Why Letting Your Dog Jump from the Car Could Be Hurting Their Joints — and How to Help with an H-Shaped Harness
The Hidden Impact of One Small Jump
Most dogs leap happily from the car or ute tray — but each jump can deliver a surprising shock to their joints.
Studies from Veterinary Record and Frontiers in Veterinary Science show that dogs landing from vehicle heights experience significantly higher impact forces through their forelimbs (especially the elbows, wrists, and shoulders). Over time, this repeated strain can lead to joint inflammation, sprains, and even early arthritis.
Who’s Most at Risk
• Large or giant breeds (they carry more mass = more impact)
• Puppies and adolescents (still developing joints)
• Senior dogs and those with existing joint issues
• Working or active dogs that jump in/out frequently
Even one bad landing can trigger a painful flare-up for dogs with osteoarthritis or previous ligament injuries.
How the anny.x Harness Can Help
When you use an anny.x harness, you have an ergonomic, supportive way to control the descent.
By holding the top strap, you can gently guide your dog down from the vehicle — letting your arm and shoulder absorb part of the landing force. This slows the drop, keeps their posture aligned, and prevents that sudden jarring motion through their joints. It ultimately lessens the landing force.
Paired with a steady verbal cue (“Easy” or “Step”) and a non-slip surface or ramp, the harness transforms an unsafe jump into a smooth, joint-friendly exit. This is good option for larger dogs that are too heavy to lift or where the handler has an injury or disability.
Simple Steps for Safer Exits
- Clip the lead to the harness before opening the car or ute tray.
- Hold the top strap and guide them down — no leaping needed.
- Use a ramp for high vehicles whenever possible.
- Reward calm, slow movements with praise or treats.
Small Changes, Big Benefits
Preventing high-impact jumps today can protect your dog’s joints for years to come. Whether you’re travelling daily or heading out on weekend adventures, helping your dog exit gently can reduce injury risk and keep them moving comfortably longer.
👉 Visit our store to see how the anny.x harness fits your dog for everyday adventures and learn how to train them to step down safely.
References (for the curious)
• Pardey, J. et al. (2018). Peak forelimb ground‑reaction forces experienced by dogs jumping from a simulated car boot. Veterinary Record.
• Bacon, H. et al. (2021). Understanding the impact of scale height on the kinetics and kinematics of dogs jumping down. Frontiers in Veterinary Science.
• Canine carpal injuries reviews: Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice; Vet Times clinical overviews.
• James Cook University (JCU) advisories on dogs in open vehicles (utes) and injury prevention.
