Have you ever wondered if there really is a need for a harness? What all the fuss is about?
Traditionally dogs were always walked on a collar, and in days gone by it was perfectly normal to see dogs wearing a choke chain (metal slip leads that tighten if a dog pulls) or prong collars. Harnesses were used for sled dogs!
Thankfully things have progressed and we are now seeing many more dogs being walked wearing a harness.
The dog training world is now promoting force free training which is backed by scientific theories to ensure we can teach dogs without using pain, force or intimidation. This has led to a rise in the use and popularity of harnesses.
So why does your dog pull and why are harnesses the best way to walk your dog? Let’s find out!
LET’S GO MUM!!
Your dog wants to get somewhere quickly and pulling usually works. A dog’s pain threshold is much higher than ours - so even though it hurts and they are choking themselves, they just keep doing it!
A dog’s neck and throat area is very sensitive and home to the trachea, oesophagus, various glands and much more. Putting a dog’s neck under pressure (regularly or just a one-off sudden jerk) can cause a number of different health implications from eye problems or a collapsed trachea to behaviour changes.
DON’T HOLD ME BACK!
Some owners opt to use head collars, slip leads, choke chains etc.
Yes, THEY WORK but have you ever wondered why?
Devices like these, work because they inflict discomfort, some more than others. Most dogs will dislike the discomfort and will work out to avoid the pain they need to stop pulling. Dogs will walk nicely, but you’ll notice when watching that they do not necessarily look happy or relaxed.
ALL HARNESSES ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL
The modern alternative is to use a harness.
However, there are many different types of harness available and some work on the same basis as above: they tighten when a dog pulls, or restrict movement making it harder for dogs to pull.
Anything branded as a quick fix only provides that instant result because it either causes restriction or discomfort. When you take it off, your dog will continue to pull as they did before.
SO, WHAT SHOULD I CHOOSE?
You’ll be pleased to hear there are harnesses that are designed with force free in mind!
How to tell if a harness is force free:
- Look for a harness that has a Y shape at the front, protecting not only the neck but the soft parts of the chest area too.
- The straps should be wide and comfortable against the dog’s fur/skin.
- A harness should fit snugly so that it doesn’t slip and slide around which could cause rubbing or discomfort – think of your favourite bra!
By using a good quality well fitted harness it is likely that your dog’s pulling will reduce simply because they are comfortable, your dog will feel safe and snug, and the pressure and weight will be evenly distributed across your dog’s body.
A good harness is the first step to improve your walks but a harness by itself will not stop your dog pulling - the only thing that will really work and work long term is to undertake training.
MY DOG DOESN’T PULL
Even if your dog doesn’t pull when walked on a collar, a harness is still the best option to ensure maximum comfort and safety. Most dogs will have just an occasional pull towards a good smell or can be unintentionally jerked by their owner should a danger present itself or the owner trip over. A one-off episode of pressure can still cause damage to the neck area.
HERE’S MY THREE STEP PLAN TO STOPPING YOUR DOG FROM PULLING
- Do your research on harnesses or get in touch with your local force free trainer who can advise you on what to look for
- Improve the connection and communication with your dog using force free training
- Make your dog want to stay with you and enjoy your adventures together!
Discover more about Harness Loan Scheme or purchase your Perfect Fit Harness in our shop now!