Tips & Advice
Which Dog Harness is Right for My Dog?
Mar
Choosing the right dog harness is easy to determine once you’ve identified the characteristics or behavioral problems you might have with your dog. I’d like to answer several questions pet owners have asked to help you find the best harness for you dog:
Is it a puppy? What breed of puppy?
Under 10 Pounds
If he’s a toy breed or breed that will not grow over 10 pounds, then the Be Bop Step-in Harness is just right. Start using the harness when he is about 8-10 weeks old. You don’t want to choke them with a collar as they will feel the pressure around their neck but their instinct says “pull against it”. It’s call opposition reflex and can permanently damage your dog’s throat or trachea. The Be Bop Step in harness fits low on the front chest of the puppy so it won’t choke him as the 2 of you learn to communicate and walk safely on a leash.
Over 10 Pounds
If your puppy is going to be over 10 pounds, your dog will benefit from using the Be Bop Front Lead Harness. Its unique design allows you to attach the leash to the front chest of the dog. When you gently pull on the leash, it puts pressure from behind his front legs. This does 2 things.
- Your dog does not have the anatomy to pull against your pressure.
- You effectively communicate to your dog the direction you want him to go.
It works very quickly provided you follow the principals of keeping him next to you. The Be Bop Grippa 2’ Leash is perfect for this purpose and consistency.
What If your dog is a Rescue Dog? You don’t know the history of your dog. He’s big. He’s lean. He’s determined to take YOU for a walk?
This dog would benefit most from the Be Bop Front Lead Harness. Because the communication is so effective and clear, this dog harness is always my “go to” for dogs that have a healthy dose of determination, constantly want to follow their nose or are unruly. Its unique design allows you to attach the leash to the front chest of the dog. When you gently pull on the leash, it puts pressure from behind his front legs. This does 2 things.
- Your dog does not have the anatomy to pull against your pressure.
- You effectively communicate to your dog the direction you want him to go.
It works very quickly provided you follow the principals of keeping him next to you. The Be Bop Grippa 2’ Leash is perfect for this purpose and consistency.
What about a shy dog who is afraid?
Depending on the severity of the shyness or fear and how they handle their anxiety will determine the type of dog harness that will work best:
- Mild shyness: The Be Bop Step-in harness works best for those with mild shyness. Always use positive reinforcement, a happy, slow and low voice, and constant comfort. Even if there seems to be no reason for your dog to be afraid, telling him to “Get Over IT” will not be effective. Gentle persuasion, comforting tones, and slow and steady will give your dog confidence.
- Severe shyness or fear can manifest in many ways. Using the Be Bop Traditional Harness will help your dog by providing more support than other harnesses. The fearful personality can quickly turn into the aggressive biter if you are not very contentious and aware of his language or behavior. Don’t push him too far or too fast. Building confidence, a step at a time will create long lasting behavior.
Again, using Positive reinforcement will be extremely beneficial. Sometimes “holding or hugging” your dog while breathing slowly and using long strokes will bring calmness to their soul. If you are not making progress with your dog, I encourage you to get professional help of a dog behaviorist. Ask for recommendations and referrals from pet stores, veterinarians and your friends to find just the right trainer for your dog.
What If your dog walks nicely and doesn’t pull on a collar or harness?
The perfect dog harness may be the Be Bop Traditional Harness or Be Bop Step-In Harness will work great, just depending on your preference of putting the harness on. Your dog can pull in these harness, so be sure he’s happy to just hang out with you on a walk.