How we choose products and write our guides

Clear information is part of a well-chosen product.

Tern & Hound is a retailer, not a veterinary practice or an independent testing laboratory. Our product selection and buying guides are designed to make everyday shopping decisions easier. This page explains what sits behind that work.

What we look for

We consider a product's purpose, available size information, materials, care requirements and relationship to the rest of the range. A product has to add something useful; another colour alone is not a reason to expand every category indefinitely.

Supplier availability and fulfilment arrangements also matter. We do not treat an attractive photo or a high rating as proof of reliable delivery, material quality or safety certification.

Manufacturer information and editorial judgement

Dimensions, materials, fastening details and care instructions should come from the manufacturer or current supplier information. Our editorial guidance explains how those details affect a choice. When a specific measurement is unavailable, we do not estimate it from a photo.

A buying guide is not a hands-on review. We won't claim to have tested durability, waterproofing, crash performance or a health benefit without evidence appropriate to that claim.

Reviews and recommendations

Reviews must have an identifiable source and relate to the product being discussed. A supplier's product review history is not a review of shopping with Tern & Hound. We will not present it as our own customer feedback or manufacture ratings for a new store.

A product described as part of our edit has been editorially selected. That does not mean it is our best seller, an award winner or the right choice for every dog.

Fit, welfare and safety

Always follow the instructions supplied with the exact product. Check fit and condition regularly. General buying guidance cannot replace advice from a vet or qualified behaviour professional when your dog has a health, mobility or behavioural need.

Walking equipment should not be assumed suitable for vehicle restraint, tethering or specialist activities. Separate evidence is needed for those uses.

Keeping information useful

We check the sources used for each guide and link to them where they support specific information. Product specifications and care advice can change, so the product's current instructions take priority over a general comparison.

Found something unclear? Send the page address and the detail you are querying through our contact page.