JULIUS-K9 IDC® POWERHARNESS USER GUIDE

Introduction

Video Guide

A video demonstrating how to measure your dog and adjust the harness is available. The video can be viewed on a laptop screen, showing a person measuring a dog.

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.

Measure the dog's girth behind the front legs. The distance varies by size:

• For sizes M/Size 0, L/Size 1, XL/Size 2, 2XL/Size 3, and 3XL/Size 4: approximately four fingers away from the front legs.
• For sizes 3XS/Baby1, 2XS/Baby2, XS/Mini-Mini, and S/Mini: approximately two fingers away from the front legs.

If any measurement fits the next size, choose the larger one. Always consider the dog's weight when selecting a size.

Putting on the Dog Harness

The hook and loop fastened chest strap is a Julius-K9® invention. Thread the strap through the ring and fasten it to itself (not to the interchangeable patch). When properly used, the strap closes on the side facing the dog's chest, preventing it from opening while worn.

If the harness is too tight, or the girth strap touches the dog's front legs, loosen the chest strap.

For the tightest setting, the hook and loop surfaces should overlap completely for maximum adhesion. To loosen, ensure the loop surface covers at least 50% of the hook surface for proper support.

Correct adjustment of the chest and girth straps is crucial. The girth strap is correct 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-3XL) and two fingers for smaller sizes (3XS-S).

Regularly check if 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 allows it to rest on the ideal chest zone. This frees the dog's neck for healthy, unrestricted breathing and ensures free movement for the front legs.

[Diagram: Illustration of the harness on a dog's chest, highlighting the 'Green Zone' for free breathing and movement. Includes indicators for 'Free Breathing' and 'Green Zone Checked'.]

Choosing the Correct Harness Size is Essential for Safe and Comfortable Use

Please note: Choosing the wrong size, incorrect adjustment, or improper leash use can result in injury or the dog sliding out of the harness.

• If the harness is too small, the chest strap may squeeze the neck instead of distributing force around the chest.
• If the harness is too big or straps are too loose, the dog may step over the chest strap with its front legs.

The right harness size should allow enough room in the shoulder area, and the dog should be able to move its legs freely.

Usage and Leash Handling

The IDC®Powerharnesses are designed for ease of use and simple application, commonly used for city walks or with service dogs. Improper leash use, sizing, or adjustment can allow dogs to wriggle out.

The harness may be pulled off if:

• The harness is adjusted too loosely.
• The dog moves backward while trying to run away.
• The dog lags behind and is pulled by the leash.

Dog harnesses are designed to guide the dog gently, in a neck-sparing way, and to allow the owner to hold the dog back in emergencies. A harness is not a coercive tool.

Correct Leash Walking

When walking, the leash should generally be loose, only held tightly when necessary (e.g., to stop the dog suddenly due to traffic). If the dog is scared, panics, or unwilling to move, do not pull. If possible, keep the leash short and try to get hold of the harness handle by moving behind the dog.

Using a collar and harness together with a double carabiner leash provides safety and prevents the collar from overloading the dog's neck if sudden restraint is needed. A Y-belt or pressure distribution pad can be retrofitted for secure and comfortable harness fit.

Getting Dogs Used to Harnesses

Introducing a harness can be difficult for some dogs. In such cases, seeking help from a professional dog handler who uses positive reinforcement is recommended.

Disclaimer

JULIUS-K9® takes no responsibility for damage arising from choosing a wrong harness size or adjusting the harness incorrectly.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Due to high-quality materials, the harnesses are rugged and durable. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to maintain their condition.

The harness should only be worn for the duration of the walk. After each walk, store the harness in a well-ventilated area, out of the dog's reach.

External influences can damage the harness material. Choose the right product for the conditions and avoid contact with dangerous tools or objects.

Ensure the dog cannot chew on the harness. If the product or any part is damaged, suspend its use immediately!

For cleaning, follow the product label. 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

Should you have any questions regarding the purchased product, please contact us at the following e-mail address:

info@julius-k9.com