Many dog owners are moving from collars to harnesses.
Why?
Because harnesses give you good control of your dog, while simultaneously preventing the stress on the neck that any collar could cause. They also reduce pulling while you go on your walks.
However, the one problem is getting a harness that fits your dog correctly. And the only way to get the preceding benefits with your dog's harness is to get one that fits your dog perfectly.
If you get a harness that doesn't fit your dog well, then you risk:
Making your dog uncomfortable because of the way the harness rubs their skin
Losing control of your dog when on walks
The dog pulling anyway
Abrasions from the harnesses' constant rubbing
Pain because the harness may be way too tight
The possibility that your dog could get out of the harness and run away
To determine if you potentially have the right harness for your dog, simply follow the two-finger rule. You should be able to comfortably place two fingers under the harness when it is in place. Any more or less room than this leads to the problems just mentioned.
How to Measure Your Dog to Size Their Harness
You should always measure your dog before you choose a harness. This helps you choose the best harness for your dog that does not result in complications from incorrect sizing.
So, go grab your tape measure and a rule. And here's what to do:
Use a Sizing Chart
Wherever you decide to purchase your dog's harness, they should have a sizing chart available. Once you get your dog's measurements, then you can use this chart to help you pick out the right size of harness.
2. Measure Neck Girth
To measure neck girth, simply wrap your measuring tape around where the dog's collar would normally rest. Also make sure you have enough room to slip two fingers in per the two-finger rule mentioned earlier. Then, write the measurement down.
3. Meausre Chest Girth
Here, make sure you measure the widest part of your dog's rib cage. The end of the tape should come together on your dog's back. Then, of course, write down what you measure here as well.
4. Measure Body Length
Here, you can use either your rule or measuring tape. Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. Then, write down the result you get from this as well. Not all harnesses require this measurement, but it's good to have available, just in case the one you want does.
Now that you have your dog's measurements, you simply match them to the sizing chart you have available.
...And that's all there is to it!
Opmerkingen