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Attention all dog owners and enthusiasts! Are you tired of the constant struggle of walking your furry friend, constantly battling against their pulling and tugging? Well, we have an exciting solution for you. Get ready to unleash a world of knowledge on one of the most revolutionary inventions in pet care – dog harnesses! In this blog post, we are going to dive deep into the realm of these ingenious contraptions that can transform your daily walks from chaotic to calm. So buckle up as we unravel the facts about dog harnesses that will make you question everything you thought you knew about the walking man’s best friend.

Harnesses are Not Choking Devices

While collars have their place in day-to-day life, particularly as a way to hold identification and registered dog tags, harnesses are the preferred tool for walking. Collars can cause harm, especially when worn incorrectly, and can exacerbate pulling behavior.

Harnesses shift the force of pulling onto the chest and back, preventing choking and neck strain. This feature makes them ideal for training, especially for spirited or excitable pups and those with respiratory issues like flat-faced brachycephalic breeds. They’re also more secure, reducing the chances of Houdini-like escapes and making walks safer for everyone involved. The snug fit of harnesses also makes them less likely to slip out, which can be a common issue with head collars/halters.

Harnesses do not Restrict Movement

Harnesses distribute the strain of pulling on a dog’s neck and chest, compared to traditional collars that put pressure on the front of the neck. This reduces the risk of neck injuries, particularly in pullers.

Some harnesses, especially those that feature a strap across the chest, have come under criticism in the dog community for restricting shoulder movement and impacting the action of a dog’s front legs. This can be physically damaging to dogs over time.

Y-shaped harnesses, particularly for jogging, do not restrict shoulder movement and can be used safely. However, any harness should be well-fitted to avoid restrictions. Also, add harnesses with name for easy identification for your dogs. 

Harnesses do not Break Easily

There’s a long-held belief that harnesses encourage pulling, but this is false. Traditional collars put immense pressure on a dog’s neck, which can cause damage such as constriction of blood vessels, choking or spraining, and thyroid gland deformity.

Harnesses, on the other hand, distribute that pressure across the chest and back, eliminating pulling behavior and making walks more enjoyable for all involved. The back connection also allows you to communicate direction without triggering the opposition reflex or unbalancing your dog. Harnesses that clip to the front also reduce tangling issues.

Harnesses do not Chafe

When a harness is properly fitted, it lies well back on your dog’s chest and won’t rub against their shoulder. It is possible for a harness to cause chafing when it is poorly fitted, however.

For example, a back-clip harness can put pressure on the shoulders and back of your dog, which could lead to chafing.

Alternatively, you can choose an adjustable dog harness that attaches to the front of the dog, which will distribute pressure to a wider area and protect the neck from strain. These options may also be more appropriate for brachycephalic breeds, as they decrease pressure on their sensitive tracheas.

Harnesses do not Slip

Unlike collars that can slip, especially those with the wrong size or type, harnesses do not. They also do not put pressure on a dog’s neck if they pull or lunge forward.

Harnesses distribute pressure across a larger area of the body, which is safer and more beneficial for small breeds, puppies, and brachycephalic breeds. It can also help avoid breathing issues caused by putting too much pressure on the neck and throat.

It’s important that a harness is correctly fitted and does not constrict a dog’s shoulders. A good rule of thumb is to be able to fit two fingers between the harness and the dog’s neck.

Harnesses do not Pinch

Some dog owners use collars that pinch the neck or throat when pulling. These are called prong or pinch collars and can cause injury or in extreme cases, brain damage in the case of a sudden jolt.

However, dog harnesses with name distribute pressure across a larger chest area, making them safer and more comfortable for dogs than collars. They can also be more effective at reducing pulls in combination with training techniques.

Some dogs may take some time to get used to wearing a harness. Getting the right fit is important so that they cannot slip out of it. They may also find it difficult to put on their head if they are nervous, and might need some treats and encouragement to do so.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dog harnesses can be a great option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with comfort and safety during walks. With various types of harnesses available in the market, it is important to choose one that fits your dog’s size and behavior to ensure its effectiveness. Keep these facts in mind as you shop for a harness and remember that proper training and supervision are key factors in making the most out of this useful tool. So go ahead, grab a harness for your pup, and enjoy those long walks together!