So as a dog trainer, one would automactically assume and expect that I know all there is to know about dog walking equipment, especially harnesses, right?! And I do have lots of helpful knowledge, but to a point (I am always learning new things too!)
Recently, I was invited to attend a Dog Body Work class for Veterinary Professionals. I had a very eye opening and enlightening conversation with one of the instructors (who is also a Vet and has way more knowledge, training, and education in canine anatomy and movement than I do, so I was happy to pay attention and learn).
Here are some of the take away’s from that conversation and tips on how to find the right harness for your dog:
The best option for your dog is a harness, but you have to ensure that it is the correct type of harness and is sized and fitted to your dog correctly. You could have the best harness in the world, but if it doesn’t fit right, that is going to cause more challenges.
Y-shaped harness are the best. Why? They don’t restrict the movement of the front limbs and shoulders.
Avoid any harness that sits tight across the chest. This restricts movement and makes movement uncomfortable for your dog. This can cause pressue points resulting in pain. Dogs can often pull harder on a harness because they are uncomfortable and are trying to escape it.
Avoid any harness that has a cinching system. Whether that is across the chest (Easy Walk) or across the shoulders (Freedom Harness). These change the way in which our dogs naturally move and cause pressue points, which can result in trigger points (muscles are stressed and tissues can become bunched up into little, hard masses which can be uncomfortable and painful). *This was extremely eye opening to me because I previously recommended the Freedom Harness, having no idea that it could be as uncomfortable and stress causing as an Easy Walk!
There is no such thing as a “no pull” harness (or any training equipment for that matter). Dogs can and will pull on anything. It is our duty and responsibility to teach them HOW to properly walk on a looser leash.
The equipment and tools we use (and how we use them!) can absolutely be the difference between being successful and unsuccessful. We want to make sure that our canine friends our comfortable to move freely and we are being fair with what we are asking-and when-and being realistic with our expectations.
Harness brands to check out:
RuffWear
Wilderdog
Arcadia Trail
rabbitgoo
Poy Pet
*there are many amazing brands, these are just a few recommended ones as a starting point.
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