A dog harness is a tool designed to hold and take charge of a dog by spreading pressure across the back and chest instead of just the neck. Unlike conventional collars, harnesses provide more safety and comfort for your furry friend especially if they have respiratory issues or are prone to pulling when on a leash. 

As more dog parents pay more attention to the comfort and health of their pets, these accessories have become a more popular option for daily trainings, walks and other outdoor activities. That being said, there are still many pet owners who do not understand the fuss about dog harnesses, the different types that there are and why they should switch to using them instead of collars. 

Visit this site: https://www.petguide.com/ for the pros and cons of each accessory. 

This article therefore will explore these issues/questions and also share tips on how to choose the right one for your pet. 

Why Use a Dog Harness?  

The following are some of the top reasons: –

  1. Better Control – The pet owner is better able to control their pet with this accessory rather than a collar. 
  2. Reduces Strain on the Neck – Due to the fact that pressure is evenly distributed across the back and chest, strain on the dog’s neck is highly reduced. 
  3. Prevents Pulling and Choking– The spread of the pressure makes it more comfortable for the dog.
  4. Increases Safety and Security– The person walking or holding the dog can have better grip and control over the dog.

Types of Dog Harnesses

There are different types of harnesses and they are all suitable for different dog behaviors and needs. You need to understand the different types so that you can easily choose the right one for your dog. 

Find below the different types that are available and their characteristics: –

Back-Clip 

The following are the characteristics of this design: –

  1. The leash is attached to a ring that is located on the back of the dog.
  2. It is suited for dogs that are well-trained and do not pull too much.
  3. It is comfortable for daily use but may not afford you adequate control if your dog is an excessive and strong puller. 

Front-Clip Harness 

Characteristics of this design include the following: –

  1. The leash is attached to a ring that is located at the animal’s chest. 
  2. It is designed to minimize pulling by turning the pet towards the handler anytime they try to dash forward. Also known as no-pull dog harnesses, this design reduces the risk of injury on your pet. Although back-clip harnesses also have the no-pull feature, they are not as effective for strong pullers. 
  3. It is ideal for training and improving your pet’s leash manners. 

Dual-Clip 

The features of this design include the following: –

  1. It has both a front and back clip.
  2. It allows the handler to switch between comfort and control depending on the circumstance. 
  3. Can be used in combination with a double-ended leash to provide maximum control. 

Step-In 

Characteristics of this design include the following: –

  1.  The dog steps into the harness and then it is secured at the back.
  2. It is easy to put on and off. 
  3. It is ideal for calm or small dogs. 
  4. It provides just enough control and therefore may not be adequate for dogs that are strong pullers and therefore need maximum control. 

Over-the-Head 

This design features the following: –

  1. The harness is slipped over your pet’s head and then fastened with straps or buckles. 
  2. It provides a more secure fit and therefore adequate control for active or large dogs. 
  3. May not be easy to put on dogs that are sensitive around the head region. 

Vest 

The characteristics are as follows: –

  1. It is made of soft, padded material and it looks like a vest. 
  2. It provides support and comfort which makes it best for dogs with delicate frames and small furry pets. 
  3. Usually comes with additional padding to avoid chafing. 

How to Choose the Right Dog Harness  

Choosing the right harness helps to ensure the comfort of your pet and improve handling when you go for walks and other outdoor activities. The following are quick tips to help you make an informed decision: –

  1. Consider the Size and Fit – Make sure the harness fits the chest and girth of your pet based on the guidelines of the manufacturer. 
  2. Check out the Material – Ensure you get the right material for your dog’s need. 
  3. Adjustability – Ensure that the design is adjustable to achieve a perfect fit for your pet. 
  4. Safety Features – Make sure your choice has the right safety features which include reflective stitching for increased visibility, a handle on the back and quick release buckles. Click here for some tips for your pet’s safety this summer. 
  5. Purpose of Use – Consider the purpose the harness will be used for; it is for daily walks, or training or hiking/running. 

Conclusion  

A dog harness is a very important accessory that helps in enhancing control, safety and comfort when you take your pet for walks or during training sessions.  We have discussed the various designs available and shared tips to help you make the right choice. Bear these tips in mind as you go shopping for one for your dog.