When it comes to selecting a dog harness, the choice is vital. A well-fitted, high-quality harness can enhance your dog’s comfort, minimize the risk of chafing or injury, and make walks more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. With a myriad of dog harness options available, finding the perfect one for your pup can be a daunting task.
In this DJANGO Dog Blog post, we explore the three main types of dog harnesses: back-clip, front-clip, and dual-clip harnesses. Additionally, we provide guidance on measuring your dog for a harness and ensuring a safe and comfortable fit.
BACK-CLIP DOG HARNESS Back-clip dog harnesses are traditionally secured on the dog’s back, typically between the shoulders or further down the spine. These harnesses are favored for their ease of use and comfort, making them an excellent choice for smaller dog breeds. They are especially suitable for dogs with delicate throats, as collars can pose a risk of injury. Back-clip harnesses come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns.
Notably, back-clip harnesses deter dogs from reaching their leashes, reducing the temptation to chew on them. Additionally, dogs are less prone to tangling with back-clip harnesses. However, it’s important to note that if you have an enthusiastic puller or are training your dog to heel properly, other harness options may be more suitable. Back-clip harnesses can inadvertently encourage pulling and trigger the “opposition reflex,” where dogs instinctively pull in the opposite direction when tension is applied to the leash.
As a personal note, we (Steph and Mike) have successfully used back-clip harnesses for our dachshund, Django. It is crucial to choose a high-quality harness that offers adjustable chest and neck straps for a comfortable, lightweight fit. A recommended option is DJANGO’s Adventure Dog Harness, which boasts a 5-star rating and 100 reviews on Amazon.com. This durable back-clip harness features weather-resistant neoprene, padded construction, and lightweight design.
FRONT-CLIP DOG HARNESS Front-clip dog harnesses, often referred to as “no-pull” harnesses, have a leash attachment located at the center of the chest. These harnesses are suitable for dogs of various sizes, particularly for stubborn pullers and dogs with a strong tendency to be aggressive on walks.
Front-clip harnesses place you in front of your dog, allowing you to redirect their movements effectively. If your dog begins to pull, the leash’s tension causes them to turn towards you. To continue forward, they must slow down and stop pulling. Over time, this training technique teaches dogs that pulling doesn’t yield the desired outcome, encouraging them to walk at their owner’s pace.
While no-pull harnesses are effective, some designs may be too heavy or bulky for smaller dogs. To accommodate small breeds, consider a lightweight and durable option like DJANGO’s Tahoe No Pull Dog Harness, specially designed for smaller and medium-sized dogs.
DUAL-CLIP DOG HARNESS Dual-clip dog harnesses offer both back and front leash attachments, with some larger designs featuring a middle traffic handle for enhanced control. These harnesses are versatile and can be adapted for different walking styles and environments. For large dogs in distracting settings, a built-in traffic handle can provide added control.
For small and medium-sized dogs, opt for a high-quality dual-clip dog harness designed specifically for smaller breeds, such as DJANGO’s dual-clip Tahoe Dog Harness.
There are several advantages to dual-clip harnesses. They provide versatility, allowing for either back or front leash attachment. If you have a double-ended leash, you can use both leash clips to distribute pressure evenly across your dog’s chest and back.
MEASURING YOUR DOG FOR A HARNESS To select the correct harness size, you need your dog’s neck and chest girth measurements. Here’s how to measure your dog accurately:
- Dog Neck Girth: Wrap a flexible tape measure around your dog’s neck where the collar naturally rests. Use the “two-finger rule” by leaving two fingers’ space (four fingers for larger breeds) under the measuring tape for a comfortable fit. If you don’t have a measuring tape, use a string or shoelace and measure its length with an online ruler or yardstick for accuracy.
- Dog Chest Girth: Measure around the widest part of your dog’s chest, located behind their front legs, but not directly under their armpits. Follow the “two-finger rule” as mentioned earlier for a comfortable fit.
Ensure that your dog’s front legs have sufficient mobility, and the harness sits low on their chest, avoiding contact with the throat or neck. In the case of a back-clip harness, the attachment clip should be positioned between the shoulder blades or lower on the spine. For front-clip harnesses, the clip should be near the center of your dog’s chest.
In conclusion, the right dog harness can greatly enhance your pup’s safety and comfort during walks and outings. By understanding the three main types of harnesses and knowing how to measure your dog correctly, you can confidently choose the most suitable harness for your canine companion.
