Ever pulled out your dog’s harness and thought, “Yikes… when did this get so grubby?”
You are not alone. Maybe it smelled a bit musty, or the straps felt stiff, or there was that weird sticky patch from… what even was that? Cheese? Mud? Who knows.
Either way, extra small dog harnesses can go from “clean and comfy” to “ugh, gross” pretty fast, especially when your little furball loves rolling in things they should not. And here is the thing: when your dog is tiny, even a bit of stiffness or chafing from a dirty harness can make walks uncomfortable.
The good news? Keeping extra small dog harnesses clean does not take much effort, and it can really extend their life (and your dog’s patience). Let us walk through some simple ways to keep them fresh, comfy, and ready for action.
Why Harness Cleanliness Matters More Than You Think?
It is easy to forget how much a dog’s harness goes through. But think about it—an extra small dog harness sits snugly against your dog’s body. They go everywhere your dog goes: through puddles, over grass, under furniture, and sometimes… into things you wish they had not stepped in.
And since they are right against the skin, that grime builds up fast. Especially in spots like the underarms and chest.
If left unwashed, they can:
- Causes skin irritation (your dog may start scratching or trying to wriggle out)
- Develop nasty odours that do not go away with a quick wipe
- Weaken over time, which means the harness stops doing its job properly
Even if your dog looks clean, the harness probably is not. Small dogs like Chihuahuas and Yorkies are so close to the ground, everything ends up rubbing against the harness. Grass stains, dirt, even the pavement—it all adds up.
Now, how often should you clean the dog harness? This depends a bit on how and where you use the harness. But here is a simple guide:
- Short, clean walks indoors? Spot clean or rinse weekly.
- Outdoor adventures or muddy play? Wash it right after.
- Can you smell it or see dirt? Then it is time.
Extra Small Dog Harnesses Cleaning & Maintenance Tips
Keeping an extra small dog harness clean is not difficult, but a few smart steps can help you do it safely and properly.
1. Use Mild Soap, Not Detergent
Tempted to use laundry detergent? Please do not. Strong detergents and bleach can leave behind residue that irritates your dog’s skin.
Use a gentle soap, like baby shampoo or a pet-safe cleaner. Fill a bowl with warm water, add a small amount, and soak the harness for 10–15 minutes. Then use an old toothbrush or soft brush to clean any gunky areas, especially the chest and underarms.
2. Hand Wash Over Machine Wash
Sure, the washing machine is quicker. But extra-small dog harnesses are delicate. One rough cycle can stretch the straps or fray the mesh.
If the label says machine wash is okay, use a pillowcase or mesh bag and wash on cold with the gentlest setting. But honestly? Hand washing is safer, and your harness will last longer.
Air dry only. Tumble dryers can warp the shape or shrink the material.
3. Rinse Well, Always
Leftover soap can cause itching. And your dog cannot exactly tell you what is wrong.
So rinse properly—twice, if needed—until the water runs totally clear. This step takes a bit more time, but it makes a big difference.
4. Brush Away Hair And Dirt First
Before soaking, brush off any visible hair or dirt. Use a lint roller or soft brush. This makes washing easier and prevents rubbing grime deeper into the fabric.
Extra small dog harnesses often have narrow mesh sections where fur and mud like to hide. A quick brush first saves effort later.
5. Avoid Soaking Metal Parts Too Long
Many extra-small dog harnesses have metal D-rings or clips. Soaking them too long can lead to rust or discoloration.
Try to keep metal parts out of the water if possible. After washing, pat them dry with a towel.
6. Use A Vinegar Rinse For Tough Smells
If the harness still smells musty after washing, add a tablespoon of white vinegar to your final rinse. It is natural, safe, and works well on stubborn odours.
Just rinse again with fresh water afterward so your pup does not smell like salad dressing on your next walk.
Conclusion
Cleaning and maintaining extra small dog harnesses is not just about looks—it is about keeping your dog comfortable and safe. A clean harness avoids skin irritation, lasts longer, and smells a lot better, too.
With a bit of gentle soap, careful rinsing, and good habits, your harness can stay in great shape for months. And when does your dog feel good in it? Walks are easier, happier, and less of a struggle.