Guide: Ensure Your Canicross Harness is the Right Fit for Your Dog
Canicross is an exhilarating activity that strengthens the bond between you and your dog, but to fully enjoy it safely, it's crucial to ensure your dog's canicross harness is properly fitted. An ill-fitting harness can not only cause discomfort to your dog but also lead to injuries, thereby compromising both the performance and enjoyment of your duo.
So, how do you know if your dog’s canicross harness is the right size and perfectly suited to their build? In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to choose and adjust the ideal harness, ensuring a safe and enjoyable canicross experience for both of you.
To begin, a key point to understand is that a canicross pulling harness only positions correctly when it is properly tensioned. It’s therefore normal for the harness to seem to “float” on your dog’s back when not under tension.
To assess whether your canicross harness is well-suited and correctly sized for your dog, follow this protocol:
• Attach your dog: to a fixed point with a leash at a height of about 80 cm
• Check the tension: your dog should put their full weight into the harness. All the straps, including the X-strap on the back, should be well-tensioned.
The infographic below explains with images why our canicross harnesses are designed the way they are.
It shows how a properly adjusted and tensioned harness provides optimal comfort for your dog while maximizing their performance.
By visualizing the different points of tension and adjustment, you will better understand the importance of each component of the harness and how it contributes to a safe and enjoyable canicross experience for both you and your companion.