Julius-K9 IDC® Powerharness User Guide
Year: 2021
Introduction
The Julius-K9 IDC® Powerharness is designed for ease of use and simple application, making it suitable for city walks and working with service dogs.
A video demonstrating how to measure your dog and adjust the harness is available online.
Taking the Measurements Correctly
Choosing the correct size ensures maximum freedom of movement and protects the dog's neck and shoulders. Accurate measurements are essential for selecting the right size.
Measure the dog's chest circumference behind the front legs. For sizes M/Size 0, L/Size 1, XL/Size 2, 2XL/Size 3, and 3XL/Size 4, measure approximately four fingers away from the front legs. For sizes 3XS/Baby1, 2XS/Baby2, XS/Mini-Mini, and S/Mini, measure approximately two fingers away.
If a measurement falls between sizes, it is recommended to choose the larger size. Always consider your dog's weight when selecting the harness size.
Visual aids depict measuring points on a dog, a dog with a weight icon ⚖️, and a dog with a correctly fitted harness ??.
| Size | Chest Circumference | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 3XS / Baby1 | 29 - 36 cm / 11.5 - 14 in | 0.8 – 3 kg / 2 - 7 lbs |
| 2XS / Baby2 | 33 - 45 cm / 13 - 17.5 in | 2 - 5 kg / 5 - 11 lbs |
| XS / Mini-Mini | 40 - 53 cm / 15.5 - 20.5 in | 4 - 7 kg / 9 - 16 lbs |
| S / Mini | 49 - 67 cm / 20 - 26.5 in | 7 - 15 kg / 15 - 35 lbs |
| M / Size 0 | 58 - 76 cm / 23 - 30 in | 14 - 25 kg / 30 - 55 lbs |
| L / Size 1 | 63 - 85 cm / 26 - 33.5 in | 23 - 30 kg / 50 - 70 lbs |
| XL / Size 2 | 71 - 96 cm / 28 - 37.5 in | 28 - 40 kg / 65 - 95 lbs |
| 2XL / Size 3 | 82 - 115 cm / 32.5 – 45.5 in | 40 - 70 kg / 88 - 155 lbs |
| 3XL / Size 4 | 96 - 138 cm / 38 - 54.5 in | 70 - 90 kg / 155 - 198.5 lbs |
Putting on the Dog Harness
The IDC® Powerharness features an openable and adjustable chest strap with a hook and loop fastener, an invention by Julius-K9®. Thread the strap through the ring and fasten it to itself, not to the interchangeable patch.
When used correctly, the hook and loop chest strap closes on the side facing the dog's chest, preventing it from opening while worn.
If the harness is too tight on the dog's chest, or if the girth strap touches the dog's front legs, the chest strap should be loosened.
Diagrams illustrate strap adjustment: [Max adjustment] shows maximum overlap for adhesion, while [Min adjustment] shows minimal adhesion (at least 50% loop surface coverage for support).
When fitting the harness, pay close attention to the correct adjustment of both the chest strap and the girth strap. The girth strap is correctly adjusted if you can slide your fingers under the harness on the dog's back. Ensure there is room for four fingers behind the front legs for larger sizes (M to 3XL) and two fingers for smaller sizes (3XS to S).
Regularly check that the harness is correctly adjusted to your dog's size.
Green Zone Design Principle
FREE MOVEMENT, FREE BREATHING
Unlike collars, the IDC® Powerharness's chest strap angle is designed to rest on the ideal zone of the chest. This design frees the dog's neck for healthy, unrestricted breathing and ensures free movement for the front legs.
A diagram shows a dog wearing the harness, highlighting the 'FREE BREATHING' area ?️ and a 'GREEN ZONE CHECKED' badge ✅.
Safe and Comfortable Use
Choosing the correct harness size is essential for safe and comfortable use. Incorrect sizing, adjustment, or leash use can lead to injury or the dog sliding out of the harness.
A harness that is too small may squeeze the dog's neck, applying pressure instead of distributing force around the chest. If the harness is too big or the straps are too loose, the dog might step over the chest strap with its front legs.
The right harness size should provide adequate room in the shoulder area, allowing the dog to move its legs freely.
Dog harnesses are designed to guide the dog gently and protect the neck during leash use. They help hold the dog and allow the owner to restrain it in emergencies. A dog harness is not a coercive tool.
The harness might be pulled off if it is adjusted too loosely, if the dog moves backward to escape, or if the dog lags behind and is pulled by the leash.
How to Correctly Walk Your Dog on a Leash?
When walking, the leash should generally be loose. Tighten it only when necessary, such as for sudden stops due to traffic.
If the dog is scared, panics, or is unwilling to move, do not pull the leash. If possible, keep the leash short and try to get hold of the harness handle by moving behind the dog.
It is advisable to use the collar and dog harness together with a double carabiner leash. This allows for safe, one-handed leading and prevents the collar from overloading the dog's neck during sudden stops.
The optional Y-belt or pressure distribution pad can be retrofitted to the harness for a more secure and comfortable fit.
Getting some dogs accustomed to a harness can be challenging. In such cases, seeking assistance from a professional dog handler who uses positive reinforcement methods is recommended.
Disclaimer: JULIUS-K9® assumes no responsibility for damage resulting from choosing the wrong harness size or incorrect harness adjustment.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The harnesses are rugged and durable due to high-quality materials, but regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to preserve their condition.
The harness should only be worn by the dog during walks. After each walk, store the harness in a well-ventilated area, out of the dog's reach.
Be aware of external physical influences that could damage the product's material. Choose the appropriate product for specific conditions and avoid contact with dangerous or sharp tools and objects.
Ensure your dog does not chew on the harness. If the product or any part is damaged, discontinue use immediately.
For cleaning: Follow the product label instructions. Machine and chemical washing are prohibited. Hand wash at a maximum of 40°C. Wash separately. Do not tumble dry. Do not iron.
Rinse with fresh water after contact with salt water.
Contact Information
For any questions regarding the purchased product, please contact Julius-K9 at the following email address: info@julius-k9.com
