Fit is not a luxury Why HUNTER dog harnesses have to prove themselves on the treadmill
Dog harnesses are popular: they allow for the safe handling of young, lively or anxious dogs without putting pressure on the sensitive neck area. But what long-term impact do straps and buckles have on a dog’s gait and overall health? HUNTER set out to find answers to these questions.
Sheila, Floki, Iken and thirteen other dogs from the HUNTER pack were eager participants in the treadmill analysis. First a bit of playtime with their humans, then slipping into a harness, and off they went on the treadmill. But what was the purpose of all this? Dr. Julia Vietmeier, veterinarian and HUNTER expert, explains: »Of course, everyone has a subjective feeling about whether a harness fits well or not. But that wasn’t enough for us. We wanted to objectively analyze the wearing comfort and the effect of HUNTER harnesses on the dogs’ gait.«
A thermal imaging camera and the CanidGait® treadmill system, equipped with a pressure-sensitive plate and cameras, made this analysis possible. Sixteen dogs – from wire-haired dachshunds to German shepherds – trotted and walked on the treadmill, sometimes with and sometimes without their harnesses. On the test bench were the »Easy step in« HILO harness, the versatile DIVO, the popular Y-shaped MALDON, and the Norwegian-style RACING harness. Did the harness affect their gait? The pressure plate, which recorded every paw print, every stride, and more, gave the green light for the HUNTER range. »We were able to show that our harnesses do not cause any harmful restrictions in the dogs’ freedom of movement.«
A key factor for this result is a proper fit. »A harness must neither be too tight nor too loose. The correct fit ensures optimal freedom of movement.« The dog should be able to move freely, while the owner needs to feel confident that their companion won’t slip out. Selecting and adjusting a harness to balance the needs of both dog and human isn’t always easy. Helpful tips for the correct fitting can be found in various HUNTER tutorial videos.
Another important aspect: buckles, seams, and straps must be designed and manufactured to prevent rubbing or pressure points. This is made possible through the use of high-quality materials, careful workmanship, and soft padding – no sharp edges, no pressure spots, and no heat buildup thanks to breathable mesh inserts.
Using ill-fitting, poorly made, or unsuitable harnesses can have serious effects on a dog’s health. Badly fitting harnesses can lead to compensatory postures, particularly in the armpit area, and thus alter the gait pattern. Studies have shown that this can restrict shoulder movement by up to ten degrees and shorten the overall stride length. Such misalignment and compensatory behavior can harm the dog’s musculoskeletal system.
An important takeaway from the treadmill analysis is that, regardless of harness type, the individual needs of each dog must be taken into account – achieving the perfect fit should always be the top priority. The different harnesses caused individual variations in movement patterns, but without significantly restricting the dogs. It is therefore advisable to alternate between different harness types to promote balanced movement – much like a jogger who switches between different pairs of running shoes.
Visual impressions of the treadmill analysis can be found in this video: HERE
