You are enjoying a relaxing walk with your dog when suddenly your pup escapes from the harness and takes off.
Has that ever happened to you? Or, are you worried that it might?
Then you need to learn how to prevent this dangerous scene from occurring. This requires selecting the right harness, using it correctly, and training your dog how to walk with a harness.
The Dangers of a Poor-Quality Harness
An unreliable harness makes it easy for your furry friend to slip out and run away. That’s why it’s incredibly important to choose an escape-proof harness. Especially if your dog is an expert at escaping.
Use a Reliable, Escape-Proof Harness
Some dogs are more prone to escaping than others. But no matter what your own pup’s reputation is, getting a reliable, escape-proof harness is a must for every dog owner!
So, what do you need to look for in a harness?
Durable Materials
You need a harness that even the most determined pup can’t chew through. With that in mind, avoid any options that are made of flimsy material. Instead, choose a durable harness. Your dog’s teeth won’t stand a chance against it.
Reliable Connectors
When selecting your dog’s harness, realize that not every option comes with strong connectors. The reality is, some are better than others.
That’s why you need to pay close attention to the connectors on any harness you are considering. If those connectors can easily be undone, your fur ball has a much better shot at breaking free. That’s the last thing you want!
The Importance of a Correctly Fitted Harness
No matter how well-made your dog’s harness is, selecting the wrong size will greatly increase the odds of your pet escaping. Even the highest-quality harness can’t keep your dog contained if it’s the wrong size.
Make sure to choose the right size by measuring your dog and referring to the manufacturer’s sizing recommendations.
You Must Use the Harness Correctly
Using the harness correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. If you don’t know what you are doing, your dog has a better chance of escaping.
The following tips will help you understand how to use a harness:
- Keep your dog standing while putting on the harness.
- Tighten the harness just enough to fit snugly on your dog’s body.
- Carefully avoid tightening the harness too much, which could cause sores.
- Make sure you tightened the harness enough by placing two fingers underneath it. If your fingers barely fit, it’s good to go. But if your fingers don’t fit, it’s too tight.
- Whenever you are using a new harness for the first time, test it out. Walk your dog inside with the harness before heading outside. This will give both of you the chance to get comfortable with it.
Your Dog Must Be Properly Trained
This last bit of advice is crucial. Because if you fail to properly train your pup how to walk on a harness, your strolls around the neighborhood won’t be pleasant or safe.
So, take your dog’s harness training seriously. Here’s what you will need to do:
- Familiarize your dog with the harness by letting your pooch sniff it.
- Touch your dog with the harness. Offer treats to help your pup develop positive associations with the harness.
- Train your dog to stand still while you are putting the harness on.
- Teach your dog to walk calmly in the ‘heel’ position during the entire walk.
- Reward your dog with treats for staying in the proper position while walking.
- Don’t let your dog pull on the harness.
This is a gradual process that may require patience. But it’s vitally important to get the job done right, so please don’t rush out and start walking before your canine is ready.
At Voyager Harness, we are committed to keeping your pet safe and helping you enjoy your leashed adventures. Choose many styles of harness from our collections and enjoy your walks with your furry pal.