Harnesses for dogs: a description of the species, how to choose the size and train the dog?

Harness is one of the necessary accessories for the dog. Dog breeders, appreciating its ease of use, are increasingly replacing it with a collar, walking their pets, since it keeps the dog well and reliably while walking.

Originally harnesses were used in dog teams and are still used today. The design of this equipment allows dogs to feel comfortable while running: the harness harness equally distributes the load and does not interfere with the dog’s breathing. Since then, the harnesses have undergone some changes not only in appearance, but also in purpose, and now they are used for other purposes.

The advantage of the harness over the collar is undeniable. When the leash is pulled, the collar presses on the neck, which can lead to poor blood supply or injury to the lymph nodes. In addition, strict collars and noises can cause great harm to the cervical vertebrae and muscles, and even cause a sore throat.

The harness in the classic version consists of 2 belts connected and fixed at 4 points that encircle the chest (between the forelegs) and part of the dorsal region. The leash is not attached to the neck, like a collar, but to the withers. This design allows the dog to breathe and move freely.

The harness, distributing evenly the tension on the dog’s body, ensures that there is no pressure on the animal’s neck, creates freedom and comfort of movement. In addition, the owner is easier to guide the dog.

This special ammunition not only allows you to keep the dog under control while walking, but also helps to develop physical endurance and strength. Harnessing is necessary if the dog cannot wear a collar. So pugs, in which the neck has a larger volume than the head, can not wear a collar, since it jumps off the neck.

Dogs whose muzzle has a specific flattened shape often suffer from breathing problems. This applies to the Pekingese, Japanese khins and other breeds. Wearing a collar only exacerbates the problem. Harness is the best way out.

It is also necessary to use this equipment in the event that the pet is characterized by increased activity and constantly breaks with a leash on a walk, which can also lead to injury.

First of all, the species diversity of harnesses is affected by the purpose of their use. By appointment, they are of the following options.

The design of this model provides for the fastening of a ring for a leash in the withers of the dog. Such ammunition is used for daily walks. The harnesses for walking can have different sizes: for dogs of large breeds, medium and small. Ammunition for large dogs should have an additional felt layer - this reduces pressure on the chest of the animal.

This type of dog ammunition has been used for centuries in dog sledding by the northern peoples in everyday life. As a result, the most convenient design was formed. The difference between riding harness and walking harness and other types is that its straps are located so that they do not put pressure on the shoulder joints, and it has additional fastenings for connection with a harness.

Designed for large dogs. Its distinguishing feature is the very high strength of belts and fasteners.

It is equipped with steel rings for a leash at the withers and towing on the sides. The model allows you to transport goods and tow small vehicles in tow: sledges, strollers and trolleys.

These models are also used in such types of competitions as skijoring (towing a skier by a dog), bikjoring (towing a cyclist by a dog) and vacancy (joint running of a man and a dog.) They are also used for service dogs, for example guide dogs.

This specific variety is used to develop muscle and strengthen the musculoskeletal system of the animal. The model has separate pockets where goods are placed.

This species is used for walking small decorative dogs (Chihuahuas, Spitz and others) with short hair. This model, insulated and soft, protects small pets from hypothermia.

These types of equipment can have two purposes, one of which is the correction of animal behavior. This model safely controls the behavior of such a dog, which has the habit of pulling the leash tightly. In it, the mounting ring for the leash is on the chest. This leads to the fact that with a strong pull the leash of the pet by inertia rotates 180 degrees facing the owner.

Another purpose of corrective models is to use for body correction and proper development of the spine.

Designed for dogs with partial paralysis or other injuries. Such models are made in the form of a vest, which covers almost the entire body of the animal. The fastening nodes on them are closer to the hind limbs, and not at the withers.

Usually, light, soft, but strong enough materials are used for this type, so as not to cause an unnecessary load on the baby's not yet formed musculoskeletal system. Equipment gives motor freedom and at the same time allows you to fix the puppy during sudden movements.

but keep in mind that this ammunition cannot be used for a puppy of a young age. You can walk in the harness only after reaching 9-10 months of age. It is at this time that the formation of its skeleton and the strengthening of the muscular system occur. Earlier use may cause the forelegs to bend.

Used during dog shows. They have a beautiful decorative look: belts are made narrower than usual. They have many elegant decorative ornaments, which in everyday use often simply interfere with the dog. Harnesses for large dogs often have a special device that does not allow the dog to pull the leash.

These models are most often used for walking dogs of large breeds, since the handle is an additional and reliable tool for holding the dog if necessary. It is also convenient to use them for animals with injuries or for weakened elderly pets: the owner, holding the dog by the harness handle, thereby facilitates the load and makes moving the pet easier.

For the manufacture of this ammunition using different materials.

• Synthetic. They are considered the most practical. The synthetics are resistant to moisture, do not freeze in the cold, have high strength, durability, are easily erased and do not sit when washing.

• Canvas Canvas models are the cheapest budget option. However, they wear out much faster, absorb moisture, it is much more difficult to wash them, and besides, they are poorly washed and dry for a long time.

• Leather harnesses have a beautiful appearance, but are very expensive. Leather models have the following disadvantages: when wet, the skin becomes less elastic, is able to stretch and, as a result, is deformed. After drying, it becomes coarser, and cracks appear on the surface.

In order to choose this equipment correctly, it is necessary to take into account certain nuances.

The material used for manufacturing should not only be durable, but also light, soft and smooth, as well as wash well and dry quickly. It is undesirable to purchase models made of hard material, such as canvas and leather. They are not comfortable to wear: they restrict movement, digging into the skin.

For small and miniature dogs, the material of manufacture is not so important - it can be anything. Usually recommended models of velor, nylon and other soft materials, preferably with a handle, because if necessary, you have to pick up a small pet.

For large dogs, it is preferable to purchase synthetic models: They are strong, durable, do not require complicated maintenance and are relatively inexpensive. In leather ammunition you can walk a dog only in dry weather. In the rain, genuine leather gets wet, and when dry, it becomes rough.

Particular attention is paid to the strength of the fasteners, their location on the harness.When choosing equipment for large and medium dogs, it is better to give preference to those models where the fastenings will be metal, and fasteners made of plastic are acceptable for small breeds.

The place of fixing the harness and carbine is also important: it should be on the back, and not on the chest (unless it is a special corrective model). All fasteners should not press on the body of the animal, rubbing it and causing discomfort. During movement, they should not interfere with the pet.

The harness must fully comply with the size of the pet. If the model sits too tightly on the animal, then when it is moved it will rub the skin, and bald patches may form on the coat. If the harness is too big for the dog and sits very spacious, the necessary and reliable fixation of the pet will not be provided.

It is very important that the front strap is not in the neck. The front part of the ammunition should correspond to the anatomical structure of the chest of the dog and have a Y-shape. This form when pulling the leash does not exert pressure on the neck of the animal.

The upper part should be in the form of the letter H: it does not allow the harness to lift to the neck when the leash is pulled, and at the same time provides freedom of movement. Belts should be connected at the convergence of the shoulder blades and the beginning of the sternum. The back strap must have a secure fit.

Must be located at a distance approximately equal to the width of the palm from the shoulder of the pet. Tightly fitting shoulder straps will rub armpits, obstructing movement and creating discomfort. In addition, they should be wide enough: narrow ones will dig into the dog's body.

Models with a large number of fasteners can be used first for the puppy, and then for the adult dog as she grows older. All elements of such ammunition are adjusted to the individual dimensions of the pet.

Also affect the choice of this equipment. For dogs of large breeds or with a restrained disposition, you need to choose the most durable harnesses with reliable fastening nodes: carbines and fasteners made of steel, and rings welded.

Correctly selected size guarantees complete comfort to the animal. Therefore, it is very important to correctly determine the size of the harness. It is easiest to choose the right ammunition if the dog is present at the time of purchase and the harness is simply tried on. When buying equipment in the absence of a pet, you need to take measurements taken from a dog.

The dimensions of this ammunition are indicated on a special plate, but in order to use it, you need to know all the measurements of the dog.

• Chest volume. It is measured in the widest part of the sternum, which is located directly behind the front legs of the animal. To the resulting measurement result add 1 cm for small and 2 cm for dogs of large breeds.

• Neck volume. It is measured in the place where the collar is usually located - in the lower part of the neck. When measuring, the centimeter must pass through the following points:

1. front point - keel (bone that protrudes under the neck of the animal);
2. back - not far from the head at the end of the shoulder blades;
3. back length is the distance from the withers of the dog to the root of the tail.

To select driving and other special models of harnesses, which have their own design features, they make slightly different measurements:

• length from keel to leading edge of shoulder blades;
• length from keel to hind margin of forepaws;
• length from the leading edge of the shoulder blades to the last rib;
• length of back from withers to root of tail.

In the table, each size corresponds to certain dimensions of the girth of the chest, neck and back length. It also indicates the possible weight of the dog.So, size S corresponds to the following parameters: chest volume - 29 cm, neck circumference - 19 cm, back length - 23 cm and is designed for a dog's weight in the range of 1.4-2 kg. In addition, dog breeds that may fit this size are also indicated.

The XXS is great for dwarf pinchers and chihuahuas. An XS size harness can be used for pugs. For the largest dogs, such as St. Bernard or Great Dane, the size of the XL ammunition is suitable. For shepherds and rottweilers, size L. may be appropriate.

At first it can be difficult to put a harness on a dog. Movable or stubborn, she in every possible way resists while putting on this ammunition. And it happens that she simply fears an unknown new thing. Therefore, it should be accustomed to new equipment. These tips will help.

First you need to give your pet the opportunity to get acquainted with the new ammunition: let the dog sniff her first. You need to show the dog that this thing is safe. Then, picking it up, rub it lightly on the dog's head, neck and back. After that, let the dog sniff the harness again.

If the pet calms down and does not show fear, it should be praised and encouraged by refreshments. After this, you can proceed to dress the equipment. If the dog does not dare to put his head into the corresponding hole, you need to put your hand in the treat there, and the pet, reaching for the treat, will independently stick his head into it.

To place the animal's paws in the desired holes, it is required, first letting the sniff treats, raise a little hand up. While the pet is calm, attracted by the delicacy, quickly rearrange one of its paws into the corresponding hole. After this, you should definitely treat the dog. Then do the same with the second paw.

So, training a dog every time, you can accustom it to a new type of equipment, and it will allow you to wear it without resistance.

There are different methods of putting on a regular harness. The first method is suitable for large dogs. Step-by-step instructions include a specific procedure.

• First you need to study the scheme of its design, determine which side it should be worn on, so that the soft surface fits the body. Then check how the locking elements and lock work.
• Then you should fix the pet. To do this, crouch slightly, grab the legs and knees of the body of the animal in the hind limbs. If the animal is not standing calmly, then you need to slightly push his back.
• Holding the harness in your right hand, grab the pet by the chest.
• Taking the left front paw of the dog with his left hand, you need to raise it, and then bend it in the elbow joint. It is advisable to do this without the use of force.
• The paw needs to be quickly passed through the left hole between the straps: two circular and one transverse.
• Then you need to move the equipment higher to the chest, while grabbing it with your left hand.
• Similar actions are carried out with the dog’s right paw: the right hand raises the right paw, bends it in the elbow joint. Then you also need to thread it into the right hole of the equipment.
• After that, pulling the harness higher, you need to snap the lock located at the top at the withers.
• Now you need to check whether the ammunition is correctly worn and the straps are not messed up. You also need to make sure that the ammunition sits well on the dog, if necessary, it is necessary to loosen or, conversely, tighten the belts with the help of clips.
• Last of all, a leash is fastened to the rings at the withers.

For medium sized dogs, a different way of putting on equipment can be used. The procedure will be as follows.

• It is necessary to consider, assemble and prepare equipment: to test the operation of locks, to straighten belts.
• The equipment must be laid out on the floor and straightened well. Then determine which straps cover the chest and which torso.
• The pet must be brought to the equipment on the floor.
• The next step is to force the dog to move the forelimbs into the corresponding holes of the equipment. To do this, you must first alternately rearrange the left paw with the left hand to the left, and then with the right hand - the right paw into the right hole in the ammunition.
• Quickly grabbing the ammunition with both hands, pull it up and snap the lock.
• After that, you need to inspect the belts, the degree of tension and check the reliability of the locking nodes.
• Fasten the leash to the rings at the withers.

This method can also be used for small dogs. After the ammunition is spread out and spread on the floor, you do not need to bring a dog to it, but you should take it in your hands and place it so that its front legs are in the corresponding holes of the harness. Then you need to perform the same actions as when dressing on a medium-sized dog.

It’s a little harder to put on a riding model with two holes - for the head and for the torso. The following actions should be taken:

• First you need to view all the straps and locking elements;
• then you should sit behind the pet and, holding the legs of the body in the hind limbs, put the dog’s head into the annular opening for the sternum;
• the straps must be straightened and conveniently positioned holes for the limbs;
• then, raising the dog’s right paw and bending it in the elbow joint, pass it into the right hole;
• the connecting strap should be stretched under the left paw, and then lock the ammunition lock on the side;
• check the reliability of fixation, and then you can fasten the leash to the ring.

Differently put on a harness vest with a fastener on the sternum:

• first you need to fix the body of the dog;
• then you should throw a harness on the back of the animal;
• the next action - alternately threading the dog's forelimbs into the corresponding holes in the ammunition;
• then you need to quickly fix the harness on the chest, while continuing to hold the pet;
• the last to be fastened is a leash to the rings on the back.

See more about dog harness features in the next video.