Care & how-to
How to Put On a Dog Harness
How you put on a dog harness depends on its style. An overhead harness slips over the head, then one front leg goes through and you buckle it under the belly. A step-in harness lies flat so your dog steps both front feet into the loops before you clip it on the back. A front-clip harness usually goes over the head with the leash ring at the chest. Either way, finish by checking you can fit two fingers under every strap.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read2 sources
Before you start
Work with a calm dog in a quiet spot, ideally after a walk or play rather than when it is bouncing with excitement. Kneel or crouch beside or behind your dog instead of leaning over it, which some dogs find intimidating. Loosen all the straps first so the harness goes on easily.
Lay the dog harness out and identify the parts: the neck loop, the chest or belly strap, the buckles and the D-ring where the leash clips. Most harnesses have a label or the D-ring on the side that sits on top of the back.
How to put on an overhead harness
Step 1: Hold the harness with the D-ring on top. Step 2: Gently slip the head loop over your dog's head so it sits at the base of the neck. Step 3: Lift one front leg and guide it through the first leg opening, so the strap sits between the front legs.
Step 4: Bring the belly strap under your dog and buckle it on the other side; if it will not reach, loosen it. Step 5: Adjust the neck and chest straps so the harness is snug and centered. Offer a treat at each step for dogs that are unsure.
How to put on a step-in harness
Step 1: Lay the harness flat on the floor with the buckles facing up and the two triangles or loops toward the front. Step 2: Stand or kneel behind your dog and guide each front paw into one of the loops. Step 3: Lift the two ends up around your dog's shoulders and clip them together over the back.
Step 4: Adjust so the straps sit comfortably behind the front legs without rubbing the armpits. Step-in harnesses suit dogs that dislike things going over their heads, and many small-dog owners find them easiest. Our step-in dog harnesses include a mesh step-in harness and lead set and a lightweight padded step-in harness.
How to put on a front-clip harness
Many front-clip harnesses go on like an overhead harness, with the leash ring sitting in the center of the chest. For styles with only a neck loop and a belly strap, kneel at your dog's side, slip the loop over its head with the ring at the front of the chest, then reach under the belly and buckle the strap.
Make sure the chest strap does not sit across the shoulder joints in a way that restricts movement. Front-clip harnesses help with pulling by turning your dog toward you when it leans forward on the leash; our dog harness buying guide covers the types in more detail.
How to check the fit
You should be able to slide two fingers flat under every strap, snug but not tight. Then gently try to pull the harness backward over your dog's head; if it slips off, tighten the neck and chest straps. Check that nothing rubs behind the elbows and that your dog can walk, sit and lie down freely.
Recheck the fit as puppies grow and after a coat clip or a heavy winter coat. Fluffy dogs may need straps tightened a little. Look for redness or hair loss where straps sit, and stop using a harness that causes rubbing; if the size is wrong, compare other dog harnesses in the next size up or down.
Getting a puppy or nervous dog used to a harness
Introduce the harness in small steps. Let your dog sniff it and give a treat. Hold the head loop open and lure your dog's nose through with a treat, then remove it. Gradually progress to putting it on fully for a few seconds, then longer, rewarding all the way.
Let your dog wear it around the house during meals or play before your first walk. If your dog flinches when you touch its legs or yelps when the harness goes on, check with your vet in case of pain.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
Which way does a dog harness go on?
On most harnesses the D-ring for the leash sits on top of the back, and the label or buckle side faces up. Front-clip styles have the ring at the center of the chest.
How do you put a harness on a small dog?
Many small dogs do well with a step-in harness: lay it flat, place both front paws in the loops, and clip it on the back. Kneel to their level and reward each step.
How tight should a dog harness be?
Snug enough that it cannot slip over your dog's head, with room for two fingers under each strap. It should not restrict breathing, rub the armpits or limit shoulder movement.
Should my dog wear a harness all the time?
It is best removed indoors and overnight, since constant wear can cause rubbing, matting and tangling. Put it on for walks and outings and check the skin regularly.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
