Information and Tips

 Choosing a dog harness

This is an information guide about dog harnesses that I gathered (including from my experience). I hope this is helpful and informative.



Dog harnesses information guide
 
A dog harness is an inexpensive and essential tool you might get for your dog. Different varieties of dog harnesses are currently available on the market. The common ones include: basic step-in harnesses, vest harnesses, no-pull harnesses and pet vehicle harnesses.
Unlike the traditional dog collar, a dog harness is non-choking as it is not around your dog’s throat or neck, and if used correctly is extremely comfortable for your dogs because it fits around their chest and rib cage. Thus, it relieves your dog’s throat or neck from the leash pressure. A dog harness helps you better control your dog while on walks or exercises; a no-pull dog harness helps to correct a dog’s bad behavior such as leash pulling. In short, it is a useful and popular training tool.
For example, my little miniature pinscher pulled on her leash when we used a dog collar attached with leash for walking. She is an active and energetic dog regardless of her size, as is the nature of a ‘min pin’. Walking my dog became extremely tiring and therefore we switched to a dog harness. We selected a basic step-in designed dog harness (also known as a wrap harness) which fits comfortably around the chest. It has a leash connector at the top and is adjustable. By using a dog harness, my dog has avoided neck injuries or spine problems despite occasional pulls on the leash. This result corresponds with Pet Smart’s comment that “a dog harness is ideal for small dogs and dogs with frangible delicate windpipie”.
However, for a better result, a no-pull harness may be used as this type has a connector or buckle at the center of the dog’s chest. Dog trainers often use them for training because they provide better control and leadership from the front. Nevertheless, training your dog not to pull on its leash requires time and patience, and you might wish to discuss this matter with experienced dog trainers.
For security, dog harnesses can be used as a safety device as well in order to keep the dog  secured in a vehicle while traveling.
Another type of harness is the vest harness. These harnesses have an additional connector for the leash at the top. Unlike the step-in harness, this covers most of the dog’s torso like a dog jersey. It is quite handy, especially for dogs sensitive to the cold as it keeps them warm. A vest harness also helps identify your dog easier as it comes in different colours and patterns. It is often used on guide dogs.

Dog harness fabrics
There are now dog harnesses in the market with different fabrics; namely cotton, mesh, breathable fabrics, reflective strips,  leather and net. You should get a comfortable dog harness simultaneously, ensuring that it is durable and secure. This is especially important if it will be used for training. For example, a reflective dog harness is particularly useful to increase night time visibility. Other than this, a net harness may look fashionable on the dog but might be incapable of withstanding pressure, as when a dog pulls on the leash during walks. Consider a more robust material before purchase one.

Dog harness pricing
A simple non-branded dog harness usually costs around US$10. On the other hand, a branded dog harness costs around US$15 and above. Bear in mind that prices of dog harnesses do not solely depend on brands, but prices vary according to fabrics, designs and sizes. It can be best to spend more to obtain a durable dog harness. Some popular brands with reasonable price in the market include Puppia vest harness, PetSafe Easy Walk and Walk Your Dog With Love (feature no-pull dog harness).

Originally written by Jean Yeoh 
Edited by Paul Bellamy