Finding a dog harness that works both for you and your pet is vital to make sure your walks together are enjoyable and hassle-free.
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What is the best dog harness in 2024?
Learn more about the advantages of a dog harness and discover our selection of the best models. Dog harnesses offer an ideal solution for quiet and comfortable walks. You and your companion are sure to love it!
There are different types of harnesses and it is important to choose the one that best suits your pet's size and personality. The Y-harness is ideal for dogs with broad shoulders, while the X-harness is perfect for athletic animals. The H-harness is the most common and is suitable for all body types.
A nice, quiet walk with your pet can quickly turn into an ordeal if the dog is always pulling on the lead. If your dog is also a larger breed that you have difficulty controlling, walks can quickly become torture. That's why choosing a no-pull dog harness can change your life. Is your new dog coming home soon? With this comparison, we answer all your questions and help you choose the best dog harness.
Summary
How should I choose a dog harness?
To choose the right harness, you need to consider two main criteria: the size and the character of your pet. Some dog harness brands specialise in small puppies while others in medium or large animals.
If you have a calm dog, choose a classic dog walking harness with adjustable straps. These are usually made of polyester with a lining.
If your pet is easily excitable and likes to pull on the lead, get a no-pull harness, with the leash loop on the front.
There are also Flyball harnesses specially designed for physical activities. They are particularly light and flexible and do not restrict the dog's movements.
Why use a dog harness?
Buying a harness for your dog has many advantages and many owners prefer them to collars.
Harnesses prevent dogs from injuring or strangling themselves if they pull too hard on the lead. The dog is led by the chest instead of just the neck, so the pressure is better distributed.
A harness is also more difficult to escape from than a simple collar. All of this makes walks more enjoyable for both the owner and the dog.
By using a harness, you have more control over your dog's walking. You will be able to change their direction gently, instead of putting pressure only on their neck.
The dog harness is also very popular among owners who want to train their dogs to walk to heel. The dog feels well supported and is more likely to obey commands.
How can I put a harness on my dog?
There are two types of dog harnesses: those that are put on from below and those that are put on from above.
If you choose a top-fitting model, first sit your dog down to keep them still. Then put their head through the smaller loop and place the small metal triangle on their chest. Pass the strap between the legs before pulling the loose ends together on the back closing the safety buckle.
If you have a dog harness that closes at the bottom, lay it flat on the floor and have the dog sit next to it. Then place their front legs in the corresponding loops and pull the harness up against your pet’s belly. Now all that's left to do is to clip the buckles together the dog’s back.
What is a no-pull dog harness?
A no-pull harness has a small clip on the front of the dog's chest. This prevents the animal from violently pulling on the lead.
This type of harness is put on over the neck and closed with side buckles.
Why should I choose a no-pull harness?
Using a no-pull harness makes life easier for dog owners whose pets tend to pull on the lead.
Walking should be an enjoyable time for both the owner and the dog. It is the moment to appreciate the outside, the fresh air and get some exercise. However, if the dog is unable to walk calmly on a leash and pulls all the time, walking can quickly become a very stressful activity for both of them. Neither will be able to enjoy it and they will spend their time struggling against each other.
That's why a no-pull dog harness is an essential accessory for dogs that have trouble walking to heel. With the help of chest attachment, your pet will quickly understand what you want from them.
How does a no-pull harness work?
For a no-pull dog harness to work properly, it is important to follow the guidelines for its use. If the harness is put on correctly, the dog could be injured when trying to pull.
Since the leash buckle of a no-pull harness is situated on the chest of the animal, the dog cannot pull to move forward. If the animal starts pulling, the leash will turn them in the opposite direction and this position will cut off the momentum.
To fit on a no-pull harness, adjust the straps to be as close as possible to the dog, without making them too tight. If your pet pulls strongly in different directions, the friction of the harness could irritate their skin. You should be able to put two fingers between the straps and the skin.
When walking your pet, the lead attached to the metal ring of the harness should form a U-shape between you and the dog. It should never go under the dog's body, as this can cause serious injury if the animal gets caught in it.
