Choose the Best Dog Pulling Harness to Prevent Injuries While Exercising image 4

Understanding Dog Pulling Harnesses: A Comprehensive Guide

As a longtime dog owner and trainer, I know firsthand the frustration that comes with a dog that pulls excessively on their leash. From dealing with sore arms to distracting yanks that can lead to scary situations, it’s no surprise owners look for solutions like a pulling harness. But with so many styles and brands to choose from, it can be hard to know which type is right for your pup. In this guide, I’ll break down the different harness options and provide answers to common questions about using one to curb unwanted pulling.

Why Use a Pulling Harness?

The number one reason dog owners turn to a pulling harness is for improved control and comfort during walks. A traditional flat collar puts pressure on your dog’s neck when they pull, which can be uncomfortable and reinforce the pulling behavior. Harnesses distribute pressure more evenly over their chest and back. This means less choke pressure and choked-out responses from your pup. It also gives you leverage points on their chest, sides, and back to steer them away from things they may want to chase or react to.

Choose the Best Dog Pulling Harness to Prevent Injuries While Exercising image 3

From my experience training many dogs over the years, a well-fitted pulling harness is one of the quickest and most effective tools for breaking the habit of constant neck pulling on leash. Used along with reward-based training methods, it can make leading a strong dog much more manageable.

Types of Pulling Harnesses

There are a few main styles of harnesses designed specifically for dogs that pull excessively. Each has pros and cons to consider for your individual dog:

Choose the Best Dog Pulling Harness to Prevent Injuries While Exercising image 2
  1. Front-clip harnesses: These connect the leash to a ring or handle on the dog’s chest rather than their back. This gives you leverage to gently steer them away from things as they pull forward. However, some dogs can still lunge or lunge sideways in a front-clip.
  2. No-pull harnesses: These utilize multiple connection points, like a front and rear clip, that tighten across the dog’s chest when they try to lunge forward. While effective at stopping hard lunging, they can be less comfortable for very strong pullers over long periods.
  3. Gentle leader style head halters: Though more restrictive than a standard harness, these soft halters that clip under the chin are superb for controlling eager dogs. With practice, your dog will quickly learn pulling gets them nowhere. Just be sure to acclimate them to wearing it gently.

Finding the Right Fit

Getting a well-fitting harness is crucial to its effectiveness and your dog’s comfort. Measure your pup’s body for size guidance but also try the harness on and check for these qualities:

  • The chest strap should be high under their front legs and not put pressure on their elbows.
  • Adjust all straps so they are just snug but not too tight – you should barely be able to fit two fingers under them.
  • The back strap should lie flat along their back without gaps for them to wiggle out of.

Take your pup for a short test walk and check they don’t easily slip a leg out or wiggle fully out of it. With the right size and fit, it should stay comfortably in place without chafing as they walk and play.

Choose the Best Dog Pulling Harness to Prevent Injuries While Exercising image 1

Training Tips for Using a Pulling Harness

Even with the best harness, you’ll still need to teach loose leash walking skills through positive reinforcement. Here are some training tips:

  1. Reward calm walking beside you with treats, petting, or play. Wait for their attention before moving.
  2. If they lunge or pull, stand still until loose leash or gently turn and walk the other way without engaging with them.
  3. Practice loose leash walks for short 5-10 minute sessions several times per day so they don’t get frustrated or overexcited.
  4. Consider using a head halter for initial training since it gives you even more control over their direction.

It takes weeks of consistent practice but with patience your dog will learn that pulling gets them nowhere while loose leash walking earns rewards. The harness helps you correct them safely until the behavior is replaced.

Choose the Best Dog Pulling Harness to Prevent Injuries While Exercising image 0

Other Tips and Considerations

Here are some other things to keep in mind when using a pulling harness:

  • Never leave it on unattended – take it off after walks to prevent injury if snagged.
  • Do short practice sessions at home too so they associate it only with walking properly.
  • Gradually phase out treats and praise as loose leash walking becomes a habit, not just for rewards.
  • Be mindful of hazards like roads that your dog may not be fully trained for yet with a harness alone.
  • Replace it if it becomes worn or damaged for their safety.
  • Consider training classes or a professional trainer if self-training with a harness is not working.

With diligent but positive training, most dogs can learn not to pull excessively on leash. A pulling harness simply gives you an edge in having more control in a kind way during those initial training months. Be patient, keep sessions fun and positive, and your pup will go from an unruly puller to a calm walking companion.

I hope this guide has helped answer your questions about choosing and using a pulling harness effectively. Let me know if you have any other questions!

FAQ

  1. What types of dog pulling harnesses are available? Basically there are a few different kinds of harnesses for dogs that pull. One popular choice is the chest harness which distribute weight across the chest. The halti head halter is another option but it works more like a horse’s bridle around their nose. Then there’s the easy walk harness which has a strap on the dog’s chest and back.
  2. Should I train my dog not to pull before using a harness? It’s recommended to do some training before putting your dog in a harness so they learn not to lunge forward. When they pull on a regular collar it can hurt their neck. A harness is safer on their body but you’ll still want them to know commands like “heel” so the walk is enjoyable for both of you.
  3. How do I fit a dog pulling harness properly? Fitting the harness right is key so it won’t slip around as your dog trots. You’ll want it snug enough that two fingers fit comfortably under the straps without being too loose or tight. Adjust all straps so everything fits your pup smoothly, then take them for a test walk and check for any rubbing.
  4. Are harnesses bad for “dominant” dogs? Maybe. Some people argue that harnesses can allow dogs to pull more and get their way, almost like the “alpha” of the walk. However if you use positive reinforcement training methods and the harness helps control an excessively pulling dog then it may not be a problem. Either way consistency is important so they don’t try to take charge.
  5. Can heavy dogs wear harnesses safely? Yes certainly! As long as the harness is well-built and fits properly then even big dogs usually don’t have any issues using one. Just check that thick straps won’t dig into their skin. The weight distribution across their chest and back helps protect joints too. I’d say as long as your harness supports over 50 pounds then your large breed pup should be good to go.
  6. What do I do if my dog chews their harness? Uh oh, it seems like somebody’s found their new favorite chew toy! Unfortunately harnesses and any other gear shouldn’t be allowed to become chew toys for safety. Try redirecting with an acceptable toy when they go for the harness. You could also try a bitter spray to make it less appealing. And as a last resort look for heavy duty harnesses designed to withstand even the strongest chewers.
  7. Should I try a head collar before a standard harness? Possibly. The halti head collar works on a different principle than chest harnesses by redirecting their head instead of just the body. For some dogs this approach is more effective at curbing pulling right away. It may be worth trying a head collar first before moving to a standard harness if pulling is an issue. However every dog is an individual, so see what works best for yours!