How to Fit a Brush Guard Harness Add-On

By Performance Dog Gear | Ruffwear | Published: 2026-10-27

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to properly attach the Brush Guard™ Harness Add-On to your dog's compatible Ruffwear pack for added chest and belly protection on the trail.

Quick answer

Attach the Brush Guard™ Harness Add-On by sliding the hook-and-loop sleeves over the compatible Ruffwear pack straps, then secure them snugly to protect your dog's chest and belly from brush and abrasion.

Why add a brush guard to your dog's pack?

The Brush Guard™ is designed for dogs that bound through thick brush, off-trail terrain, or rocky areas. It adds a layer of abrasion-resistant material to the chest and belly, areas that take the most punishment when your dog pushes through undergrowth. It also provides extra support when lifting or assisting your dog and helps stabilize the pack load.

This add-on only works with compatible Ruffwear packs, such as the Approach™. Check your pack's compatibility before purchasing.

What you'll need before starting

You'll need the Brush Guard™ Harness Add-On in the correct size for your dog, and a compatible Ruffwear pack. The add-on attaches via hook-and-loop sleeves that wrap around the pack straps. No tools are required.

How to fit the Brush Guard™ Harness Add-On

1. Prepare the pack and add-on: Remove the Brush Guard™ from its packaging and lay it flat. Unbuckle your dog's compatible Ruffwear pack and lay it open on a clean surface. Identify the chest and belly straps where the add-on will attach. Common mistake: Trying to attach the add-on while the pack is still on your dog. Always fit it with the pack off for easier access.
2. Attach the chest section: Slide the hook-and-loop sleeve on the chest portion of the Brush Guard™ over the pack's chest strap. Position it so the padded side faces your dog's chest. Press the hook-and-loop firmly together to secure it. Checkpoint: Make sure the sleeve is centered and not twisted. A twisted sleeve can cause chafing.
3. Attach the belly section: Repeat the process for the belly portion. Slide the sleeve over the pack's belly strap and position the padded side against your dog's belly. Secure the hook-and-loop closure. Common mistake: Over-tightening the belly section can restrict movement. Leave enough room for your dog to sit and lie down comfortably.
4. Double-check alignment: With the pack still off your dog, check that both sections are aligned symmetrically and that no straps are twisted. The Brush Guard™ should lie flat against the pack without bunching. Checkpoint: If the guard bunches, reposition the sleeves. Bunched material can cause pressure points.
5. Fit the pack on your dog: Place the pack with attached Brush Guard™ on your dog as you normally would. Buckle all straps and adjust for a snug but comfortable fit. The guard should sit smoothly against your dog's chest and belly without sagging or pulling. Final check: Run your hand under the guard to ensure there's no excessive pressure or pinching. Your dog should be able to move freely.

Product facts

Brush Guard™ Harness Add-On: The Brush Guard™ provides additional chest and belly protection from abrasion and helps add stabilization for dogs wearing a pack. This means your dog stays comfortable and protected even when pushing through dense brush, and the pack stays more stable during active movement.
Brush Guard™ Harness Add-On