Owning a puppy sets you up with several responsibilities for their welfare. Training them is also deemed a requirement besides feeding them or providing them with a warm, cozy shelter. One primary example of an essential skill your dog must learn is walking calmly on a harness. 

As you know, dogs, especially puppies, can be overly excited and energetic. Taking them outside exposes them to distracting stimuli, making daily strolls challenging and a constant tug-of-war. Hence, harness dog training is vital so your canine becomes more manageable outside. 

Unfortunately, like many other dog drills, harness training may not seem as straightforward as you think. However, with the right accessories and dedication, your dog will eventually know how to get accustomed to the harness and calmly walk with it in public. 

Choosing the Right Dog Harness

Harness training starts with choosing the right brand new harness. As you know, harnesses come in distinct shapes, and picking one that best suits your dog is crucial. Doing so sets your dog to a positive harness experience without feeling uncomfortable. 

Below are some of the harness types you may consider for your dog:

Step-in Harness

A step-in harness is exactly what it’s named for—it’s worn by making your dog’s front legs step into the harness opening called the loops and then securing it by buckling it up on the dog’s back. This is ideal for squirmy dogs or those not used to wearing the accessory over the head.

Step-in harnesses are also convenient if you frequently take your dog outdoors. Putting this on is fairly quicker compared to other types of harnesses. 

Y-Shaped Harness

This harness exhibits a Y shape when viewed from the front. It’s practically one of the top comfortable designs, allowing a free range of motion. The straps outline the natural form of the shoulders, avoiding the neck area and reducing the chance of a tracheal collapse. 

While many Y-shaped harnesses are worn over the head, other brands have significantly innovated. The Säker Canyon Pro, for example, has added a neck buckle, so you don’t have to put the harness over your dog’s head. 

Y-Shaped Extended Harness

The Y-shaped extended harness is similar to the standard Y-shaped accessory. The difference, however, is it comes with an extended strap, which is ideal for dogs with lean builds, like Greyhounds, Whippets, and Salukis. 

The extra strap allows a more custom and snug fit, preventing your dog from escaping the harness. 

Harness Clip Features to Consider

Apart from the harness shapes, you must also look into the leash attachment points the harness comes with. The clip placements significantly affect the harness function during training, walks, and other activities where exerting control is necessary. 

In this section, you’ll learn about the common leash attachment points present in many harnesses and their purposes:

  • Back clip: Back clip harnesses have the leash attachment point in the back of the dog. This is commonly used for dogs that walk calmly on the leash and don’t exhibit pulling behaviors. 
  • Front clip: The front clip harness has the D-rings located at the front of the harness. Front clip harnesses are generally used by dog trainers when controlling dogs that pull. Due to the ring’s placement, if the dog pulls or lunges, they get redirected back to the direction of their owner since the strap slides to one side. 
  • Dual clip: The dual clip harness has back and front clips. This is a practical and versatile option for dog owners who are still figuring out their dogs’ behavior when wearing a harness on the leash. With two leash attachment points, you can control your dog better. If they are easily distracted, the front clip can be utilized. Eventually, once they learn how to walk calmly, you can opt for the back clip of the harness. 

How to Harness Train a Dog

Once you have decided on the harness type that complements your dog’s physique, needs, and behavior, the next thing to do is to start the training. This is vital for ensuring safe and enjoyable walks for you and your dog. 

This decision is also smarter than settling for the traditional leash and collars. This is because harnesses distribute pressure more evenly around the dog’s body, making it a safer choice than the collar, which centers the pressure against the delicate neck of a dog. 

Without further ado, here are the key steps to follow in dog harness training: 

Introduction to the Harness

Some dogs fear novelties, and they will likely perceive the harness as one. In training your dog, one of your priorities is to make sure they build a positive association with the harness. Although the harness is initially unfamiliar to your dog, you can make them feel at ease through gradual introduction. 

Do this by allowing your pet to sniff it, placing it near their sleeping area, or mixing it with their favorite toys. This will eventually make your dog get used to seeing and smelling the harness, making its incorporation into their routine a much easier task later on. 

Creating Positive Associations

You can integrate many elements during dog harness training to ensure its success. This includes positive reinforcements, such as praise, petting, and treats. Consider rewarding your dog’s good behavior immediately, such as when they stay calm each time you bring out the harness, so they learn that repeating a certain response results in something good. 

It’s worth noting that when treats are used as positive reinforcements, dogs get more motivated to learn if the snack is high quality. It further helps if you keep their food rewards varied. This reward system is unpredictable and exciting, which can stimulate a dog’s interest and eagerness to participate in training. 

Fitting the Harness Properly

Once your dog is ready for the harness, it’s crucial that when it’s put on, it fits well and comfortably. It has to be snug but not too tight—ideally, you should still be able to slip two fingers under any strap. 

Once you’ve made all necessary strap placement checks and adjustments, observe if your dog exhibits any sign of discomfort. It should not restrict your dog’s movement, nor should the strap move excessively and rub against the skin. 

Moreover, if you notice signs of chafing, it’s most likely an ill-fitting harness or it may have come in the wrong material or design. 

Beginning Training in a Controlled Environment

Once all is set, you can conduct harness training for your dog in a controlled and familiar environment. This could be your home or a quiet yard. The fewer distractions there are in the setting, the more focused your dog can be on your commands. 

This is especially important for aging dogs since they’re more likely to show poor performance if faced with irrelevant stimuli due to their impaired cognitive domains. 

Then, attach the leash and practice walking your pet around the area. Remember to constantly use treats and verbal praise to encourage calm behavior and to reinforce the idea that the harness is part of everyday life. 

Teaching Basic Commands

In dog harness training, it’s not merely about prompting your dog to follow you calmly. You must also teach them basic commands, such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Your pooch can learn many terms, learn their differences, and apply them through actions, so take advantage of this.

Doing so makes it easier for dogs to know what you want them to do, and it’s useful in correcting behaviors. Teaching them verbal commands also enhances their discipline, which is essential in improving their behavior. 

Encouraging Proper Walking Behavior

Part of dog harness training is teaching your dog how to walk properly while wearing their harness. If they pull on the leash, stop walking and stand still until it loosens and they calm down. Once they’re settled, reward them and continue walking. 

Consistency with these actions allows the dog to understand that unless they walk calmly and stop pulling, the joy of walking in the park continues. 

Transitioning to Busier Environments

Once your dog progresses in their training in a controlled environment, it’s time to transition them to more challenging situations. Since you started with quiet outdoor or indoor areas, gradually progress to the doggy park or busier streets. This allows your dog to adjust to different distractions and challenges while maintaining the training you have established.

Handling Distractions and Managing Pulling

It’s to be expected that you’ll encounter distractions during the drill. Hence, it’s important to continue practicing and reinforcing the training techniques you’ve established with your dog. You can keep them focused by being prompt in rewarding their behavior and quickly correcting them if they make a mistake.

However, note that although distractions can make training more challenging, it’s advised not to resort to aversive methods since these only delay learning. Should your dog pull, consider using a short training session to refocus their attention and remind them of the desired behavior.

Harness Training for Jogging or Running

Harness training becomes even more crucial if you intend to jog or run with your dog. Start with short jogs in the same familiar and controlled environment. Over time, it gradually builds up to longer runs. 

Ensure your dog is comfortable and responsive to commands at faster speeds, and keep the initial sessions short. You shouldn’t also forget to always monitor your dog for any signs of fatigue or discomfort 

If you own a French Bulldog, Pug, or other dogs of brachycephalic breeds, you may want to reconsider making them your jogging or running companion. This is due to the breathing issues caused by their naturally shorter snouts. 

When to Seek Advice From a Professional Dog Trainer

Although it’s ideal to train your own dog to enhance your bond with your pet, there can be legitimate reasons to seek help from a professional dog trainer. It could be that you are encountering a persistent behavioral issue, or you’re struggling to teach basic obedience commands despite consistent efforts. 

With a trainer, they can provide expert guidance and techniques tailored to your dog’s needs and behaviors. Moreover, it’s also beneficial to consult a professional when you first get your puppy to make sure you start on the right foot with training and socialization. 

Dog Harness Training Tips

Harness training can be challenging, especially if you’re dealing with a puppy or an excitable dog. Fortunately, there are tested and proven tips you can follow to make it fun, rewarding, and successful. 

  • Start early: Introduce your dog to a harness at a young age. Since they’re naturally more adaptable, they can quickly learn and become accustomed to wearing it as part of their daily routine. If you’ve adopted an older dog, it’s also never too late to learn. 
  • Be patient: Allow your dog to learn at their own pace. It’s practically important to give them time to adjust to the sensation of wearing a harness. If they feel uncomfortable or show signs of stress, take a step back, reduce training duration, and slowly build up their comfort and tolerance level.
  • Make sessions fun: Incorporate playtime into the training sessions to keep your dog’s interest at peak. A tug-of-war or playing fetch while your dog is wearing a harness in brief periods helps them build positive experiences with the accessory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Harnesses Good for Training Dogs?

Yes, harnesses are excellent for training dogs. They can provide better control during walks without causing unnecessary pressure on the dog’s neck, preventing discomfort, tracheal collapse, and other injuries. 

Generally, harnesses are useful for training puppies that like to pull since these accessories disperse the force across the dog’s chest and shoulders. This makes it easier for dog owners to control their dogs and teach them proper leash behavior without causing harm.

How Long Does It Take a Dog to Get Used to a Harness?

The time it takes to wear a harness varies depending on the dog’s temperament, age, and prior training experiences. Typically, a dog can take a few days to a few weeks to become comfortable with a harness. 

Also, younger dogs or those more adaptable might acclimate more quickly. Meanwhile, older or more anxious dogs may need additional time and patience. 

Is It Better to Use a Collar or Harness?

In walking dogs, using a harness is more ideal than the collar. With their design, Harnesses distribute the pressure across a broader upper body region. At the same time, collars risk putting harmful force against the neck. 

Generally, collars are most suitable for carrying ID tags or if the dog walks calmly on the leash. Still, using a collar instead of a harness has many risks. It may even be harmful to dogs with respiratory issues. 

Final Word

Following this guide makes dog harness training easier. When planning to incorporate this useful accessory into your dog’s everyday routine, remember that this starts with choosing the right harness shape for your dog. 

Once you’ve decided on that, apply the steps outlined in this article to make harness training successful. For the most part, it’s mostly about taking it slow, using lots of positive reinforcements, and gradually leveling up the difficulty until your dog becomes fully accustomed to the harness. 

Of course, if you’re facing some challenges, it’s sensible to consult a professional dog trainer. They can give you the right tips and techniques that can properly address your dog’s behavioral issues. 

Key Takeaways

  • The introduction of the harness must be done gradually so your dog won’t feel threatened by its novelty. 
  • Dog harness training must be done with consistency, patience, and commitment, especially if you’re training puppies or dogs with short attention spans. 
  • Always make harness training sessions fun and short. Long drills can frustrate and bore your dog out, which may negatively impact the success of the training.