An all time favorite product for helping three legged dogs get around is the Web Master harness from Ruffwear. We present Jerry’s original product review here in the Tripawds Gear blog for your convenience when considering the purchase of multiple items to help your tripawd … Stay tuned for an upcoming review from rear leg amputee and new Tripawds Spokespup Wyatt Ray Dawg.
NOTICE: Sizing, colors and pricing have been updated. Read our latest review and watch new demo video.
My people used the Ruffwear Web Master harness to help me get around from the time I became a canine amputee. And we all agree, it helped greatly – especially when navigating stairs or getting in and out of vehicles. Keep reading to see our product review and the demonstration video we produced, or to review frequently asked questions and place your order.
Nothing tugs heartstrings like watching a three-legged dog having a hard time getting around … never again with the Web Master harness!
New Web Master Harness Colors
This durable yet lightweight harness provides support, comfort and full range of motion for your dog with fleece-lined, padded chest and belly straps. The sturdy webbing straps and strong assistance handle help you lift your dog in and out of vehicles or out of harm’s way when assistance is needed. A Ruffwear harness is the best solution for helping your three-legged friend go up and down stairs without putting extra force on remaining limbs. And with five adjustable fitting points to accommodate dogs of all sizes and shapes, the Web Master is worn with padded comfort, secure fit, and a generous ergonomic cut. It is your best alternative to a collar, allowing better distribution of pulling force to prevent choking. And with your leash attached to the centered aluminum V-ring, you have ultimate control over dogs who tend lunge, without pulling them off balance.
See New Harness Features Here.
Demonstration Videos
But if a picture is worth a thousand words, a video must be worth a million! Just check out this original demonstration video for the Web Master featuring front-leg amputee Jerry…
Watch updated review video featuring rear-leg Tripawd Wyatt.
See the new and Improved Web Master Plus features and benefits…
The Web Master comes in two colors and various sizes to meet the needs of all tripawds and their people. Note: This harness has a small Velcro tab inside the front strap which helps keep the padded chest strap from shifting around your dog’s body. On front leg amputees, however, the harness will tend to slip around the chest. Without the second leg to hold it in place, this is inevitable but purely aesthetic. The harness can easily be adjusted and is still perfectly functional.
Considerations for Rear Leg Amputees: 
The Webmaster harness is the best assistive device we have found for the vast majority of amputee dogs. While its handle centered over the torso lets you support any dog’s body weight, please keep in mind that it does not allow for lifting directly from the hip area.
For dogs whose rear hips/legs are weak, the best harness we’ve found with a handle for direct lifting from the hips is the Ruffwear Doubleback Harness. However, even this (or any) rear end support harness will not work well on a rear-leg amputee, when there is not enough bone for the hip loops to grasp. If your dog’s mobility is seriously compromised, we recommend the Get-a-Grip Harness made by Animal Suspension Technologies.
Harness Sizing: For proper fit, simply measure your dog’s girth around the widest part of his/her rib cage. It is girth size, not weight, that determines proper fit. For in-between sizes, Ruffwear recommends selecting the smaller harness for an active, contoured fit.
| Size | Dog Girth | |
| XXS | 13″-17″ | 33-43 cm |
| XS | 17″-22″ | 43-56 cm |
| S | 22″-27″ | 56-68 cm |
| M | 27″-32″ | 68-81 cm |
| L/XL | 32″-42″ | 81-106 cm |
| If girth measurement is in between sizes, Ruffwear Recommends selecting smaller size for best fit. | ||
Get yours today, your Tripawd will thank you!
Your cost includes shipping to anywhere in the continental U.S. via ground delivery (5-7 business days). Texas residents pay applicable sales tax. ONLY AVAILABLE TO U.S. CUSTOMERS. Find international dealers here.
Web Master Plus Brush Guard (Full Product Details)
$108.00 – $138.00Select & Buy This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Web Master Harness (Full Product Details)
$74.95 – $138.00Select & Buy This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Please Note: Your purchase indicates acceptance of Ruffwear shipping and returns policy and warranty terms as outlined in the FAQs below.
FOR INTERNATIONAL ORDERS SHOP HERE:
Please advise if any of these sites do not ship internationally. Note that some retailers may charge more for shipping outside the U.S. or have other international order shipping policies.
FAQs:
The video and pictures only show Jerry. Will this harness work on rear leg amputees?
Yes, many have purchased the Ruffwear harness for their dogs missing a rear leg and have been completely satisfied. On rear leg tripawds, the harness will not slide around the chest which may happen on dogs missing a front leg. This is purely aesthetic since it is easily adjusted and still perfectly functional. While the Webmaster’s handle will allow you to support the dog’s body weight from the torso, it does not allow for lifting directly from the hips. Please note the considerations above regarding rear leg amputees for other harness recommendations.
Is the harness adjustable?
Very. Two long straps under the chest and belly can be adjusted to fit dogs large and small. Straps meeting at the three-point adjustment clasp in front can also be extended. Harnesses ship pre-adjusted to tightest fit. Does it come with a warranty? The Ruffwear product warranty will only cover defects in material or craftsmanship. Broken buckles may be replaced at the discretion of Ruffwear, but chewed straps or other damaged induced by dogs is not covered. Please review their return/exchange policy for additional detail.
My dog’s girth is between sizes, what size should I get?
Ruffwear recommends you choose the smaller harness for an active, performance fit. It may look small but will provide ample support without having to trim the longer straps of a bigger size. (FYI: Doing so will void warranty and prohibit product return.) There are five separate adjustment points. It should be snug but not constricting.
Will this harness work on four-legged dogs?
Yes! This Ruffwear harness is not modified in any way specifically for canine amputees. It was originally designed for search and rescue dogs to assist them onto chair lifts and into helicopters. We discovered it provides excellent support for three-legged dogs going up/down stairs and getting into vehicles.
How quickly can I get my harness?
Your purchase price includes ground shipping which can take 3-5 days. You must request an estimate for additional delivery fees by providing a complete address before ordering. Please note that doing so may add at least a day to your order. Always provide a phone number to expedite shipping issues. Note: Read next question before requesting expedited shipping!
Why don’t you ship outside the U.S.?
This is Ruffwear’s shipping policy, not ours. They drop ship all orders directly for us and we have no control over their policies. Find international Ruffwear dealers here.
How soon after surgery can I start using the harness?
We recommend not using the harness until the surgery has completely healed and stitches or staples are removed. We have heard of no specific cases where any harness has hampered healing, but we believe direct pressure from the straps may irritate the wound. Please consult your veterinarian with any concerns.
How can I help my dog get around immediately following surgery?
We suggest using a soft towel slung under the belly if additional support is required in the meantime. A reusable canvas shopping bag slit down the sides also makes a handy temporary sling. but most of all, dogs need rest for the first few days following amputation.
What credit cards do you accept?
Payment for all online orders is processed through PayPal where you can pay securely with Visa, Mastercard, Discover or American Express if you do not have an account. The seller attributed to Paypal transactions may be identified as Jim Nelson or Agreda Communications. Please call 707-845-3129 to pay directly with a credit card by phone.
What if I need to return the harness? Be sure to leave all tags on when fitting the harness. Please review the complete Ruffwear return policy below before ordering.
Ruffwear Products Refund/Exchange Information:
- Only items returned within 30 days may receive credit.
- Ruffwear does not do direct product exchanges. A replacement harness may be ordered here at any time during the return process.
- Refunds are given via PayPal only. Only cost of item can be credited. A $5 return fee will be deducted from returns. Original shipping & handling costs are non-refundable. Return shipping costs of item are the responsibility of the customer.
- Packages must be insured when shipped, and a shipper’s tracking number must be provided to us via email. We cannot provide refunds or exchanges without a tracking number. All returns must be freight prepaid; no C.O.D. deliveries.
- Returned items must be in new, resalable condition with all packaging intact to receive full credit. If any of these conditions is not met, additional restocking fees may be assessed.
- Please write the following information on the outer packaging, as well as in your enclosed note: RA #XXXXX; Customer: Job # XXX-XXXX Tripawds; name; return address; and daytime phone number. List Item(s) to be credited.
- Send Returns And Exchanges To: Ruffwear, Inc.; 354 SE Logsden St; Unit# 125 Bend, OR 97702
- Please let us know as soon as you ship your harness back. Once we’ve confirmed it was received at Ruffwear, we will process your credit (less original shipping and $5 handling charge)and notify you.
- Please contact Tripawds for a Return Authorization (RA) number and delivery instructions. As soon as the harness is verified as “received” at Ruffwear, we will process your credit or exchange (less original shipping and $5 handling charge) and notify you.
Why buy from Tripawds? Purchases made on this site help support our continuing efforts to raise awareness about canine cancer and amputation as a viable treatment option. Because we believe it is better to hop on three legs than to limp on four. All transactions will be processed by PayPal in a new window for security reasons. Products will be shipped directly from Ruffwear in Bend, OR. Thank you!
Love the Ruffwear Harness. Nothing else compares. End of story.
Thanks for the great review. Glad it works for Caira Sue!
Works great for Chuy on regular walks. A little on the heavy side for the Arizona heat though. We still love it!
My furkid is having surgery tomorrow, how long before he would be able to wear this?
Thank you … (he is large…114 pounds, wolfdog, 11 yrs old)
Diane and Magic
@krispikritter See the FAQS above, specifically…
How soon after surgery can I start using the harness?
We recommend not using the harness until the surgery has completely healed and stitches or staples are removed. We have heard of no specific cases where any harness has hampered healing, but we believe direct pressure from the straps may irritate the wound. Please consult your veterinarian with any concerns.
With such a big dog, be sure to review our selection of recommended harnesses, including the AST Get A Grip – designed especially for heavy dogs. Thanks for asking and best wishes.
can the webmaster also be used in the water (as a doggie lifejacket?)
Thanks for asking! The WebMaster harness can be used in the water, but it provides no buoyancy and is not intended for use as a life jacket. Please consider our Ruff Wear Float Coat demo video and product review for the best in water safety for your pup.
After all my touting of the harness in the discussion forums, I think I shall post a comment here for those who don’t go to the forums! This harness is reasonably priced and the best thing ever. It has been invaluable in helping me help Magic. My vet allowed me to use it as soon as it got here so it was about 5 days post op…but Magic was bandaged so it didn’t rub his incision. An absolute MUST HAVE especially with large dogs.
Mornin’ Jerry!
I’m about to purchase the Ruff Wear Web Master for my golden retriever, Joseph, whose front left leg will be amputated very soon. I’m trying to figure out the girth dimension but alas I’m having some difficulties. Is the girth measurement behind both front legs or diagonally between them?
Thanks!
Andres
Hello Andre, thanks for asking. Follow the sizing instructions on the harness order page to measure the girth of your dog at the widest part of the rib cage behind both front legs. The diagram should make this clear. Sorry for the confusion.
GREAT product. We have a 4-legged dog with fibrocartilaginous embolism, and she has difficultly using her let legs correctly. We purchased this product after reading recommendations at the Tripawds site and are very pleased. It fits her perfectly and appears to be very comfortable. It has a sturdy handle for us to hold on to as we assist her down stairs, etc. 5 stars!
Thanks for the great feedback Stephanie!
I this harness appropriate for rear leg amputees?
Thanks for asking Greg. Many people find the Webmaster very handy for helping their rear leg amputee dogs when needed. Wyatt is a rear-legger, and we use his regularly and quite successfully to help him into our truck and up/down stairs, etc. You’ll find this and many other helpful answers in the FAQs above.
So anxious to get this great product, but I have a question. I know the FAQ says to size, down, but my Rottie is measuring at 34/35. Given the return policy I just want to be sure, getting that smaller size is really the right choice for him. It’s seems REALLY small at 26′, but the large sounds way too big on the far end…any advice?
@DieselsMom Ruffwear suggests to size down for a “more active fit. But with a 35” girth, that would only give you one inch of slack with a medium, where the large would give you plenty of room to tighten the harness. Being so close to the maximum girth for the medium, we might also suggest the large. Thanks for asking!
We are very happy with our harness! My only wish is that it was made of some type of webbing material. It’s only March and my Siberian Husky is already sweating under it. Do you know if there is something more lightweight but that can hold a 60lb dog?
Thanks for the feedback, the Webmaster is the best lightweight harness we’ve found that offers any sort of support. If you don’t need the support and are just looking for a control harness. Consider asking Tracy what she used for skijourning with Maggie.
Used it 10 days post op, helped with stair training….also plan to use it for walks, would recomend it…got mine @ rei 🙂
Thanks for the feedback Jo. Readers should know that proceeds from all sales here in the Gear blog help keep the free Tripawds Blogs community and discussion forums online!
Got this today! Thank you! Thank you!
Maille is a 4 month old Irish Wolfhound who was born with a deformed left front leg. She will have it amputated in 2 months. Without the harness it was a struggle to get a 50 lb, unwilling IW into the car, up the stairs, and even get her to stand up on her 3 good legs when she is playing the “poor me” card. Now – no problem!!!!! And having her use to the harness now will make it easier for her when she has her surgery.
As she is growing, we will be replacing with larger sizes when needed. do you know of an organization we can donate the smaller harnesses to? I am sure someone can use them.
Thanks for the feedback, and your offer to donate the used harnesses when the time comes! That is exactly why we created the Tripawds Angel Exchange, for offering products to others in need who may not be able to afford them.
I have a 14lb papillon mix who is missing his front leg. He gets around really well on his three little legs and doesn’t really need extra assistance… but, he is horrible on a neck leash. We have tried the gentle leader, and although we have success with it with our other dogs, he continues to try to fight it and only ends up falling on his face. I know he would do very well with a harness and have been trying to find one that doesn’t require both front legs. I’m interested in the Webmaster but I was wondering if there was any other sort of harness out there that could be used for this purpose?
Thanks!
Thanks for asking Pam. What purpose do you mean? Many customers have found the Webmaster to be very helpful when used as a walking harness. There are two connection points for a leash. As you can see in the video and pictures, Jerry was missing a front leg. He wore his harness constantly except at night and we found it very useful both on walks and for helping him when needed. Please be sure to measure your pup carefully. It is girth, not weight, that determines proper fit.
I have been looking at harness help for several weeks. All offer good and bad reviews. My dog has a possible slipped disk. She cannot support herself without help. I use a sling, but am not strong enough to lift her up when she doesn’t one to go out. Will your product make it possible to lift her and hold her up for elimination? She is a yellow lab.
It might be more ideal for me to have a handle in front and back for lifting…not sure this one does.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
@ellen
It sounds like you may benefit by using the Help ’em Up harness. We suggest you contact Blue Dog Designs directly as we no longer carry the product here. Our next suggestions would be the AST Get A Grip, however, it lacks the direct hip lift support you describe. Hope this helps!
My dog Ziggy just had his right rear leg amputated a week ago and he is only 1 1/2 years old. I was wondering if his girth of 31 will get bigger since he is still growing? Thank you.
Good question hazelnut, thanks for asking. We suggest asking your vet since the answer would depend on what type of dog Ziggy is.
Our black Lab ShyAnne weighs about 95 lbs. Her girth is 32.” She is a front leg amputee. Which size, medium or large, would provide the best fit and support? She is 12 years old now and hasn’t changed much over the last few years as far as weight and size.
Thanks!
95 lbs seems heavy for a dog with 32″ girth. Please be sure to measure the widest area around the rib cage behind the front legs. And while Ruff Wear suggests the smaller size for dogs in between sizes, even if ShyAnne is indeed 32″ we would recommend the L/XL harness for a dog her size. The larger size will allow you to expand the straps if necessary and should be more comfortable.
Thanks for asking! Hope this helps.
OK I thought the pic/ diagram looked like the measurement was directly behind the fron leg. She is 35.” So the L/XL would be the best choice. I just wanted to be sure some adjustment (smaller or larger) wasn’t needed for a front leg amp. Thanks!
I see on the website that black obsidian is an option however it is not listed in the drop down menu, only Red Current and Twighlight Grey. I am interested in purchasing the black.
Sorry for the confusion Christina. In the yellow Notice boxes above, you will see that colors, sizing and pricing have been updated for the new harness. Obsidian black is no longer available, we did not change the photos on this old post.
You can see closeup pictures of the new Twilight Grey style in this post comparing the old and new Web Master harness. Hope this helps!
We have been using the harness and it has been very helpful. We are having one problem with it lately. Shy is a front leg amputee. She lifts herself on her back legs first and requires help getting her front elevated. When she does that she slides forward in the harness and the front strap constricts her neck and chokes her when we try to help lift her chest. I’m not sure if this a tripawd issue or not. Do you have any suggestions or adjustments that can be made to the harness to correct this? Is there another product you would recommend?
Thank you!
This is the first time we’ve heard of that issue Carrie. If the harness is slipping that much on Shy it almost sounds like it may be too big. Please ensure all five of the adjustment points are tightened appropriately. Many people miss the three chest straps that come together in front of the harness at the logo.
If the fit seems appropriate and you’re still having issues, you might consider the full body sling support of the AST Get A Grip, or think about getting a Custom Pet Support Suit made by them.
Thnaks for the feedback, hope this helps!
oh, and I love your comparison of the old vs new harness…..Thanks! I think the twilight gray is growing on me…..
Hello! Is this harness good for front-end amputees as well? I recently adopted a 2 year old tri-pawed [or rather, he adopted me!] and I want to know, in case the vet says I need to get him a special harness.
Yes Karen! Watch the demo video above and you will see that Jerry was a front leg amputee. He wore his Web Master harness all the time and it helped us get him in and out of our truck, and up and down stairs. Read the whole post and FAQs for more details. Thanks for asking.
Hello,
I’ve been shopping for a harness for my tripawd Australian Shepherd. He has had not only a front leg removed but his shoulder as well. This affects his girth size and there is less body in front to hold that part of the harness.
My question is: Do any of these harnesses consider shoulder/leg amputees or, are they only for leg amputees?
Thank you.
Thanks for asking Linda, and best wishes for your pup! You may notice in the video and photos that Jerry also had his scapula removed. He wore his Ruffwear harness for constantly for nearly 2 years without any issues!
we didnt get any instructions with our ruffwaer harness, i dont know how to put it on my left front amputee. hes been getting weaker on his remaining front leg, but mostly need it to assist in and out of suv. do you sell ramps? thanks for your time. sara passarelli
Sorry for any confusion Sara! the video above shows us putting the harness on (and taking it off) Jerry, a front left amputee. Search this site, and the Tripawds Amazon Blog for recommended ramps and other alternatives.
We have a 7 month old Pomeranian who is just over 2 pounds and not expected to get much bigger as she was the runt. She’s having a front leg amputated. It doesn’t look like there are any options for a dog this small. Any suggestions? Thanks! Shery
Best wishes for your pup Shery! We don’t believe a harness is necessary to pick up such small dogs. Consider posting in the discussion forums for better feedback from members!
Hi,
We actually didn’t use nor wanted a harness to pick her up with. She’s so small and so furry around the neck that it seemed better to use a harness on her instead of a collar. I guess at this juncture we will just revisit the collar option since the missing leg will hinder the fit of a traditional harness. Thank you so much for your quick reply! We have saved this site as I believe we will be visiting it often although it seems it is most useful for larger dogs.
Shery
Shery, I have the convert harness for walking Taz. She is a large dog but you might want to see if this is made for smaller dogs like yours. There are a lot of followers with small dogs, I would do a shout out in the forums. Good luck!
i have 2 bassets in need so i can get them down the steps but do not have amputations – is this appropriate?
The Webmaster will certainly help you help your dogs Lisa! Ruffwear harnesses are not designed specifically for three legged dogs.
We love our webmasters!
Hey folks, I have a female 13 year oldRhodesian Ridgeback build more like a greyhound. 32.5 neck, but thin waist. The medium is too tight around her neck, the large is too big around her waist with the straps pulled all the way up, never thought about cutting the straps as someone suggested. I may have to do that so the harness will fit properly. She has arthritis of the back legs and sometime trips on her front legs, I want the harness to just hold her tighter in case she trips. Any suggestions. Thanks.
Sorry to hear about the trouble Carleen, did you extend the three straps that join at the front to loosen/open the neckline? See this post with videos about how to size and adjust the Webmaster harness for more information.
Hope this helps!
I live in the uk and would like to know if I can get one of your harnesses here?
Thanks for asking Colleen. Please see the red notice above regarding international delivery. Click here to jump to the list of other possible online retailers above.
Hello, could one of these be fitted for a cat?
You could certainly try Britney! Any modifications would void the warranty, but we’d love to hear more and get some photos if you do it.
Is there a harness that is available for a left front leg amputee dog that is very short? A Westie?
Matthew, the Web Master harness works well with any dog, regardless of which leg is missing. It is not specifically designed for Tripawds, we just discovered it is perfect for assisting amputee dogs as needed. Please be sure to measure carefully, as it is the dog’s girth that determines the best fit. For extra small dogs, please consider the Front Range Harness.
I am considering purchasing the web master with the brush guard for my 12 week old Golden tripawd. Will it adjust to his growing periods over the next year?
Great question Joanne, that totally depends upon how fast he will grow. Each size allows for a few inches of girth growth. Please see the sizing chart accordingly and measure carefully. Thanks for asking!
I’m looking at purchasing the Ruffwear Web Master for my golden retriever. He’s missing his front right leg and measures exactly 32″ around – should I purchase the l/xl or Medium? I want a snug fit, but not too tight.
As mentioned in the post above, “For in-between sizes, Ruffwear recommends selecting the smaller harness for an active, contoured fit.” Please be sure to measure carefully, with your dog standing up. Hope this helps!
I have a 6 month old puppy that has about a 23″ girth. What size do you think I should get? She is some sort of hound/lab cross
Please refer to the Sizing chart above Jacque, 23″ clearly falls within the Small size range.
I have a tripawd large dog that just underwent a surgery to cut a done out of his stomach. The vet said get him a harness, but none of the ones i found work for him. He is missing his front right leg and all harnesses i have tried ride up around his neck when he turns around. Your harness looks like it might work for him. Any suggestions would be great thank you Bongo Korns Mom Karla Korn…aka Korndog
Please review these helpful posts to determine which harness is best for you…
Which harness is best?
Best harnesses for Tripawds
My dog is about 15-16 months old, half boxer and half jab. Boxers can grow in girth up to 2 years of age. Right now his girth measures 27″, which is right in between the small and medium. With the potential that he might grow a bit more within the next year or so, should I get the medium even though the small might be a more snug fit? Or his front right leg was amputated about 6 months ago and his mobility is not overly strenuous yet, maybe I should wait until he reaches closer to 2 years for me to measure again? I would hate to spend over $100 with the possibility not to fit in a few months.
Depending upon how quickly your dog grows, he will likely go through a couple sizes during his lifespan. Ruffwear suggests getting the smaller harness for dogs who measure right in between sizes, but Boxers are also very deep chested so the larger size may work. Keep in mind that a form fitting harness is much more effective.
My dog is missing his front left leg, but still has a small nub. He hates when things get caught on it, but needs more support and comfort than the convert can offer. Would this be a good option for him or would the straps run his nub?
We have no personal experience using the Web Master o a dog with partial amputation. But we have had thousands of customers over the years who have used it without complaint for numerous different scenarios. Consider posting in the forums for more feedback from others. If other issues arise with the remaining appendage – which often occur – full amputation is always an option.
A certified canine rehab therapist may be of better assistance in this situation. Visit a CCRT or CCRP and the Tripawds Foundation can even pay for your first consultation!
Anyone tried the boots, we love in the country and want to make sure our boy is safe on the snow and ice?
Yes, check the Ruffwear Dog Boots review and video for complete details, or post in the forums for more feedback from others.