Dogs are highly regarded as man’s best friend, and that’s for a very good reason. Not only are they loyal creatures, but they can also pick up on some emotions like happiness and sadness and can tell when you’re not feeling your best, as they notice subtle cues like body language and chemical changes in your breath and sweat.
For similar reasons, some dogs can even tell if you’re feeling unwell. Beyond some breeds being trained as medical alert dogs for conditions such as diabetes and epilepsy, some dogs can sense changes in your body chemistry to detect when you have a cold, and in some severe cases, even cancer.
So when one dog owner found that her pet refused to leave her husband’s side and would whine and cry whenever they tried to pull her away, she immediately became concerned that something was seriously wrong.
Ashley Herman shared a video on TikTok of her husband sitting in an armchair with their dog at his feet. The pooch was supposed to be going for a walk with Ashley, which would normally be exciting, but the animal refused to move from its spot.
The woman’s husband repeatedly told the dog to move and “go see mum”, but every time the dog stood up, she would immediately sit back down with a whine.
In the text on the video, Ashley explained that her dog is normally “so excited” for walks and “can’t wait” to get out of the door. So when she refused to move, the woman was concerned for her health – and then for her husband’s.
However, the couple need not worry about their health just yet, as there is actually a simple explanation for their dog’s behaviour.
They had accidentally attached her harness incorrectly, so both of her front legs went through the same hole, making it impossible for the dog to move properly. The couple only realised when the dog eventually tried to move more, proving that her leg wouldn’t move against the harness.
Ashley exclaimed: “Oh no! Sweet girl, she couldn’t move!”
Commenters admitted they had also initially thought that the video was about the dog detecting an illness in Ashley’s husband, and many of them said they were glad that wasn’t the case.
One person said: “The number of people here who thought your husband was kicking the bucket is a little alarming. Also, I’m one of them.” Another added: “I literally thought you were going to tell us that he got diagnosed with cancer and the puppy smelled it first. I need help.”
How to properly attach a dog harness
For a standard back-clip harness
- Identify the parts: Find the neck loop, chest strap, and the D-ring (where the leash attaches).
- Unbuckle the harness: Open any buckles so the harness is in two main loops.
- Place the harness: Slip the neck loop over your dog’s head. The D-ring should rest on your dog’s back.
- Position the chest strap: Bring the chest strap under your dog’s belly, behind the front legs.
- Secure the buckles: Fasten the buckles on the sides, making sure nothing is twisted.
- Adjust for fit: You should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body.
For a step-in harness
- Lay the harness on the ground: The two leg holes should be visible.
- Have your dog step in: Gently place each front paw in the appropriate hole.
- Pull up and fasten: Pull the harness up and around your dog’s body. Clip the buckle on your dog’s back.
- Adjust for fit: As above, ensure you can fit two fingers between the harness and your dog.
Tips
- Check for Comfort: Make sure the harness isn’t pinching or rubbing anywhere.
- Reward Your Dog: Give treats and praise to help your dog associate the harness with positive experiences.
- Double-Check Security: Before going outside, check that all buckles are fastened and the harness fits securely.
