Small Dog Harnesses: A Simple Guide to Choosing Well
Walking our dogs is an enjoyable daily ritual for many pet owners. 70% of dog owners walk their pets at least once a day, with the average walk lasting about 23 minutes.
However, for those of us with small dogs, walking and spending an active time together can be a challenge.
Any owner of a small dog knows that their furry friends have unique needs — they aren't always met by regular walking gear designed for larger breeds. Collars can be problematic, as they can put excessive pressure on their delicate necks and tracheas; a harness that's too big or too small can cause discomfort or even safety issues for our little friends.
In this simple guide, we'll explore how to select the best harness for your small dog. We'll discuss key features to look for and how to ensure a proper fit.
Why is a harness a good option for small dogs?
You know how we all want the best for our furry little friends? Well, that's where harnesses come in for small dogs. A harness is an excellent choice for small dogs for several important reasons.
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Safety is a top priority. Small dogs are more susceptible to injuries, especially when using a collar. A harness distributes pressure evenly across their body, reducing the risk of neck and throat injuries that can occur if they pull on the leash. This is particularly crucial for breeds that may have delicate tracheas.
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Comfort is another significant factor. Harnesses are designed to fit snugly around a dog’s body without causing discomfort. Unlike collars, which can dig into the neck, a harness allows for free movement, making walks more enjoyable. Many harnesses come with padded straps that provide extra comfort, ensuring your dog feels good while exploring the outdoors.
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For small dogs that tend to pull, a harness can be especially beneficial. Many harnesses feature front clips that help redirect your dog when they pull, making it easier to manage their excitement. This not only makes walks more pleasant but also helps teach your dog better leash manners over time.
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Additionally, harnesses are versatile and can be used for various activities beyond just walking. Whether you’re going for a hike, traveling in the car, or visiting the vet, a harness keeps your dog secure and comfortable. Some harnesses even have safety features like reflective strips for visibility during nighttime walks.
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Finally, harnesses come in a variety of styles and designs, allowing you to choose one that reflects your dog’s personality. This adds a fun element to your walks and helps you express your dog’s unique character.
Types of small dog harnesses
When selecting a harness for a small dog, it's essential to consider the various types available, each offering unique benefits tailored to different needs and preferences. The following are the most common types of harnesses suitable for small dogs:
Step-in harnesses
Step-in harnesses are designed for ease of use and are particularly beneficial for dogs who may be uncomfortable with items being pulled over their heads. The dog simply steps into the harness, which is then secured around their body. These harnesses typically fasten at the back and are adjustable for a snug fit. They're excellent for small dogs who are cooperative during the harnessing process and don't require significant control during walks.
Overhead harnesses
Overhead harnesses, as the name suggests, are placed over the dog's head and then secured around the body. These often provide a very secure fit and can be ideal for dogs who need more control during walks. They typically have multiple adjustment points, allowing for a custom fit. While some small dogs may initially resist having something placed over their head, many quickly adapt with positive reinforcement.
Vest harnesses
Vest harnesses offer the most coverage and can be particularly comfortable for small dogs. They distribute pressure evenly across the chest and back, making them an excellent choice for dogs with respiratory issues or those prone to tracheal collapse. Vest harnesses often feature padded materials and can provide additional warmth in cooler weather. They're also typically very secure, making them a good option for dogs who might try to escape from other harness types.
No-pull harnesses
No-pull harnesses are specifically designed to discourage pulling behavior, which can be particularly useful for small dogs who tend to strain against the leash. These harnesses often have a front attachment point for the leash, which redirects the dog when they pull. This design can be highly effective in training and can reduce strain on both the dog and the handler. However, it's important to ensure that the no-pull feature doesn't cause discomfort or restrict the dog's natural movement.
What is the best harness for a small dog? Key features to look for
Selecting the optimal harness for a small dog requires careful consideration of several crucial factors. While individual needs may vary, certain key features universally contribute to the effectiveness and comfort of a harness for small breeds. Here are the essential elements to consider:
Size and fit
The importance of proper size and fit cannot be overstated when it comes to small dog harnesses. A well-fitted harness should be snug enough to prevent escape but not so tight as to cause discomfort or restrict movement. It should allow for two fingers to fit between the harness and the dog's body. Pay particular attention to areas around the legs and chest to ensure there's no chafing or pinching.
Luckily, many modern harnesses, like those in the KOSTON x WagBone collection, feature adjustable straps that allow for a customized fit. These harnesses are designed with functionality in mind, offering a breathable inner lining for maximum comfort while ensuring the perfect fit for your small dog's unique body shape.
Measuring your dog
Accurate measurements are crucial for selecting the right harness size. Typically, you'll need to measure:
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Chest girth: The widest part of your dog's ribcage, usually just behind the front legs.
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Neck girth: The circumference of the neck where a collar would typically sit.
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Body length: From the base of the neck to the base of the tail.
Just like KOSTON, many manufacturers provide sizing charts specific to their products, so always refer to these when making your selection.
Adjustability
Given the diverse body shapes among small dog breeds, adjustability is a key feature in a quality harness. Look for harnesses with multiple points of adjustment, typically around the neck and chest areas. This allows for a more customized fit, accommodating your dog's unique proportions and ensuring comfort across various breeds, from Chihuahuas to Pugs.
Material and durability
When selecting a harness for your small dog, the material plays a crucial role in both comfort and longevity. Vegan leather has emerged as an excellent choice for pet accessories, offering numerous benefits:
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Vegan leather is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather. It has a significantly lower environmental impact, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable pet products.
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No animals are harmed in the creation of vegan leather accessories, making it a compassionate choice for pet owners.
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Vegan leather can be softer and more comfortable against your dog's skin compared to some traditional materials.
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High-quality vegan leather is resistant to scratches and easy to clean, ensuring the harness remains in excellent condition for years.
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Vegan leather offers a premium look and feel, comparable to real leather, without compromising on ethics.
KOSTON, a premium online pet retailer, uses vegan leather as basic material for the majority of their products. Vegan leather allows them to provide the same premium look and feel as real leather, while upholding our commitment to sustainability.
Read more: What Vegan Leather Harness is Best for My Dog?
Tips for choosing the right harness
When selecting a harness for your small dog, consider these advanced factors to ensure optimal fit, functionality, and comfort:
Consider your dog's behavior
Every dog is unique, and their behavior should influence your choice of harness. Think about whether your dog tends to pull on walks or if they're prone to slipping out of collars. Some dogs may have specific issues like back problems or breathing difficulties that require special consideration. Understanding your dog's needs will help you select a harness that addresses these concerns.
Test it out
Whenever possible, try the harness on your dog before purchasing. Many pet stores allow you to fit harnesses in-store. This gives you a chance to check for any signs of discomfort or restriction. Practice putting the harness on and taking it off to ensure it's easy to use. If you can't try it in-store, make sure the retailer has a good return policy. Once you bring it home, let your dog wear the harness for short periods in a safe environment to see how they adjust.
Read reviews and recommendations
Other dog owners can be a valuable source of information. Look for reviews from people who have dogs similar to yours in size and breed. Pay attention to comments about the harness's durability and comfort. Professional opinions can also be helpful, so consider recommendations from dog trainers or veterinarians. Lastly, check for any reported safety issues or product recalls to ensure you're choosing a reliable harness for your beloved pet.
Conclusion
Ultimately, choosing a harness for small dogs is about more than just safety; it’s about enhancing the quality of life for these beloved pets. By providing a comfortable and secure walking experience, harnesses help build a positive relationship between dogs and their owners, encouraging more frequent and enjoyable outdoor adventures.
Summarizing, key factors to consider when choosing include:
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Proper sizing and adjustability to accommodate your dog's specific body shape
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Durable, comfortable materials that won't irritate your dog's skin
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Design features that address common issues like pulling or escape attempts
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Safety elements such as reflective strips for visibility
However, it’s worth remembering – what works for one small dog may not work for another. It's essential to consider your dog's individual needs, behavior, and any health concerns when making your selection.
At KOSTON, we recognize the importance of comfort and safety in our harness designs. Our harnesses are designed to work for dogs of different sizes, from tiny Chihuahuas to larger breeds. We understand that each dog is unique, so our collection includes a range of sizes and adjustable features to ensure a perfect fit for dogs of various shapes and dimensions. This versatility allows pet owners to find the ideal harness for their furry friend, regardless of their size or breed.
Explore our diverse pet collection now and give your dog the comfort and style they deserve!