On the road

How to Choose the Right Harness for Your Labradoodle

If you’re about to head out for a lovely walk with your Australian Labradoodle, you’ll of course need a lead and a harness. A good harness provides comfort, safety and helps make your walks more relaxed. ALAEU is happy to share some tips to help you choose the right harness for your furry friend.

The Harness

A harness distributes pressure evenly across the chest and shoulders, taking strain off the neck. Unlike a lead attached to a collar, a well-fitting harness gives your Labradoodle more freedom of movement and better support. This is ideal for a puppy still learning to walk nicely on the lead, but also for an enthusiastic adult Labradoodle who loves to explore along the way.

What to Look Out For

A good harness should be comfortable, move smoothly with your dog, and stay securely in place. When choosing one, pay attention to the following:

• Fit and adjustability
  The harness should fit snugly, but not too tightly – you should be able to slip two fingers underneath. Make sure it doesn’t rub anywhere, especially under the armpits. An adjustable design helps you achieve the perfect fit, particularly for a Labradoodle that’s still growing.
• Character
  A calm Labradoodle will often feel happiest in a lightweight, flexible harness that’s barely noticeable. A lively or strong dog, on the other hand, may do better with a sturdier model that offers a bit more control.
• Age
  Puppies grow quickly, so an adjustable harness is practical and can grow with them. For an adult Labradoodle, comfort is key: choose a harness that stays in place, feels soft, and doesn’t chafe.

Getting Used to It

For a puppy, wearing a harness can take a little getting used to. Help your dog by introducing it gradually. Start by putting it on for short periods indoors, reward with a treat or a gentle stroke, and slowly build up the time. This way, your Labradoodle will learn that the harness means something fun: going on an adventure together!

Exploring Together

Every Labradoodle has its own preferences. Some dogs feel best in a light harness, while others prefer a bit more support. By paying attention to what your companion enjoys most, you’ll both get the most out of your walks together.