To ensure your dog is safe, comfortable, and secure during activities, it’s essential to choose a well-fitting harness that allows for a full range of motion. With the numerous harness types available on the market, selecting the right one for your dog can be overwhelming.
Before buying, consider key dog harness features to find the right high-quality one for your pup.
What are the distinct features of high-quality dog harnesses?
A great harness offers safety, security, comfort, functionality, and even style for your dog’s needs.
Here are some other factors that contribute to the quality of a great dog harness:
Durable
One of the determining factors that makes a dog harness top-notch is its durability. These types of harnesses are made of sturdy, quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
Some popular materials that fall under this category are nylon and polyester.
Watch for harnesses with poor or weak stitching. These tend to unravel quickly, compromising your dog’s security.
Straps and buckles for security
Adjustable straps are essential to keep your dog in place, ensuring you can reel them in and take control in case of pulling.
Usually, it also has buckles to lock the straps in place, so choose a rust-resistant harness.
Some manufacturers even add designs and patterns to the straps, turning them into stylish dog harnesses that you can coordinate with your style.
Reflective strips for better visibility
Some dog owners opt for night walks, so having reflective strips attached to the harness is ideal.
In other cases, there may be poor lighting, so having reflective strips lets drivers see your dog from a distance.
Comfort-wise, many companies have made added features and adjustments that make harnesses comfortable for our furry friends, such as the following:
Breathable materials
Lately, the unpredictable weather gives us bouts of extreme heat or sudden drizzles, especially in sunny Australia.
Choose a harness made of breathable materials to ensure that your furry friend remains cool and comfortable.
Check if it has any mesh panels to allow airflow, which is crucial, especially during hot weather.
Padded straps
A poorly fitted harness usually leads to constricted movements and chaffing for our furry friends.
However, certain dogs also suffer from chaffing in some cases, even if their straps are snug, so in cases like these, it’s best to choose a harness with soft and breathable padded straps.
Function and versatility
Let’s talk about functionality and versatility.
Most pet parents use a dog harness to avoid hooking a leash to their dog’s collar and reduce the risk of a neck injury.
Many harnesses have a few handy features that benefit pet owners and the dog itself.
Front-clip and back-clip options
These two types of harness cater to two distinct instances: front-clip harnesses are ideal for dogs who tend to pull since the front-clip redirects the pressure, making it easier to control them.
The back-clip option is a more laid-back style that can be used for daily activities and provides a more comfortable fit for your dog.
Utility pockets
Utility pockets are handy. You can sneak in a few treats, waste bags, and other small items you can use later for yourself or your dog.
Multiple attachment points
Harnesses with multiple attachment points are a lifesaver because they allow you to adjust the position of the leash according to your dog’s behavior.
This is paramount, especially for dog owners who want better control over their dog’s strong pulling tendencies.
Final thoughts on dog harness features
If you’re unsure if the harness you have in mind is a good fit for your dog and activity, it pays to talk to your local vet and dog professionals to help you choose one accordingly.
Buying a high-quality harness for your dog is a good investment. It enriches your quality time with your pet and ensures that your dog is safe and comfortable throughout the activity.
Although many varieties of harnesses are available right now, pick one that provides the features that meet your dog’s needs.
Remember that choosing a dog harness will benefit you and your dog in the long run, so select one made of quality materials and features.