Pet Supplies

Measuring for a Harness Instead of Guessing a Size

Breed names are a poor guide to harness size because two dogs of the same breed can differ by several centimeters around the chest. The measurement that matters is the girth, taken around the widest part of the ribcage just behind the front legs, with the tape snug rather than tight. If the girth falls between two sizes, take the larger one and tighten it, because a harness cannot be let out past its maximum. Neck measurement matters for collars but not for step in designs, which is worth knowing before ordering either.

Why Step In and Overhead Harnesses Suit Different Animals

A step in harness is put on from below: the animal places its front paws through two loops and the fastening sits on the back. An overhead design goes on over the head. For an animal that is nervous about having something passed over its face, the step in design removes the part of the routine it objects to. Overhead harnesses tend to hold their position better on a strong puller, so the choice follows temperament rather than size.

What Makes a Carrier Suitable for Travel

A carrier has to satisfy two parties: the animal inside and whoever is checking it at the gate. For the animal, the rule is that it should be able to stand and turn around, which makes internal height more important than floor area. Ventilation on more than one side matters more than window size, because airflow needs an entry and an exit. Airline requirements vary by carrier and by route, so a bag described as airline approved is worth checking against the specific airline before the day of travel rather than after.

If you are looking specifically for a travel backpack rather than the wider range, those are grouped in Pet Carriers, and the leashes, collars and matching sets sit in Pet Harnesses & Leashes.