When you’re walking a smaller dog, you really want something that balances a delicate fit with enough sturdiness to handle their energy. The Ancol Viva Padded Dog Harness in Blue is a great example of that. This is the Small size, designed for a girth of 36cm to 42cm, which is usually spot-on for breeds like Toy Poodles, smaller Terriers, or even those bouncy puppies who are just getting used to the “rules” of the lead.

The thing that makes the Viva range a bit special is the micro-fleece padding. Small dogs often have thinner skin and shorter coats, which means standard nylon straps can sometimes cause irritation or “harness rub” under their front legs. This harness is lined with that soft fleece to act as a cushion. It wraps around the chest and shoulders so that if they get a bit over-excited and pull, the pressure is spread across their strongest muscles rather than being concentrated on their neck. It’s a much gentler way to walk, especially for dogs prone to coughing when wearing a traditional collar.

The vibrant blue color is a real standout—it’s bright, bold, and looks fantastic on almost any coat color. But it’s not just about looks; the weatherproof poly-weave exterior is built to handle the outdoors. It doesn’t get heavy or soggy if you get caught in a light drizzle, and it’s surprisingly easy to wipe clean after a romp through the grass. For added safety during those early morning or twilight walks, the harness also features reflective trim that catches the light from car headlamps or streetlights.

Putting it on is a breeze thanks to the sturdy quick-release buckles, and the adjustable sliders mean you can get the fit just right—snug enough to be “escape-proof” but with plenty of room for them to run and play. It’s a stylish, practical, and very comfortable training accessory that makes every walk a bit more enjoyable.