Why Choosing the Right Dog Harness Matters
If you pay attention in the dog park, then you will probably have noticed that harnesses have become a super popular choice for dog owners who are seeking something alternative to a traditional collar. Whilst it is true that harnesses do provide a better level of distribution across the body to reduce the chances of things like choking, it is also equally true that not all harnesses are the same on this front!
If you make the mistake of choosing the wrong kind of harness, this can result in a lot of discomfort and restricted movement for your pup, maybe even longer term health issues. To avoid this, it’s really important to understand the differences between a good dog harness and bad one. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered, keep on reading!
The Problem with Bad Dog Harnesses (What to Avoid)
No-Pull Harnesses: Why They Aren’t the Best Solution
You will often see no-pull harnesses being touted as a simple fix for any pup that likes to pull on their leash, but we think that there are more potential negatives than positives with this design.
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Restricts Natural Shoulder Movement
Lots of no-pull harnesses put pressure on a dog’s shoulders, and this obviously can limit their mobility and maybe even cause an unwanted gait change. -
Creates an Unnatural Walking Posture
When worn over a long period of time, this restricted range of motion could lead to muscle imbalances and joint issues that contribute to a less natural walking posture. -
Causes Chafing and Discomfort
The majority of no-pull harnesses feature straps that run the risk of digging into your pup’s skin, which can obviously cause irritation and soreness over time. - Suppresses Pulling without Solving the Root Issue
Whilst harnesses are certainly effective in stopping pulling temporarily, they don’t actually do anything to address the behavorial reasons why your pup is pulling in the first place. They aren’t a magic fix!
Other Problematic Harness Designs
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Harnesses that Sit on the Shoulders
Harness designs that place too much pressure on the shoulders can interfere with a dog’s natural way of moving, which in turn can lead to lots of stiffness and discomfort for them. -
Loose Fitting Harnesses
Any harness that is poorly fitted is going to rub against your dog’s skin and cause unnecessary irritation that could turn into red sores and hair loss. Nobody wants that! - Head Halters
Though some do find them effective when it comes to training, it can’t be ignored that head halters can put too much strain on a dog’s neck if it isn’t used properly.
What Makes a Good Dog Harness? (What to Look For)
It’s common sense, really. Any high quality, recommended harness is going to prioritize things like comfort, movement and security over elements like colour and style. Some of the key features to be looking out for include:
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A Harness That Sits Above the Shoulders
An expertly designed harness will always allow for your pup to enjoy a full range of motion, rather than restricting the front legs and/or shoulders. -
Even Pressure Distribution
A good harness will always offer the perfect level of even distribution across a dog’s chest and back, which does a massive amount to help prevent strain in any one particular area. -
Comfortable and Secure Fit
The harness should have a snug fit, but not be too tight. You want to make sure that it isn’t going to rub from too much close friction, or on the other side of the coin, slip around from being too loose. -
Made from High Quality Materials
You want to find a harness that is going to be durable, and made from a non-toxic material like our favourite, vegetable tanned leather. This offers both longevity and extreme comfort, and also has the added bonus of being hypoallergenic and eco-friendly!
Why a Back-Clip Harness is the Best Choice
If you are committed to getting a harness over a traditional collar, then it’s safe to say that a back-clip harness is the way to go for everyday use. Here are some of the biggest reasons why.
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Designed for Natural Movement
In contrast to the front-clip designs that can so easily restrict the chest area, a back-clip harness allows your pup to walk much more freely. -
Comfortable Fit for Daily Walks
The even distribution that a back-clip harness provides means that your dog will be much more comfortable for the entirety of their daily walk (or walks!). -
No Underarm Rubbing
When fitted properly, a back-clip harness guarantees that there won’t be any painful chafing under your dog’s legs. -
Secure and Reliable
It goes without saying that a high quality back-clip harness is going to stay firmly but comfortably in place, not loosening over time without your realizing.
The Best Material for a Dog Harness: Vegetable-Tanned Leather
When it comes to choosing the best harness for your pup, selecting the perfect material is essential for both safety and comfort. As we’ve already hinted at, we think that vegetable-tanned leather is the ideal choice for all.
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Naturally Hypoallergenic
Vegetable-tanned leather is free from all of the harmful chemicals and synthetic dyes that cheaper alternatives use, which makes it the safest choice by far for pups with sensitive skin. -
Breathable and Softens Over Time
Unlike the range of synthetic materials, leather is something that can adapt to the unique shape of your dog’s body, ensuring comfort and also becoming pleasantly softer with use without losing its strength. -
Durable and Long-Lasting
Vegetable tanned leather is incredibly strong and sturdy, which means that a single purchase can last for years. -
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
The tanning process for vegetable tanned leather is an environmentally friendly process, which makes it the most sustainable choice on the pet store shelves.
The Right Way to Stop Pulling: Training Over Equipment
Something that we think is really important to stress is that a harness alone isn’t going to solve your pup’s pulling issues. You also need to put in some work of your own on the training side of things. Here are a few pointers!
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Start with Short Walks
The best way to start with good leash manners is taking short walks in an environment with low levels of distraction. -
Reward Good Behavior
Make sure to ply your pup with plenty of treats and verbal praise when they react positively to loose leash walking! -
Use Direction Changes to Correct Pulling
When your dog does give into temptation and pull, make sure to change direction in order to regain their attention and engagement. -
Stay Consistent
Your pup will respond positively to consistency, so make sure to be regular with your training efforts and keep going to achieve the best long term results.
How to Choose the Right Harness for Your Dog
You can make the best choice for a harness by considering these individual factors for your pup’s specific needs and traits.
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Size and Breed
Take note of whether your dog is classed as small, medium or large. They all have slightly different requirements for harnesses! -
Activity Level
If your pup is more active, then they will definitely need a harness that is durable and breathable, whilst a less active dog might want to prioritize comfort instead. -
Support Natural Movement
You want to make sure you select a harness that offers a full range of motion, especially avoiding any shoulder restriction. -
Invest in Quality
Don’t fall into the trap of picking up a cheaper harness to save some money, because you will only have to replace it more frequently. Well made, high quality options are durable, comfortable and safer in the long term.
Conclusion: Give Your Dog the Comfort They Deserve!
Hopefully, through reading this we have helped you to see that choosing the right harness is one of the most important things you can do for your precious pup. Overall, we think that the perfect choice is a well designed, high quality back-clip harness that utilizes all of the amazing benefits of vegetable-tanned leather. Your canine companion deserves the very best, and when it comes to long term health, shoulder comfort, durability and more, you really can’t do better than a great back-clip design!
