How to Fit a Dog Harness Correctly to Avoid Chafing

Going on a walk with your dog should always be a pleasant experience, whether it’s a circuit around the neighborhood or a more thorough exploration in the wilds; it should always be fun. A poorly fitted dog leash, however, can ruin the experience very fast, with the dog harness rubbing against the skin and causing discomfort. The dog might not like going on a walk because it causes discomfort. The good thing is that the discomfort with the harness can be avoided fairly easily. A few changes, and your dog will be safe and, most importantly, comfortable.

This guide will take you through the steps on how to measure, adjust, and ensure the dog harness is safely and comfortably fitted without the risk of more chafing.

Why the Right Fit Matters

A harness protects the sensitive neck and throat areas and helps you maintain control of your dog. It doesn’t just hold a leash. It also helps to maintain control. If a harness does fit correctly, the primary pressure points should be the chest and shoulders. The pressure a dog experiences within a harness can directly affect their behavior. A dog that feels secure in their harness will remain calm, while an uncomfortable dog will pull, refuse, fidget, and even refuse to move. If the dog is a habitual puller, a harness that is well-fitted will be able to give you more control. 

Measuring Before You Buy

To prevent any rubbing, the first step is to start with the correct size. Each dog is unique, even in the same breed. Use a soft tape and measure the base of the neck, the widest part of the chest, and with a vest-type harness, the neck to just behind the front legs. The tape should be snug, but never too tight. Spending a few minutes on measuring will save you a lot of trouble in the future. You can Check our full guide on how to measure your dog for a harness for more instructions.

Choosing the Right Style

There is variation among the different types of harnesses, and your choice will determine the fit. Step-in harnesses tend to be the most user-friendly and are perfect for dogs who dislike having things placed over their heads. Padded or vest-style harnesses tend to offer more coverage which is best in preventing rubbing for dogs who suffer from sensitivity, while the H-style harnesses are light and easily put on but need careful positioning so the harness straps do not rub on the dog’s shoulders. For dogs who are strong pullers, a front-clip harness or a no-pull dog harness  can provide more control; however, the movement of the dog’s legs should not be restricted. 

Adjusting for Comfort

Once the right harness is chosen and put on the harness, try to make the harness fit by making small adjustments. The general rule is that you should be able to slide two fingers between the strap and the dog’s body at both the neck and the chest. It should be loose enough not to pinch but snug enough not to slip free. The most dramatic evidence of this is in the area just behind the front legs. The friction of the dog’s movement is most likely to come from the straps that are placed too high in the dog’s armpits. If there’s a bit of ‘clearance’ here, that’s worth a good deal. 

Spotting the Signs of Chafing

Skin irritations, including redness, hair loss, and any scratching beneath or around the dog harness area, require immediate attention, even while the harness is still on. While the technical discomfort may elude some dogs, others will do everything in their power to avoid walking altogether.  Straps may be over-tightened, and other padding designs may come to mind. Dog harnesses are built to withstand elements such as excess sweating and spinning, having compared gentle, soft, breathable materials to lessen the likelihood of skin irritation.

Helping Your Dog Adjust

Some dogs adjust to the new equipment almost instantly, while others may take some time to do so. Either way, the first step is to allow the dog to wear the harness inside for a few minutes, then take it off, only to repeat the procedure every so often, while rewarding the dog each time with a treat. Over time, let more minutes pass before going outside for the walk. The whole process is as simple as wearable tech such as smart shoes, or wrist bands that give basic instructions, and is especially crucial for puppies who may be harnessing for their very first time. 

Mistakes to Avoid

Selecting a size based solely on weight is the most frequent error people make. Each dog is different so it is best to measure each dog and refer to the size chart. Another error is the expectation that the harness is a care device that is worn  24/7. Grooming a dog is fine; a harness is for taking walks, and a lounge harness is for the home. There is also the possibility that people forget that dogs will also change shape, so it is recommended that you set a schedule to check the fit regularly. Puppies grow, older dogs also gain or shed weight, and dogs in the summer and winter can shift in the change of seasonal coats.

Keeping Walks Comfortable

Little things can make a big difference. Spend a few minutes assessing the harness. Check the straps before walks and make sure that the harness is washed when it is dirty. Tighten the fit, and be mindful not to keep it too tight, especially in the winter when the dog has an added coat on as well. 

Final Thoughts

There is no doubt that a harness provides a means of ensuring safety and comfort is a correct measure. Tearing might happen and a dog can lose his happiness. To avoid these unfortunate events, proper measurement and an appropriate design can be applied. Each stroll your dog goes on will be a great moment.