You probably know a thing or two about walking your dog. If you own a house full of dogs, then chances are you’ve had at least one experience where you were forced to walk them in circles because there was no way you could control their movements. While this may seem like a minor inconvenience, it can be quite frustrating when you’re out walking your favorite pooch.
Because of this frustration owners often turn to dog harnesses. Many people believe that dog harnesses are only useful for pulling sleds but that’s not true. There are several different types of dog harnesses designed specifically for specific purposes such as running, walking, obedience training and more.
In addition, some types of dog harnesses are made especially for smaller pets such as cats. Here we’ll look at the various ways you can use a dog harness and learn how to choose the right type for your needs. Read on to find out more!
Types of Dog Harness
As mentioned earlier, there are dozens of different types of dog harnesses available. Some of the most common types include:
Neck Collar – These collars fit around the neck and attach directly to your belt loop. They are very lightweight and flexible. Because these collars don’t contain any straps they won’t slip off your hand. The biggest disadvantage of these collars is that they cannot be used for long walks (more than a few minutes). Because of the design they also tend to cause breathing problems for larger dogs.
Leash Type Collar – These collars consist of nylon webbing which attaches to a leash. They are typically heavier than neck collars but still light weight enough so that you can carry them comfortably.
J-Type Collar – J-type collars combine both features of neck and leash type collars. They feature a heavy nylon strap that goes over the shoulder and fastens to itself. The back half contains a webbing strap similar to those found in leashes. Both ends contain Velcro strips so you can adjust the length of the collar to accommodate the size of your pet.
Walking Harness – Also referred to as “walking collars” this style of dog harness has a padded waistband and a large buckle strap that goes across the chest. It is worn by attaching it to a regular collar. The main advantage is that it does not restrict airflow. However, it does limit movement somewhat.
Walk Along/Pull along Harness – Similar to walking harnesses, these collars allow freedom of motion but they require the handler to exert forward pressure in order to keep pace. Like the Walking Harness, Pull Along Harnesses offer limited mobility.
Harnesses For All Pets
When choosing a dog harness consider what kind of activities you plan to perform with your pet. Do you want it to run free, walk freely on a leash or do you need extra assistance during agility competitions? Are you interested in using it to train your pet? You might even want to try walking your cat in a dog harness if he tends to get tangled up while playing or chasing his toys. Whatever your reason, here are some things to consider before buying a dog harness: Your pet’s age. Obviously older pets will need more support. Younger animals can usually handle lighter weights.
Size Matters- Make sure to measure your pet carefully. Some harnesses come in multiple sizes so you can purchase just the right size.
Adjustability- Check to see if the harness allows you to adjust its length. Most manufacturers provide adjustable options.
Comfort- Try putting the harness on your pet. Does it feel uncomfortable? Is it too tight or loose?
Easy to put on- Can you easily get into the harness? Is it difficult to put on?
Durability- Look for quality materials and construction.
Price- Don’t pay too much for something that doesn’t work well.
How to Buy A Dog Harness
Choosing the right kind of dog harness can be overwhelming. With so many choices, knowing what to look for can save you time and money. Here are some basic guidelines:
First, decide whether you want a neck collar or a leash type collar. Generally speaking, neck collars are easier to put on and are less restrictive. They are also better suited for longer walks. On the other hand, leash type collars are generally more comfortable for shorter walks and lend themselves better to agility exercises.
Second, determine how you would like to wear your dog harness. Will you prefer to wear it around the neck or around the torso? Whichever option you select, make sure that it fits properly against your body.
Third, check to see if the harness includes a quick release safety pin. This is important because you never know when you might need to remove the harness quickly from a struggling animal.
Fourth, if you plan to use the harness for training, make sure that it comes with instructions for doing so. Some manufacturers market their products as trainers while others simply sell them for whatever purpose they’re intended to serve.
Finally, remember that the key to getting the most out of your dog harness is proper training. Training your pet before using him in the harness helps to ensure that you can rely on the harness rather than relying on the animal himself.
Harnesses For All Pets
Some people think of dog harnesses solely as tools for dragging sleds through snow drifts or pulling boats down a river. But anyone who owns a dog knows that harnesses play an integral part in our daily lives. Whether you’re walking your beloved pet or exercising your pet, harnesses are definitely worth considering. Here are some additional points to keep in mind:
Most harnesses are relatively inexpensive. Prices range between $10 and $100 depending on the brand and material used. Many harnesses feature reflective material allowing you to spot your pet even in low light conditions. It’s easy to clean most harnesses with soap and water. There are many styles of dog harnesses that cater to specific needs. Consider the following:
Training Harness – Designed specifically for training purposes, training dog harnesses are perfect for helping you teach your dog new tricks and behaviors.
Running Harness – Running harnesses are ideal for walking your dog during runs. They are also great for walking your dog on a lead.
Obedience Training Harness – Used for teaching your dog to respond correctly to verbal commands, obedience training dog harnesses are excellent for guiding your pet.
Pet Carrier – Carrying your pet in comfort and convenience, pet carriers are essential supplies for traveling with your pet.
In addition to providing an alternative means for walking your pet, harnesses are also helpful for training. Using a harness encourages your pet to focus on you instead of straying away from distractions. Furthermore, harnesses are a great way to prevent injury to yourself and your pet. For example, jumping fences and climbing trees can become dangerous if done unsupervised. And let’s face it — you can’t always depend on your pet to stop leaping over fences or climbing trees. A dog harness provides a safe alternative.
With all these benefits, why wouldn’t you want to give your pet a dog harness? After reading this article you’ll understand the importance of harnessing your pet’s energy. So next time you go out for a stroll with your furry friend, consider investing in a dog harness. You’ll be glad you did!
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