Pet Store Blogs

The average life expectancy of a dog varies based on many different things. Variables such as having a proper diet, remaining at a healthy weight, and routine veterinarian wellness checks do come into play. Despite all of these things, some dog breeds in general, tend to live longer than others. Below we compiled a list of the top five dogs breeds that have the longest average life expectancy.

New Guinea Singing Dog

The New Guinea Singing Dogs, also referred to as NGSD, are native to the Highlands of Papua New Guinea. These free-roaming dogs have evolved naturally on the island over thousands of years and were not discovered by scientists until about 1950. They have an extremely long average lifespan of about seventeen years.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is the smallest recognized dog breed, named for the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where it was first noted in the mid-19th century. It is believed that the Chihuahua is thought to derived from the Techichi, a small dog kept by the Toltec people of Mexico as long ago as the 9th century. This breed of dog has an average lifespan of about seventeen years.

Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle was originally bred in the early 20th century as a companion dog. This breed is known for its loyalty and intelligence. The poodle was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886 and has been a family favorite for generations. This breed has an average lifespan of about sixteen years.

Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier was originally developed in southern England during in the mid-1800s by Parson John Russell. The intentions were to create a working terrier who would hunt with hounds, bolting foxes from their dens so the hounds could chase them. This family pup has an average life expectancy of sixteen years.

Cockapoo

The Cockapoo was first created in the 1960s, when a breeder accidentally combined the genetic material of a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. This breed has since taken off in popularity and adored by many families around the world. His long average life expectancy of sixteen years is much thanks to his Poodle parent.

Five Basic Tip to Keep Your Dog Healthy

1- Feed Your Dog a Healthy and Balanced Diet -- Always read the ingredients of their food. It is also important to feed your dog the proper amount of food. Variables such as the size of your dog, his activity level, and age must be considered. Feeding your dog too much will result in weight issues as feeding him too little will result in nutrition issues.

2- Dental Care -- Routine teeth cleaning is very important. This is not always easy, but with practice this task becomes second nature in time.

3- Keep Your Dog Active, But Don’t Overdo It -- Most dogs do well with about thirty minutes of physical exercise every day. It is important to make sure you keep an eye on your pup while exercising to make sure he is not overdoing it.

4- Provide Mental Enrichment and Stimulation -- Play with your dog. Human interaction which includes talking to him will help to stimulate his mind. One-on-one playtime vs just allowing him to run around the yard alone is an example of this.

5- Regular Veterinary Visits -- Do not wait for there to be a health concern. Routine wellness checks for your fur-legged friend are very important.

Despite their massive and intimidating appearance, large dog breeds are generally well-tempered, warm, loving, friendly and loyal animals! Throughout history, these dogs have been relied on for their strength which helped them to excel in guarding territory, protect livestock, and farm work. If a large dog is what you want than this is the blog for you. Below are the top six largest breeds of dogs and some information about them.

English Mastiff

At the top of our list of big dogs is the English Mastiff. This breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club. The biggest English Mastiff on record is named Aicama Zorba and broke the scale at 343 pounds. Typically, however, male English Mastiffs weigh 160 to 230 pounds while female English Mastiffs weigh 120 to 170 pounds. These dogs also stand about 30 inches tall at the shoulder, with females being slightly shorter.

Boerboels

The Boerboel generally weighs between 150 and 220 pounds, with no difference given between females and males. Farmers in South Africa began using this breed after initially developing them to hunt leopards and baboons. This dog is a very large and powerful dog and is known to be somewhat aggressive, so good socialization training at a young age is needed.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard dogs are large, strong and dominant in size. Male Saint Bernards typically weigh in between 140 and 180 pounds while female Saint Bernards tend to weigh between 120 and 140 pounds. Most Saint Bernards stand just under thirty inches tall at full maturity. This breed was developed to help rescue Alpine mountaineers. The face of a Saint Bernard has a distinct appearance with a wrinkled brow and short muzzle.

Great Dane

The Great Dane is another large breed of dog. Male Great Danes tend to weigh in between 140 and 175 pounds. Female Great Danes generally check in between 110 and 140 pounds. The largest Great Dane in the record books was named Zeus. This gigantic dog stood nearly four feet tall and stood seven feet four inches high when on his back legs. This being almost two feet taller than the average man.

Leonbergers

According to the American Kennel Club, male Leonbergers weigh between 110 and 170 pounds. Female Leonbergers generally weigh between 90 and 140 pounds. Both male and female Leonbergers stand about 30 inches tall at maturity. The Leonbergers has a unique lion-like mane around its neck and chest which magnifies its large appearance. Water rescue teams often use this breed because of their water-resistant coat. Many also deploy this breed to herd animals and as watchdogs because of their size.

Tibetan Mastiffs

Tibetan Mastiffs are large and solid dogs. Male Tibetan Mastiffs weigh between 90 and 150 pounds. Female Tibetan Mastiffs weigh between 70 and 120 pounds. They stand about two feet tall at maturity and are known to make an excellent watchdog. If a large dog is what you are looking for this is definitely a breed to consider.

Anatolian Shepherd

Anatolian Shepherds were initially developed in the Kangal region of Turkey to guard and protect livestock. Although this breed is large and strong and protective, they tend to be very gentle around their family. Male Anatolian Shepherds weigh between 110 and 150 pounds while female Anatolian Shepherds weigh between 80 and 120 pounds. They stand about thirty inches tall at maturity.

Many of us believe that owning a dog and dealing with shedding goes hand in hand. And in many cases that is the truth. However, there are dog breeds that shed very little to none at all. If you are looking for a low shedding or no shedding dog, this article is for you. We will go over a list of not only great family dogs, but dogs that are easy to care for and are not known for excessive shedding.

Bedlington Terrier The Bedlington Terrier requires some grooming, but they don't shed. This breed is a gentle and caring family dog that makes a great fit into most families. They are not hard to care for and quickly bond with their family. The Bedlington Terrier is certainly a top-notch dog that will win your heart and lap in no time.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is best described as being a happy, social, and energetic dog. The Bichon Frise does need routine grooming to maintain their clean white coats which grow, not shed. Due to this, this breed has less dander, which generally makes this pup a good dog for allergy sufferers. Between not shedding and being so lovable, the Bichon Frise is a highly recommended family dog.

Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon is an all-around fun and happy dog. The rough-coated version of this breed does not shed and is easy to groom. They are low maintenance pups that have very loyal and outgoing personalities. They do well with children and other pets inside the home.

Kerry Blue Terrier

Another top choice for those looking for a non-shedding dog is the Kerry Blue Terrier. This breed is a wise choice for folks looking for non-shedding and somewhat non-allergenic dogs. This breed is known for being affectionate, playful, and all-around fun to be around. They make tremendous family pets and are relatively easy to care for.

Maltese

The Maltese is a small, easy-going, and charming dog that has a single white silky coat. Basic routine care is needed in keeping this pup looking its best but is overall is a simple dog. They are considered low-shedding dogs which will allow for more playtime than vacuuming time. The Maltese has a long history of making a great pet and is sure to win your heart in no time at all.

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium sized dog that has a soft and wavy coat that requires basic care. This breed is considered to be a low-shedding dog which means a lot less dander. The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier makes a great family pet thanks to its warm and approachable demeanor and is known to quickly bond with its family.

Barbet

The Barbet originated in France and has become very popular in the United States over the last few years. This breed has a very tightly-curled coat which is non-shedding. They are very friendly dogs that tend to be loyal and loving to their families. The Barbet will generally quickly form a strong bond with you and your family. They also have eager to please personalities and enjoy showing off.

Regardless whichever fur-legged friend wins your heart, you have made a great decision. Dogs (high, medium, low, or no shedders) offer amazing companionship and normally offer years of happiness. All dogs will require basic care to look and feel their best and by taking the time to select a dog that best fits what you are able to provide it, will allow you and your new best friend to be happy and content.

Many parents ask which breed of dog would be the best for their family. Kids love dogs and most dogs love kids, but there are some dogs that generally do better around children than others. You have to admit, kids are curious and at times a little rough which is why having a dog who's tolerable around them is important. Other great qualities in a dog that will be around children include low to no aggression, not overly powerful as to accidently hurt your child while playing, and a warm and loving demeanor. You also do not want a breed of dog that doesn't want to be "bothered" because many kids just want to play, play, and play some more! If you are considering a family pet and you have children this blog is for you. Below you will find our pick of the top five dog breeds that do great around children.

Labrador Retriever

Year after year after year the Labrador Retriever ranks the most "pupular" dog in the United States. This breed is simply amazing and ranks number one in our kid friendly and mom approved list of dogs. They are loving, caring, social, and have very approachable demeanors. They love your attention and are gentle around children.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality:Friendly, gentle and playful
• Energy Level:Moderately active
• Good with Children:Very
• Good with Other Dogs:Very
• Shedding:Moderate
• Grooming:Daily brushing
• Trainability:With ease
• Height:21 to 25 inches tall at maturity
• Weight:55 to 80 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy:10-12 years
• Barking Level:Average

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is at the top of our list for many reasons. They are a very gentle and affectionate breed of dog that does exceptionally well with children. They are patient and loving and enjoy to play. They are not overly energetic or pushy which is why they are safe for smaller children. They almost never show signs of aggression and enjoy both indoor and outdoor playtime. This breed continues to be very popular around the world and makes a great fit into almost any family.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality:Loving, playful, gentle, and smart.
• Energy Level:Lower than average
• Good with Children:Very
• Good with other Dogs:Very
• Shedding:Low
• Grooming:Two to three brushes a week
• Trainability:With ease
• Height:11-13 inches at maturity
• Weight:20-30 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy:10-12 years
• Barking Level:Low

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever was designed for those who wanted a medium-sized dog that would do well in wild-fowling, both upland game and waterfowl. Today's Golden Retriever is a sought-after gorgeous dog that does well in families that have children and other pets in the home. They are very social and gentle dogs that have an easygoing and warm demeanor. They enjoy being close to their family and are great around children. They almost never show signs of aggression and are a pleasure to be around.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality:Smart, easy to get along with and caring
• Energy Level:Moderately active
• Good with Children:Very
• Good with other Dogs:Very
• Shedding:Average
• Grooming:Daily brushing
• Trainability:With ease
• Height:21 to 24 inches tall at maturity
• Weight:55 to 75 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy:10-12 years
• Barking Level:Average

Pug

The small but mighty Pug also ranks high on our list because of his playful, loving, and warm demeanor. This breed has a social and outgoing personality and packs a lot of energy in a small body. The Pug does great around children because of this and is not known to show aggression. Their tolerance level allows them to play well with children who are still learning how to be around dogs.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality:Outgoing, curious, and playful
• Energy Level:Moderately active
• Good with Children:Good
• Good with Other Dogs:Good
• Shedding:Routinely
• Grooming:Two to four times a week
• Trainability:Generally easy
• Height:10-13 inches tall at maturity
• Weight:14-18 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy:13-15 years
• Barking Level:Average

Collie

Collies are very smart and energetic dogs that love human interaction and outdoor activity time. They are gentle and patient around children and are not known to be at all aggressive. This breed has a very long history of making a marvelous family pet and is sure to win your heart too. Collies also tend to be able to adapt well with other dogs in the home.

Breed Assessment Traits and Qualities:

• Personality:Caring, alert and playful
• Energy Level:Very active
• Good with Children:Very
• Good with Other Dogs:Yes
• Shedding:Moderate
• Grooming:Two to four brushes a week
• Trainability:Easily trained
• Height:22-26 inches tall at maturity
• Weight:50-75 pounds at maturity
• Life Expectancy:12-14 years
• Barking Level:Moderate

As the holidays approach we think about nice family dinners, festive music, and holiday cheer. It is a time of year like nothing else and there seems to be a unique peace in the air. What many dog owners do not realize is it is also a risky time of the year for our fur-legged friends. Not because Santa will scare them when he comes down the chimney, but because of very common items in our home that come out this month.

People food

Let's start off by talking about food. During the holidays we often have get-togethers and share meals much larger than an average dinner. Many foods that we will enjoy should not be eaten by our fur-legged friends. Below is a list of foods that are the most dangerous for dogs to eat.

• Rich, fatty foods.
• Meats that have bones in them
• Onions and garlic
• Chocolate
• Alcoholic beverages
• Raisins/grapes
• Nuts
• Milk Products

Potpourri and Candles

Although potpourri and candles look and smell great, they can make your fur-legged friend sick should he use them as a treat. Candles are also a fire hazard should your dog knock one over that is lit. Always keep items such as these well out of your dog's reach. If these items are on a counter or table take into consideration that your dog still may be able to reach them. Playing safe than sorry as to wear you leave these items is also recommended.

Holiday Plants and Flowers

A very popular item found during the holiday season is decorative plants such as holly and mistletoe. Many plants and flowers can cause your dog to become very sick if digested. Dogs are always curious to try a new "food" and certain items such as these can cause your dog harm. Be sure to place these items in an area that your dog is unable to reach. We often place flowers near a window for sunlight which is also an area your dog has access to.

Tinsel On Your Christmas Tree

Whiletinselisn’t "poisonous" per se,it’s extremely dangerous to your dog should he consume it. Swallowing tinsel can lead to internal issues as well as basic choking issues for your dog. Tinsel is generally shiny which catches your dog's attention and may be too much for him to resist. Many dog owners do not even bring this item into their homes as a precaution. If you must decorate with tinsel, keep it in an area completely out of reach of your dog or you may be spending Christmas morning at the veterinarian, not unwrapping gifts from Santa!

Secure Your Christmas Tree

You can't really blame this one on your pup. Afterall, they wake up one morning and magically there is a seven-foot pine tree in their living room! As beautiful as this tree looks, it does cause a safety hazard. Dogs are naturally attracted to trees and tend to want to hide under and behind them. It does not take much for a Christmas tree to topple over which could injure your pup or anyone near it when it falls. This can also result in damaging the decorations on the tree which can be very costly. By taking a few minutes to properly secure your tree can end up saving you a lot of problems in the end.

Safe Haven for Your Dog

If you intend to have a holiday party which involves a lot of people, consider putting your dog in a room dedicated just for him away from the commotion. The room should have water and food and you should periodically check on your pup. A soft blanket or dog bed would also be a nice fixture in the room while he hangs out there. Although some dogs want to party as much as grandma does, some tend to get quickly get scared of the noise and want to be left alone. You know your dog better than anyone and should determine this before the party begins. This is also a wise decision if your dog is a runner because the front door may be opened and closed dozens of times which would allow for him to escape.

You are what you eat. And that expression applies to our fur-legged friends too. Some dog food brands skimp out on the actual healthy ingredients (chicken, beef, etc.) and replace these proteins with fillers. Fillers do not add much nutritional value to what they are eating and, overall are not recommended. Current research is bringing to light that many of these unhealthy ingredients can trigger allergies in your dog as well.

What Ingredients Should You Avoid?

Butylated Hydroxyanisole, also known as BHA, is a chemical preservative found in many dog foods and treats. It is used to preserve fats and oils. The CDC lists this ingredient as a known carcinogen that has negative effects on the liver and kidneys of animals. Some countries actually banned this substance due to this. Although the effects might not be noticeable in small quantities, over a long period of time, feeding your dog food that has BHA in it can contribute to health issues.

White Flour

White flour is usually used as a filler and binding agent in dog food. It is a bleached flour that contains little to no nutritional value. White flour has even proven to cause spikes in blood sugar. This means it may make your dog feel full, but not for a sustained period.

Unspecified Meat or "Meat Meal" With "unspecified" meat in your dog's food, what it is can be a mystery and risky. These meat meals are usually low quality, leftover meats with minimal regulation and or control of quality. Although these products are in many dog foods, try to avoid them. At the very least, pick a dog food where the specific type of meat is listed.

Artificial Colors and Flavorings

Artificial coloring and flavors are added to dog foods to create a more appealing appearance and smell. They are usually listed specifically, and the most commonly found dyes in dog foods are Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 5 and 6. These artificial ingredients are simply unnecessary and have been linked to hyperactivity, hypersensitivity, and allergic reactions to foods.

MSG

MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is not usually listed on pet food ingredient lists. It is more often found in autolyzed yeast, hydrolyzed protein, calcium caseinate, protein isolate, texturized protein, natural flavors, hydrolyzed yeast, yeast extracts, soy extracts or concentrate, sodium caseinate, monopotassium glutamate, glutamate or glutamic acid, or disodium inosinate or guanylate. These ingredients are used to enhance the flavor of dog food but are not necessary.

Corn Syrup

Corn syrup is a concentrated sweetener that is derived from corn. It is inexpensive to produce and is often added to processed dog foods to add flavor without costing a lot of money. Corn syrup, like white flour, causes your dog's blood sugar to spike, which is not healthy and known to cause health issues down the road.

Farmed Salmon

Farmed salmon refers to salmon that is grown inland in artificial habitats. These are not fish in the actual ocean, have never seen or been in the ocean, and are grown specifically to be harvested for food. If they are found in your dog's food, they will be simply listed as salmon, salmon meal, or salmon oil. If the salmon in your dog's food is wild-caught, it will be listed as so. Farmed salmon is not nearly as nutritious as wild-caught salmon.

Nitrates

Nitrates, more specifically sodium nitrite, is a common preservative found in dog foods. It is used to preserve meat products. This preservative, although currently deemed safe to be used in dog food, has been linked to a blood disorder called methemoglobin as well as cancer.

STPP

STPP, or sodium tripolyphosphate, is a common ingredient in laundry detergent that softens the water. In dog food, it is used as a preservative. Since it is an actual chemical that does not contain any nutritional value, it is best to avoid it in your dog's food. Taking the time to shop for quality dog food will yield a better long-term health outlook for your dog. Just because an ingredient is approved for use in dog food does not always mean you should use it. Natural ingredients are always recommended and should be looked for.

Accidents happen... All puppies, from time to time, don’t make it outside before they do their business. If your puppy, like most, has an accident indoors, don’t overstress. It is important, though, to realize that indoor puppy accidents can cause your carpet and furniture to smell or even be destroyed. The key is to cleanse the area as soon as possible. This is important for two reasons. The first is because the waste left on the carpet or furniture can absorb into the fibers which makes removing the odor very difficult. The second is because once these odors remain, regardless of how slight, your four-legged friend may return to the same area and relieve himself there again.

How to Prevent Indoor Accidents

Being consistent with your puppy’s potty-training routine is key. Also, providing your puppy with ample outdoor potty time is essential. For those who work all day, considering a daytime pet sitter to stop over and allow your puppy a potty break also will help the issue. Using positive reinforcement is always more effective than using discipline in this process.

How to Get Urine Odors Out of a Carpet

Dog urine gets absorbed into the carpet as an acid that causes damage to the carpet’s fibers. Upon the urine drying up, it results in an alkaline residue. If urine salts are not cleaned with a professional pet cleaning product, this may result in a foul urine smell building up over time. Absorbing the wet urine with a dry rag, followed by washing the infected area, will help to remove the urine and smell. At times, this process may need to be completed two or more times.

How to Get the Urine Smell Out of a Couch?

If your pup had an accident on your couch, professional cleaning products should be used to cleanse the area. After the couch is cleansed, keep your puppy away from it until the area is complete and the odor is completely gone. Dogs tend to remark the same spot over and over and detect this area by smelling where they previously went.

At Home Cleaning Products

Did you know that you can naturally clean pet stains and odors using commonly found items in your pantry? Ingredients such as baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, vodka, orange, lemon, and salt to clean pet urine work well. You can neutralize and clean surfaces by using a combination of these products. The issue with using a synthetic cleaner on a carpet is that it can damage and remove its color and add unnecessary toxic chemicals to your home. By utilizing more natural ingredients, especially things like enzymatic cleaners with essential oils, pet owners can keep their homes safe from the buildup of harmful fumes and chemicals that can make their pets sick.

Before Using Any Cleaning Product

Before applying any cleaning solution, you should always test it on a small area of your rug or furniture to ensure it won’t do any damage. Once the ingredients demonstrate that they are working and not causing damage, be sure to cleanse the area with a copious amount of the product and thoroughly scrub the infected area. Dog urine can be very difficult to clean fully and, if not removed, can cause more issues down the road. Regardless of what products you use, all puppy owners need to remember that their puppies are still learning and want to make you happy. Being patient, using positive reinforcement, and taking the time to train your four-legged friend right will yield positive long-term results.

Service dogs are well-trained professional dogs that help to those who need them. Each service dog has a specific set of skills that require training and testing to master. Service dogs perform impressive tasks such as leading the blind, assisting with day-to-day tasks, and providing comfort and companionship. Actual service dogs are backed and protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Some of the most common services provided by service dogs include:

* Guide Dogs
* Autism Service Dogs
* PTSD Service Dogs
* Hearing Dogs
* Medical Alert Dogs
* Diabetic Alert Dogs
* Seizure Response Dogs
* Allergy Detection Dogs
* Mobility Assistance Dogs
* Medical Alert Dogs

There are other types of service dogs, and if you have a condition that is not listed above, you may still be able to apply for a service dog.

Common Breeds of Service Dogs

Although service dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds, the following list of dog breeds tends to be the most common. These breeds generally have very caring and outgoing demeanors with outstanding personalities. They also tend to train with ease and enjoy companionship. Most service dogs show little to no signs of aggression and have very warm and approachable demeanors.

Labrador Retriever – A very smart and personable breed of dog that has a loving and outgoing personality.

German Shepherd – A loyal and alert dog who enjoys the company of his family. This breed loves outdoor activity time.

Golden Retriever – A loving and gentle breed of dog who is exceptional in all family shapes and sizes. This breed also does well with other pets in the home.

Poodle – This breed is considered the most intelligent breed of dog in existence. They train with ease and enjoy and thrive off of human interaction.

Bernese Mountain Dog – An alert and active dog that is known to quickly bond with his family. They train with ease and are eager to please.

Great Dane – A large and loving dog that is known for its loyalty and caring personality. They tend to make great service dogs, especially for those who suffer from PTSD and anxiety.

Saint Bernard – By nature, this breed is a service dog. They have a long history of helping mankind and generally have very protective and loyal personalities.

Pomeranian – Small and lovable. This breed of dog does well in smaller homes. This breed is patient and caring and very loyal to its family. They specialize in a variety of service dog tasks.

Boxer – This breed is alert and loyal and enjoys assisting his human counterpart. They are smart and agile dogs with great personalities.

Border Collie – A very loving and caring dog that tends to stick by your side. This breed is also smart, which makes training easy. They are eager to please and tend to be happy when you are. They also tend to do well in households that have children.

Is it Mandatory to Register Service Dogs?

No. Registering a service dog is not required in the United States under law, but it is suggested. Doing so it will help to eliminate any confusion or restrictions you may run into in the future. Unfortunately, there has been a rise in fake service dogs, which is why it is essential to make sure you and your dog are adequately protected. Properly being registered will make things easier. Many private businesses have rules against non-service animals entering their establishment, which is a primary reason to have your service dog registered.

Where Can You Register a Service Dog?

There are a few organizations that offer service dog registration. These organizations will require that you describe your disability and or need, what tasks your dog is capable of offering, and the specific training your dog completed. These options include websites such as Service Dog Certification, United States Dog Registry, and USA Service Dog Registration.

Service dogs have made a positive impact over the years and have validated the expression “man’s best friend.” Through proper training and care, the services that these amazing dogs are able to provide continue to get better and better. Doing the appropriate research before getting a service dog will help you find the best breed for your specific needs.

Are you considering making the transition from a basic dog collar to a dog harness? Many people have made the switch because a harness offers more control of over a dog which is especially important on outdoor walks. Harnesses also prevent neck discomfort that standard dog collars cause. Despite dog harnesses being the best choice for our fur-legged friends, they must fit your dog properly in order to be most beneficial. In this blog, we will explain the importance of proper harness sizing for pups and help you determine your dog’s accurate harness measurements.

First, let’s review some of the primary benefits of a dog harness.

Less pulling on walks: A dog harness is positioned along the dog’s back and chest, which makes it more difficult for a dog to take his owner for a walk instead of his owner taking him for a walk. Unlike a typical dog collar that allows a dog to securely plant his feet on the ground, gain traction, and pull forward, a harness gives the dog’s handler more control of their entire body. This will prevent a dog from taking over on the walk and allow his handler better control.

Less pressure on the dog’s throat and neck: The design of a dog harness allows for the pressure points to be on his chest. This prevents your dog’s neck and throat area from being constricted, which is more comfortable and much safer than a standard dog collar. A dog harness is recommended even more so for dogs who suffer from disc conditions and arthritis.

Much better control of your dog: Some dogs can slip out of standard dog collars, which only offer one point of security around their necks. It is improbable for your pup to accidentally slip out of a properly fitted dog harness, even if your dog is a master of escape.

Basics Fitting a Dog Harness

As great as a dog harness is, it is only effective when it properly fits your dog. The harness must be secure against a dog’s body and should not allow for any slipping or rubbing against the skin. Harnesses that are too tight may cause discomfort for your pup. Harnesses that are too loose on your pup increase the risk of them slipping out of it and running off. This is why assuring the harness is placed properly over your dog is key.

The Two Finger Rule

When determining if your dog’s new harness is right for them, you should always follow the two-finger rule. This means that you should be able to place two fingers snuggly under the harness when it is secured. More than two fingers mean the harness is too loose. Less than two fingers mean the harness is too tight. This amount of slack allows for comfortable movement for your dog while also preventing him to be able to escape it.

Properly Measuring Your Dog for a Harness

Pet supply stores generally have a sizing chart for each product sold. This chart will provide measurements and specifications of each dog harness for sale. Comparing this size chart to your dog’s size is very important.

Measure Your Dog’s Neck Girth

You can use a flexible plastic measuring tape to measure your dog’s neck. Measure the area around where a collar would typically be placed. Remember to use the two-finger rule in this measurement, as some slack is necessary. Make a note of this measurement by writing it down.

Step 3: Measure Your Dog’s Chest Girth

Next, you will measure your dog’s chest girth by using the same measuring tape and measuring the widest portion of your dog’s rib cage. Be sure you measure around completely, with the end of the tape coming together on the top of the dog’s back. Make a note of this measurement by writing it down.

Step 4: Measure Your Dog’s Body Length

The last area measurement needed is your dog’s body length. Using the same measuring tape, measure your dog from his neck to the base of his tail. Certain dog harnesses require this measurement which is good to have just in case. Make a note of this measurement by writing it down.

After taking these measurements and writing them down, you will be able to compare them with the sizing chart for your harness of choice. It is also recommended to talk to staff at the pet supply store who can address any questions or concerns you may have before buying the harness.

Getting Adjusted to Using a Dog Harness

Getting adjusted to using a dog harness (for you and your pup) is generally an easy transition. Many dog owners find that once they start using a harness for their dogs, daily walks become easier and more enjoyable. Taking the time to find the proper dog harness will yield years of safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable walks.