More than likely, the warmer temps are pulling you and your pup outside for more frequent walks. It’s important to recognize that your dog may need more than just a simple leash and collar for its walk. If your dog is prone to pulling, a harness can give you more control during the walk, as it disperses the dog’s weight –this is more common in larger dogs. For smaller dog breeds, a harness can help with spreading out the pressure from one specific area to prevent any injuries or pains.
Some dogs that pull a lot on their leashes can get neck injuries, which harnesses fix, as they attach to the dog’s back or chest instead, taking all direct pressure and stress away from their necks. Excited dogs may become tangled in their leashes, which could be dangerous for them if their leash is attached to their neck, as well as dangerous for the person walking them, too.
Harnesses give you more direct control over your dog, which is especially important when training it. For dogs that fight any kind of restraint, a harness is key because it’s much harder to slip off than a collar is, so the dog won’t be able to wriggle out of it and run away or injure itself.
Harnesses are also important when riding in cars, as the harness provides an easy way to attach a seatbelt so that in the case of an accident, your dog is just as safe as the human passengers. We like to recommend the brand Kurgo, which offers specially made harnesses and seatbelt attachments for all sized dogs to be safe in the car.
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local pet store if you have questions on this or any pet related topic.