You set off on a walk, your dog moves forward and, a few metres later, the harness has slipped askew. The ring that should sit in front of the chest slides round to the side. Should you tighten the straps, change size or choose another model?
A harness that twists is worth checking, but tightening it further is not always the right answer.
Start by looking at how it is fitted
Do this check at home, with your dog standing and calm. Use the instructions to identify the front, the back and the different strap routes.
A twisted strap or a badly positioned harness can make it look as if the size is wrong. Look at the whole harness from the front, the side and above before changing the settings.
If the model has symmetrical adjustments, also check that one side is not much longer than the other.
Is the harness too loose?
Too much slack can let the harness move when the lead pulls on it. Adjust gradually, following the manufacturer’s instructions, then watch your dog moving.
The aim is not to get a harness that never moves by squeezing the body. Your dog must be able to walk normally, with no strap getting in the way of the legs or riding up towards the throat.
For its Easy Walk model, PetSafe recommends checking that the adjustments are balanced and checking the fit again after a few minutes of walking. These instructions show how much fitting matters, but exactly how they apply depends on the model.
Source: PetSafe fitting advice
Watch what happens with the front clip
Does the harness stay centred with no tension, then turn only when your dog pulls? This is a useful observation for understanding the problem.
Also note which side the lead is on and whether the movement always happens in the same situation. A short video from the front and the side can help the seller or a trainer look at the fit.
Avoid jerking the lead to put the harness back in place.
When should you consider another size or cut?
If the straps are at their limit and the harness is still too loose, measure again. If the chest seems well fitted but another part never sits right, the cut may not suit your dog’s build.
It is better to look for a suitable model than to make up for a poor fit by tightening more and more.
If you notice irritation, pain or a change in gait, stop using the equipment concerned and ask a vet for advice.
Read also
- Neck and chest match two different harness sizes: how to choose?: if you are hesitating between two sizes.
- The lead gets under the legs with a front clip: how to avoid tangles?: if the lead is the main problem.
- The MyDogGrip harness: front clip, back ring and adjustable straps at the neck, chest and belly.
- How to put a harness on your dog: step-by-step method: to go over the fitting and each adjustment point.
- Do no-pull harnesses really work?: if the harness turns mainly when your dog pulls.