Whether you already use a harness for your dog, or you’re considering making the switch from a traditional collar and leash, there’s plenty to take into consideration.
“There are many different types of harnesses available,” says Victoria Schade, a dog trainer and author based in Pennsylvania. “Some help curb a pulling habit, some are better for the comfort of the dog, and some are all about fashion over function.”
The risks and benefits of using a harness can depend on the type of harness, your dog’s breed and activity level, and your proper use of the device. Here’s what the experts have to say about dog harness safety.
Are you worried about whether that cute harness you just bought might actually be harmful to your pup? You’re not alone! Many dog owners wonder if harnesses – which are often marketed as safer alternatives to collars – could potentially cause injuries or discomfort to their four-legged companions,
As a fellow dog owner who’s gone through the collar-versus-harness debate, I understand the concern Let’s dive into everything you need to know about harness safety, potential risks, and how to ensure your dog stays comfortable and injury-free
The Truth About Dog Harnesses and Potential Injuries
Harnesses have become super popular in recent years and for good reason – they distribute pressure more evenly across your dog’s body instead of concentrating it on their neck. But are they actually 100% safe? Let’s look at what experts say.
Can Harnesses Cause Physical Injuries?
According to Dr. Susan C. Nelson, clinical professor at the Veterinary Health Center at Kansas State University, there is “some potential for a chest injury” if a harness doesn’t fit properly and your dog pulls hard on the leash. This is an important consideration, especially for strong pullers.
However, it’s worth noting that even if your dog pulls while wearing a properly fitted harness, it generally won’t cause life-long damage. This is a significant advantage over collars, which can put dangerous pressure on your dog’s trachea when they pull.
Different Harness Types: Different Risks
Not all harnesses are created equal! The type of harness you choose matters tremendously:
- Back-clip harnesses: Better for brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs, small breeds, and dogs with tracheal issues
- Front-clip harnesses: May affect a dog’s natural gait and hinder shoulder movement
- Head halters: Can potentially cause neck injuries if a dog jerks forward suddenly
Victoria Schade, a dog trainer and author, points out that front-hook harnesses “can affect a dog’s natural gait and hinder shoulder movement.” Dr. Nelson adds that these particular harnesses “may not be a good choice for dogs who engage in athletic activities.”
Specific Concerns About Different Harness Types
Front-Clip Harnesses
While front-clip harnesses are often recommended for dogs that pull, they come with their own set of potential issues:
- They may put pressure on the throat region when the dog pulls
- They can affect your dog’s natural walking motion
- Athletic dogs might find their movement restricted
Head Halters
Head halters (which go around the muzzle) present unique challenges because, as Schade notes, “most dogs do not enjoy the sensation and fight it by pawing at their nose, rolling on the ground, or rubbing their face on their person’s leg.”
She adds that “if the dog races ahead and is jerked back, it might injure its neck.” Dr. Nelson agrees with this caution but mentions that “with proper training, head halters can work well for many dogs.”
Shoulder Impact
Some harnesses, particularly those that sit across the chest and shoulders, can potentially cause issues with shoulder movement. These harnesses sit on top of important muscles like the biceps, brachiocephalicus and the supraspinatus, which help extend the shoulder joint.
The compression and restricted motion of the shoulder can potentially lead to:
- Shoulder pain
- Arthritis
- Inflammation
- Bursitis
Common Harness Mistakes That Could Harm Your Dog
Even the best harness can cause problems if used incorrectly. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Leaving a Harness On 24/7
Dr. Nelson warns that “sleeping in a harness is potentially risky because it could get caught on something (like the dog’s crate) and become a choking hazard.” She adds that “it can also be uncomfortable for a harness to be on 24/7.”
For adult dogs who are comfortable with their harness, it might be okay to leave it on during the day, but experts recommend removing it at night and during unsupervised times.
2. Keeping a Wet Harness On
Dr. Katie Grzyb, medical director at One Love Animal Hospital, advises that pet parents should “not leave a wet harness on their dog for a long period of time, as it can cause skin infection.”
3. Not Checking for Skin Irritation
“Monitor hidden areas such as armpits and under the chest a few times a week to make sure that the harness is not causing skin irritation from rubbing,” Dr. Grzyb recommends. Chafing and irritation can develop gradually, so regular checks are important.
4. Using a Poor-Fitting Harness
The biggest risk? According to Schade, it’s “the dog slipping out of it during a walk.” An ill-fitting harness might allow your dog to escape, which could be dangerous especially near roads or in unfamiliar areas.
How to Choose a Safe Harness for Your Dog
Selecting the right harness is crucial for your dog’s comfort and safety. Here’s what to look for:
Find the Perfect Fit
A well-fitting harness should:
- Not gap, pull, chafe, or otherwise irritate your dog
- Stay in place with minimal movement as your dog walks
- Not cause rolls of skin to bunch up around your dog’s neck or shoulders
- Not leave indentations in the fur when removed
To ensure proper fit, Dr. Grzyb recommends that “you should be able to fit two fingers snugly between the harness and your dog.”
Consider Your Dog’s Body Type
Some dogs have unique body shapes that make harness fitting challenging:
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Barrel-chested dogs (like English Bulldogs, Boxers, and Pit Bulls): “Comfort is key when it comes to finding the right fit, and some harnesses either fit these breeds too tightly around the chest or shoulders or rub under the arms as the dog walks,” says Schade.
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Deep-chested dogs (like Great Danes or Dobermans): May be able to wiggle out if the shoulder-to-chest ratio on the harness creates too much slack.
Match the Harness to Your Dog’s Health Needs
- For dogs with tracheal collapse or other tracheal issues, back-clip harnesses are typically better than front-clip ones.
- For athletic dogs, avoid harnesses that restrict shoulder movement.
- For strong pullers, a no-pull harness designed specifically for this purpose may be best, but ensure it fits properly.
Signs Your Harness Might Be Causing Problems
Pay attention to these warning signs that could indicate your harness is causing harm:
- Visible discomfort: Whining, refusing to walk, or trying to paw at the harness
- Hair loss in areas where the harness sits
- Skin irritation or redness
- Changes in gait or movement
- Resistance to putting the harness on: Your dog might freeze or run away when they see the harness coming
If your dog freezes when you put the harness on or runs away when you get it out, this could indicate discomfort. The harness might not fit properly, or the design might not be suitable for your dog’s body type.
Harness vs. Collar: Which is Safer?
While harnesses do have potential risks, they’re generally considered safer than collars for many dogs. Here’s why:
- Harnesses don’t put pressure on your dog’s neck and trachea
- They provide better control, especially for strong pullers
- They’re ideal for pets with neck problems, collapsed tracheas, or restricted airways
Dog trainers often recommend harnesses over collars, especially for walks. However, it’s worth noting that some trainers, including Cesar Millan, have expressed concerns that harnesses can encourage pulling. According to a quoted tweet, “A harness is not the right tool for walking a dog, it encourages pulling.”
Despite this perspective, many veterinarians and trainers continue to recommend harnesses as the safer option for walking dogs, particularly those with respiratory issues or neck problems.
Should Your Dog Still Wear a Collar?
Even if you use a harness for walks, experts suggest your dog should still wear a collar with identification:
“In general, it is still better for dogs to wear a collar with some type of identification, in case they get lost,” says Dr. Nelson.
If you’re worried about your dog getting caught by their collar, consider “a collar with a breakaway feature” which will release if it gets snagged on something.
Tips for Introducing Your Dog to a Harness
Some dogs may need time to adjust to wearing a harness. Here’s how to make the transition smoother:
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Use positive reinforcement: “Pet parents can set themselves up to succeed by using treats to ease the process,” Schade advises. “Reward the dog for standing calmly every step of the way as the harness is put on.”
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Start with short periods: Let your dog wear the harness for brief periods around the house before taking them for a walk.
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Check the fit regularly: If you have a growing puppy, Dr. Nelson recommends “checking the fit frequently to be sure your puppy has not outgrown it.”
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Be patient: Some dogs take longer than others to get used to the feeling of a harness.
Final Thoughts: Are Harnesses Good or Bad for Dogs?
So, can a harness hurt your dog? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Harnesses can be extremely safe and beneficial when:
- They fit properly
- They’re appropriate for your dog’s breed and body type
- They’re used correctly
- They’re removed when not needed
As one expert puts it, “There is no one fit all solution; there is no such thing that a harness is good or bad for all dogs.” It really depends on your individual dog’s needs, health status, and the specific harness you choose.
The good news? Most experts agree that “harnesses are great for dogs. They are a safe and comfortable way to walk a dog of any age, size and breed.” Every dog owner should consider having a harness in addition to a collar, even if your dog walks well on a leash.
My Personal Experience
I’ve tried several harnesses with my own dogs over the years, and I’ve found that what works for one doesn’t always work for another. My short-nosed pug did best with a back-clip harness that didn’t put any pressure on his already compromised breathing. Meanwhile, my energetic Lab mix needed a front-clip harness until she learned not to pull (although we eventually transitioned to a back-clip for her agility training).
The most important thing I’ve learned is to pay attention to your dog’s cues. They’ll let you know if something isn’t right – we just need to be observant enough to notice!
Have you had experiences with different types of harnesses for your dog? What worked best for your furry friend? Remember, the right harness can make walks more enjoyable for both you and your dog, while the wrong one can lead to discomfort or even injury.
Stay safe and happy walking!
Choosing the Right Harness for Your Dog
A well-fitting harness wont gap, pull, chafe, or otherwise irritate the dog and will stay put with minimal movement as the dog walks, Schade says. A properly fitted harness also wont cause rolls of skin to bunch up around the dog’s neck or shoulders, which indicate that it is too tight. And when you take the harness off, you shouldnt see indentations in the fur where the harness sat, Schaede says.
Pet parents with barrel-chested dogs, like English Bulldogs, Boxers, and Pit Bulls, might have a tougher time finding a harness that fits properly. “Comfort is key when it comes to finding the right fit, and some harnesses either fit these breeds too tightly around the chest or shoulders or rub under the arms as the dog walks,” Schade says.
To ensure the fit is not too tight or too loose, you should be able to fit two fingers snugly between the harness and your dog, Grzyb says. If using a harness on a young, growing dog, Nelson recommends checking the fit frequently to be sure your puppy has not outgrown it.
Most standard harnesses dont require special training, but some dogs do need to acclimate when switching from a leash attached at the collar to a harness, Schade says.
This can be especially true if the harness is tricky to put on. “Pet parents can set themselves up to succeed by using treats to ease the process,” she says. “Reward the dog for standing calmly every step of the way as the harness is put on.”
The greatest risk of an ill-fitting harness is the dog slipping out of it during a walk, Schade says. Some dog body shapes dont mesh well with certain harness types. For example, your dog may be able to wiggle out if he has a deep chest (think Great Danes or Dobermans) and the shoulder-to-chest ratio on the harness creates too much slack. Some no-pull harnesses have a design flaw in which the chest piece slips down when the leash is taut, which means a determined puller can slip free, Schade says.
For this reason, your dog should always wear identification tags, especially if he’s an escape artist. “In general, it is still better for dogs to wear a collar with some type of identification, in case they get lost,” Nelson says. Pet parents who are worried about the risk of their dog getting hung up by his collar can purchase one with a breakaway feature.
Potential Risks of Dog Harnesses
If a harness doesn’t fit well and a dog pulls hard on his leash, there is some potential for a chest injury, says Dr. Susan C. Nelson, clinical professor at the Veterinary Health Center at Kansas State University.
A halter with a back clip, as opposed to a front clip, may be better for brachycephalic (short-nosed dogs), small breeds, and dogs with tracheal collapse or other tracheal issues. This is because front-clip harnesses may put too much pressure on the throat region when the dog pulls on the leash, Nelson says.
Schaede notes that a harness does not, by definition, decrease pulling unless it is specifically designed to address the problem.
Front-hook harnesses, on the other hand, can affect a dog’s natural gait and hinder shoulder movement. Nelson says these particular harnesses may not be a good choice for dogs who engage in athletic activities.
Harnesses that go around the muzzle, also known as a head halter, can present a unique challenge because few dogs easily adjust to them, Schade says. “Most do not enjoy the sensation and fight it by pawing at their nose, rolling on the ground, or rubbing their face on their persons leg,” she says. “Additionally, if the dog races ahead and is jerked back, it might injure its neck.”
Nelson agrees with this caution but notes that with proper training, head halters can work well for many dogs. “It allows them to have their head (thus eyes) redirected and focused on their owner for training,” she says.
Sleeping in a harness is potentially risky because it could get caught on something (like the dog’s crate) and become a choking hazard, Nelson adds. “It can also be uncomfortable for a harness to be on 24/7.”
In addition, pet parents should not leave a wet harness on their dog for a long period of time, as it can cause skin infection, advises Dr. Katie Grzyb, medical director at One Love Animal Hospital in Brooklyn, New York.
“Monitor hidden areas such as armpits and under the chest a few times a week to make sure that the harness is not causing skin irritation from rubbing,” Grzyb adds.
Can A Pulling Harness Hurt My Dog? – PetGuide360.com
FAQ
Why do dog trainers not recommend harnesses?
You’ll see a lot of advice against harnesses as generally they can promote pulling and are harder to train loose leash walking with. On top of this, most harnesses are not fitted well to the dog and can cause really bad biomechanics issues for the dogs gate, which will have serious health effects down the road.
Is a harness bad for dogs’ joints?
As far as a body harness, I personally don’t like them. They have their benefits, but it is very important to have a harness which is properly fitted. The 2 main ways a body harness can damage the joints is by putting too much pressure on the joints or by restricting the dog’s movement.
Do vets recommend dog harnesses?
Dog harnesses are an excellent tool for leash training and for comfortably walking a larger, stronger dog. Harnesses give you more control over your dog – safely and comfortably – as it applies even pressure over a large area of your dog’s body.