Does your dog need a harness?

Описание: Using Harnesses for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

In my work as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist, I frequently use harnesses to help dogs feel comfortable and secure during behaviour training. I tend to recommend Y-shaped harnesses for their ability to provide natural movement and prevent any restrictions. This in itself can have a positive impact on their wellbeing and behaviour.


Why Choose a Y-Shaped Harness?

Straps that come straight across the chest can limit your dog's ability to fully extend their front legs, leading to discomfort or pain over time. A well-fitted Y-shaped harness helps maintain your dog’s natural alignment, promoting overall well-being. The straps should be high enough that they are not affecting the movement of your dog's front legs as they stride forwards.

When selecting a harness, it’s crucial to ensure that the straps fit properly in all areas. You don't want straps to be too close to the dog's arm pits as this will rub uncomfortably. Having a nice long back piece will mean that the harness isn't bunching up. Padded sections can also help with comfort, particularly on short haired dogs or those with very little of their own natural padding!


Benefits of Using a Harness

Enhanced Control: If your harness has a D-ring at the front, pairing it with a double-ended lead can significantly improve your control during training sessions. This setup can help manage lead pulling and lunging, providing you with greater directional control.

Reduced Pressure: Harnesses are designed to take pressure off your dog’s throat, allowing them a sense of freedom while walking. This is particularly beneficial for dogs who may be sensitive or anxious. They don't control your dog's head direction so they can look where they need to to help them to feel safe.

Observing Behavioral Changes: Many clients have reported a noticeable difference in their dog’s demeanour after switching from a headcollar to a harness. Using a harness can lead to fewer signs of tension and anxiety, enhancing your dog's overall comfort during walks. This in itself can help to reduce unwanted behavioural responses.


What You'll Learn in This Video
In this video, I will cover:

The benefits of using Y-shaped harnesses for your dog
How to effectively use a double-ended lead for better control
Tips for properly fitting a harness to avoid discomfort
Strategies for introducing or reintroducing a harness if your dog is hesitant

The harnesses featured in the video, which are my own dogs in their own harnesses are:

Max - Dog Copenhagen Comfort Walk Pro - it also has a handle which can come in handy for aiding him jumping out of the car to protect his joints, as well as hold on to him quickly for things to pass by. I prefer the longer back to their other version, particularly as he is a bigger dog, it means that the harness sits comfortably on him and the rear clip sits in a comfortable position away from his neck.

Ernie - Perfect Fit harness - does as it says on the tin! Comes in three parts, but these stay clipped together so it's not as complicated as it sounds. But coming in three parts means that you can buy a small front, medium middle and large back, for example. You can mix and match the sizes to get the right fit, which can be great for dogs who aren't a standard size.

Ruffwear are also a great, popular brand. They make harnesses which can also help older or injured dogs to help with assisting them in getting up, as well as additional straps to help the harness stay on Houdini dogs who tend to back out of ordinary harnesses! They also make car safe harnesses that have passed crash tests.

Additional Tips
Sometimes, a dog’s reluctance to wear a harness may stem from discomfort or pain. If your dog shows signs of distress, it’s important to consult with your vet to rule out any underlying issues. For sensitive dogs who may also dislike veterinary visits, consider my course on introducing fearful dogs to the vet clinic and groomers: https://weteachpets.com/dog-hates-the...

My name is Naomi Andrews, and I run We Teach Pets, specialising in anxiety-related behavior in dogs. I offer consultations in Worcestershire and surrounding areas, as well as remote consultations for dog owners everywhere. Find out more at weteachpets.com

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