The Green Zone design principle of JULIUS-K9® harnesses is a feature to not restrict the dog’s movement or breathing while still allowing for maximum control from the handler.

This is achieved by having the harness’s front strap sit in the ideal position across the dog’s chest, with the main focus of pressure being concentrated on the sternum; the tough chest bone running vertically downwards.

 

Free movement, free breathing

Unlike collars, the special angle of the chest strap allows the IDC® Powerharness to rest on the ideal zone of the chest. This completely frees your dog’s neck for healthy, unrestricted breathing while ensuring free movement for the front legs.

 

 

 

Why chest strap placement matters

An incorrectly fitted chest strap not only can affect breathing, but can also cause other health issues as well as limit the functionality of the harness.

If the chest strap sits too high:

  • Reduced Shoulder Movement: A strap that sits too high can impede the dog's natural shoulder movement, causing discomfort and potentially leading to muscle strain or joint problems over time.
  • Neck Strain: a high sitting strap may put excessive pressure on the neck. This can lead to neck pain, discomfort, and even potential injuries.
  • Breathing: A high-riding chest strap may restrict breathing, especially in short-nosed breeds.

If the chest strap sits too low:

  • Reduced Control: Our harnesses are designed to distribute pressure evenly across the dog’s chest and back. A low-riding strap can shift this pressure, making it harder to control the dog.
  • Chafing: The strap may rub against the dog's legs or armpits, causing chafing, skin irritation, and even sores.

 

A well fitted harness is important

A correctly sized harness that’s properly fitted is extremely important for your dog’s safety and comfort. If the harness is too loose or too tight, then the chest strap placement won’t be correct.

For more information, see our article: The Importance of a Correctly Fitted Dog Harness

 

Scientifically proven

A biomechanical analysis carried out by Budapest University of Technology and Economics found our harnesses do not restrict a dog’s walking motion when fitted correctly.

 The study analysed whether harnesses alter natural walking patterns in canines, with tests conducted on dog’s wearing a harness compared to not, and also when the harness had a leash attached compared to without one.

For more information on the study, see our article: Scientific Biomechanical Study of Julius K9 Harnesses