Dog harness
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A dog harness is similar to harness tack for horses. There are various designs depending on the type of use, whether it be for assistance to a disabled person, hauling a cart or sled, or pulling a human being, such as in skijoring or pulka. Harnesses are also commonly worn by non-working dogs.
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[edit] Pet harnesses
A harness may be worn in conjunction with a collar and used as an alternative place for leash attachment. While a collar only encircles the neck, harnesses generally have two loops: one in the neck-to-shoulders region and one around the torso, the two connected by vertical straps for reinforcement. This more complex design gives it advantages over collars when walking a dog or otherwise keeping the animal on a lead. It allows for distribution of force, preventing uncomfortable choking and giving the handler more control; another benefit is added security, as a dog cannot slip out of a harness as simply as they can a collar. Many dog trainers and other professional handlers prefer harnesses, and their popularity is growing among owners in general--harnesses are as widely available as regular collars, and pet clothing like sweaters and t-shirts frequently sport a properly-placed buttonhole, through which the leash may be hooked to a harness worn under the garment.
[edit] Assistance dog harnesses
Assistance dogs sometimes wear a harness if part of their job includes guiding or providing physical assistance. A handle is generally built in for the person to grip. The sturdiness of the design depends on whether the dog is gently leading, acting as a brace, or physically pulling a wheelchair (whereas the design may be similar to that of a sled dog's).
[edit] Sled dog harnesses
Sled dog harnesses vary depending on whether the dog is hauling freight or racing. Harnesses come in three main types: the freight harness, the H-back harness, and the X-back harness. Dog sports are growing and more types of harnesses are being developed, including the Y-back style and guard or distance harness. This type of harness is quickly becoming a favorite for those who enjoy skijoring.
The freight harness, often an H-back harness with a wide chestband and sometimes extra padding, is designed to help the dog pull heavy weights efficiently, and may feature a spreader bar behind the wheel dogs and before the sled or cart. The straps form an 'H' or ladder-like effect across the back of the dog. These harnesses help distribute the weight of the cargo over a broader body area.
Racing harnesses are lighter and shorter than freight harnesses. The X-back harness, so called because the straps form an 'X' across the back of the dog, is used more frequently than the H-back, with short versions that ride farther forward on the dog's body recently gaining in popularity.
The Y-back or hybrid harness is similar in appearance to the H-back. The tugline attaches to the harness on top of the dog's back and stretches parallel to the ground or upwards to the skier, bicycle, or other load.
In contrast, dogs that participate in weight pulls (as compared to a regular freight harness) will wear very heavy, padded harnesses, with broad chestbands to help spread the weight and prevent harm to the dog.
[edit] Dog Dress Harnesses
The newest innovation and biggest change to the dog harness was developed in the early 21st century. Dog dress harness incorporate harnesses into popular dog clothing such as dresses. BowWows & Meows "[1]Gourmet Pet Bakery & Boutique" an internet reseller offer over 20 different styles in many sizes.
