Have you ever come across your dog leash, wondering what type of harness it is? There are dozens of different types you can use on your dog. It’s important to understand the differences between them. The last thing you want is for your dog to be uncomfortable wearing its harness. This article breaks down all types of dog harnesses and will help you make an informed decision on what type to choose for your four-legged friend.
1. Standard Harness
A standard harness is the most basic type of harness and is typically used for walking and light training. It consists of a strap that goes around the dog’s chest and another that goes around the belly, connecting in the back.
2. No-Pull Harness
A no-pull harness is designed to prevent dogs from pulling on the leash. It works by applying gentle pressure on the dog’s chest and shoulders when they start to pull, which encourages them to stop.
3. Step-In Harness
A step-in harness is easy to put on and take off and is a good option for dogs that are resistant to wearing a traditional harness. It consists of two loops that the dog steps into, and then the harness is pulled up and over the back.
4. Front-Clip Harness
A front-clip harness is designed to prevent pulling and redirect the dog’s attention back to the owner. It has a clip in the front that attaches to the leash. And, when the dog pulls, the harness puts pressure on the chest instead of the neck.
5. Head Halter
A head halter is a type of harness that goes around the dog’s head and muzzle. It gives the owner more control over the dog’s movements and can be helpful in training.
6. Vehicle Harness
A vehicle harness is a type of harness that is specifically designed for use in the car. It attaches to the seatbelt or other anchor point in the car and prevents the dog from moving around while the car is in motion.
7. Tracking Harness
A tracking harness is a type of harness that is specifically designed for dogs that are used in tracking or search and rescue. It includes a handle on the back so that the dog can be easily guided, and it also has a D-ring for attaching a tracking leash.
8. Sledding Harness
A sledding harness is a type of harness that is specifically designed for dogs that are used in sledding or carting. It attaches the dog to the sled or cart and helps distribute the weight evenly so that the dog can pull more easily.
9. Service Dog Harness
A service dog harness is a type of harness that is specifically designed for dogs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. It is sturdy and comfortable, and it often includes a handle on the back so that the dog can be easily guided.
10. Therapy Dog Harness
A therapy dog harness is a type of harness that is specifically designed for dogs that provide emotional support to people in hospitals, nursing homes, or other settings. It is often brightly colored and includes a patch that says “therapy dog.”
11. Agility Dog Harness
An agility dog harness is a type of harness that is specifically designed for dogs that compete in agility trials. It is lightweight and allows the dog to move freely, and it also has a handle on the back so that the dog can be easily guided.
12. Show Dog Harness
A show dog harness is a type of harness that is specifically designed for dogs that compete in dog shows. It is often brightly colored and decorated with jewels or other embellishments, and it is designed to show off the dog’s coat.