Is your harness wrecking their joints?

Most Aussie dog owners ignore this one biomechanical flaw that causes long-term pain.

Kylosi
1 / 10

Stop using 'horizontal' brakes

Horizontal chest straps act like a physical brake on your dog’s stride, leading to muscle strain over time.

2 / 10

The 'Y' shape saves shoulders

A true Y-front harness follows the skeletal frame, leaving the joints free to rotate for a natural, healthy walk.

3 / 10

Throw away the weight chart

Sizing by weight is a guess. Use a tape measure for the lower neck and girth in centimetres for real accuracy.

4 / 10

Avoid the 'Armpit Chafe'

Your girth strap should sit 5–10 cm behind the front legs. Too close, and it’s a recipe for painful skin sores.

5 / 10

The gold standard tension test

Can you slide two fingers flat under the strap? If not, it’s too tight. If more, it’s a sliding hazard.

6 / 10

Find the 'Manubrium' bone

The front 'V' must rest on the hard bony point of the chest. Too high, and it crushes the windpipe.

7 / 10

Stay off the soft bits

Never let back straps sit on the floating ribs or belly. These areas have zero skeletal protection for internal organs.

8 / 10

Test it while they sit

A harness that fits while walking might choke them when they sit. Always check for throat pressure during a 'sit'.

9 / 10

Stop the 'Houdini' reverse

If your dog backs out of their gear, your neck opening is too wide. Tightening the girth won't fix a bad shape.

10 / 10

Beware the Aussie summer rub

Humidity turns friction into 'hot spots.' Check for redness under the arms after every trip to the park.

This isn't just gear. It's health.

A harness isn't a simple leash attachment; it’s a tool for their biomechanics. Get the fit right or they pay the price in joint health.

Protect your pup’s joints

See the exact gait checks and brand recommendations used by Aussie canine physiotherapists.

See Full Guide