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Have you ever had a nagging feeling that a traditional collar isn't the best choice for your dog? Your intuition could be correct. Although collars seem to work for some dogs, they're definitely not for every dog. Some dogs need harnesses.
In this article, we'll cover several signs indicating that your dog is in immediate need of a harness. After that, we'll follow up with information on what to consider when sorting through your dog harness options. Let's get into it!
First of all, virtually every dog could benefit from a dog harness; they are a safer, more comfortable alternative to your typical collar and leash. But if you're on the fence, it's critical to think over your unique situation and dog. Here are some signs that your dog needs a harness right away:
Collared dogs can choke themselves during walks as they suddenly lunge at butterflies or go after a dog they want to play with. These dogs (we affectionately call "pullers") are more likely than calmer dogs to suffer from the consequences of neck pressure from collars. They include, but aren't limited to:
Switching to a harness for dogs will alleviate issues associated with pulling and choking, and it's all because of its clever design. Unlike collars, harnesses distribute pressure evenly across a dog's chest and shoulders instead of concentrating force on the throat. This makes it safer, more comfortable, and far more effective for guiding enthusiastic pullers on their daily walks.
Does your dog suffer from pain or discomfort in their neck or along their back? Using a collar for these canines is never a good idea. Not only do collars put immense pressure on the dog's neck, but they also strain the dog's cervical spine, leading to chronic pain or injury. This isn't an issue with dog harnesses, which don't yank on the neck or put pressure along the back. So, if you make the switch to this type of equipment, you can give your dog some much-needed relief.
Smaller breeds tend to be more fragile than larger breeds. According to the International Boarding and Pet Services Association, smaller dog breeds have very delicate neck structures. And that means that they're more vulnerable to neck damage and injuries than their bigger canine counterparts. And that's not all; these collars can cause issues like nerve damage or even temporary upper airway obstruction. For the good of your small pup's neck and overall health, it's best to choose equipment that doesn't put them at risk - a dog harness.
Do you struggle to keep your dog on track during walks? Does your big dog walk you? If the answer to either of those questions is "yes," then a dog harness is likely to be the best option for you and your doggo. No-pull dog harnesses with D-rings in the front help to reduce pulling for less frustrating walks. This D-ring technology discourages pulling by redirecting them toward you every time they attempt to lunge forward.
If your dog is a regular puller, a harness would make your life a whole lot easier.
Security and control are essential when training a puppy or a full-grown dog. And a dog harness helps to provide both. Whether you're working on loose-leash walking, heel commands, or distraction-proof recall, a harness gives you more influence over your dog's movements without causing discomfort or harm. And since the harness is unlikely to make them uncomfortable (so long as it's high quality and well-fitting), they'll be more receptive to the training process. It's a win all around.
Dog lovers who are concerned about their dogs' health and well-being will ensure the collar is never too tight. But in the process of ensuring their dog's safety, they may open the door for escapism. You'd be surprised by just how quickly a dog can get out of their collar (even well-fitting ones). And it only takes one escape to turn a regular walk into a stressful, dangerous situation—especially near busy roads or unfamiliar environments.
If your dog is an escape artist, an escape-proof dog harness is a much safer option that gives you peace of mind and keeps your pup secure.
If you've decided that your dog does indeed need a dog harness, the next step is to buy one, of course. But which one will work best for your dog? It's a question that dog lovers everywhere ask. Here are the top 4 things to consider as you shop.
Getting the right size harness is absolutely crucial. A harness that's too tight can irritate your doggo's skin or restrict their movement. On the other hand, going with one that's too loose could mean escapes or less-than-ideal harness control. So, use our dog harness sizing guide to accurately measure your dog with a soft measuring tape. Then, compare those measurements against your chosen brand's sizing chart (they vary widely!). Adjustable straps are a huge bonus—they allow you to tweak the fit over time, which is especially helpful if your dog is still growing or tends to fluctuate in weight.
Some think "a dog harness is a dog harness." That couldn't be more wrong. Harnesses come in various configurations. And, depending on your dog's behavior and needs, it's important to narrow your search down based on specific design features. For example, front-clip or "no-pull" harnesses are great if Fido just won't be tamed, and back-clip harnesses tend to be ideal for calmer walkers or tiny breeds. The best harnesses come with multiple potential clipping points.
You should also concern yourself with how the harness will be put on. Some harnesses are step-in, some go over the head—choose one that's (1) easy to operate and (2) won't throw your pooch into a tizzy. And if it's got reflective stitching and built-in handles for extra safety and control, that's even better.
Comfort and durability start with the materials a harness is made from. Padded, breathable mesh fabrics are great, especially if your dog will be wearing the harness for extended periods or during warmer months.
Nylon is a popular, durable choice, and mesh is breathable and gentle on the skin. Also, keep an eye out for the harness's hardware. Sturdy metal rings and buckles are a must; they keep your dog secure and help the harness stand up better to long-term use.
Dog harnesses come in at many different price points, but you don't have to spend a fortune to get your hands on a good one. Set a budget that works for you and look for harnesses in that price range with good reviews. Just remember that you're investing in your dog's comfort and safety. So, if a slightly higher-priced harness offers better quality or long-term durability, it may be worth the extra money.
So, there you have it - how to know whether your dog needs a harness. We hope you found all the information you were looking for, and we wish you the best as you make well-informed decisions for your four-legged friend.
Any dog may benefit from a dog harness, especially if any of the signs mentioned above apply. The American Kennel Club states that harnesses can be particularly helpful for puppies, senior dogs, and any dog that's brachycephalic (short, broad skull) - bulldogs or pugs, for example. If you're unsure whether your dog can benefit from a harness, there's no harm in giving one a try and seeing how you and your dog like it.
According to the North American Institute of Dog Safety, harnesses can safely be used on dogs as young as 8 weeks old. Just be sure to take your dog's breed, comfort level, and size into account. The earlier you start, the better it is for your dog; they'll quickly become familiar with the equipment and how it feels wrapped around their body. Read this article if your dog seems to be scared of wearing harnesses. It has tips and recommendations to help even the most fearful dogs warm up to their new harnesses.
