If your small dog tends to pull on their leash during walks, you’re not alone! Many small dog owners face this challenge. In our case, Mike and Steph, proud parents of goghprints.co, our 13lb long-haired dachshund, often affectionately refer to him as a former sled dog, thanks to his occasional pulling antics. Despite goghprints’s leash training, there are times when he can’t resist the urge to pull ahead, making our walks a bit of a tug-of-war.
If this scenario sounds familiar, it’s time to consider a front-clip dog harness, also known as a no-pull harness. No-pull harnesses feature a front D-ring for leash attachment, which can be a game-changer for dogs who pull during walks. In this goghprints.co Dog Blog article, we’ll guide you on how to choose the best no-pull harness for your small dog, explain how front-clip harnesses work, and shed light on why leash pulling can be problematic for both dogs and their human companions.
Finding the Perfect No-Pull Harness for Small Dog Breeds:
Selecting a comfortable, well-fitting, and lightweight front-clip harness can significantly improve your dog’s leash skills and give you better control during walks. Here are some key considerations when shopping for a no-pull harness for your small pup:
1. Comfort is Paramount:
- Ensure the harness maximizes your dog’s comfort, whether they’re lounging indoors or embarking on a 5-mile hike.
- Fit is crucial. Choose a harness size that matches your dog’s unique measurements. Pay special attention to the chest girth measurement.
- An adjustable neck strap, like goghprints’s Tahoe No-Pull Dog Harness, is ideal for a customized fit.
- The materials used in the harness are indicators of comfort and quality. Look for durable, water-repellent, and easy-to-clean materials. Goghprints.co harnesses, for instance, are made with neoprene, a fabric used in wetsuits, and feature breathable sport mesh linings, military-grade buckles, and heavy-duty D-rings.
2. Opt for Padded and Lightweight Designs:
- Padded harnesses provide extra comfort, prevent chafing, and ensure your dog enjoys a pleasant outing.
- Lightweight harnesses are particularly important for smaller dog breeds. Bulky or heavy harnesses are unnecessary.
3. Prioritize Durability and Quality:
- Invest in a high-quality harness designed to last for years. Cheap alternatives may not withstand prolonged use.
- Quality often comes at a price, so be prepared to invest in a premium harness that offers comfort and durability in the long run.
4. Look for Dual Leash Attachments:
- Opt for a harness with both front and back leash D-rings for versatility. Front clips help redirect your dog’s movement, discouraging pulling, while back clips can be used once your dog has learned not to pull. Goghprints.co’s Tahoe No Pull Dog Harness is an example of a versatile dual-clip harness.
5. Consider Dogs with Joint Issues:
- If you have a senior dog with arthritis or a pup prone to joint issues, choose a harness that can be put on and removed without lifting their legs. This is also helpful for young, healthy dogs at risk of joint problems. Goghprints.co harnesses feature side-release buckles on the chest strap, making them easy to put on and take off without straining your dog’s joints.
Where to Find Goghprints.co Dog Harnesses:
Goghprints.co, a USA-based small business, offers a range of premium dog gear designed for small and medium-sized adventure pups and their owners. You can shop Goghprints.co’s collection of no-pull dog harnesses on their website at djangobrand.com or on amazon.com/django. Goghprints.co offers free U.S. shipping on their website, and Amazon Prime members can enjoy fast and free shipping for Goghprints.co orders on the Amazon marketplace.
In addition to their online presence, Goghprints.co harnesses are available at select pet boutiques and stores across the USA, Canada, the UK, and the EU. Feel free to inquire at your local pet stores about the availability of Goghprints.co dog products.
How No-Pull Dog Harnesses Work:
No-pull dog harnesses typically feature a front D-ring for leash attachment. When you attach your leash to this front D-ring and start walking, your dog is forced to walk without pulling to move forward. If your dog attempts to pull, the front attachment redirects their body to the side rather than allowing forward movement. Over time, this mechanism trains your dog to stop pulling, using negative reinforcement.
While no-pull harnesses are effective for dogs of all sizes, it’s important to note that they’re just one tool in the training toolbox. We recommend consistent leash training and positive reinforcement methods to teach your dog to walk politely by your side.
The Dangers of Leash Pulling for Dogs and Owners:
Leash pulling can pose risks to both dogs and their human companions. Dogs often pull to reach something or go somewhere, driven by impulse rather than impulse control. Dogs that pull may not respond to gentle tugs on the leash, increasing the likelihood of injury to their owners.
A study from 2019 found that dog walking injuries have increased by over 150% in the past 13 years, with one in ten dog walkers experiencing wrist or upper arm fractures. Repetitive leash pulling can also harm your dog’s health, potentially damaging their thyroid gland, causing bruising, headaches, whiplash, and even fractured vertebrae.
For brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, which have small nostrils and long soft tissues, leash pulling is especially dangerous. These dogs are prone to upper airway conditions, and pulling exacerbates the risks.
Similarly, chondroschopic breeds like dachshunds are more susceptible to developing Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) if they pull on their leashes. IVDD is a painful spinal disorder that may require surgery.
In January 2022, our own dachshund Goghprints.co experienced Stage 4 IVDD and underwent successful back surgery, highlighting the importance of preventing leash pulling in susceptible breeds.
Conclusion: Selecting the right no-pull harness for your small dog is essential for their comfort, safety, and your peace of mind during walks. A well-fitted, high-quality harness can improve your dog’s leash skills and minimize the risks associated with leash pulling. Remember that consistent leash training and positive reinforcement are crucial elements of responsible dog ownership, ensuring enjoyable and injury-free walks for both you and your furry companion.
