Catching up with kit for active dogs

As dogs become more integrated into their owners’ lifestyles, active dog parents are looking for quality pet wear that performs as well as the gear they purchase for themselves. With a growing emphasis on both functionality and style, manufacturers are innovating to meet the needs of active dogs and their humans, from daily walks to intense outdoor adventures.

Practicalities of pet activewear

The top features owners consider when purchasing active gear for their dogs include functionality, fit and durability so the kit can withstand the elements and demands of the outdoors in the long term.

“Overall, the trend in active dog gear reflects a blend of practicality, safety and style, catering to both the functional needs of outdoor adventures and the aesthetic preferences of dog owners,” notes Mason Gwin, Associate Brand Manager for Massachusettsbased dog outdoorwear brand Kurgo.

Leading brands and their top gear

Best-selling products from the Kurgo brand include the Journey Air harness, pet carriers like the G-Train Carrier Backpack and vests such as the quilted Loft Jacket, all of which have received high praise among customers for their comfort, durability and quality.

As the popularity of outdoor pursuits like canicross (cross-country running with your dog), and bikejoring and skijoring (sports where dogs pull bikes or skis) grows, activity-specific harnesses have become bestsellers for the Norwegian active pet gear brand Non-stop Dogwear.

In addition to improving its joring harnesses, Non-stop Dogwear has also designed high-performing fall and winter jackets for dogs, like the Fjord Raincoat, Glacier Jacket 2.0 and Glacier Wool Jacket 2.0. A big summer hit for the brand has been its Protector Life Jacket, as paddle boarding with dogs has increased among owners.

Innovations in design and functionality

Kurgo’s new Cascade Harness acts like a daypack for dogs but performs like a harness. It’s made from high-quality ripstop fabric with a perforated foam backer plate for ventilation and includes 3 pockets to carry essentials, alongside front and back leash attachments.

Non-stop Dogwear is launching an innovative new product this fall called the Rush Harness, which is shorter so pet parents can have better control of their dogs. It is focused on the beginner segment, where there is a need for a high-performing technical product that is easy to put on and take off for moderate-pulling dogs.

“We are extremely excited about it, and it will help many dog owners with a busy schedule to be active together with their dogs,” says Ole Bondevik, Head of E-Commerce for Non-stop Dogwear.

Addressing sizing and feel

Fit and comfort can be a challenge for brands that design activewear for dogs simply because canines come in all shapes and sizes.

“Ensuring a harness fits well across different dog breeds and sizes without causing rubbing or chafing is a primary challenge,” says Gwin.

Because fit varies widely among dog breed shapes and sizes, both Kurgo and Non-stop Dogwear help retailers and consumers find the best fit for their dogs through videos that demonstrate how to measure their pets so they can choose the most appropriate sizes.

Different brands and harnesses also vary, so understanding the performance intention of the gear will ensure the best fit. For example, Non-stop Dogwear harnesses are designed to provide the dog with unrestricted movement while in use.

To educate buyers, the brand has created an academy with short videos to ensure retailers and employees can quickly and easily learn about the different aspects of its gear.

The Kurgo website also features detailed information about the brand, and size and fit guidelines. Retailers can also contact the in-house sales team directly for more product information.

Enhancing durability and breathability

Other issues designers face when creating activewear for dogs include the durability and breathability of the gear they manufacture.

“Many customers express concerns about the durability of harnesses, especially for dogs who are active or strong pullers,” states Gwin. “Harnesses need to withstand wear and tear over time, including exposure to various weather conditions and rigorous activities.”

Kurgo considers this when designing its products and stresses the importance of creating performance gear with optimal breathability and heat management for dogs that wear harnesses for extended periods or in warm weather.

Furthermore, the brand also understands the need to create durable gear with safety, functionality and style in mind.

“Addressing these challenges involves ongoing innovation in materials, design and construction techniques to create harnesses that meet the diverse needs and preferences of dog owners, while ensuring the comfort, safety and well-being of their pets,” notes Gwin.

Using feedback to improve

Non-stop Dogwear looks to customer feedback to continuously improve the fit and comfort of their products.

“We always look for feedback from our community,” says Bondevik. “You might notice that many of our products have a 2.0 or 5.0, and that is because we listen to our customers and community and always seek to improve our products – they are never finished.”

Active dog wear brands wanting to stay ahead of consumers’ ever-changing lifestyles must continually incorporate customer feedback on fit, comfort and performance, and update products to meet those demands.

“Our product process is never done, so we continue innovating and making new products that make it easier for people to be active together with their dogs,” Bondevik concludes.