Does your dog need a harness?

I use harnesses in many of my behaviour cases, and use them with my own dogs. I opt for Y shaped harnesses, which means that they form a Y shape at the front of the dog and tend to allow for the most natural movement.
You want to make sure that the straps come up over the shoulder in a way that doesn't inhibit movement. Harnesses which have a strap that comes straight across the body can actually limit your dog's ability to fully extend their front legs. Over time this can affect their gait, the way they walk. This can cause pain or discomfort as things are starting to move out of normal and natural alignment.
If your harness has a D ring at the front you can use it alongside a double ended lead to help to control lead pulling during training, or lunging, and give you more directional control if you need it. Whilst this is no replacement for training, some added security with a lunging dog can be a huge relief!
Other forms of equipment can change how your dog is able to communicate with others or interact with the environment around it, but not so much with a harness. A harness takes pressure off the vulnerable throat structures and allows for more of a feeling of freedom.
I have had clients who have learned about subtle signs of stress and anxiety in dogs (there's a free download on the resources section of the website). They've then observed their dog in a headcollar. Then they've switched to a harness and seen a difference in how their dog carries themselves and seen fewer signs of tension and anxiety. I am sure this must contribute to the progress they see.
Check out this video for more information on using harnesses for dogs
…on why I use Y shaped harnesses, how to use them with the double ended lead, what to look out for when fitting a harness and tips for introducing or reintroducing it to your dog if they aren’t comfortable.
Many dogs go running when the harness and lead comes out, yet they seem to enjoy their walks. Get some tips on how your body language and how you put the harness on and off can help.
Sometimes a dislike of having a harness on can be linked with pain. So bringing up persistent worry over this, or other handling exercises, with your vet is a good move. If you do have a sensitive dog who hates going to the vet then check out the course for introducing/reintroducing fearful vets to the vet clinic/groomers here: weteachpets.co...
My name is Naomi Andrews and I run We Teach Pets. I am a Clinical Animal Behaviourist specialising in anxiety related behaviour in dogs. I see cases in Worcestershire and surrounding areas, or remote consultations in any location!
I work with people 1:1 or you can check out my freebies and self paced courses. Find out more here: www.weteachpet...