The Chest Harness is Used Incorrectly, Let’s Talk About The Selection and Timing of Use

Continued from the previous article，how to choose, my suggestions:

1. Clarify your purpose and the dog’s condition:

Does your dog have tracheal problems, is a small dog, or needs to work pulling? → Chest harness (choose the right type) is the first choice.

Is your dog a large/medium-sized puppy/teenager, energetic and has not yet learned to follow? → Please give priority to following training with a collar or head leash. The chest harness may not be the best assistant at this stage of training, but may become a hindrance.

Is the dog well-trained and follows well? → Choose equipment that is comfortable for both you and your dog. Chest harnesses are usually more comfortable and safe.

2. Choose the right type of chest harness:

Avoid front-buckle chest harnesses? Many people recommend front-buckle chest harnesses to prevent bursts, but some dog trainers believe that it has a potential impact on gait and shoulders (especially for puppies), and may only be a physical restriction rather than a real training of attention. A rear or double buckle harness with a Y-shaped front chest design (no throat compression) may be a more neutral and less controversial basic choice. Key point: No equipment is magic, the core is still training.

Material and fit are crucial! Too loose will rub, too tight will constrict. Make sure you can insert two fingers and it will not shift and rub underarms and other parts during movement. The dog should be able to run, sit, and lie down freely.

3. Training is the core: No matter what equipment you choose, teaching the dog to follow the leash is the fundamental solution to the pulling problem. Equipment is only an auxiliary tool and cannot replace training. Finding a professional positive trainer to learn the method is the key.