Here in this article, we going to discuss how to choose the Harness of your dog buyer’s guide. Your dog’s harness must be adapted to its size and structure of the dog. It must allow you to maintain control over your animal without hurting it.
Making the right choice is a question of comfort and safety for him as for you!
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The advantages of the harness compared to a collar
Your dog has indeed already pulled on his leash: you could see that in this case, the collar literally cut his breath. The collar also causes friction that can cause severe skin irritation on the neck of your pet.
A harness distributes pressure better, which limits the risk of injury. The harness gives you extra security: in emergency situations – fighting, drowning – it is a catch to catch your dog without hurting him.
The different types of dog harness
The most common harness is the walking harness, equipped with an adjustable strap on the chest. For the comfort of your dog, it is better to opt for a model whose metal fasteners are located on the back and whose straps are padded.
There is a wide variety of harnesses, including specific models for certain activities: the flyball harness, the cani-cross harness to take your dog running, the harness pulling for bodybuilding … These harnesses require a time of adaptation, even a few training sessions. so that your dog finds his marks.
A harness with front attachment or attachment on the back?
There are two types of harnesses: the harness with front attachment and the one with the attachment on the back. Each corresponds to a different dog profile.
The head-lock harness gives you some control over your dog, since you just have to pull the leash so that your animal immediately turns to you. It is therefore particularly recommended for dogs that tend to race – for example in pursuit of a cat – or to pull on the leash.
The harness with the strap on the back is reserved for small sizes – Chihuahua or Yorkshire – or large well-trained jigs. Indeed, the dorsal attachment facilitates forward traction.
If your dog comes to run, you would have great difficulty in holding it back.
Can the harness suit a sick or elderly dog?
The harness is not reserved for dogs in perfect health. It is even very appropriate in case of convalescence or chronic illness.
If your pet is suffering from breathing problems or neck pain, use a walking harness with a back strap attached.
If your dog is getting older and has trouble getting around, opt for a shoulder harness, which will help you move your pet.
Quality of materials
The quality of the materials of a dog harness is crucial to ensure the safety of your pet. No way to take the risk that the harness breaks or it hurts!
For that, beware of the crush! If your dog is a small size, you can crack for a nice harness. For large sizes, however, choose a model made of a robust material, preferably lined and padded.
The fastener and the options
Whether frontal or on the back, the harness attachment must be strong to prevent it from breaking under pressure. Also be interested in the seams, which must be strong too.
Do not overlook the options, such as reflective strips that provide extra security after dark.
Size
Most harness models come in a variety of sizes to suit any size, from Yorkshire to German Shepherd. To choose the right size, it is essential to take the measurements of your dog.
The most important is his chest. Standard harness sizes range from XS (25 to 40 cm chest border) to XL (over 90 cm).
The ideal is to opt for an adjustable model, to offer maximum comfort and safety to your dog.
How to get your dog used to his new harness?
If your dog is young, it is likely that he will get used to his new harness. On the other hand, if your dog has been used to wearing a collar for several years, the transition may be tricky.
Some animals may interpret the wearing of the harness as a punishment. Others may take the opportunity to give vent to their whims, pulling more on the leash.
A few training sessions may be needed before to help your dog get used to the harness.
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