explore Harness - Theo Embroidered Teddy features a 3-point step-in design, safety lock, reflective trim, and a handle on the back. The handle gives you extra control in busy areas or when helping your dog over obstacles.

  

• Explore Harness - NAKD Liquorice: The Explore Harness - NAKD Liquorice has a classic plain black design with the same 3-point step-in and safety lock features. A simple black harness works with any coat or lead and hides dirt well between washes.

  

• Explore Harness - Silly Goose: The Silly Goose Explore Harness is pull-tested to 187kg and includes dual-point steering with front and back D-rings. The pull test result indicates the hardware is built for larger, stronger dogs, and dual-point steering gives you options for training.

Sizing and Fit Considerations

The Explore Harness is available in sizes XS through XL, designed with larger dogs in mind. However, the manufacturer notes that these harnesses are not intended for extremely strong dogs that exhibit excessive pulling force. If your dog pulls heavily, consider specialist harness brands designed for high-strength needs.

After fitting, check the condition of the harness regularly. Like all dog accessories, it is subject to wear and tear. Inspect the straps, buckles, and stitching before each walk to ensure everything is secure.

Cleaning and Maintenance

All Explore Harnesses are machine washable. For the Silly Goose design, the recommended wash temperature is 30°C. After washing, air dry away from direct heat. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can weaken the straps over time.

Regular cleaning keeps the reflective trim visible and the fabric free from dirt that can cause chafing.