Picking the Right Harness for Your Dog

What is a Dog Harness?

A dog harness is a device that attaches to a dog's chest and around the shoulders. It is designed to control a dog's movements without restricting their range of motion or causing discomfort. It’s fit to the dog's chest and shoulders with a leash.

This type of harness is used to control and guide dogs while they are on walks or during other activities. It can also be used as a way to train dogs, as well as provide comfort for those who have arthritis or other mobility issues.

The best dog harness can be found in different shapes and sizes, depending on the size of your pet. Harnesses are designed to be comfortable for the animal and do not restrict the movement of their head, neck, or legs. The use of harnesses has been encouraged by many animal welfare organizations because it prevents dogs from pulling on their leash, which can cause damage to their spine or throat. Harnesses also help reduce the anxiety that some dogs experience when wearing collars while protecting your pup from choking or being pulled too tightly should they try to run away.

What are the Advantages of a Dog Harness?

There are a number of reasons why dog owners might want to use a harness instead of a collar. The most common reason is that it's safer for your dog. Because they are designed to distribute pressure evenly across the chest, it reduces the risk of choking and injury if your dog pulls on the leash too hard or gets startled by something and tries to run away.

Harnesses make walking your dog much more accessible. If you live in an urban area or a in city like New York or Brooklyn, you'll know how difficult it can be to walk a small dog through streets crowded with people, cars and other animals. A harness gives you peace of mind and control over your pup without having to worry about them running into traffic or getting lost in a crowd, all the while giving them a more comfortable walking experience.

How to Choose the Right Harness for Your City Pooch

A harness can be used for any dog size, but it should fit snugly so that it does not slip off when the dog pulls on the leash.

They are available in materials like nylon, leather, canvas, and mesh, which all offer different benefits for you and your pup. A harness should be made of durable material that will not cause any irritation or discomfort. The straps need to be strong enough to withstand the pressure of pulling on the leash and should have some padding for comfort.

Our custom flat rope harnesses are made for small to medium dogs. From big dogs to puppies, minis, and toys, walk your little one in style. Handmade with reclaimed climbing rope and colorful recyclable trims, they are the latest addition to our Rope Collection. These are made to order in small batches! Due to the unique nature of reclaiming recycled climbing rope color will vary. Every piece is individually handcrafted. No two pieces exactly alike.

How to Properly Fit and Wear a Dog Harness

A properly fitted harness should not be too tight or too loose around the dog's neck. A good fit should be snug but not tight, with enough room to allow two fingers to fit between the neck and the strap. If a harness is too tight, it can restrict the dog's breathing. If a harness is too loose, it can slip off.

Using a harness for the first time can be a strange or uncomfortable experience for your dog. To avoid making your dog anxious, try putting the harness on him or her at home before going for walks. You may want to take your time and allow the process to become more familiar before using it regularly. Have them wear it for short periods of time before the walk, increasing each time. Be sure to take it off after walking so that your dog isn't uncomfortable or feeling anxious about wearing it during a long period of time.

The size of the harness will depend on the size of your dog, so you will need to measure your dog first. You can also reference our guide for help with measuring your pup and picking the right size from our custom, made-to-order designs:

X Small Fits 10” to 12" chest circumference.

Small Fits 10” to 14"  chest circumference.

Small/Medium Fits 12” to 18"  chest circumference.

Medium Fits 16” to 24"  chest circumference.

Our products are all sustainably and locally made in New York City from reclaimed climbing rope, courtesy of local climbing gyms in the NY Tri-state area!

The Best Dog Supplies for Every Occasion - Locally in Brooklyn

What better way to shop for your pup than to go to a small business, a local store founded and run by women? If you’re looking for gear, accessories, home supplies, or toys, Gone to the Dogs has everything you need for your furry friend.

Come find us in Park Slope, Brooklyn, at 103 7th Avenue.

Don’t worry - we ship nationally! Check out our site for more products.