On Harness Selection
Looking to get your dog into a harness but not sure what kind you need?
There are many options for harnesses available at your local or big box pet store. Online we have even more choices, sometimes an overwhelming amount. Choosing one that will fit your dog and lifestyle can save you from the hassle of returning the harness (or waiting until the return window is over and giving it to your favorite trainer). Here are a couple of things I look for in a harness:
Comfort
Many harnesses are uncomfortable for dogs to wear, especially if they are prone to pulling on the leash or have handling sensitivities. What will be comfortable for your dog may not be comfortable for another dog, so it’s important to know the individual to determine if they would prefer a lightweight harness or a thickly padded one. If your dog has issues with things going over their head, a step-in harness may work better, and if they prefer not to have feet touched, an overhead harness may feel more comfortable.
2. Front & Back Clips
A harness with two points of contact can be great for a couple of different reasons. The front clip can help prevent pulling on the leash, though the leash is likely to get tangled in your dog’s front legs. The clip on the back can be comfortable for both parties as long as your dog isn’t pulling you down. If you have a strong puller or a reactive dog, you can attach a clip leash at both points of contact to ensure safety for your family and everyone around you.
3. Handle
A handle on the back of a harness isn’t always a must for me, but I do like the sense of security they provide. A handle on a harness can work great for holding onto your dog without using techniques like grabbing them by the collar or constraining them in a full-body hold with both arms, both of which can contribute to fear, anxiety, and stress. A harness handle is a great way to pivot your dog away from dangerous items like rat poison boxes or discarded chicken bones, especially if your dog is planted, over threshold, or not listening to cues.
4. Material
There’s nothing worse than your dog getting out of their walking equipment. The harnesses I prefer are often higher in price due to the strength and durability of the materials in them. Harnesses with adjusting straps that slide around or pieces that can be easily chewed through or broken off can be a liability. If your dog is engaging in rough play with other dogs while wearing a harness, you may want to consider a tougher material of harness. Taking off your dog’s harness can prevent other dogs from becoming entangled in them, though you will have a harder time controlling a naked dog.
5. Color
Yes, color. When I’m out with my dog and would prefer for people to leave us alone, she sports her army green vest. Why? People tend to associate an olive colored vest with service work, and they tend to give us more space than when they see the pink or blue harness. When I want people to give my dog attention or to not see her as a threat, we wear pink.
In this video, you can see a few examples of harnesses that I have used with my own dog. Not depicted is the Y harness, which I cannot stand to use due to its constant slipping around on my dog.
Whatever harness you choose, be sure to save your receipt until you’re positive it’s a good fit for your dog and your lifestyle. When you first expose your dog to the harness, it’s a good idea to pair the new equipment with something your dog likes, such as treats or gentle petting. If you have questions on harnesses, please feel free to reach out.
Happy training!
