When it comes to walking your dog, choosing the right harness is essential for their comfort and safety.

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. You may want a harness that suits your lifestyle and purpose such as one that can be used when travelling in a car.

This step-by-step guide will help you choose the perfect harness for your furry friend, no matter what your purpose happens to be!

Determine the Purpose of the Harness.

The first step in choosing the perfect dog harness is to determine its purpose. Will you be using it for everyday walks, hiking, or training? Different harnesses are designed for different activities, so it's important to choose one that fits your specific needs. For example, a front-clip harness is great for dogs who pull on walks, while a back-clip harness is better for dogs who don't pull and need more freedom of movement.

Consider your dog's behaviour and activity level when deciding on the purpose of the harness.

Measure Your Dog's Girth and Neck.

Before purchasing a dog harness, it's important to measure your dog's girth and neck to ensure a proper fit.

Use a soft measuring tape to measure around the widest part of your dog's ribcage for the girth measurement, and around the base of their neck for the neck measurement.

Make sure to measure snugly but not too tight, and take note of the measurements to compare with the sizing chart of the harness you are considering. A properly fitting harness should be snug but not constricting, and allow for a couple of fingers to fit between the harness and your dog's skin.

Choose the Type of Dog  Harness to Suit Your Dog.

There are several types of dog harnesses to choose from, each with their own benefits and drawbacks.

The most common types include back-clip harnesses, front-clip harnesses, and dual-clip harnesses. Back-clip harnesses are great for well-behaved dogs who don't pull on the leash, while front-clip harnesses are better for dogs who tend to pull or have a tendency to lunge.

Dual-clip harnesses offer the best of both worlds, allowing you to clip the leash to either the front or back of the harness depending on your needs. Consider your dog's behaviour and walking habits when choosing the type of harness that will work best for them.

While a harness that distributes the force of the leash against the chest and back may work well for small dogs, it may not be the best option for larger, more energetic dogs who tend to pull hard against the leash. In these cases, a harness that provides more control and support, such as a front-clip or no-pull harness, may be a better choice.

 A no pull harness tightens slightly when your dog pulls, but distributes the force across their chest instead of their neck. However, make sure to check for proper fit and watch for any signs of rubbing or irritation, as this style can sometimes cause discomfort in your dog's underarm area.

Consider the Material and Durability.

When choosing a dog harness, it's important to consider the material and durability.

Look for a harness made from high-quality materials that will withstand wear and tear, as well as any pulling or tugging from your dog.

Nylon and neoprene are popular materials for dog harnesses, as they are durable and easy to clean.

Leather harnesses are also an option, but may require more maintenance. Additionally, make sure the harness is adjustable to ensure a comfortable and secure fit for your pup.

Test the Fit and Adjust as Needed.

Once you have chosen a harness, it's important to test the fit and adjust it as needed. The harness should fit snugly but not be too tight, as this can cause discomfort or even injury to your dog. Check that you can fit two fingers between the harness and your dog's skin. If the harness is too loose, it may slip off or allow your dog to escape. If it's too tight, it can restrict your dog's movement and breathing.

Adjust the straps and buckles until you achieve a comfortable and secure fit for

your furry friend.

Our friendly and experienced staff provide custom harness fitting in store to ensure that your harness is the correct fit for your dog!

What are the benefits of Using a Dog Harness?

Choosing the right harness for your dog is important for ensuring their safety and control, especially in busy or crowded areas. With the right harness, you can have better control over your dog and keep them safe while out on walks. A dog harness is far more comfortable on a dog as it distributes their exertion more evenly than a dog collar alone can.