When shopping for my dog companion, I prefer to buy from small independent brands. Especially when it comes to the daily necessities. I find they don't overlook the importance of design when creating dog essentials, like harnesses and leads. As a result, you have the best of both words: functional dog products that look good too.
Now that my dog is fully grown I wanted to get him a more stylish harness and leash set for our adventures together. Something that was practical, affordable, and in keeping with my own style.
Poppy + Ted is an independent online brand. Created by Paige and her dog companion, Ted, who wanted stylish dog walking essentials. The brand launched in 2018 from Paige's dining room table, and grew into the small team it is today. Together they provide cool original accessories for fashionable canines.
Their online shop has everything from daily dog walking essentials, like leads, collars, and harnesses. As well as useful accessories including personalised ID tags and poop holders. They also sell a range of grooming products too.
I discovered Poppy + Ted when looking for a poop pal. It's a super useful little tool that attaches to your dog's lead and carries any used bags for you. They come in a range of different colours so you can match it with your dog's outfit, poop bag holder, and treat pouch. I consider it a must-have dog product, and have one on all my dog's leashes!
Even the eco-friendly poop bags Poppy + Ted stocks come in different colours meaning you can match those to your set too. The Adios bags are made from cornstarch making them 100% biodegradable and compostable. They naturally breakdown in 3-6 months.
My companion was gifted a matching Poppy + Ted set, which includes the Happy Stamp harness, lead, and poop pal. The harness and lead are a lovely charcoal grey colour with a white smiley face design. Made from durable polyester and neoprene with a breathable lining to provide a durable yet comfortable fit. One major benefit is that it can be machine washed at 30-degrees, and the fabric means it's quick to dry.
I followed the size guide and found the small harness fit perfectly with a little adjustment to the sliding straps. The harness has a pull-on style with one clasp at the side, making putting it on quick and easy. The hardware is sturdy, clicking into place easily with no risk of coming loose even with pulling.
Lots of harnesses and leads are quite heavy for smaller breeds. I've had to switch out hardware before because it was too bulky. The Poppy + Ted set are lovely and lightweight. The design is streamlined, without compromising on quality, and there's no bulky padding on the dog's back. The fabric feels soft to the touch, and my companion immediately felt at ease when wearing the harness.
What I love about the Poppy + Ted lead is the longer length. At 150cm, it's slightly longer than the average short lead, which is usually around 120cm. That extra few centimetres is really noticeable and makes a huge difference on walks. The loop just below the lead's handle provides the perfect spot for attaching poop bag holder, and poop pal. Having all your walking essentials clipped to the lead means you never leave anything important behind.
Poppy + Ted create practical dog essentials at an affordable price. The range changes periodically with new designs and prints becoming available depending on the season. Your dog's outfit can be as fun and stylish as your own. If you're looking for dog essentials, browse Poppy + Ted's range. You're bound to find something you and your dog will love.
