A Turramurra Vet Pet Behaviour Article
The Right Fit: Choosing a Harness for Happy Walks with your Dog!
The Right Fit: Choosing a Harness for Happy Walks with your Dog!
by Nicolette Javorsek, Pet Behaviour Consultant
With so many harness options on the market, it can feel overwhelming to know which one is right for your dog.
Choosing a well-fitted harness can make a big difference to how comfortable and enjoyable walks are for both you and your dog. Harnesses can help distribute pressure across the body rather than concentrating it around the neck, while the type of equipment you choose can also influence how comfortably your dog moves on lead.
Fit, design, quality and durability are all important when choosing a harness for your dog’s individual needs and getting the sizing right is equally important. So, take accurate measurements before ordering online or have your dog professionally fitted where possible.
Look for a harness that is adjustable and allows natural movement of the shoulders and front legs without rubbing or restriction. This is particularly important for growing puppies. A harness with a front attachment point can also be useful alongside training when teaching loose lead walking.
The Blue-9 Balance Harness is highly adjustable, sits further back from the shoulders and can be used with a double-ended lead to allow loose lead walking alongside training. Another option is the True Love Harness range, which suits many dogs well, although it sits slightly further forward. For puppies, the Rogz Utility Control Harness is comfortable, adjustable as your puppy grows and includes a front attachment point to encourage early loose lead walking.
It’s also important to help your puppy or dog feel comfortable wearing their harness. Introduce it gradually and pair it with treats and other positive experiences, so putting the harness on predicts good things for your pup.
Remember, a harness is a training tool rather than a substitute for training. The goal is to aim for calm, relaxed walking and positive, low-stress experiences for both you and your dog.
Once you’ve found the right fit, it’s time to head out and enjoy your walks together!
Interested in dog training on site at Turramurra Veterinary Hospital?
Puppy Preschool: Suitable for puppies aged between 8-16 weeks
Canine Kindy: Suitable for puppies and adolescent dogs between 4-18 months
For further information about our on-site training programs visit:
