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Every dog owner has their share of joys and struggles, but we can all collectively agree that putting on your dog’s harness is one of the most difficult feats, especially if you’re new to the game. Nowadays, harnesses are being favored more by Australian pet lovers because it’s a safer alternative compared to dog collars. But a harness’s true potential can only be used when it’s fit correctly to your dog. With that said, today’s article will serve as a guide to make sure that you fit the harness safely and comfortably to your dog.

Factors to consider when choosing the right harness.

One of the first things you need to do when choosing a dog harness is to determine what it will be used for—is it for daily walks and other light exercises? Or will it be used for training and other rigorous activities? Apart from that, make sure to be mindful of the following factors:

Breed and Size. Just like how dogs come in all forms and shapes, dog harnesses also have their sizes adjustable to your dog’s body. Of course, it’s important to choose the correct size so they can move freely and comfortably without constricting their movement. 

Material and Durability. Depending on the type of activities you have in mind, you might want to consider buying harnesses that can withstand the wear and tear of the said activities as well as your dog’s chewing habits. Make sure to invest in high-quality harnesses so that they can provide great support and last longer.

With these in mind, you can now choose from the three main types of harnesses available in the market, namely:

Backclip harness. The backclip harness is the ideal choice for dog owners whose pets are prone to pulling and have pretty sensitive necks. Because the clip is attacked on their backs, it alleviates the pressure from the dog’s neck and distributes the pressure evenly to the chest and shoulders.

H-harness. Another popular harness type on the market is the H-harness because it provides the right support and stability for their dogs. The harness has two straps that connect to the front and back, forming the H shape, which is why it’s called such.

Front-clip harness. There’s also the front-clip harness, which is commonly used by dog owners who train their pets to walk calmly on the leash. Because the clip is attached to the front of your dog, it redirects the pressure when they try to pull on your leash, thus discouraging pulling behavior.

What Should I Check for to Ensure my Dog’s Harness is a Perfect Fit?

Once you’ve chosen a harness, it’s time to check and see if it’s a snug fit for your furry companion. Here are some tips to help ensure that it’s the perfect fit:

Check the size. As mentioned before, you need to choose the right harness size for your dog. A chihuahua and a Labrador retriever don’t share the same size, but if you’re unsure what size to choose from, you can always ask for help from your vet and other dog professionals. Just make sure that they’re not too tight that your dog’s movements are restricted, and not too loose that it can slip off your dog’s body easily.

Adjust accordingly. Almost all dog harnesses available on the market right now have adjustable straps. If you want to make sure that it fits just right, you can loosen all the straps as you put them over your dog and start adjusting manually.

It doesn’t gag your pet. The right harness will not gag your dog, so check if they can also breathe comfortably aside from moving freely.

They can move freely. Speaking of freely, the harness should not hinder your dog’s movements. They should be able to move as they please; if they start acting differently, then it’s best to check if they’re being constricted in some parts.

With all that said, keep in mind that it may take some time for your dog to get used to the harness and the point of the harness is to keep your pet safe on walks to get exercise, sniff and get fresh air. A way to ensure that they stay extra safe on walks can include a GPS collar or tracking devise in case they do get out. So before you go ahead and take them out for a walk outside, start by allowing them to get used to the harness inside your home. It always pays to have treats on hand to reward them for good behavior because doing so will help them associate the harness with a good experience.

Keep in mind that a well-fit and comfortable harness is an important tool for a safe and enjoyable activity for you and your furry friend.

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