While dog harnesses are often used for sled sports or recreation, for one US canine it’s an essential piece of work kit.

Scott Reynolds told the Detroit Free Press his German shepherd mix Sable wears the product during his day job as a sniffer dog.

The animal is carving out a successful career seeking out illegal sewer connections which can harm biodiversity and has been praised as a skilled operator that saves money for the Environmental Canine Services.

According to the report, Sable’s accuracy rate is 87 per cent, something which has won over the scepticism of local anti-pollution organisations.

Discussing the way Sable launches himself into his job, Mr Reynolds explained: "In the mornings, he runs to the back room and looks to the hook where his harness is, as if to say ‘Do we get to do this today?’ He loves to work."

Dog harnesses are also essential equipment for guide canines, a topic which has also been in the headlines recently.

The Fermanagh Herald recently reported on how Logan helps his blind owner Eugene Kelly get around town safely.