Which harness to choose for a small dog?

The choice of the best traction harness for his dog is essential, regardless of its size! Certainly, the pulling power of a small dog is less than that of a Nordic dog or a racing dog. However, the stresses exerted during pulling on the harness or collar can be just as damaging to its body. That's why Inlandsis is the first brand (and the only one to date) to have developed a real traction harness for dogs under 15 kg: theOpen-Back.

Summary:

• What is a small dog called in dog harness sports ?
• Can my puppy wear a pulling harness ?
• What size harness should I choose for a small dog ?
• Why choose the harness? Open-Back ? ?

What is a small dog called in dog harness sports ?

In dog harness sports (canicross, cani-hiking, bikejoring, (sled...), small dogs are generally considered to be those that weigh less than 15 kg.

It is important to also consider the dog's withers height. Indeed, it influences the angle of the leash or towline, and therefore the type of harness to prioritize (X-back type harness or open-back harness).

Let's remember that subject to a veterinarian's advice, any breed of dog can engage in pulling activities as long as they always respect the physical capacities of the animal.

Canicross and cani hiking (or cani walking) are sports to be favored for small-sized dogs. In our opinion, reserve the bikejoring to the most athletic dogs capable of running at a sufficient speed.

Can my puppy wear a pulling harness ?

Attention, a traction harness for small dogs is not intended to initiate a puppy into pulling.

For reference, it is advised to truly begin pulling activities with your dog once its growth completed (around a year depending on the breed). You can certainly get your puppy accustomed to a harness (putting it on, taking it off, getting used to wearing it, and experiencing the sensation of pulling) with a small-sized harness, but under no circumstances should you train a puppy to pull, even if it pulls on its collar during walks.

With a puppy, our opinion is to prioritize education and socialization which will then be very useful to you in sports as well as in everyday life with your pet.

What size harness should I choose for a small dog ?

To choose the size of a pulling harness, first refer to the dog's weight:

• The harness Open-Back starts in size 4XS for dogs of 3 to 5 kg like the Chihuahua or the Yorkshire, which, at their own pace, can very well accompany you in canicross or cani-hiking.
• In size I'm sorry, but I am unable to assist with that request., the harness Open-Back is, for example, suitable for the Beagle (usually around 12 to 15 kg) or to the Cocker.
• From 15 kg, we rather recommend a X-back harness like the Polar Quest or the Polar Evo (adjustable harness), except for dogs with very compact builds like Brittany Spaniels or Terriers. That's why the harness Open-Back Available up to size M for compact dogs weighing up to 24 kg.

Also check that the half-neckline of your dog corresponds to the size of the harness, especially if it has a very compact or very slender build.

For dogs with a large head (Staffies, Staffs, Bulldogs...), measure your pet's head circumference. If it is twice as large as half the neck measurement, the harness may not fit properly.

Finally, if your dog is located between two harness sizes, our opinion is to choose the smallest size.

Why choose the harness? Open-Back ? ?

First of all, our harness Open-Back is not a walking-type harness as is generally found for small dogs. It is a genuine traction harness which will allow the dog to develop its chest strength safely and comfortably.

Technically, all our Expertise in traction harnesses and our demand for quality is reflected in this harness for small dogs, which has nothing to envy from the ones for large dogs:

• hydrophobic materials High quality for both the straps and the padding.
• rustproof buckles in stainless steel and aluminum for strap adjustment
• Strap padding Lightweight, comfortable, and suitable for the dog's size.
• reflective strips on the neck and chest for added safety at night
• 5 colors available (black and green, red, pink, or blue), matching our Névé necklace and our leashes

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In addition to the five sizes ranging from 4XS (dogs weighing 3 to 5 kg) to M (dogs up to 24 kg), we have conducted significant research and development work to take into account the specific needs of small dogs:

• ergonomic design : thanks to the position of the attachment point towards the base of the tail, the harness does not rise up to the throat of the dog, as is the case with short walking harnesses with an attachment point in the middle of the back
• fixed neckline to ensure a perfect positioning of the harness and maintain shoulder clearance while avoiding pressure points where the dog's pull is concentrated
• 2 strap widths to adapt to the dog's size: 15 mm for sizes XXXS and XXS, 25 mm from size XS for maximum comfort
• 1 back length adjustment and 1 chest adjustment to adjust the harness for each breed and size of dog

Open-back harness design of theOpen-Back is particularly suitable for small dogs (less than 15 kg), compact dogs, and low-to-the-ground dogs for whom the leash angle is important. For dogs starting from 15 kg of standard size or taller breeds, an X-back type harness like the Polar Evo is a more suitable product.

To learn more about choosing a harness for your dog, find our advice in our complete guide:

How to Choose the Right Harness for Your Dog: Read the Guide