Your dog’s harness can be a total game-changer by helping with walks, training, and making Fido more comfortable! But just like us, dogs need a break from their gear every now and then. So, how long can your pup comfortably wear a harness? Keep reading to find out.

How Do Dog Harnesses Work?

A dog harness works by distributing pressure across your dog’s chest and back. This is safer than a collar, which focuses pressure on dogs’ necks. This design helps prevent neck and tracheal injuries, especially in dogs that tend to pull on walks. In fact, studies have shown that dogs tend to pull more steadily when wearing a harness, meaning they’re less likely to experience strain.

Harnesses are designed with materials like nylon and mesh to be both breathable and comfortable for our furry friends. They even come with features like reflective stripes for visibility at night and padding to reduce discomfort. Another benefit of dog harnesses is that they’re an easier way to grab your pup safely. Many harnesses have handles or loops, which make it easier to pick your dog up or catch them if they’re running away.

Risks of Dogs Wearing Harnesses All the Time

While harnesses provide a variety of benefits, they’re not perfect. Here are some of the risks associated with wearing them for long periods.

Skin Irritation and Underarm Sores

One of the most common issues dogs face when wearing harnesses for extended periods is skin irritation. This is often caused by chafing, particularly in the underarm area where there’s less fur to provide protection. To reduce this risk, make sure your dog’s harness is padded and fits properly. Additionally, be sure to wash the harness regularly to remove any buildup of dirt, hair, or even fleas, which can contribute to itching and irritation.

Matted Fur

For dogs with long hair, wearing a harness for too long can cause their fur to mat. Mats form when the hair becomes tangled and knotted, which can be uncomfortable for your dog and difficult to remove. Regular grooming and brushing can help, but the best prevention is simply removing the harness when it’s not necessary.

Discomfort from Straps and Buckles

Another concern is the discomfort that can come from the straps, buckles, and adjusters on the harness. This can make it hard for your pup to get comfortable when they’re lounging or resting. In fact, wearing a harness all the time could even prevent them from lying down or getting a good night’s sleep. It’s a good idea to remove the harness when not in use to give your dog a break.

Wear and Tear on the Harness

Wearing a harness constantly will also cause the fabric to wear down much faster. The straps may fray, and your dog might even start chewing on the harness, leading to further damage. For the sake of both your dog’s comfort and the longevity of the harness, it’s best to limit how long it stays on.

Should Dogs Sleep in Their Harnesses?

The short answer is no: dogs should not sleep in their harnesses. Not only is this uncomfortable for your furry friend, but it can also be a safety risk. Fido’s harness may catch on something and become a choking hazard while you’re asleep. This is especially risky if your pup sleeps in a crate with wire bars, hooks, and latches, but their harness could get caught on anything around the house. Instead, use bedtime as a chance for Fido to take a much-needed break from wearing their harness.

Choosing the Right Harness for Your Dog

To make sure Fido is as comfortable as possible when wearing the harness, it’s important to choose one with the proper style and fit. The two most common types of dog harnesses are strap and vest harnesses.
Strap-style harnesses are more lightweight and cover less of dogs’ bodies. This style is good for pups who get anxious about being constrained. However, because they provide less coverage, they may cause more chafing. On the other hand, vest-style harnesses are bulkier but offer better control and comfort, especially for dogs that need extra support.

Choosing a properly fitting harness is also key to making your pup comfortable. You should be able to slide two fingers comfortably between the harness and your dog’s body. If the harness is too tight, it can cause skin irritation and matting of the fur. On the other hand, a harness that’s too loose might allow your dog to slip out or fail to provide the right level of support. A harness should feel secure without being overly tight.

Alternatives to Having Fido Wear a Harness

If you’re looking for alternatives to a harness for everyday wear, a collar is the simplest solution. Collars are great for holding your dog’s ID tags, and many dogs are perfectly comfortable wearing them all day at home. If you’re concerned about your dog wearing a harness in hot weather, consider a cooling vest instead. On the flip side, a dog coat can provide warmth in cold weather in the place of a harness.