How to properly adjust your dog's harness: the complete guide
Harnesses have become the preferred equipment for many dog owners: they offer greater comfort , increased safety , and reduce pressure on your companion's neck. But it's essential to know how to adjust it correctly! A poorly fitted harness can be uncomfortable, or even dangerous.
Here is everything you need to know to adapt it properly to your dog and guarantee peaceful walks.
Why Harness Adjustment Is So Important
Proper harness adjustment is essential and directly impacts your pet's well-being and safety. A good fit allows for:
- To avoid friction and irritation on the skin (especially under the armpits).
- To ensure optimal freedom of movement for the shoulders and legs.
- To prevent the dog from escaping from the harness.
- To distribute the traction in a balanced way, thus protecting the neck and spine.
A harness that is too tight restricts breathing and movement, while a harness that is too loose risks slipping or allowing the dog to get out of it.
Step 1: Choose the Right Size
The first step is to make sure that the harness itself is the right size for your dog's build.
How to Measure Your Dog:
- Chest girth: This is the most important measurement. Measure just behind the front legs, at the widest point of the torso.
- Neck measurement: Measure at the base of the neck, where a necklace would sit, but without tightening it.
Always compare these measurements to the manufacturer's size guide. Each brand has its own sizing; do not rely solely on generic sizes ("S", "M" or "L").
Step 2: Adjust the Straps and Position the Harness
Once you've chosen the right size, it's time to adjust the straps to your dog's exact measurements. The goal is to ensure a firm yet comfortable fit.
Adjustment Procedure:
- Start with the Chest: The main strap should fit snugly against the body. This is where the Two-Finger Rule applies (see block below).
- Adjust the Neck Strap: It should be tight enough so that the dog cannot remove it over its head, but without ever obstructing the throat or breathing.
- Check the Belly Strap: This strap must be adjusted so that the harness stays properly positioned and, above all, so that it does not rub against the armpits . Leave a few centimeters of space behind the leg.
🖐️ The Golden Rule: Two Fingers 🖐️
You should be able to slide two fingers flat between any strap of the harness and your dog's body. This is the happy medium between a harness that's too loose and one that's too tight.
Experience Comfort in Motion:
After the adjustment, walk your dog a few steps. Observe him carefully:
- If he pulls to one side, shakes his head or tries to rub himself against the ground, it is probably too tight or poorly positioned.
- Check that he moves freely and that the harness does not restrict the movement of his shoulders or elbows.
Step 3: Check and Maintain Regularly
The adjustment is not permanent! A dog's body changes over time (muscle gain, weight loss/gain, or coat changes). It is therefore advisable to incorporate these checks into your routine:
- Check the setting every month (or more often for growing puppies).
- Clean the harness regularly (dirt, sand or salt can irritate the skin).
- Check the seams and clips for any wear, especially if your dog pulls a lot or tends to chew the harness.
Bonus Tip: Observe the Dog's Comfort
The most reliable indicator of a proper fit is your dog's behavior. A dog that feels comfortable in its harness:
- Walks naturally, without excessive pulling.
- Do not try to rub against the walls or the floor to get rid of the harness.
- He readily accepts having the harness put on him, as he associates it with a positive and comfortable experience.
If your dog shows signs of discomfort despite proper adjustment, the harness shape may not be suitable for its body type. Don't hesitate to try a different model (Y, H, anti-pull, etc.).
In summary
A properly adjusted harness is:
- Optimal safety for both the dog and its human.
- Comfort on every walk.
- A more harmonious relationship between the two of you.
Take the time to do things right: your dog will repay you with more peaceful and joyful walks!