The Hidden Dangers of Improper Dog Harnesses: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know

Jul 9

Time and time again, I have emphasized the potential harm that certain harnesses can cause to your dog's movement. Choosing the right harness is not just a matter of comfort; it directly impacts your dog's physical health and overall well-being. In this article, we'll delve into why it's crucial to choose wisely when selecting a harness and highlight key findings from recent studies that underscore this importance.

✅ Understanding the Risks ✅

All dog owners should be aware of this fact: a harness that restricts your dog’s natural movement can be a significant injustice to your pet. Avoiding the wrong type of harness can prevent a host of mobility issues and discomfort for your dog.

In the forward movement of a dog, a harness with a tape that crosses its chest from side to side can hinder its natural gait. Imagine trying to hike with an elastic band around your arms—it would severely restrict your arm movement. Similarly, such harnesses restrict the physiological movement of a dog's front limbs. Just as rubber bands would inhibit the pendular movement of our arms, these harnesses impede the natural movement of your dog’s shoulders.

Insights from the University of Jena

Thanks to the "Study of Canine Movement at the University of Jena," we have a clearer understanding of canine locomotion. The study, led by Prof. Dr. Martin S. Fischer and his team, involved 327 dogs from 32 different breeds and used high-speed cameras and 3D imaging systems to analyze their movement. The researchers found that traditional representations of dog skeletons were incorrect, showing that the shoulder blade is a critical pivot point in a dog's movement, rotating significantly when the dog moves forward. This finding underscores the importance of free shoulder movement, which many harnesses can restrict, potentially leading to impaired mobility and long-term joint issues (Dogs In Motion Video) (Dogs in Motion Book).

Key Findings and Recommendations

The findings from Jena’s study highlight several important points for dog owners:

Scapula Freedom: Harnesses should not have tapes that cross over or press against the scapula (shoulder blade) area. The scapula is critical for a dog’s mobility, and any restriction can lead to long-term musculoskeletal issues.
Avoid Lateral Chest Tapes: Harnesses with tapes that run laterally across the chest restrict the natural swing of the front limbs. This design flaw can lead to restricted movement and potential injury.
Ergonomic Design: Always opt for harnesses with an ergonomic design. These harnesses are specifically designed to accommodate the natural movements of a dog’s body, ensuring maximum freedom and comfort during walks.

The Biomechanics and Physiotherapy Perspective

From a biomechanics and physiotherapy standpoint, it is essential to avoid harnesses that have tapes running through the chest laterally or that press on the scapula. Such designs can lead to abnormal gait patterns and may cause strain or injury over time.

Ergonomic harnesses, on the other hand, allow for the natural movement of the dog’s shoulders and front limbs. These harnesses improve your dog’s well-being and safety during walks by promoting healthy, unrestricted movement.

Conclusion

Choosing the right harness for your dog is more than a matter of preference; it's a crucial decision that affects your pet's health and happiness. Always prioritize ergonomic designs that ensure the free movement of the scapula and front limbs. By doing so, you will support your dog’s natural locomotion, improve their comfort, and prevent potential injuries.

Remember, a well-chosen harness is an investment in your dog's long-term health. Avoid harnesses with lateral chest tapes or those that press on the scapula, and opt for designs that prioritize your dog’s natural movement and well-being.

Additional Sources: