As pet parents, you always want the best for your furry friends. This extends to their accessories, including their harnesses. Harnesses are an essential tool that helps you and your pet enjoy walking, hiking, and other outdoor activities together. They provide better control and prevent injuries that can occur from pulling on a collar. However, not all harnesses are created equal, and the fit is crucial. A poorly fitted harness can be just as harmful, causing discomfort or even injury. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to properly adjust a harness for a small breed dog.
1. Choosing the Right Size Harness
Before you can adjust a harness, you’ll need to find the right size. Harness sizes are typically determined by the size of the dog’s neck and chest measurements. Measure your dog’s chest and neck with a cloth tape measure to ensure the best fit. For the chest, measure the widest part, usually right behind the front legs. For the neck, measure around the base where a collar would typically sit. Many harness manufacturers provide size charts, so once you have these measurements, you can easily find the appropriate size.
When trying on a harness for the first time, you can check if it’s the right size by sliding two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body. If the two fingers fit comfortably, the harness is likely a good fit. If it’s too tight or too loose, you’ll need to size up or down accordingly.
2. Understanding the Types of Harnesses
There are several types of harnesses available for small breed dogs, and understanding them can help you make the best choice for your pet. The standard harness has a clip on the back that you attach the leash to. This type is best for dogs that don’t pull or for smaller dogs that you want to prevent from getting tangled in the leash.
The front-clip harness, as the name implies, has the leash attachment on the dog’s chest. This type is beneficial for dogs that pull, as it gives you more control and helps to steer your dog. There’s also the dual-clip harness, which has both a front and back clip, offering the most versatility.
Some harnesses are step-in, where your dog steps into the harness and it clasps over their back. Others are overhead, which you slip over your dog’s head and then buckle around the body. The choice between step-in and overhead largely comes down to your dog’s comfort and preference.
3. Adjusting the Straps
Now for the crucial part: adjusting the straps. For the best comfort and safety, the harness should fit snug but not tight.
Start by loosening all the adjustment points on the harness. Place the harness on your dog, ensuring it’s sitting in the correct position. With a back-clip harness, the leash ring should be on the back. With a front-clip, it should be on the chest.
Begin adjusting the straps. Start with the neck straps, followed by the chest or girth straps. If the harness has chest padding, ensure it sits at the center of the dog’s chest. The straps should be tight enough that you can fit two fingers between the strap and your dog’s body.
4. Training Your Dog with the Harness
A new harness can be an unfamiliar sensation for your dog. It’s essential to associate the harness with positive experiences to ensure your dog is comfortable and happy when wearing it.
Start by letting your dog sniff and inspect the harness. Reward them with treats and praise for their curiosity. Once they seem comfortable, put the harness on them. Continue with the praise and treats.
Have short practice walks around the house before venturing outdoors. This will help your dog get used to the feeling of the harness and how it works when attached to a leash.
Remember, every dog is unique, and what may work for one may not work for another. Patience and consistency are key when introducing and adjusting a new harness.
5. Regularly Checking the Harness Fit
Just as humans change size, so do our dogs – especially when they are still growing. Regularly check the fit of the harness and adjust it as necessary. Ideally, this should be done every week.
As you’re adjusting the harness, look out for any signs of wear and tear. Harnesses are sturdy, but they will need to be replaced over time. Regular inspections will ensure that your dog’s harness is always in the best condition, providing maximum comfort and safety.
Remember, the best harness for your pet is not just about the style or the brand – it’s about the best fit and comfort for them. Taking the time to properly measure, adjust and regularly check your dog’s harness will ensure that your walks are always a delight, rather than a chore.
6. The Importance of Material and Design in Dog Harnesses
The material and design of a dog harness are just as crucial as the fit. When choosing a harness, you should consider your dog’s skin sensitivity, weather conditions, and activity level.
Harnesses made from nylon are widely available and are highly durable, which makes them suitable for dogs who frequently get wet or are a bit more active. For dogs with sensitive skin, a harness with padded or fleece-lined straps can provide extra comfort and prevent rubbing or chaffing.
Reflective harnesses or those with LED lights can be beneficial if you regularly walk your dog in low-light conditions. This can improve visibility and safety for both you and your pet.
There are also harnesses with handle designs on the back. These can be helpful, especially for small breed dogs, as they allow you to easily lift your dog over obstacles or quickly control them if a situation arises.
Remember, the dog harness design should not only look good, but it should also provide comfort and functionality for your dog.
7. Harness Troubleshooting
Despite your best efforts, sometimes a harness might not be the perfect fit even after adjustments. Here are some common issues and their solutions.
If your dog is constantly trying to remove the harness, it might be causing discomfort. Check the fit again. If it’s not too tight or too loose, check for areas that might be rubbing against your dog’s skin.
If you notice hair loss or redness in the areas under the harness, it might be due to excessive friction. Consider a harness with wider straps or more padding.
If your dog refuses to move when the harness is on, they might need more time to get used to it. Try the training steps mentioned earlier, and reward them for progress.
While harnesses are designed for comfort and safety, they aren’t always perfect. Always pay attention to your dog’s behavior and reactions when wearing a harness.
Conclusion
Harnesses are a great tool for walks and other activities with your small breed dog. They provide better control, prevent injuries and are generally more comfortable than collars. However, a harness must fit well to offer these benefits.
Choosing the right harness size and style is the first step, followed by proper adjustments to ensure the perfect fit. It’s also essential to regularly check the fit and condition of the harness and adjust or replace it as needed.
Remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Therefore, you need to be patient, consistent, and observant. Your dog might not appreciate their new harness right away, but with some time and positive associations, they will get used to it and enjoy their walks even more.
Ultimately, the best dog harness is the one that fits your dog comfortably, suits their needs, and makes walks enjoyable for both of you.
