How to choose the right harness for a Chihuahua dog

Before going for walks with your Chihuahua, you need to think about safety rules. Dogs of this breed are considered the smallest among all dogs, and many dangers await them on the street, such as large animals or fast cars. To avoid problems while walking your pet, it must be accustomed to a leash or harness in advance. And the muzzle will prevent the decorative dog from picking up anything dirty from the ground. In this article you will learn how to choose the right leash, harness, muzzle and collar for your Chihuahua.

What is a harness

Pets are walked on a leash or its version - a harness. Without the accessory, active or timid animals may run away. Harness is dog equipment, ammunition for walking and training.

Walking accessory for dogs

Structurally, these are two belts around the dog’s neck and chest. They are connected along the animal's spine between the shoulder blades and in front between the forelimbs. This structure helps distribute weight evenly between the chest and front legs.

Note! There is no pressure on the neck, the dog feels freedom and comfort.

What are the dangers of leash tension?

When wearing a collar, all the pressure is taken on the animal's neck and throat, which causes problems with them. It has already been established that two thirds of back diseases and nervousness in dogs are caused by the collar-leash model in combination with jerking. This can also include diseases such as hypothyroidism, visual and hearing impairment, and damage to nerve nodes in the neck.

The throat of any animal is the most vulnerable place, and any pain here is perceived as a threat to life. A jerk on the throat causes aggression in a dog. As a result, it may turn out that your dog just wanted to get to know another person or relative better, but after pulling on the leash, he begins to bark. The owner doesn’t even need to pull the leash for this: the dog will do it itself. On any walk, jerks are inevitable.

Types of dog harnesses

Ammunition models are divided by purpose. They buy several for a pet.

walking Lightweight and durable accessory made of leather or nylon for daily walking;
harness-vest. For small dogs with short hair. In cold weather it protects against hypothermia;
medical. Put on injured animals as prescribed by a veterinarian. The wide vest covers 2/3 of the torso, the attachment is located at the hind legs. The paws are unloaded, the pressure falls on the front paws;
exhibition. The emphasis is on the aesthetics of the product. Design, accessories, color emphasize the beauty of the breed;
guard room A two- or three-layer product with stitched straps and welded rings for strength. Used to tie a dog to a checkpoint.

Important! Harnesses are put on dogs after consultation with a veterinarian or dog handler, when the animal’s bone skeleton is fully formed and strengthened.

Benefits of harnesses

The disadvantages of a harness are that the dog quickly gets used to it; in the future, the pet may refuse to wear a regular collar.

A harness is a type of harness that consists of belts and straps.

It is placed on the animal's chest and is used for walking and training. What are its advantages:

in case of sudden movements of a person or dog, the harness does not injure the animal or cause suffocation;
the animal cannot get out of it and run away, which happens with collars (this is especially true for dogs whose neck and head girth is almost the same);
the harness relieves the load from the cervical vertebrae, distributing it to the thoracic and shoulder regions;
it does not put pressure on the neck, the pet feels much more comfortable and calmer.

How to choose a dog harness

The attribute is selected individually according to the size of the ward. Pay attention to the following points.

Material of execution

They take nylon, leather, neoprene. Natural and artificial materials are soft to the touch and durable. Things are easy to wash, dry quickly, and do not wear out for a long time. Breeders also recommend equipment made of canvas and nylon. Their inner side is smoothly lined and does not rub the dog's skin.

It is better not to take canvas products with rough protruding seams, as they are not comfortable to wear.

Note! For small breeds weighing up to 3 kg, use velor harnesses with a handle so that you can lift the pet.

Fasteners and fastenings

The store evaluates the strength of the fasteners. They should work easily. It is better when there are several fastenings, so it is convenient to adjust according to the size of the animal.

The clasp and carabiner are located on the back, with the exception of corrective models that fasten on the chest.

The rivets should not put pressure on the skin, so that calluses do not form in areas of friction and hair does not fall out.

Harness with weight

Dog harness with weight

The muscles of large dogs - Staffordshire terriers, pit bulls - are trained using a harness with weights. The ammunition has pockets for lead weights (sold separately).

The weight of the load is 50-100 g. First, fill the side pockets evenly on both sides. After a few days they move on to the chest. Lastly, the weights are hung on the neck.

Important! The attribute is worn to strengthen muscles and prevent diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This accessory is contraindicated for decorative breeds.

Harnesses for sled dogs

Sled harnesses are the oldest dog equipment. Designed to maximize the use of animal traction. The product increases the muscle mass of dogs and develops the chest.

The correct design transfers the load to the chest and front legs, then through the spine to the pushing hind legs. At the same time, sled dogs (huskies, Yakut huskies, Alaskan malamutes) feel comfortable at work.

Riding models do not absorb moisture, do not sink, and do not freeze. This is an important quality in dog racing competitions, when animals overcome water obstacles.

Corrective model

Active dogs that constantly rush forward and timid dogs are difficult to keep on a leash. Behavior is corrected with special harnesses. The leash in this model is not attached to the back, but with a martingale-type loop on the chest. The strap does not twist.

For your information! When the dog tries to move in one direction, the owner pulls the leash and turns the dog to face the owner. Animals quickly get used to the accessory and do not try to escape.

Dog collar

The choice of collar must be approached with all responsibility. It must be selected in size so that it does not squeeze the dog’s throat and at the same time she cannot jump out of it.

Usually collars are selected for growth, but a Chihuahua does not need such a calculation, because it does not grow more than twenty-three centimeters at the withers.

In general, dog collars are divided into the following types:

classic walking;
classic training;
classic guard;
noose;
strict;
exhibition.

But dogs of this decorative breed do not need guard or strict collars, much less a noose. Therefore, we will consider the remaining types of collars.

For a walk

Classic walking collars are suitable for daily trips outside or visiting. This is the most popular type of collar. This dog accessory has one ring for fastening. It must be fastened around the dog's neck so that it does not dangle. Ideally, the owner's finger should fit under the collar. If this cannot be done, then the collar will put pressure. If more fingers fit, the dog will be able to pull it over the head.

Walking collars can be made of canvas or leather. Durable genuine leather, of course, will always be in fashion and will last for a very long time, but the dog’s skin can begin to fray underneath it. Therefore, wearing a leather collar too often is not advisable. Also, such an accessory is unsuitable in rainy weather and requires careful care. Before purchasing a leather accessory, run it with a wet hand. If there are traces of paint on your hand, it means it is of poor quality.

Tarpaulin is the most durable material for collars. It is not afraid of rain or falling into a body of salt water. Caring for it is very simple - you just need to wash it when it gets dirty and take care of the metal buckles. Another nice bonus is that this collar comes in many colors.

Regardless of your preference, there are a few tips that will help you choose a collar made of any material. Firstly, it should be strong, but not hard. Preferably with a double layer.

Secondly, there should be a lot of holes on it. This is very important for long-haired Chihuahuas - during shedding, the volume of the neck may become slightly larger.

Thirdly, the ring for attaching the carabiner to the leash must be reliable.

Fourthly, a collar for a small dog should be light.

And most importantly, if you are a fan of glamorous collars, then always carefully inspect the decorative elements. They should not cause any discomfort to your pet.

For the exhibition

Such collars should be discreet so as not to distract attention from the Chihuahua. At the same time, they must be comfortable, lightweight, reliable and durable. There are two types of show collars:

synthetic cord;
chain.

The requirements for them are the same as for classic walking collars. Before purchasing, pay special attention to the chain. Its links should be light, solid and strong. This collar should not be worn in rainy weather, and the links require careful care. Otherwise, over time they will become covered with rust.

There should not be any unnecessary parts on the cord, otherwise the decorative elements will put pressure on the pet’s neck.

We put it on and train it

After choosing a suitable collar, you need to put it on your pet, while at the same time accustoming it to a new thing.

Call the dog by name with the command “come to me.” When she runs up, give her a treat and praise her. Gently pick up the Chihuahua. While he is eating, pull the collar over your pet's neck and over his head. Secure the clasp. Praise your dog again and give him a treat. Then put the dog on the floor and start some kind of game with it to distract attention from the inconvenient accessory.

For the first time, five two to three minutes is enough. Try again after a while. Over the course of several days, increase the time you wear the collar by a few minutes until your Chihuahua becomes completely accustomed to it. As soon as you notice that she has stopped paying attention to the new thing, you can safely put on a leash and go for a walk.

How to take measurements to buy a dog harness

The equipment should fit the dog's torso, not dangle, and not squeeze the body. Which one is more comfortable to wear and how to choose the right harness for your dog according to its size, consult a veterinarian and experienced breeders. If you accurately measure the dog’s parameters, you can buy the item without trying it on.

Two indicators need to be determined:

neck volume. Measure with a tailor's meter under the collar. The anterior point is on the protruding bone under the throat - the keel. From the back, the tape is brought out to the edge of the shoulder blades;
chest girth. Measure the widest part of the torso just behind the front legs. Add two centimeters to the seam allowance for a loose fit.

Useful video

From the video you will learn about clothes for Chihuahuas:

Is there a new four-legged family member in the house? In this case, in addition to joy, concern also appears. After all, a dog requires certain care and protection. At home it’s easier in this regard, but on the street there are difficulties. To make your walks enjoyable and with a minimum of worry, you need to take care of special equipment - a collar with a leash or a harness. But what is better to give preference to, and what nuances should be taken into account when choosing?

Arriving at a pet store, a new dog owner may be confused when he discovers a great variety of different collars. They make products from artificial and natural leather, synthetic materials, fabrics, and metals. In addition, there is a classification of collars, dividing them by areas of application.

Walking

Walking collar

Collars suitable for daily walking of your pet. They must be made of high-quality materials that are wear-resistant but do not cause discomfort to the dog - leather, leatherette, felt, nylon, etc. Collars made from combined materials can also be found on sale. A walking collar includes the following:

strong connection with the leash (it is better if it is in the form of a solid welded ring);
It is mandatory to have a soft pad on the inside of the product in contact with the animal’s neck.

For service and training

Training collars

For such purposes, ammunition is produced from materials of the highest quality. Such collars are equipped with a special handle that allows you to hold the animal at any time, and it also allows the owner to control the pet’s actions.

Most often, collars have two half rings or loops at the top. For work or training, it is more convenient to attach the leash to the ring located closer to the buckle.

To stand guard

Collar for guard duty

The equipment intended for leashed dogs also has its own peculiarity. The models have a decent width. It is better to give preference to products made from materials that are durable and wear-resistant, capable of withstanding any weather conditions and constant use.

When in use, the leash is threaded through the half ring, then the carabiner is attached to the buckle. This design allows the load received during tension to be transferred not to the dog’s neck, but to the buckle area.

Choke collar

Quite formidable ammunition, intended for no less formidable animals - representatives of large or fighting breeds with a wayward or even ferocious disposition. Naturally, in this case we are not talking about the aesthetics and beauty of the product.

Nooses can be made of leather or synthetic fabrics, but most often they are made from metal in the form of chain links. Such collars are used for walking, training and during participation in public events - competitions, exhibitions.

The impact of a noose from puppyhood (when the bitch pulls the babies by the withers, slightly squeezing) is associated with prohibition in dogs. Naturally, it is necessary to calculate the force and time of impact. If you do not have the skill to handle such ammunition, you should consult a dog handler.

When choosing metal products, you should be extremely careful:

the collar must be made of durable alloy;
the links of the chain must be well and firmly sealed so as not to scratch the animal’s skin;
The most low-allergenic alloy is considered to be Kurogan (the color is slightly darker than brass with a reddish tint);
For pets with light hair, it is extremely important that the collar does not stain the coat.

“Parfors” (in common parlance – “planer”)

Collar “Parfors”

Another type of equipment for dogs with a certain character. Its purpose is to use it in the learning process and training. Differences from other collars are the presence of spikes on the inside, which cause discomfort to the pet during strong jerks and when pulled.

When choosing a parfors, you need to focus on the length of your pet’s fur:

For dogs with smooth and short hair, strict collars made of wire or plates are suitable.
For long-haired pets, it is preferable to take a metal parfors.

A very important requirement is that the thorns should not injure the pet’s skin, cause severe pain, or have a targeted effect on the skin. Otherwise, the learning process will not give positive results. The parfors should not sit tightly on the dog's neck or be too loose. A strict collar implies the ability to adjust the product to the size of the pet, only by removing the extra links.

The "strogach" can be used only for its intended purpose - during the period of training and education. It is not suitable for constant wear, for daily walking and playing with other dogs.

Exhibition equipment

Show collar

Someone might think that the main thing here is beauty and aesthetics - the more rhinestones and glitter, the better. However, this is not quite true. Yes, aesthetics are important, but the accessory should not be flashy, distracting from the dog’s advantages. When choosing, you should focus on three properties - practicality, convenience and quality.

Owners of show-class pets should be aware that in order to participate in exhibitions, special collars are required - ring collars, used to guide the participant around the ring. This design combines two accessories at once - a collar and a leash.

There is a special provision of the RKF that prohibits the use of parfors harnesses for these purposes; ordinary collars and leashes are also not used.

Decorative collars

Such ammunition has more aesthetic value. Decorative collars are suitable for dogs of miniature breeds; they are less often chosen for medium-sized pets. The material and design are different, depending on the designer’s imagination.

Experts recommend choosing equipment for your pet only after having the opportunity to try it on. Experienced dog handlers have various types of equipment at their disposal - for everyday walks, exhibitions, training and other events. They also advise other dog owners to do the same.

Any equipment requires regular care - washing, cleaning, which will increase its service life and protect your pet from infection. Price is far from the most important criterion, since in pursuit of profit you can harm your four-legged friend. The pursuit of beauty is also inappropriate - rhinestones, rivets and other decorations can cause discomfort in the animal.

To make it easier to determine the size, you can focus on the standard - two fingers should fit freely between the animal’s neck and the product. To protect the animal's fur, it is better to choose ammunition with protective valves.

The choice of collar is made based on the breed:

For those with a hard coat, it is better to choose collars that have a leather inner surface, a circular cross-section and external seams.
Large, active dogs with a violent temperament are best bred with a strict collar.
For pets with long, silky hair, a chain collar made of chromed metal is more suitable.
To protect an overly curious and disobedient pet during the educational process, it is recommended to use a choke collar.
For puppies, lightweight leather or fabric collars are suitable, equipped with a valve that protects the skin and fur from contact with metal parts.

How to choose the size

A harness is a training attribute. It cannot be worn every day, much less leave the dog alone at home. For the dog’s convenience, the accessory is selected according to size.

The main parameters are the volumes of the chest and neck. But back length and weight also matter.

For your information! Size S with a chest circumference of up to 36 cm is suitable for mini Yorkies and pinschers. Chinese crested and toy poodles wear size M with a neck volume of 23-27 cm. Pug and French bulldog wear size L/XL (chest - 54-60 cm, neck - 38-42 cm).

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How to choose for the breed

Conventionally, dogs are divided into small, medium and large breeds. Each has its own type of accessory. Step-by-step instructions on how to train your pet to use it are included with the product. The principle is not to form fear in relation to the subject.

First, the item is placed on the floor and the dog is invited to sniff, examine, and get used to it. Then they put the front part around the neck, pass the lower strap between the front legs, and fasten it on the sides.

Important! A hand should be placed between the belt and the dog's back.

Harnesses for small breeds

Small dogs are active and energetic, they have sharp teeth. Owners take this into account when choosing ammunition material. Take a light one, but durable so that it does not succumb to dog teeth. Select fasteners for miniature individuals that are small.

Walking harnesses are made of velor and can be adjusted. It is preferable to have options with a handle to carry the baby through a puddle or mud. In cool weather, vests are worn to cover the back and chest of the Pekingese, Spitz, and Toy Terrier. Colors, decorations, rhinestones according to the preferences of the owners, as long as they do not weigh down the item.

Harnesses for medium breeds

From the assortment of accessories for walking and correcting the behavior of medium-sized dogs, choose products made from more durable materials.

Basset hounds, pit bull terriers, and Australian shepherds sport new clothes that are structurally similar to harnesses for small breeds, but the belts are wider and the rivets are more reliable. A model with a handle is taken for sick and injured individuals.

Dog in walking attribute

Harnesses for large breeds

Manufacturers take into account the strength of animals, so the harnesses are made multi-layered with large fasteners.

Large dogs can be injured by strong jerks, so a special wide fabric with a felt backing is inserted on the chest of the product.

Bullmastiff, Amstaff, East European Shepherd, Labrador are the names of breeds that guard their owners and property. They require strong corrective products and (to build muscle) ammunition with weights.

Harnesses for puppies

Veterinarians do not recommend wearing harnesses until the age of six months. It is better to start at 8-9 months, when the animal’s skeleton is almost formed.

For young individuals, the attribute is made of nylon fabric with two fasteners. For kids, such a harness serves as decorative clothing, in which they look elegant. Puppy harnesses are replete with beautiful inserts and bright elements.

Puppy in equipment

Can be worn for a short time and removed at home. The model should be put on quickly, be loose enough so as not to squeeze young bones or rub under the armpits.

Harnesses are an age-old device for handling dogs. Used for walking and training dogs, at exhibitions and competitions. Simple design, a variety of materials, strong rivets - the product range is very wide. A specialist will advise which dog harness is best; before purchasing, the animal is taken to the veterinarian. The equipment must fit comfortably on the figure, so they take measurements of the pet and determine the size. An incorrectly selected accessory leads to abrasion of the fur and calluses.

The Chihuahua is a small dog with a doll-like appearance originally from Mexico, which seems to have been specially bred to be dressed up in bright costumes, groomed and pampered.

And, indeed, many owners of these animals do not spare any money to make their pet look glamorous and stylish.

And on the street, especially in the cool season, you can see Chihuahuas dressed in multi-colored overalls, sweaters and blankets.

But what is clothing for a Chihuahua: a whim of the owner or a necessary care item?

And what kind of wardrobe should such a dog have?

Muzzles for dogs

Another important attribute of Chihuahua equipment is a muzzle. Many owners do not attach much importance to this item, believing that a small dog does not need it. But that's not true. There are several options where a muzzle can come in handy:

traveling on public transport;
during a visit to the doctor;
during education;
during training;
during exhibitions.

You also need to take into account the character traits of the Chihuahua. She is a very jealous dog and may start to show it at parties or in public places. Many people may be afraid for themselves or their children. In order not to spoil your relationship with others and not to listen to possible complaints, it is better to put a muzzle on your pet once again.

There are several types of muzzles: metal, solid leather, plastic, “baskets”. For Chihuahuas, soft nylon muzzles are an excellent option.

This muzzle completely fits the dog's muzzle. In it she will not be able to lift anything from the ground. It will not be possible to bark or bite in such a muzzle, but the pet will be able to breathe calmly - the nose in this muzzle remains open. Another important advantage of a nylon muzzle is that it can be used in the rain. And it’s easy to care for – you just need to wash it when it gets dirty.

If it’s too hot outside, you can purchase a mesh muzzle for such a case. But this is a short-lived option. The Chihuahua will very quickly chew through walls made of breathable fabric.

Selecting the size

In order not to be mistaken with the size of the muzzle, measure the Chihuahua's muzzle before purchasing it: length, girth, width, height. Also measure the distance from the back of the dog's head to its eyes, and the volume of the neck.

To find out if the size of the muzzle is right for your pet, carefully examine its skin after removing the accessory. There should be no marks from the straps on the dog's face.

We put it on and train it

To accustom a Chihuahua to a muzzle, the first thing you need to do is put a “yummy” in it and call your pet by name with the order “come to me.” The dog will naturally be interested in the treat, and you will let him know that the new item is completely safe.

Once your baby gets used to the muzzle, gently put it on for a few minutes. Talk calmly to your pet and praise him. After removing the muzzle, reward the dog. Gradually increase the time by distracting the Chihuahua with play. When she stops trying to pull off the muzzle, you can go outside.

If your dog refuses a muzzle, then you can use special muzzles to transport it, which you can purchase, like other dog equipment, in specialized stores.

Tell us what equipment you chose for your Chihuahua and how you trained your dog to use it?

Dog owners want the best for their pets, but they face many questions. For example, what is better for a dog: a collar or a harness.

Do you need clothes?

Chihuahua dogs are very small in size , both girls and boys, and due to their accelerated metabolism they can freeze even in cool or too windy weather .

And rain, even if warm, will not do any good to a pet of this breed: the dog can simply get sick if it gets too wet. For such weather conditions, you can purchase a raincoat.

In the summer heat, a Chihuahua can overheat and get heatstroke or sunstroke, and therefore it will also benefit from clothes designed for hot weather. And even if the room suddenly becomes cool, the dog will need a blanket or sweater.

Manufacturers and prices

Sled harnesses Dandy Dog, Alaskan malamut (from 1500 rubles), ManMat (from 1800 rubles), Pettra (from 1900 rubles) have become widespread. The cost of harnesses for puppies is significantly lower, but in reality the costs are higher, since you will have to buy new equipment as the puppy grows.

Mandatory clothing

Mandatory accessories that any dog of this breed should have include winter and demi-season overalls, season-appropriate shoes, Panama hats or baseball caps, and, of course, leashes, collars, harnesses and muzzles.

The Chihuahua also needs a sweater or vest to wear in the house when the room is cool . These same outfits can be worn outside, if the weather permits, and the usual demi-season overalls are already boring.

In some situations, it will not be possible to do without other clothing: for example, girls during estrus are recommended to wear special panties that protect the floor, furniture and other things in the house from contamination.

Another necessary accessory that you cannot do without in certain circumstances is a surgical blanket..

It is worn on dogs after abdominal surgery, for example, after a cesarean section or sterilization, and it is necessary to wear it in order to protect the surgical suture from contamination or wetness.

Leashes for dogs

After choosing the right collar for your pet, you need to decide on the choice of leash. There are few requirements for it. It should be fairly safe, that is, light in weight, without any unnecessary parts. Otherwise, it will be extremely inconvenient for a small dog to carry such a weight.

You also need to choose a leash that is suitable in length. A short leash will not give your pet enough space to roam, while a leash that is too long will simply get tangled. The best option for your Chihuahua is a tape leash. It is lightweight and its length can be adjusted. You can also choose a thin leash made of leather or nylon.

Always pay attention to the quality of dog equipment. To prevent the leash from falling off at an inconvenient moment, its carabiner must close well. Look at the seams that hold the material of the leash together - they should have been stitched well. Otherwise, such an accessory will quickly become unusable. Be sure to hold the leash in your hand before purchasing to see if it is comfortable for you. It shouldn't rub your hand.

Considering the anatomical structure of the Chihuahua's respiratory tract, a collar and leash are not the best option for dogs of this breed. Pulling the leash forcefully can disrupt the dog's breathing or injure the cervical vertebrae.

A separate decorative collar is perfect for the beauty of your pet at home or away. It is best to walk a small dog with a harness.

How to choose the size

To choose the right size of clothing for your pet, you need to take several measurements, and then use them to determine the size using special tables.

Basic measurements:

Neck circumference.
Length of back from withers to base of tail.
Chest circumference.

Depending on their size and weight, Chihuahuas usually wear clothes in the following sizes: XS, S, M, and the largest individuals, whose weight exceeds the standard 3 kg, may also be suitable for clothes in size L:

XS: back length - 15-20 cm, chest girth - 22-28 cm, neck girth - 12-20 cm. This size is suitable for standard puppies, as well as adult micro and mini Chihuahuas, whose weight is 0.7-1.2 kg.
S: back length - 21-24 cm, chest girth - 29-35 cm, neck girth - 21-23 cm. This size is designed for mini and small standard dogs, whose weight is 1.2-2.3 kg.
M: back length - 25-28 cm, chest girth - 36-41 cm, neck girth - 24-27 cm. This size is suitable for standard dogs weighing 2.4-3 kg.
L: back length - 29-33 cm, chest girth - 42-46 cm, neck girth - 28-31 cm. It makes sense to buy clothes of this size for a Chihuahua whose weight exceeds the standard and is 3.2 kg or more.

Harnesses: features and benefits

Another type of equipment for dogs, including belts and straps. Today it is a fairly popular product that has a number of advantages. And, above all, the harness removes the load from the animal’s cervical vertebrae, distributing it to the shoulder and thoracic regions.

At the time of their appearance, they were used as dog harnesses. To this day, there is a special type of harness used in the north for sledding, as well as for sports racing. The designs of these products have some differences from conventional harnesses; they are made of very strong materials - canvas or nylon fabric.

Special ammunition is also produced:

to move along the trail;
harnesses with weights to correct the muscle corset;
equipment for guide dogs;
harnesses for medical purposes and others.

When choosing a harness, you should be guided by the following recommendations:

The most important parameter when choosing is the size of the ammunition. There should be a snug fit without pressing into the dog's skin; The harness should not restrict movement.
Harness fasteners should not have sharp edges or protruding parts.
The correct fit of the equipment is when the side strap is not pressed against the pet’s armpits. For representatives of large and medium-sized breeds, the distance is the width of the palm of an adult; for small dogs, 2-3 fingers are enough.

The advantages of harnesses include the following:

a pet wearing a harness does not feel discomfort;
convenient to use.

The disadvantages are that the dog quickly gets used to it; after wearing a harness, the pet may refuse to wear a regular collar. Not suitable for all breeds. When you get home, you must take off the harness. In the process of training, a harness will not help much, since pulling it back will not have the desired effect on the dog.

At what temperature should you wear it?

All dogs' metabolism may be different, and some Chihuahuas have no undercoat at all, while others have quite developed undercoat.

Taking this into account, it is impossible to say exactly at what temperature the dog must be dressed in a sweater or overalls.

You need to focus on the pet’s well-being: if he trembles, clings to the owner and asks to be held as soon as he goes outside and this behavior is not associated with stress or fear, then the dog needs to be dressed.

You should switch to warm winter clothes when the temperature becomes +1-2 degrees.

If you have any doubts about whether you need to dress your Chihuahua for a walk, then it is better to take the dog out without clothes, and take a jumpsuit or sweater with you and, if necessary, put it on your pet.

There is no need to dress your dog “just in case,” since overheating is no less harmful for him than hypothermia.

Pros of collars

The collar must have a soft pad on the inside of the product that is in contact with the dog’s neck

A collar is a strap with a clasp and a carabiner to which a leash attaches.

It is placed around the animal's neck and can be used for training, walking, strict or decorative purposes. Collars have the following advantages:

you don’t have to take it off after a walk;
Most often, collars are made of leather, so they are easy to care for and more hygienic than harnesses;
provides complete control over the animal, which is especially necessary for large and fighting dogs.

How to get used to wearing it?

Most Chihuahuas are favorable towards wearing clothes, as they quickly understand that they are much warmer and more comfortable..

But some dogs do not react well to their owners’ attempts to put overalls or a sweater on them: they run away and hide, and sometimes even growl and can bite.

In order for your pet to quickly get used to clothes, you need to accustom him to them gradually: put them on and distract him with a game or a treat. After a few minutes, take off your clothes and praise and encourage the dog.

The next day, the time you wear the clothes should be slightly increased, and so on until the puppy stops paying attention to it. After this, you can train your dog to wear a suit outside.

The worst thing you can do when training a puppy to wear overalls or blankets is to try to put clothes on a struggling pet..

The dog will begin to associate the clothes with discomfort and is unlikely to agree to try them on again.

Also read about how to properly train a Chihuahua.

Which leash to choose for a shepherd?

For a German Shepherd

The best option for growth would be
leash
with a weight limit of up to 50 kg.
Pros: The leash
automatically tightens and releases. Cons: high price - high-quality tape measures for large dogs are several times more expensive than regular leashes.

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What accessories do you need in winter?

In the cold season, a Chihuahua cannot do without insulated overalls or a suit consisting of a jacket and trousers. It is better to give preference to clothes made from quilted synthetic padding; natural or artificial down is also good.

Winter overalls and suits for dogs should not be too light, easily washable and dry well..

It is better to purchase a spare version of clothing, because it may turn out that the washed overalls did not have time to dry, but you urgently need to go somewhere or travel with your pet. You can use a bag.

A jumpsuit or jacket for the winter is preferable with a hood, also insulated: this will eliminate the need to buy hats, which, moreover, tend to get lost quite often.

If you do buy hats, they need to be the right size and can be tied under the dog’s chin.

If at other times of the year shoes are not a mandatory accessory, then in winter you cannot do without them. And it’s not just that without boots or boots the dog’s paws get cold.

City streets are sprinkled with reagents that corrode ice, which end up on the pet's paw pads and between the toes and irritate the skin.

Which is better to choose?

There is no consensus on this matter. Basically the recommendations are as follows:

a collar is better for a puppy, since a harness can only be worn by animals older than 8 months, when their spine has already fully formed;
For fighting and guard dogs, it is also worth choosing a collar; it helps the owner better control his pet;
For sled dogs and small dogs, due to their physiological characteristics, a harness is more suitable.

In any case, when choosing an accessory for a dog, you should not rely only on your own preferences. It’s better to find out what recommendations experts give specifically for your breed.

There is now a dog in your house. Even if she is as small as a Chihuahua, she needs to go outside. And for this you definitely need a leash so that your tiny dog doesn’t run away or get lost. And even if you carry the dog in your arms all the time, it must have the opportunity to run, naturally, under your supervision. That's what a leash is for.

Everything is clear about the leash, it is necessary. Why attach it to? Are there any collars that can hold a tiny dog? Of course, there are, and even two options - a collar and a harness. Each option has its pros and cons, and it's up to you to choose.

How to choose a harness (leash)

A leash or harness for a Chihuahua should be safe, durable and comfortable.

Leashes and collars are not particularly recommended for small dogs, as it is easy to injure your pet by yanking or pulling too hard on the leash. But at exhibitions you can’t do without them.

It is better to give preference to a harness and leash made of leather or canvas fabric.

In this case, the harness should fit perfectly: not dangle on the dog, but also not dig into the body.

The straps should preferably be wide enough: the distance between them should not exceed 3 cm.

When choosing a leash, you need to remember that it should be light, durable and with a reliable carabiner . It is also very important that the leash does not rub your hand or cut into it.

Many owners of decorative dogs prefer roulette leashes, as they are comfortable to hold in the hand and their length is easily adjustable.

Leash - which one is better?

First you need to figure out what kind of leash you will use on your dog. This is very important for several reasons. A leash for a Chihuahua should, first of all, be safe for the dog, that is, light enough. After all, a dog weighing half a kilo cannot carry the same amount of leather with rivets or a thin metal chain.

The length of the leash is also important - it should not be too short, because the dog needs room to maneuver, it will not be able to walk as if glued next to your leg. A leash that is too long is also not good - if you are far enough away from you, the dog can run around the tree and get confused.

Which leash should you choose? There is always a way out!

These days, tape leashes are widely used among owners of small dogs. They provide the length you need, and with their help it is very convenient to practice some commands, in particular, the “Come to me” command.

How to choose a collar

The most suitable equipment for a Chihuahua is a harness, but many owners prefer to walk their pets with collars and leashes.

For daily use of dogs of this breed, leather or canvas collars are suitable, which must be of sufficient width and strength, and its buckles and ring for securing the carabiner must be strong and reliable..

The collar should not press, rub the dog’s neck or be too stiff.

For a show dog you will also need a display collar . Typically, such models are made of synthetic cord or in the form of a metal chain.

And, if when choosing a regular collar you can buy a brighter accessory, then the exhibition one needs to be selected to match the color of the coat or close to it.

Differences between a collar and a harness

There are unproven rumors that harnesses are harmful for Chihuahuas. It’s as if she’s ruining the dog’s fur, causing bald patches to appear, and so on. And that when carrying a Chihuahua by its harness, you can damage the dog’s back. In fact, there were no such cases. The harness is very convenient because the dog will not be able to get out of it, unless, of course, the size of the harness is too large. A special handle on the harness allows you to lift your Chihuahua when carrying it from place to place if, for example, the weather is bad and the dog gets dirty. Your clothes will remain clean when you return from your walk if you carry your dog by the harness. Another plus of the harness is that some dogs that are too fat have practically no neck, their head is smaller than the diameter of the neck, so it is impossible to keep them in the collar.

Buy only the lightest collar for your Chihuahua. No rivets, chains or rhinestones! They add weight to the collar, and it will be tiring for a small dog to carry such a weight around its neck. It is best to buy a very light nylon collar, and you can always choose the color that suits you.

If you choose a collar, always fasten it securely so that when you move it does not tighten around your Chihuahua's neck like a garrote. And never jerk the leash sharply! This way you can damage your dog’s fragile neck, or even break it.

Whatever choice you make, think first about your pet's comfort, not about your own preferences or fashion trends. The safety of your dog is the main thing when choosing walking equipment! And then your wonderful dog will enjoy every walk with you!

The law clearly states: dogs must be walked with a collar and leash, and large ones must also wear a muzzle. But few people think about the fact that a leash is essentially not a means of controlling a dog, but a means of controlling it where the animal should not run freely.

Quite often you can see a picture when a dog that has not been trained in the “near” command breaks free and wheezes, and the owner shortens the leash, wraps it around his hand and tries to restrain the disobedient pet.

A dog on a short leash can pull aside not only because it is not well-mannered: the dog wants to sniff some things, explore the territory, and communicate with other animals. Finally, the length of the leash may simply not coincide with the distance around the owner that the animal is trying to instinctively guard.

Is a muzzle necessary?

A muzzle is needed in some situations, such as traveling on public transport, visiting a veterinarian, and also tidying up your pet's claws if he is actively resisting.

Given the small size of the Chihuahua, you need to buy nylon muzzles of the appropriate size for them..

In addition, it would be useful to also acquire a special muzzle with a fine mesh, which prevents the dog from picking up anything from the ground during walks.

Clothing designed for different weather conditions is necessary for a Chihuahua.

These dogs need protection from frost, snow, rain, strong wind and even from the scorching sun.

At the same time, you can also buy clothes for your pet or sew them yourself, which are not mandatory: glamorous dresses and suits, decorated with embroidery, rhinestones, fur and other decorative trims.

The main thing is that the clothes and accessories fit the pet in size and do not cause him discomfort, then the dog will willingly wear them.

About choosing a harness

Harnesses first appeared in dog sleds. Now there are many types of harnesses: sports, medical, for police work, etc. You need to choose a harness for each breed separately to take into account the physiological characteristics of the dog.

But there are also general rules: the harness must fit snugly to the body in all places, without squeezing or interfering with movements: the palm of your hand must pass between the belts and the dog’s body.

The fasteners are important, as on cheap devices they often cut into the dog’s skin. It is better if there are several fasteners, which will make dressing easier. The side straps of the harness should not pass under the armpits of the animal to avoid chafing: for large dogs there should be a distance of a palm between the belt and the armpit, for small dogs - three fingers. Finally, the material of the harness itself should be soft and durable at the same time.

However, when wearing a harness, the dog should not be allowed to forget about the collar. Especially if your pet attends exhibitions, where he may become nervous in the ring wearing a collar. It is not forbidden to wear both a harness and a collar together. The main thing is not to attach a leash to the collar.

It is very important that the dog harness is perfectly adjusted in size, and is also designed for the temperament and physical strength of the dog, taking into account its breed. In addition, the choice of type of harness depends on what it is needed for.

This could be regular walks, official investigative work, sports, or even driving.