Nordkyn Outfitters -- Guide to fitting your dog for a harness

Correct fit is crucial. here's how.

Neck Design

The padded neck fits snugly around the dogs shoulders, distributing the force evenly. The basic design is hundreds of years old, but improved by modern materials. Harness neck size must fit correctly. Too large, and the harness will slip, rub, or interfere with movement; too small, and it will cut ,bruise, or choke.

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Padding

Harness padding does two things; it keeps the webbing from cutting or chafing your dog, and it provides some cushion to prevent bruising.

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Measuring Dogs

Measuring a dog

Neck (all harnesses) - Measure from just ahead of the withers at the base of the neck to the top of the breastbone, then double this measurement. Work the tape under the fur, pull it snug, but not stretched. Measure the dog, not the fur! Measure only one side of the dog then double the measurement. Wrapping the tape measure all the way around the neck may distort the measurement.

Neck fit is critical. When properly fitted, where the webbing crosses at the "Y" below the neck , the webbing should cross right on the breastbone. At the same time you are holding the webbing in place on the breastbone, check to see that the webbing in  the "Y" at the top of the neck, crosses where the neck joins the withers (shoulder blades). If in doubt about fit call us.

Tail (x-back, recreation, split chest, h-back) - Start tape at top of breastbone. Pass between front legs, then up around rib cage to base of tail. Lift tail to feel join.

Check fit of tail length by pulling  on webbing to see if  the webbing will come to the base of the tail. Webbing should not come to the base of the tail unless there is tension against it. The more coat the dog has the more tension is required.

Rib (siwash cart, freight, yukon) - Start tape at top of breastbone, pass between front legs, then straight back to last rib.

Rear (freight, yukon) - Start tape at top of breastbone, pass between front legs, then to back of thigh (position of the spreader bar).

EXCHANGES
We want our products to fit properly. If you need help determining a correct fit, call us and we will try to help you check the fit. If any Nordkyn standard size product isn't right, send it back to us in new condition within ten days. Please do not write on the equipment before trying it on your dog. We'll gladly exchange the product. Exchanges of new products are free of charge but you must include payment for return shipping.  PLEASE CALL US AND TELL US YOU ARE RETURNING AN ITEM PRIOR TO SENDING IT BACK.

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Phone: 253-847-4128 -- FAX: 253-847-4108 -- nordkyn@nordkyn.com