Two of the Bay of Plenty's constable canines will be reporting for duty in their new stab-resistant, multi-purpose harnesses this week.

Designed specifically for police's patrol dogs, the ‘Mako' harnesses offer a similar level of protection that a human officer has when wearing their stab resistant body armour vest.

Wellington patrol dog Dakota got to try on her new harness for the first time today and was very happy with her new attire. Supplied Photo.

Ten dogs based in Tauranga, Rotorua, Hamilton, Auckland, Wellington, Palmerston North, New Plymouth, Nelson, Whangarei, Christchurch will each receive a harness this week.

Wellington Dog Section head Senior Sergeant Mark Davidson says this is an exciting time for the 10 dogs and their handlers receiving the new harness.

'It's a bit of a milestone for the dog section in terms of staff and dog safety.

'We've been really aware over the years that our dogs had only speed and mobility for protection, but with this new harness we've given them another level of protection alongside that.”

The Mako harnesses are fitted with layered polymer panels to shield the vital organs from stabbing and slashing, while the overall design is made from milspec nylon and trelleborg material which does not absorb moisture and also gives the animal protection from blows and kicks.

They also weigh a little over one kilogram and their design doesn't impair dogs' agility and speed, dries quickly and can be worn throughout a shift.

The Mako harnesses have been designed by Hamilton-based specialist Sabre Tactical NZ and are being manufactured in New Zealand.

The remaining 120 harnesses are being rolled out to dogs across the country and the whole dog force will be wearing the harness within three months.

Dakota and handler Constable Stu Rota. Supplied Photo.