Can't tell the difference between all the harness options or what suits your dog? Look no further! In this guide, we delve deep into the world of dog harnesses, highlighting the importance of adjustable and well-fitted harnesses, exploring the various types available, and shedding light on how some designs may not be the most suited for our dogs after all.
Dog Harness or Collar?
There was a time when harnesses were merely an additional equipment for walking dogs that couldn't be walked on just a collar. Today they are a new norm for trainers and many pet owners alike. We advocate harnesses because unlike collars, a well-fitted harness will not apply pressure to a dog's throat. Research shows that attaching the leash to equipment around a dog's throat can harm the thyroid, oesophagus, and trachea, resulting in a modification of the the dog's physical alignment. Moreover, dogs pulling on a lead against their collar can significantly exacerbate existing respiratory conditions. Whether your dog pulls on the leash or not, accidental pressure is quick to occur despite our best intentions. A reactive dog for instance might make sudden moves despite themselves, or the handler may pull to avoid imminent danger, or simply accidentally step on a long leash, jerking their dog at the end.
Not all harnesses are made equal; some are tailored for small dogs, others for larger breeds, and some are simply poorly designed. When choosing a harness for a dog, besides ensuring the correct size, our top priority is to ensure that the straps are positioned far away from the dog's joints. If the straps are placed directly on or too close to the shoulders, it could restrict movement, leading to discomfort or potential injuries, and hindering proper development in young dogs. Which brings us to some common problems we see.
The H harness
The H harness features straps around the neck, waist, under the body and on top of the back (often the back length is not adjustable). The problem with H harnesses is that, although they distribute the weight of the dog more evenly across the body instead of just on the neck, they still exert pressure in areas where a collar typically does. Some H harnesses feature rings at the base of the neck, mid-back, or waist, altering the effectiveness of weight distribution.
Pitfalls of No-Pull Harnesses
If you take a front-on look at a dog with a no-pull front-clip harness, you might notice that it comes over the shoulder - this continuous pressure limiting shoulder movement can change your dog's gait, potentially causing muscle strain and discomfort over time. Dr. Christine Zink (DVM, PhD, DACVP, DACVSMR) a consultant in canine sports medicine and rehabilitation has expressed concern about the potential harm of using front-clip harnesses on dogs, especially for canine athletes. She observed changes in dogs' gait and weight distribution when using these harnesses, which could lead to injuries in the front legs. For example, dogs used to waring such harnesses put less weight in their front legs and notably in the front leg farthest from the where the owner or handler would be standing, even when there was no leash attached. This was more pronounced when the harness was on, suggesting that the dog was reacting to the harness' presence and anticipating the pull coming from the side the owner would usually be positioned on, which would cause sudden balance shift and weight shifting to the pulling side.
The injuries can be greater on canine athletes who are required to perform using a full range of movement due to the harnesses sitting on top of the biceps and supraspinatus tendons - muscles responsible for extension of the shoulder joint.
Similarly, head-halters (also called head-harnesses, head-haltis, head-collars) apply pressure to the face and neck: they will also modify the dog's behaviour and how they hold themselves, pre-empting pulls and sudden movements. Any jerks with these halters on can pose significant risks.
No-pull harnesses and head can certainly be a helpful tool for reinforcing proper leash walking for a short period of time, prevent injury to the handler in the case of a significant imbalance in force between handler and dog, but will not teach a dog to stop pulling and should not replace training.
Why an adjustable V-Front Dog Harnesses
A well-fitted adjustable V-front dog harness will sit wide from the shoulders, and as their name suggest point down to a V to give them that space. They also don't cover the larynx as a collar or H harness would, thus avoiding any strain in that area. With adjustable straps all around, this harness ensures the ability to tailor the fit for aa comfortable and secure fit, making it an ideal choice for both training and daily walks, allowing natural alignment and minimising the risk of musculoskeletal issues. Some V shape harnesses present chest plates - these are fine if they are not so wide that they can feel uncomfortable or in the way, which could cause the dog to change its gait.
Embracing a Holistic Approach to Dog Care
Want to give a new harness a go? Need some help on fitting your new Snoot Up harness? Just reach out and we will happily give you feedback on your fit.
Remember, your dog's care and training are essential elements of their well-being. Stay informed, stay empowered, and give your dog the best care they deserve.
Happy adventures! 🐾
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