Are you ready to take a closer look at harnesses for your pup instead of the traditional collar you may be using? Harnesses have many great features that make them a good choice. But, there are a few things you need to consider before making a purchase. You want to make sure the harness you buy is the right one for your pet.

Harnesses come in a variety of sizes, styles, colors and materials. This makes it easy to find one that will fit your pup the best while choosing something that suits his personality perfectly. Mesh is a popular material because it's soft, comfortable and it allows your pet's skin to breath. Other good choices include cotton, silk, suede and fleece.

Decide Which Type to Use

The three main types of harnesses are the step in harness, vest harness and the car seat harness. You can use either the step in harness or the vest harness when walking your pet while the car seat harness is similar to a seat belt. These keep your pet safe when traveling. Out of these three, you have several different designs to choose from.

Decide which type of harness you want to use and which design would suit your pet the best. If you're not sure, research the different types to see what features make them stand out the most. This will help you determine which style is best suited for your pup.

When choosing which type to use, consider your pet's temperament and size as well as the primary function of the harness. If he tends to pull away when on a leash, a mesh or padded harness would keep from rubbing her skin during the struggle. If she has sensitive skin or if she will be wearing the harness often, then look for a soft material that won't irritate the skin.

Once you decide which type to use, set a budget and begin looking for harnesses within your price range since they do vary considerably in price. Whichever type you choose, it should be adjustable, easy to use and have secure buckles to prevent it from unhooking. Look for a strong material that is also machine washable and it will last much longer.

Choose the Right Fit

It's vital that you choose the right fit when buying a harness for your pet. It needs to be snug against his body but not so tight that it's constricting. He needs to be able to move around without feeling uncomfortable. When you can easily get two fingers between the harness and your pup, then you have a good fit.

Since you can't try on the harnesses, you'll need to take measurements to find the right size. Measure your pet around the fullest part of her stomach and add about 2 inches for comfort. This is the best way to make sure you have a good fit that keeps your pup safe when walking on a leash. When you use these tips as a guide, choosing harnesses for your pup will be much easier.

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