Which Anny X harness is right for your dog?
Not sure whether to choose a standard Anny X Y-model harness, a short back version or a longer fit? Y
Good to know: for most dogs, a standard Anny X Y-harness will fit perfectly. These harnesses are designed to suit the majority of dog breeds and body types, with a balanced fit that keeps the shoulders free and the belly strap in the right position on the ribcage.
The short back and long back variants are mainly intended for dogs with a more specific body shape, such as very compact or extra long builds. In practice, most dogs simply don’t need these adjustments.
So if you’re unsure, the standard Anny X harness is usually the right place to start. In most cases, it offers exactly the fit and comfort your dog needs.
On this page, we’ll clearly explain the differences so you can confidently choose the harness that fits your dog best.
Not sure which Anny X harness fits your dog? We’ll help you choose.
The key difference: back length
All Anny X Y-harnesses share the same ergonomic design, keeping the shoulders completely free and distributing pressure evenly. The main difference lies in the length of the back and belly straps.
Getting the length right is more important than you might think. The chest strap should sit around the middle of the ribcage. This is where the harness is most stable and comfortable for your dog.
If the harness is too long → the chest strap sits behind the ribcage
If the back strap is too short → the chest strap may sit too close behind the front legs. This may lead to rubbing, irritation or discomfort during movement.
A correct back length ensures the harness stays in place, feels comfortable and doesn’t cause rubbing.
1. Anny X Y-model harness (standard fit)
An Anny X standard Y-harness is the most popular choice and suits the vast majority of dogs.
It is designed with a balanced fit, where the chest strap sits around the middle of the ribcage and the shoulders remain completely free. This creates a stable, comfortable fit for most breeds and body types.
Best suited for:
- Dogs with an average body shape
- Dogs with a typical back length
- Most breeds
In most cases, this is the right harness to start.
2. Anny X short back harness
In general the chest strap of an AnnyX Y-harnes is positioned a bit further on your dog's back than Y-harnesses from other brands. This is perfect for most dog breeds, but for some dogs, the chest strap is positioned too far, resting behind the ribcage, which is not ideal.
The short back version has a shorter back strap, helping the harness sit correctly on the ribcage.
Which dogs will fit a short-back AnnyX harness?
An AnnyX short-back harness is particularly suitable for dog breeds with a shorter back. These are often stocky dogs.
Best suited for:
- French Bulldog
- English Bulldog
- Pug
- Boston Terrier
- Pekinese
3. Anny X harness with a longer back strap
Some dogs have a longer or more slender body shape. In these cases, a standard harness may feel slightly short or not sit quite right.
A harness with a longer fit provides better proportions, allowing the chest strap to sit correctly on the ribcage while keeping the harness stable during movement.
Best suited for:
- Dogs with a longer back
- Slender body types
How to make the right choice
The most important rule:
The belly strap should always sit on the ribcage – never behind it.
Use this as a quick guide:
- ✔ Sits correctly → choose the standard fit
- ✔ Sits too far back → choose the short back version
- ✔ Feels too short → choose the long back fit
Still unsure? Feel free to send us a side photo of your dog. We’re happy to help you find the right fit.
Why the right fit matters
A well-fitting harness makes a big difference:
- More comfort for your dog
- Less risk of rubbing or irritation
- Better control during walks
- Increased safety – especially in unexpected situations
And honestly – you’ll notice the difference straight away.
Ready to choose the right harness?
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the standard Anny X harness fit most dogs?
Yes, the standard Anny X harness is designed to suit most breeds and body types. In the majority of cases, it provides the correct fit without needing a short back or longer version.
Which Anny X harness should I choose for my dog?
In most cases, an Anny X standard Y-harness (such as the FUN or PROTECT) is the best choice. It is designed to fit the majority of dogs. Only consider a short back or longer fit if the cheststrap of a standard fit does not sit around the middle of the ribcage.
How should an Anny X harness fit correctly?
The most important point is the position of the chest strap. It should sit around the middle of the ribcage – not too far back and not too close to the front legs. A correct fit ensures comfort, stability and safety during walks.
When do I need a short back Anny X harness?
A short back harness is suitable when a standard Anny X harness is too long. If the chest strap sits too far back or behind the ribcage, a short back version will provide a better, more secure fit.
Can I use the same size in short back or long fit?
The size (based on chest measurement) usually stays the same, but the proportions of the harness change. Short back and long fit versions adjust the length of the backstrap, not the overall size.
Which dogs need an Anny X short back harness?
Short back harnesses are ideal for compact dogs with a shorter body, such as French Bulldogs, Pugs or Boston Terriers. These dogs often need a shorter harness to achieve the correct fit.
What happens if the harness is too long or too short?
If the harness is too long, the chest strap may sit too far back, reducing stability. If it is too short, the strap can sit too close behind the front legs, which may cause rubbing or discomfort. A correct fit prevents both issues.
When should I choose a longer fit Anny X harness?
If the standard harness feels too short or doesn’t sit proportionally on your dog, a longer fit may be the better option. This is often the case for dogs with a longer or more slender body shape.