How to Put On a Dog Harness: 2 Types of Dog Harnesses

A dog harness wraps around your dog’s chest so you can walk your pet without worrying about putting undue stress on their neck. You can find options for both large and small dogs. Some harnesses go over a dog’s head, whereas others fit under your dog’s front legs. Dog trainers and owners can find the right harness for pets by taking measurements of the animal’s head, neck, and chest to ensure the straps will fit snugly without causing discomfort.

When you use a harness, you apply far less pressure to your dog’s neck than you would if you simply attached a leash directly to their dog collar. Some dog breeds (especially brachycephalic ones) already have trouble breathing, so harnesses are especially worthwhile for them. Aside from pet health concerns, harnesses can also feel more comfortable for your canine companions.

Dog owners can take solace in the fact that putting a harness on your pet is quite simple. Follow these seven step-by-step instructions to snap your dog into one for your next walk:

1. 1. Pick a type of harness. Different dogs require different harness sizes and styles. Take your pet’s measurements (head, neck, and chest) before purchasing a harness of any variety. Keep in mind there are two primary types of dog harnesses: step-in harnesses and overhead harnesses. Using one over the other is largely a matter of preference—the best dog harness for one pet might be unsuitable or uncomfortable for another.
2. 2. Ask your dog to sit. While you can put on a dog’s harness while they’re standing, it is easier if you can get the dog to sit down. Once they do, make sure they are in a comfortable position since you might need to lift at least one of your dog’s front legs to get them into the front of the harness.
3. 3. Fit the harness around your dog. If you’re using an over-the-head harness, place the neck hole over your dog’s head, then wrap the straps underneath your dog’s body, sliding them through the clip section. For a step-in harness, lift your dog’s paws and place them between the two sections for their front feet. After you place their paws inside, lift the harness up to just under their shoulder blades and wrap the remaining straps around them.
4. 4. Buckle the harness. Once you have your dog’s chest straps wrapped around them, buckle them and make sure the harness fits. This buckle might be on your dog’s back or at the front of their chest, depending on the specific type of harness you use.
5. 5. Adjust the harness. Account for your pet’s girth, and then adjust the harness to fit snugly around your dog’s shoulder blades, legs, and chest. If your dog pulls at their leash often, this will help to ensure they stay in their harness. Leave a little bit of breathing room when you tighten it up to prevent chafing.
6. 6. Attach the leash. Look for the D-ring on your harness—the semicircular section you can use as a leash attachment. Depending on the specific brand, it might be on the front or back of the harness. Front-clip harnesses might prove a little easier for dog training since they make it easier to control your dog’s movements. Alternatively, opt for a D-ring on the back of the harness for maximum comfort for your pup.
7. 7. Praise your dog. After putting your dog in their harness, give them some positive reinforcement. Whether you hand them a treat or just show them affection, they’ll be happy to know fitting into this strange contraption makes you proud of them. Remember to take them for an easy walk the first time you use a new harness to make sure they seem comfortable. Also, it’s a good idea to periodically reassess the snugness of the harness, as your dog’s movements might require additional loosening or tightening to keep your dog safe and comfortable.

Your dream of having a dog who understands words like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and—crucially— “no” is just a MasterClass Annual Membership away. The only things you’ll need to train up a well-behaved pup are your laptop, a big bag of treats, and our exclusive instructional videos from superstar animal trainer Brandon McMillan.