A stable anchor point for compatible orthopedic devices
The Dog Harness for Orthopedic Braces by Ortocanis is a complementary accessory designed to help keep certain canine orthopedic devices correctly positioned. It provides a stable attachment point at the front of the dog’s body for a compatible brace, fastening belt or proprioceptive mobility device.
Natural movement, changes in position and everyday activity can sometimes cause an orthopedic brace to slide or change position. Connecting the compatible device to a properly fitted chest harness can help limit this movement and maintain more consistent positioning.
This product is a standard adjustable chest harness. It is not a lifting harness and is not designed to support or suspend the dog’s body weight.
Compatible Ortocanis products
The Dog Harness for Orthopedic Braces may be used as an anchoring harness for selected Ortocanis products, including:
- The Ortocanis Hip Support Brace
- The Knee Brace Fastening Belt
- The Ortocanis Biko Brace
- Other products specifically identified by Ortocanis as compatible with a chest harness
The orthopedic brace, fastening belt, connecting strap and Biko device are not included unless expressly indicated in the selected product package. Review the contents of your order carefully before purchasing.
Compatibility should be confirmed before attaching a product that is not specifically identified by Ortocanis.
Helps limit brace movement
A knee brace or hip support may shift when a dog walks, sits, lies down or changes direction. Some dogs also have a body shape that causes the upper strap of a brace to slide backward.
The harness creates a forward anchor point for a compatible connecting strap. This connection helps reduce unwanted movement and may allow the brace to remain in a more consistent position during supervised activity.
Proper positioning is important because a brace that slips may no longer support the intended anatomical area. An incorrectly positioned strap may also create rubbing or uneven tension.
The harness does not make an unsuitable brace fit correctly. The orthopedic product must still be selected according to the dog’s measurements and adjusted following its own instructions.
Simple and adjustable chest design
The harness fits around the dog’s chest, generally just behind the front legs. Its adjustable straps allow the fit to be adapted to different body shapes while maintaining an appropriate anchor point on the dog’s back.
Once the correct size has been selected and the straps adjusted, the harness can be installed and removed relatively quickly.
The fit should be stable without being excessively tight. You should generally be able to slide approximately two fingers between the strap and the dog’s body.
A harness that is too loose may shift and reduce the stability of the connected orthopedic device. A harness that is too tight may cause discomfort, restrict movement or create skin irritation.
How to choose the correct size
Measure the complete circumference of the dog’s chest at its widest point, generally immediately behind the front legs. Use a flexible measuring tape and take the measurement while the dog is standing naturally.
Available sizes:
- XXS: chest circumference from 20 to 28 cm — generally under 5 kg
- XS: chest circumference from 26 to 45 cm — generally under 5 kg
- S: chest circumference from 40 to 55 cm — approximately 4.5 to 11 kg
- M: chest circumference from 55 to 69 cm — approximately 11 to 31 kg
- L: chest circumference from 70 to 96 cm — approximately 31 to 46 kg
Some measurement ranges overlap. Chest circumference must remain the principal sizing criterion. The approximate weight ranges should be used only as an additional reference.
If the measurement falls near the limit between two sizes, consider the dog’s body shape and the ability to adjust the straps securely.
How to install the harness
Place the harness around the dog’s chest according to its natural shape. Make sure every strap lies flat and is not twisted.
Fasten the harness and adjust each strap gradually. Confirm that the harness remains centred and stable while allowing normal breathing and front-leg movement.
Attach the connecting strap from the compatible orthopedic device to the harness’s designated anchor point. Adjust the connecting strap according to the instructions provided with the brace or mobility device.
The connecting strap should help maintain the position of the orthopedic product without pulling it excessively toward the front of the dog’s body.
Allow the dog to take several supervised steps after installation. Watch the position of both the harness and the orthopedic brace. Neither product should restrict natural movement or create excessive friction.
Important safety information
This chest harness is not designed to lift, carry or suspend the dog. Do not use the top ring or straps as a mobility assistance handle.
Inspect the dog’s skin regularly, especially during the first few uses. Check the chest, armpit area, shoulders and any region touching a strap or buckle.
Stop using the harness and review the adjustment if you observe:
- Persistent redness
- Chafing or irritation
- Hair loss beneath a strap
- Restricted movement
- Difficulty breathing
- A change in the dog’s gait
- Excessive movement of the harness
- Increased discomfort
Consult a veterinarian or qualified canine rehabilitation professional when using orthopedic products for an injured dog, a post-operative patient or an animal with a neurological or musculoskeletal condition.
Inspection and care
Inspect the straps, seams, buckles, anchor ring and connecting points before each use. Replace the harness if you notice damage or wear that could affect its stability.
Clean the harness according to the care instructions supplied with the product. Allow it to dry completely before placing it back on the dog or reconnecting an orthopedic device.
Key benefits
- Provides a stable front anchor point
- Helps limit compatible brace movement
- Adjustable chest fit
- Simple design
- Available in five sizes
- Compatible with selected Ortocanis orthopedic products
- Useful with the hip support brace
- Compatible with the knee brace fastening belt
- Can be used with the Biko Brace
- Easy to install after initial adjustment
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