Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Guide to using harness on the dog

By Jerry Welsh


Both the master and the dog would benefit from walking. Walking would be a good opportunity for master and pet to bond, to keep fit and to meet the social needs. The master will meet people as dogs can be real magnets for dog lovers. The dog, on the other hand will have a chance to meet and play with other dogs.

In spite of these benefits, an owner would at times hesitate to walk the dog. This would happen if the pet would hurt itself by constantly pulling on the leash. Dogs have the inclination to wander and one that has slipped from the collar would be very difficult to recall. If you have similar concerns in walking your dog a harness would be a better alternative to a collar? By using a harness the pressure will be distributed evenly on the dog's body thus even if the dog pulls on the leash neck injuries can be prevented.

For dogs that cannot be trained to walk calmly by the master, a harness would be a good alternative to collars as the dog can be easily managed without causing neck injuries. Harnesses would be more suitable for dog breeds with delicate necks and small heads. Unlike a collar, a harness may be a bit complicated to put on and the dog may not tolerate the pressure of the harness bands on its body. How will you condition the dog to the feel of the harness around its body?

To make the task of putting on the harness easier you need to have the cooperation of the dog but as these pets are always eager to please the master, the task would not be too difficult. Before putting on the harness, play with the dog for a while. Praise and treats will make the dog biddable. Expect the dog to wiggle thus it would be best to let the dog stand between your legs.

This position will allow you to restrain the dog with your knees if it tries to vault. Slip the neck loop over the dog's head. Make sure that the loop is well fitted. You should be able to insert two fingers in the neck loop. Bend the leg and gently lift one foot through one opening on the side of the breast plate. Repeat the procedure on the other leg. Check the fit. The breast plate should be between the front legs. Buckle the bands encircling the belly. For the comfort of the pet make sure that the harness is fitted accurately.




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