TAKING THE MEASUREMENTS CORRECTLY
Choosing the correct size ensures maximum freedom of m ovement and protects the neck and shoulders. In order to select the correct size, it is essential to take accurate measurements. The girth of the dog should be measured behind the front legs, approximately four fingers away from them for sizes M/Size 0, L/Size 1, XL/Size 2, 2XL/Size 3 and 3XL/Size 4, and two fingers away from them for sizes 3XS/Baby1, 2XS/Baby2, XS/Mini-Mini, and S/Mini.
PUTTING ON THE DOG HARNESS
The hook and loop fastened openable and adjustable chest strap is one of Julius-K9®’s inventions. By threading it through the ring, the chest strap has to be fastened to itself. (Not to the hook and loop fastener of the interchangeable patch.)
When used properly, the hook and loop chest strap closes on the side facing the dog’s chest so it won’t open while being worn.
If the harness is too tight on the dog’s chest even tough the size choice is correct, or the girth strap touches the dog’s front legs, the chest strap should be loosened.
In the case of the tightest setting, the two surfaces of the hook and loop fastener overlap completely (to maximize adhesion). If you wish to loosen the strap, make sure that the loop surface covers at least 50% of the hook surface for proper support. (Minimal adhesion.)
When putting on the harness, special attention should be paid to the correct adjustment of the chest strap and the girth strap. The girth strap is adjusted correctly if you are able to slide your fingers under the harness on the back of the dog. There should be room for four fingers behind the front legs in the case of sizes M/Size 0, L/Size 1, XL/Size 2, 2XL/Size 3 and 3XL/Size 4, and for two fingers for sizes 3XS/Baby1, 2XS/Baby2, XS/Mini-Mini, and S/Mini.
Make sure you regularly check if the harness is correctly adjusted to the size your dog!
GREEN ZONE DESIGN PRINCIPLE: FREE MOVEMENT, FREE BREATHING
Unlike collars, the special angle of the chest strap allows the IDC®Powerharness to rest on the ideal zone of the chest. This completely frees your dog’s neck for healthy, unrestricted breathing while ensuring free movement for the front legs.
CHOOSING THE CORRECT HARNESS SIZE IS ESSENTIAL FOR SAFE AND COMFORTABLE USE
Please note! Choosing a wrong harness size, incorrect adjustment or improper leash use may result in injury or the dog sliding out of the harness. If the harness is too small, the chest strap may squeeze the neck of the dog and put pressure on it instead of distributing the force around the chest area. If the harness is too big or the straps are too loose, the dog may step over the chest strap with its front legs.
The right harness size should leave enough room in the shoulder area and the dog should be able to move its legs freely.
The IDC®Powerharnesses have been designed for ease of use and for simple application. These types of harnesses are therefore most commonly used during city walks or when working with service dogs. As a result of improper leash use, sizing, or harness adjustment, some dogs can still wriggle out of the harness.
If the leash is inadvertently pulled in the opposite direction to the way the harness was put on, the harness might be pulled off the dog. This can happen if
- the harness is adjusted too loosely
- the dog starts moving backwards while trying to run away
- the dog lags behind and is being pulled by the leash
Dog harnesses are designed to guide the dog in a gentle, neck-sparing way on the leash, to hold the dog, and to make it possible for the owner to hold it back in the event of an emergency. A dog harness is not a coercive tool! When facing the dog, do not pull the leash towards you and never pull the dog after you on a leash because it will hurt them. Improper leash treatment can cause the dog to try to escape. The owner would be responsible for the dog pulling loose from the harness should this happen.
It is also a good idea to use the collar and dog harness together with a double carabiner leash while walking. In this way, the dog can be led safely with one hand and the collar does not overload the dog’s neck if it needs to be held back suddenly. The Y-belt or pressure distribution pad, which can be retrofitted to the harness, also allows the harness to rest securely and comfortably.
How to correctly walk your dog on a leash
When walking, the leash should always be loose, and only held tightly when there is a good reason, for example if you are forced to stop the dog suddenly due to a traffic situation. If the dog is scared, panics, or is just unwilling to move, under no circumstances should you try to go any further and pull. If possible, keep the leash loose, but keep it short and try to get hold of the harness handle by getting behind the dog.
Getting certain dogs used to a harness can be difficult in some rare cases. In cases like these we recommend seeking help from a professional dog handler who works with positive reinforcement.
Julius-K9® takes no responsibility for damage arising from choosing a wrong harness size or adjusting the harness incorrectly.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Due to the excellent quality of raw materials, our harnesses are rugged and durable. At the same time, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential in order to maintain its condition. The harness should only stay on the dog for the duration of the walk. Following each walk, make sure you store the harness in a well-ventilated area, out of your dog’s reach.
When using the harnesses, external physical influences may occur which might damage the raw material of the product. It is important to choose the right product for the right conditions and to avoid physical contact with dangerous, sharp tools and objects if possible.
Make sure your dog cannot chew on the harness. If the product, or any of its parts are damaged, you must suspend its use immediately.
Should the harness need cleaning, please follow the information on the product label. Machine and chemical washing is prohibited, hand washing at a max of 40 ° C. Wash separately. DO NOT tumble dry. Do not iron.
Requires rinsing with fresh water after coming into contact with salt water.
Should you have any questions in regard to the purchased product we can be contacted at the following e-mail address: info@julius-k9.com