Harnesses

Often, as an animal physical therapist, I recommend the use of a harness . This is because a good harness has a number of advantages and properties:

• Gives no pressure on neck, airways and other structures in the neck; thus preventing complaints.
• The dog's body language is more natural, relaxed and balanced.
• Works positively in interactions with humans and animals because the dog does not receive a negative (pain) stimulus.
• Provides grip when handling the dog.
• However, some dogs will pull harder with a harness on. Then an anti-pull harness is recommended; a dumbbell, especially if used inexpertly, can cause too much strain on the neck.
• If your dog already has neck problems or a weak hindquarters, a harness will be a "must".

Which harness is preferable? The optimal harness depends on your dog's build and size, as well as its intended purpose. Obviously, during treatment or rehabilitation and for a sports load on your dog, the requirements for a harness will be more specific. I have selected for you from the wide range of harnesses available. All the harnesses meet my requirements:

• Are comfortable in material and shape (Y harness). The harness should not put pressure anywhere on the spine nor too much pressure on the chest.
• Must allow full freedom of movement of the forehand and support the chest; harnesses with a horizontal strap along the bow inhibit freedom of movement of the upper arm or press on the airways if the strap is too high. In any case, these harnesses are not preferable when engaging in sporting activities. Thereby, a dog in a harness with horizontal strap will be able to pull more.
• Should run with 2-3 fingers of space behind the armpit.
• Are washable.
• Have good value for money.
• Have an attachment point between the shoulder blades at or just behind the dog's center of gravity, so that the dog can push better from the hindquarters.
• Are easy to put on without having to lift a front leg. The webmaster/flagline and Kong harness are exceptions.
• Must have added value in treatment or rehabilitation.

• Disadvantage of all harnesses: dog gets snagged faster on tree stumps etc.. So take the harness off when running loose and swimming!
• The harnesses that can also be used as car harnesses can be found under the category Car and safety.