This dog car harness review is not sponsored. We objectively look into its specifications to help pet parents make an informed decision.
If you have a pup, one of the essential items they need is a reliable harness. This is important when you take them out for walks in the doggy park or when transporting them to the vet or other destinations via a car.
Understanding its importance in giving you better control of your pet and ensuring they’re safe inside the vehicle leads you to navigate the dog harness market. One that you’ll commonly encounter is the Kurgo Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit dog car harness.
Investing in this dog product requires immense research on its features, performance, and pricing. This Kurgo dog car harness review provides everything you need to know to determine whether it’s the best choice for your dog.
Feature Overview
The Kurgo Tru-Fit dog harness has a no-nonsense design with several purposeful features that draw many people to it.
Get to know more beyond its aesthetics by learning its material, available sizes, maintenance, and pricing through this subsection.
Material
The Kurgo Tru-Fit harness embodies a minimalist, functional design. What constitutes its overall construction are various materials individually serving a significant purpose in making the harness robust.
Below are the key materials of the Kurgo Tru-Fit dog car harness and their corresponding descriptions:
- Nylon padded chest: Kurgo’s Tru-Fit dog harness is made from durable, high-quality nylon. This provides strength and resilience while offering a comfortable fit for the pup.
- Steel nesting buckles: The steel nesting buckles are constructed from heavy-duty steel and are similarly used for rock climbing. This ensures maximum durability and secure fastening under pressure.
- Plastic front clip: The front clip for the leash attachment is crafted from sturdy plastic. This is designed for ease of use and lightweight convenience without sacrificing reliability. One downside is that it won’t be as long-lasting as a metal front clip and may not be suitable for strong pullers.
- Steel carabiner: The carabiner attached to a rope is made from robust steel. This provides a secure connection to the seatbelt, ensuring safety and stability during car car travel.
Size and Colors
The Kurgo Tru-Fit dog car harness accommodates various sizes, ensuring there’s one suitable for your dog.
Below is the Tru-Fit harness sizing guide provided by Kurgo:
| Size | Neck | Chest | Dog Weight |
| X-Small | 9 in – 13 in (23 cm – 33 cm) | 12 in – 18 in (30 cm – 46 cm) | 5 – 10 lbs (2 kg – 5 kg) |
| Small | 12 in – 20 in (30 cm – 50 cm) | 16 in – 22 in (41 cm – 56 cm) | 10 – 25 lbs (5 kg – 11 kg) |
| Medium | 16 in – 25 in (40 cm – 63 cm) | 18 in – 28 in (46 cm – 71 cm) | 25 – 50 lbs (11 kg – 23 kg) |
| Large | 18 in – 30 in (46 cm – 76 cm) | 24 in – 34 in (61 cm – 86 cm) | 50 – 80 lbs (23 kg – 36 kg) |
| X-Large | 24 in – 35 in (61 cm – 89 cm) | 28 in – 44 in (71 cm – 112 cm) | 80 – 110 lbs (36 kg – 50 kg) |
Meanwhile, here’s a visual reference so you’d know how to properly measure your dog for the Kurgo Tru-Fit dog car harness:
Maintenance
Maintaining the Kurgo Tru-Fit dog car harness is essential to ensure its longevity and effectiveness.
Here’s a guide to keeping the harness in top condition:
- Regular inspection: Check the harness for signs of wear and tear, including frayed straps, damaged buckles, and worn-out padding. Replace any damaged parts immediately to maintain safety.
- Cleaning: Hand wash the harness with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using harsh laundry products or bleach, as these can degrade the materials. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residues.
- Drying: Air dry the harness away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not tumble dry, as the high heat can damage the nylon and plastic components.
- Storage: Store the harness in a cool, dry place when not in use. Ensure it is dry before storage to prevent mold and mildew.
Following these maintenance steps, you can make sure that the Kurgo Tru-Fit dog car harness remains durable and reliable for your pet’s safety and comfort during car travels.
Pricing
The Kurgo dog car harness comes at exceptionally affordable prices. The value depends on the size of the dog harness you’re getting.
Below is the Kurgo dog car pricing as of this writing:
| Kurgo Dog Car Harness Size | Price |
| X-Small | $39.95 |
| Small | $39.95 |
| Medium | $39.95 |
| Large | $42.99 |
| X-Large | $42.99 |
There’s no significant difference in the pricing of the Kurgo Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit dog car harness. The x-small to medium sizes cost $39.95 while the large and x-large ones are only $42.99.
Is the Kurgo Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness Crash-Tested?
Yes, the Kurgo Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness is crash-tested. This harness has been rigorously tested to meet the FMVSS 213 for child restraint systems. Kurgo uses a simulated crash testing process conducted at Calspan to ensure the harness can withstand the forces of a car accident.
Below is the crash testing of the Kurgo Tru-Fit dog car harness (small) with a 25-pound dog dummy:
In the video above, the small Kurgo dog harness kept the dummy in place in the back seat. There were no obvious signs of damage to the harness’s integrity.
Meanwhile, here’s another crash test for the medium version of the Kurgo Tru-Fit dog harness using a 50-pound mannequin:
The medium dog harness has also sustained the impact, keeping the dummy from being thrown forward. There’s one issue, however—the carabiner link broke after the force. Nonetheless, the harness managed to hold the dummy in place.
Pros and Cons of the Kurgo Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness
The Kurgo Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness is popular among pet owners for its safety, comfort, and durability.
However, like any product, it has its strengths and weaknesses. Recognizing these benefits and drawbacks can help you decide whether this harness is the right fit for your furry friend.
Pros
- The Kurgo Tru-Fit harness is crash-tested through an independent testing facility.
- The padded chest plate offers added comfort for your dog, reducing pressure points during long car rides. The five adjustment points allow for a customizable fit accommodating different dog sizes and shapes.
- The harness is designed for easy on and off, with simple buckles and clips that secure quickly and efficiently. The included extension line with the carabiner makes attaching the harness to the car seatbelt straightforward.
Cons
- The shape of the Kurgo Tru-Fit harness doesn’t follow the natural shape of the dog’s shoulders, making it unideal for walks and activities other than car use.
- Some users have difficulty finding the perfect fit for their dogs, even with the adjustable points. Measuring your dog accurately and following the size guide is essential.
- The carabiner has shown signs of breaking under extreme force in some crash tests. While the harness remains intact, the carabiner’s integrity could be a concern for very high-impact collisions.
Verdict
The Kurgo Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness offers safety and comfort, making it a reliable choice for pet parents who travel with their dogs. Its crash-tested certification, combined with robust materials and thoughtful design, ensures that your dog remains secure and comfortable during car rides.
Moreover, its padded chest plate and five adjustment points enhance comfort and fit. This makes it suitable for various dog sizes and shapes.
However, the Kurgo Tru-Fit harness is not without its drawbacks. Some users have reported difficulty achieving the perfect fit despite the adjustable points, highlighting the importance of accurate measurements.
Additionally, the plastic front clip may not be ideal for strong pullers. The carabiner has shown signs of breaking under extreme force in some crash tests, which could be a concern for very high-impact collisions. Also, while excellent for car travel, the harness’s design may not be as suitable for other activities such as walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is the Owner of Kurgo?
Kurgo is owned by Radio Systems Corporation, a company known for its portfolio of pet brands, including PetSafe and SportDOG.
Radio Systems Corporation acquired Kurgo in 2018, integrating Kurgo’s high-quality dog travel and outdoor products into their extensive range of pet care solutions. The acquisition aimed to expand and enhance the offerings available to pet owners, leveraging Kurgo’s innovative designs and durable products.
How Do You Use Kurgo Harness in a Car?
To use the Kurgo harness in a car, first secure the harness on your dog, ensuring a snug fit with the nylon padded chest and steel nesting buckles. You then attach the included carabiner to the harness’s back D-ring.
Once done, connect the carabiner to your car’s seat belt system. This setup will keep your dog securely in place, reducing movement and ensuring safety during travel.
How Do You Know if a Dog Harness Is Too Small?
Determining if a dog harness is too small involves observing for signs of discomfort and restricted movement. Look for chafing or red marks, especially around the chest and underarms, indicating the harness is digging into the dog’s skin.
Ensure you can slide two fingers comfortably between the harness and your dog’s body; if not, the harness is too tight. Assess your dog’s breathing and ability to walk naturally; any signs of labored breathing or restricted gait suggest the harness is too small and may need resizing or replacing with a larger one.
Final Word
The Kurgo Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness offers safety and comfort, making it a reliable choice for pet owners who frequently travel with their dogs. Its crash-tested certification, combined with robust materials and thoughtful design, ensures that your dog remains secure and comfortable during car rides.
However, it’s important to measure your dog accurately and consider potential limitations, such as the plastic front clip and occasional fitting challenges. You must also consider the fact that the carabiner broke during one of Kurgo’s crash tests.
Overall, the Kurgo dog car harness stands out as one of the most affordable, well-rounded options for ensuring your pet’s safety on the road.
Key Takeaways:
- The Kurgo Tru-Fit dog car harness is crash-tested to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, ensuring high levels of protection during car travel.
- Made from high-quality nylon and heavy-duty steel nesting buckles, the harness is built to last and withstand daily wear and tear.
- Features a padded chest plate and five adjustment points for a customizable and comfortable fit for various dog sizes and shapes.
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