Best type of harness for small dogs?

mom2bichons · #1 07-05-2006, 09:08 AM

Does anyone have any ideas what the best type of harness for small dogs, or dogs in general, would be?

Gidget is small, but barrel chested so she has a tiny neck and broad shoulders and tummy. Dexter is so wiggly he has gotten himself out of the one we have currently. He is very lean and long. It either fits nice against his chest and really tight around his front legs, or it is too big all over.

Any suggestions? Not only to what kinds of harnesses you use but where to get good harnesses. Your information is greatly appreciated.

pmacbohlen · #2 07-05-2006, 01:36 PM

I would reccomend going to Pet Smart or a Pet store. I had to find a special collar for Buddy and the pet store was very helpful.

I would bring the dogs with you so you can try them on. Pet stores usualy will let you try them before you buy them.

mom2bichons · #3 07-05-2006, 10:55 PM

Good idea, thank you.

Erica · #4 07-27-2006, 04:20 AM

Beth,

Maybe you might want to try an adjustable harness. I think I've seen them for small dogs too. I know for large dogs for certain. Then you could adjust the chest and belly parts separately. I got all my dog harnesses at the pet store (i.e. Petsmart or Pet Supplies Plus).

Erica

mom2bichons · #5 07-27-2006, 11:57 PM

Hi Erica,

The stores around here have the kind that are not so easy to use in my opinion. The kind they sell is the harness that rest across the breastbone and there is a snap buckle that goes around the chest. However, Dexter has a tiny breast bone area so that is always too loose and the chest area is feeling to tight to me and he easily can wiggle out of it. Gidget on the other hand has a cat sized neck and a barrel chest area. So not easy.

I did see in dog.com catalog, and please tell me if this describes the type of harness you are telling me about, because they are pretty inexpensive and I will get them.

It is a completely adjustable harness, you slip it over their head and snap with a comfort pad on the back part. When it is on and properly adjusted it looks like an 'X' with a comfort area to attach the lead to.

Please let me know because for $5 plus some change it is worth every penny if that works and is better for them.

Thank you!

Erica · #6 07-29-2006, 06:20 PM

Beth,
That is the type of harness I was trying to describe. I honestly wasn't sure if they made them for small dogs too. I like them because they are completely adjustable for a snugger fit.

Erica

mom2bichons · #7 07-30-2006, 10:08 PM

Erica,

i went ahead and did the measuring like the dog.com site told me to do (and they mentioned that it is returnable and exchangable no matter what) and I went ahead and ordered those "Size Right" adjustable harnesses one for both pups. I ordered them on friday night, and on saturday I had an email from dog.com stating my order was already shipped out. How fast.

When I get them and try them on and try them out, I will be sending you another thankful message.

Thank you for your help. And to anyone who gave the ideas. It really has been heeded and tested.

Erica · #8 07-30-2006, 11:35 PM

Beth,
I hope the harnesses work out for you. I know they worked well for me. Let me know how it goes once they arrive.

Good luck,
Erica

mom2bichons · #9 08-02-2006, 08:06 PM

Erica, they just arrived today. We will try them on and I will let you know what we think.

Erica · #10 08-03-2006, 12:29 AM

Good Luck Beth. I really hope the harnesses work for you.

Let me know.

Erica