Are you tired of constantly tugging on your dog’s collar while going for walks? Or maybe you’ve noticed that your furry friend seems uncomfortable and restricted by their traditional leash setup. Well, it’s time to make a change! In this blog post, we’re diving into the world of dog harnesses and why they can be a game-changer when it comes to improving your pet’s comfort and overall health. Say goodbye to pulling, chafing, and unnecessary strain – because switching to a dog harness is about to revolutionize the way you walk with man’s best friend!
Using a harness will distribute pressure evenly across your dog’s body, which eliminates neck injuries and prevents choking.
Reduces the Risk of Injuries
Walking your dog is a great way to bond with them, exercise them and explore their environment. However, a poorly fitting harness can cause injury to your pup and potentially lead to pain and discomfort. Look for indentions in your dog’s fur or rolls of skin that indicate the harness is too tight.
A collar can put pressure on your dog’s neck and trachea which can lead to breathing issues. A dog harness with name tag reduces this risk by distributing the pressure over a larger area of your dog’s body and at the same time work as an identity for your dog.
Several trainers recommend using a back support harness for dogs that are prone to pulling or lunging. These harnesses slide up a dog’s back legs like pants and attach to the top of their chest, making them an ideal option for brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs) who are prone to tracheal collapse.
Improves Obedience
While most dogs take to harnesses very quickly, some need desensitization. Using an operant conditioning approach, get your dog used to having the harness straps moved around their back and under their chest. Start with one second of movement and gradually build up. Praise them and give them treats as they get used to it.
Some harnesses are designed to discourage pulling by clipping the leash to their chest rather than their necks. This is very helpful in reducing the risk of injury for pullers and also allows you to have more control over your dog.
Harnesses are usually much harder for dogs to escape from than collars, which can be a real peace of mind when you have a more adventurous pup! They can also come with various support options depending on your pet’s needs.
Helps in Training
The snug fit of a harness prevents your dog from being able to slip out of the collar, which can happen when they are frightened or excited. This feature helps them stay safely restrained during dog training & outdoor activities, especially in busy or unfamiliar environments.
Unlike traditional collars, which can choke your dog or cause their trachea to become irritated and damaged over time, harnesses distribute pressure on the neck and chest instead of on the trachea. Some front-clip harnesses, however, can put stress on the biceps and supraspinatus tendons, which is not ideal for dogs that are joggers or canine athletes.
Once you train your dog to walk politely in a balanced position beside you, you can start using a back-clip harness without risking any injuries or causing discomfort for them. This will help them be more successful and enjoy their walks more!
Makes Walking Easier
Many dog owners find that using a harness helps make walking easier. While collars may put pressure on your pet’s neck and cause tracheal damage or eye issues, harnesses distribute force across the chest and back and discourage pulling by redirecting your pet’s focus to you.
A harness is also more difficult to escape from than a collar, giving you peace of mind during walks in busy or unfamiliar environments. Some harnesses also feature leash attachment points on both the front and back, giving you greater control over your pet’s movements.
Pets with limited mobility can also benefit from a harness. A lifting harness uses a handle on the back to support your pet’s mid-body, helping them stand up without putting pressure on their shoulders or neck.
Increases Safety
Walking is one of the best ways for your dog to stretch their legs and get a little exercise. It also helps to relieve boredom and anxiety for both them and their owners.
Unlike collars, suitable dog harnesses do not put pressure on your dog’s neck and throat. They distribute the pull evenly across their chest and back. Using a harness is also safer for dogs that have tracheal or neck issues.
Many harnesses have a handle on the back to help you assist your dog with walking over obstacles, climbing up steps or into the car. This is a crucial feature for aging pets experiencing weakness in their front or back legs due to muscle atrophy. These harnesses can help prevent them from being pulled over and hurting themselves.
Conclusion
As pet owners, it is our responsibility to ensure the well-being and comfort of our furry friends. Switching to a dog harness can greatly improve your pet’s physical health and overall comfort while walking or exercising. From reducing strain on their necks to providing better support for their bodies, a harness offers many benefits over traditional collars. So if you want to give your dog the best possible care, consider making the switch today and see how much happier and healthier they can be!
photo credit: Photo by Katie Bernotsky on Unsplash
