7 Things To Know About Putting Your Dog in a Harness
There are many reasons why you may want to switch your dog from a traditional collar to a harness when taking them out on walks. One of the most common reasons is to use the harness to try and improve your pet’s comfort and safety. However, many dogs are reluctant to wear harnesses and it can require a bit more care than just strapping them in. Understanding the basics of introducing your dog to the harness and getting them to wear it can make the whole process better for you and your furry friend.
Boulderbarks is here to help with these seven things to know about putting your dog in a harness. We aim to help you figure out everything from introducing the harness to your pet to what signs of discomfort or potential issues to watch out for. Some dogs may acclimate to the harness more naturally, but even if it seems difficult at times, these tips will help you both ease into this new piece of walking gear.
1. Choose the Right Harness Style for Your Dog
The first thing you should do is make sure that you’re choosing the right type of harness for your dog. There are different models that work best for specific breeds or behaviors. Front-clip harnesses attach the leash at the chest area and help reduce pulling by redirecting your dog's forward momentum.
You can use a back-clip harness to get the leash attachment point between the shoulder blades. This style is good for well-trained dogs that remain calm when you’re using a leash since the natural movement won’t restrict the shoulders too much.
A step-in harness requires your dog to place their front paws through loops before you can secure the straps around their back. This style often feels less restrictive to dogs during the initial introduction period. Over-the-head harnesses slip over your dog's head first, then secure around the chest and back. These models offer fantastic security, but some dogs don’t do well with having items placed over their heads.
2. Measure Your Dog Properly Before Purchase
Another thing to figure out is the proper measurement for your dog. Proper sizing will allow you to pick out a harness that fits well and prevents discomfort or escape attempts. You want to measure your dog’s chest at the widest point, typically behind their friend legs. A flexible measuring tape allows you to get two fingers’ worth of space between the tape and your dog’s body.
Getting the neck measurement is important for harnesses that have neck straps. You should measure around the base of the neck where you’d normally have a collar. Your dog’s weight may also play a role in harness selection, as different models may have recommended ranges.
Your dog’s breed and body shape is a factor when finding the right size. Certain breeds such as Greyhounds or German Shepherds have deeper chests and may need to a harness that is made for their unique proportions. Bulldogs or Pugs may require wider chest panels that provide comfort and support on walks.
3. Introduce the Harness Gradually
It’s a good idea to introduce your dog to the harness without the immediate pressure for them to wear it. Place it out in the open by their bowl or bed. This gives them a chance to smell it and not immediately associate it with stress. You may try giving your dog treats and praise as they interact with it to create a positive connection to it.
After your dog seems comfortable with the harness, you can slowly begin the fitting process. Make sure you follow the step-in guide for your specific harness model and guide their front paws through the opening while offering praise and comforting words. You can move calmy and deliberately to avoid giving them any anxiety about the process.
4. Ensure Proper Fit and Adjustment
Another thing to know about putting your dog in a harness is the importance of proper tightness. Properly fitted harness should feel snug, but not too tight against the dog’s body. A helpful tip is making sure you can fit two fingers between the straps and your dog’s skin. After getting them into the harness, check all the adjustment points and make sure there’s a consistent snugness around the chest and back areas.
You can keep an eye out for signs of improper fit during your dog’s first few sessions wearing it if your dog is panting more than normal, reluctant to move, or attempts to remove it, you may need to make some adjustments. Red marks or indentations on the skin after removing the harness signal that the straps are too tight and require loosening.
5. Address Common Fitting Problems
Dogs with unusual body proportions may experience specific fitting challenges. Long-bodied breeds such as Dachshunds often need harnesses with extended back panels to provide adequate support. Short-legged dogs may require harnesses with higher leg openings to prevent chafing during movement.
You may need to buy a slightly larger harness if your dog has a particularly thick coat because their fur creates bulk that can affect how well the harness fits. When measuring your dog for a harness, try to do it when their coat is in average length and condition rather than immediately after grooming. You may also want to consider seasonal changes to their coat that may require harness adjustments throughout the year.
6. Train Your Dog to Accept the Harness
One of the best ways to train your dog to wear the harness without issue is positive reinforcement. Try to associate the harness with experiences that your dog enjoys such as walks, meals, or play sessions. Always reward calm or eager behavior around the harness with praise or even treats to motivate your dog.
You can create a consistent harness routine by using the same verbal cues and following the same process each time you put it on. Creating a sense of consistency and predictably turns it into a habit for your pet and can reduce their resistances over time.
7. Recognize Signs of Discomfort or Poor Fit
Even if everything seems good, you should keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and physical condition when using a harness. Excessive scratching at the harness straps, reluctance to move forward, or changes in gait patterns may indicate discomfort or improper fit.
A poor fit may lead to hair loss or skin irritation where the straps come into contact with the dog. Try to check these spots often, especially during the first couple weeks of using the harness. Swelling or tenderness around pressure points requires immediate attention and possible harness replacement.
Successful harness use requires ongoing attention to fit, comfort, and your dog's changing needs. Regular check-ins ensure the harness continues to serve your dog well as they age, gain or lose weight, or develop different exercise requirements.
Discover the best dog harness for your furry companion at Boulderbarks! Explore our collection of high-quality, comfortable, and reliable options designed to make every walk enjoyable for both you and your dog!
Leave a comment