You may imagine finding a good harness for Dachshunds would be a simple matter of picking one off the shelf. Dachshund dogs (also known as Dachie’s, Weiner dogs and sausage dogs) are a popular breed instantly recognisable by their long bodies and short legs.
Not only are Dachshunds bright and playful, but they are also adventurous – always on the lookout for new things.
When out walking, you may find two issues – the first is finding a harness for Dachshunds which fits well to their unique shape. The second is their tendency to pull, particularly when they spot something they want to chase or explore.
We have put together some advice that will make selecting a Dachshund harness a bit easier; as well as our recommendations for the best harnesses for Dachshunds available.
Contents
Best Harness for Dachshunds
1. RUFFWEAR – Web Master Harness
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 | RUFFWEAR, Web Master, Multi-Use Support Dog Harness, Hiking and Trail Running, Service and Working,... | $44.95 | Buy on Amazon |
Because of the Dachshund’s unique shape, finding a suitable harness can sometimes be tricky depending on their behaviour and level of training.
If they are a puller, a no-pull dog harness is undoubtedly advisable. The issue sometimes is that Dachshunds, mainly if they pull backwards on the lead can slip out of a standard harness; often referred to as a Houdini dog.
The WebMaster harness is somewhat unique in its escape-proof design. It’s also a back range no-pull dog harness with two lead attachment points. A sturdy aluminium V-ring is at the top for leash attachment and regular walking. At the back is a webbing loop.
If you are using a double-ended training leash such as a HALTI, both ends can be attached to the two points for greater control.
At the top of the harness, there is a grab handle which can be used for holding, lifting or assisting your Dachshund if required.
The material is lightweight nylon with strong woven straps adapted from mountaineering technology. There are multiple points of adjustment (shoulder, chest and belly) for a perfect fit.
There are reflective trims on the outer layer for improved visibility at night. The harness is also available in a range of colours.
The Webmaster is a fantastic no-pull Dachshund harness for even the sneakiest of escape artists. If, however, you don’t have an escapee you can find many of the same excellent features in the more compact Adventure Harness reviewed as item #2.
Key Highlights
- Well suited to Dachshunds unique shape
- Escape proof for Houdini dogs
- A reliable no-pull harness
2. Ruffwear Front Range All-Day Adventure Dog Harness
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 | RUFFWEAR - Front Range Dog Harness, Reflective and Padded Harness for Training and Everyday,... | Buy on Amazon |
Another great harness from Ruffwear, the All-Day Adventure harness is an example of a front and back range no-pull Dachshund harness.
A front-range step-in harness with dual leash attachments, one at the front (dogs chest) and one at the back (top).
An aluminium V-ring on the back is used for attaching the leash and used for normal walking of your Dachshund.
A reinforced webbing loop is at the front. If required, this can be used as a front range, where a special double-ended training lead like the HALTI, is clipped to both the top and front of the harness.
This has two primary purposes; to reduce pulling behaviour and to offer better control of your Dachshund.
Padded chest and belly panels line the inner layer for comfort and to reduce pulling impact.
It is made from lightweight nylon material with extra strong woven straps. These are adjustable at the shoulder, chest and belly.
Reflective strips on the outer layer offer better night visibility.
For Miniature Dachshunds, we recommend an XS or XXS sized harness.
Key Highlights
- A great no-pull dog harness
- Robust and comfortable
- Can be used as a walking and training harness.
3. Julius-K9, 162P-M, Powerharness, Size: M
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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 | Julius-K9 Powerharness, Mini, Black | 30 Reviews | Buy on Amazon |
Very strong and simple to put on, Julius-K9 are well known for their dependability.
Made from a scratch-resistant outer layer; this Dachshund dog harness is both water-resistant and easily cleaned.
A breathable air skin lines the inner layer – making it both snug and comfortable.
The leash attaches to a strong steel ring at the top (back) of the harness. There is also a closed handle at the top for assistance in lifting or holding your Dachshund in place.
Key Highlights
- Long-lasting and very robust
- Easy to put on and take off
4. Puppia Authentic RiteFit Harness with Adjustable Neck
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 | Authentic Puppia RiteFit Harness with Adjustable Neck, Red, Small | $19.31 | Buy on Amazon |
Very affordable and perfect for those with well-behaved Dachshunds, older dogs or owners trying dog harnesses for the first time.
This vest harness for Dachshunds is made from 100% polyester mesh available in a range of colours and patterns.
Key Highlights
- Lightweight mesh harness for walking
- Great for puppies or well-trained dogs
5. Sporn Dog Harness
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 | Sporn Mesh Non Pull Dog Harness Medium Red | $29.99 | Buy on Amazon |
6. Muttitude Dog Harness & Leash Set
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 | Muttitude Dog Harness & Leash Set for Small Breeds (Large, Pueblo) | $19.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Available for our USA readers – these bright but practical harnesses are designed around the Dachshund breed.
Both the neck and chest areas are attached using Velcro. The inner lining is a padded mesh for comfort.
Choosing a Harness for My Dachshund
Owning a dog requires you to ensure that you find the right harness for it. After all, walking your dog is a crucial aspect of being a dog owner, and so, you must consider as much as possible when it comes to selecting a harness that works.
A Dachshund is a very distinctive yet unusual breed of dog with its long body and low centre of gravity. Of course, they are incredibly naughty too, and that can mean that you need to find a Dachshund harness that is both safe and secure. Along with this, one of the most vital aspects of choosing a harness is to ensure that it fits your Dachshund comfortably.
One other consideration to make is that dogs, in particular Dachshunds, pull on their leash because they are eager to explore. As a result, you are going to want a harness that can aid training and reduce their desire to pull. So, take a look at our guide and find out what it takes to find the perfect harness.
Why Choose a Dachshund Harness?
A Dachshund or a sausage dog as they are also known to have an unusual shape while they are a breed that tends to pull. Therefore, you need to make a considered choice when opting for a harness for your dog.
What you should be looking for is a harness that fits well, but you want it also to be used as a training aid almost as you can use it to encourage and train your dog to behave while it is on a leash.
However, most dachshund owners will know about the back problems that they can develop as around 25% of the breed will develop some form of back problem.
The problem, which is known as Intervertebral Disc Disease, is similar to that of a slipped disc that humans can suffer with, and it causes problems in the spinal column for the dog.
While you can opt to purchase a brace for your dog if it suffers from this problem, a harness can work to enhance the support that your dog needs. They work by spreading out the resistance from pulling, which means that it works differently to that of a collar.
What you should ensure is that the harness prevents choking while it has to be comfortable for them to wear and useful when it comes to changing how they behave.
Is a Collar or Harness better for my Dachshund?
In truth, you should think about investing in a harness and a collar for your dog. A standard and miniature dachshund collar are perfect for ensuring that your dog can wear an ID tag. While they can be used for walking your dog; if your dog is one that can be mischievous while being walked, then they are not going to be of much use to you.
If your dog does pull while it is on the lead, then a harness is going to provide a higher level of control while it will significantly reduce the chance of injury and discomfort. Some dogs tend to pull exceptionally hard on a collar and leash, and that can result in significant problems with a dogs throat and neck.
A harness that has been designed to prevent pulling will reduce pulling, but it can act as a training aid for your Dachshund. As a result, it will improve your level of control and provide support when lifting and holding.
If the harness has been well-designed and fitted correctly, then this, along with the correct training techniques, can help to minimise the pulling behaviour. However, a harness will not help to remove the problem altogether because it will require patience, but it can aid the process.
It is sometimes seen that a dachshund will not appreciate certain dog harnesses. As a result, you might find that you need to try a few before you find one that your dog is happy with.
Types of Dachshund Dog Harness
The truth is, the market for dachshund dog harnesses is hugely varied. If you have gone in search of a harness before, then you will be familiar with the full range of harnesses available. You will notice that they come in many different designs, colours, and they all offer a wealth of features that set them all apart from each other.
They are made using a wide range of materials too, and this can include mesh, fabric and even leather, and these materials are designed to suit the dog as well as meet the preferences of their owners.
Some harnesses are more suited to individual temperaments while some have been specifically designed to combat a particular product. Therefore, all harnesses are different, and all meet a specific purpose.
Dog Harness Vest for Dachshunds
In its purest form, a harness vest is quite basic and is commonly used to walk dogs that have been trained. Along with this, they are not expensive, they are comfortable and light and have very few features.
They are ideal for dogs that do not suffer from behavioural problems such as pulling on their leash while they are also perfect for old dogs and those Dachshunds that have never used a harness before. There are several options to choose from, ensuring you can find a harness that suits your dog.
Front and Back Clip Harness
When it comes to harnesses, there are the most popular and have been designed to reduce and prevent dogs from pulling. Back clip harnesses come with a leash attachment that is located at the top of the harness which is located on the back of the dog.
In contrast, there are specialised harnesses that have a front clip whereby the clip is located on the front of the harness, which is the chest area and is used to attach a lead. However, front and back clip dog harnesses are far more common, and they provide owners with the ability to switch between the front and the back.
These are designed to help keep your dog under control if they become over-excited or become problematic when they see something that gets them out of control, such as a cat. The back clip is designed to attach a lease and is suitable for regular walking.
A wide range of harnesses are front range, and that means that they contain both front and back clips. These require the use of a specialised training lease which could be a HALTI which is double-ended.
Therefore, it can either be used as a walking lead and used for regular walks or both ends can be used on the harness which enables you to have closer control over their movement. This can be likened to using reins on a horse, but it is crucial to ensure that they fit correctly.
Tightening or Control Harness
These are designed to tighten when the dog decides to pull while on the leash. However, its design should help to stop the dog from pulling, but they can pose some problems. They are commonly used by trainers who use them on dogs who have not responded as expected to an anti-pull harness; therefore, they are recommended for use by experienced dog owners and dog trainers.
Dachshund Back Support Harness
Back support harnesses for Dachshunds have been designed to help those dogs that suffer from specific back problems as well as hip dysplasia, arthritis and even injury. They are also suitable for dogs of all ages that suffer from mobility issues. This could include problems with the legs, torso or their spine, but a support harness can enhance their life as well as their mobility.
Leather Dog Harness
This type of harness is not hugely popular with dog owners, but they do serve a purpose and are suitable for those who are looking for something slightly different.
How to Measure a Dachshund for a Harness
Just like many things, a harness for your miniature Dachshund or Dachshund has to fit correctly, and that means that you have to get the sizing right. Many harnesses come with straps that can be adjusted to fit your dog correctly; however, as the Dachshund has a long body, it means that they can slip out of their harness reasonably easily.
To give you an idea, a Standard Weiner dog harness is considered small. However, generally, a mini dachshund harness is considered to be extra small.
A harness for a dachshund puppy will also be extra small, but it is also worth remembering that they will get bigger so the harness will only be used for a short period. However, undertaking training during the early years can have a significant impact in the future.
The height of a standard dachshund is around inches while the height of a mini dachshund is around 6 inches and so, it is vital to make sure that you measure each dog. This is because they can all vary in size and weight.
To take the correct measurement, you should begin by measuring the chest of your dog. You should measure around the widest part of the rib cage, using a suitable tape measure to take the measurement. You can often find this position around the width of four fingers behind the front leg of your dog. You will also need to ensure that the tape measure is wrapped around the dog before making a note of the number.
After this, you must then add two inches to the figure as this will give you a certain amount of flexibility, but it will also provide room for growth or an increase in weight. This is particularly useful for those dogs that are between the age of a puppy and a full adult.
To finish off, you need to make sure that you measure the circumference of the neck of the dog. This is not always required for a Dachshund harness; however, some harnesses do provide the neck dimensions, and so, it will enable you to make sure that you have the right harness and that it will fit your dog correctly.
Harness for Miniature Dachshund
So, there are several harnesses on offer for both standard dachshunds and miniature dachshunds. While the pulling requirements and the frame requirements remain the same, it is important to opt for a smaller sizer to ensure that you achieve the best fit.
Tips for Harness Training a Dachshund
- Training a Dachshund takes time, but with perseverance and the correct approach, you can give your dog the chance to adhere to your commands. This will leave you with a dog that is a breeze to handle and enjoyable to own. So, what are the top tips that you should follow?
- The majority of small to medium-sized breeds will adapt to a Y-shaped harness. These often work best, but if your dog is one that does not pull or might be a puppy that is getting used to them, then you might want to consider opting for a very or one that is comfortable and fits them well.
- If your dog is one that pulls on its lead, then you are going to need to opt for a harness that will not only reduce the amount that they pull but can also assist with training. In these instances, a Y-shaped harness for Dachshunds that come with both front and back clips are ideal and can often end in successful training.
- Opting for prong collars can cause harm to your dog and so, it is advised that you avoid them. While they might look as though they are unlikely to cause damage, they can cause pain as they tend to tighten around those areas that are relatively sensitive such as the armpit area.
- When you measure your dog to determine the size it needs, make sure that you take both the centimetres and Inch measurements. This will ensure that you have all measurements available as some sizing charts can vary among different manufacturers.
- As dachshunds are so low to the ground when they walk, you should aim to find a harness that does not sag underneath as this can cause it to wear which means that you will need to replace it sooner than you realise.
- Most harnesses are fitted by placing them over the head of the dog, but that could be frightening for your Dachshund. Therefore, you should spend some time helping them to become familiar with it, showing them that wearing a harness is a positive thing.
- It is common for some dogs to become frightened with those harnesses that are designed to have leads attached using a front-clip. You should bear this in mind, and so, it can help to adjust the leash to the side or use a harness that comes with a side clip.
- Before you take them out, you should train your Dachshund in the house. If they become familiar and comfortable with it all at home, then they should adjust at a quicker rate when they are taken outdoors.
- Finally, one tip to follow is to stop when the dog begins to pull on the lead. Once you finish, wait for several seconds before walking again. You can repeat this several times a day, and it will train the dog so that they know that when they pull the walking stops.
Conclusion
This article aims to help you find the best harness for Dachshunds that works well for your dog. When you find one that works for both you and your dog, you will soon find that walking becomes a stress-free experience for both.
With so many harnesses to choose from, the shape and size of the dog must be taken into consideration, and that is one of the most vital things to consider. Along with this, you will also need to consider the body shape as this is essential.
Ideally, you need to find a harness that fits perfectly as this will mean that it is not too tight nor is it too loose and so, you need to make sure you measure your dog correctly before making a purchase.
There are many harnesses out there to choose from so it could be a case of trying several before you decide to stick with one that suits both you and your dog.
So, remember that you harness, collar or even a leash will not be the solution to pulling that you have been looking for. What you need is the right training and patience and walks that are relaxed.
It is common for people to purchase a harness and then give up within a few days after deciding that it is not for them. Therefore, you should persevere and teach your dog not to pull and with this will become a calmer dog when you take it out for walks.
Let us know how you’ve got on with your Dachshund Harnesses in the comment section or on our Facebook page. See also our harness guides for French Bulldogs and Pugs, as well as checking out our Dog section.
