Canine Barding

Scout's Harness (Canine Barding)

Cost: 40 gp
Armor Bonus: +2
Max Dex Bonus: +6
Armor Check Penalty: 0
Arcane Spell Failure: 10%
Speed: Unchanged
Weight: 12 lb.

Fashioned from thick boiled leather stained dark brown or russet, the Scout's Harness protects a dog's chest, shoulders and neck while leaving its legs and joints completely free. Soft suede lining prevents chafing during long marches, while sturdy brass buckles allow the harness to be fitted or removed quickly. Reinforced rings along the back provide attachment points for a lead, saddlebags or other equipment.

Designed for hunting hounds, messengers and scouts, the harness emphasizes mobility over maximum protection. Its high-cut shoulder openings permit a full running stride, allowing the animal to sprint, leap and climb with little restriction.

The Scout's Harness is considered light armor.

Ranger's Barding (Canine Barding)

Cost: 300 gp
Armor Bonus: +4
Max Dex Bonus: +5
Armor Check Penalty: -1
Arcane Spell Failure: 20%
Speed: Unchanged
Weight: 24 lb.

The Ranger's Barding combines thick boiled leather with riveted chainmail to provide exceptional protection while preserving a war dog's agility. A reinforced leather breastplate shields the chest and shoulders, while curtains of finely linked mail protect the throat, flanks and lower ribs. A broad leather spine guard distributes weight evenly across the animal's back without restricting movement.

Every surface likely to rub against the dog is padded with soft leather, and carefully placed articulation points allow the armor to flex naturally with every stride. Numerous attachment rings permit the mounting of packs, bedrolls or other field equipment.

Favored by military scouts, wardens and adventurers who rely upon trained companions, the Ranger's Barding offers an excellent balance between protection and mobility.

The Ranger's Barding is considered light armor.

Heavy War Barding (Canine Barding)

Cost: 800 gp
Armor Bonus: +5
Max Dex Bonus: +3
Armor Check Penalty: -3
Arcane Spell Failure: 30%
Speed: Reduced by 10 ft.
Weight: 36 lb.

At first glance, Heavy War Barding appears to be an exceptionally well-crafted leather harness. Hidden beneath its thick outer shell, however, are dozens of overlapping steel plates riveted between layers of hardened leather in the manner of a brigandine. This construction provides far greater protection than leather alone while remaining considerably more flexible than solid plate armor.

The armor covers the chest, shoulders, ribs and spine, with an articulated mail curtain protecting the throat and an optional mail apron safeguarding the abdomen. Broad padded straps distribute the weight comfortably across the animal's frame, while heavy forged buckles ensure the barding remains secure even during violent combat.

Heavy War Barding is intended for mastiffs, war hounds and similar animals expected to fight on the front lines alongside their handlers.

The Heavy War Barding is considered medium armor.