Many dogs have a tendency to pull at the leash while on a walk. Regardless of whether they do it constantly or only when excited about something, it’s not good to have that much pressure on their windpipe as they yank at their collar. A dog harness is a much better option, not only for your dog’s well-being, but also for you to have more control over your pup on your daily walks.
Though harnesses are great, they can be stressful at first to dogs who are unfamiliar with them. Harnesses need to be slipped over the head, and are a bit bigger and make more sound than a collar does. Your pup will likely need some training to get accustomed to donning and wearing their harness without fear. Changing their association with the new object from one of fear to one of excitement can be accomplished relatively quickly with yummy treats and a bit of encouragement. It’s best to begin harness training as soon as possible so that your pup is safe while you walk–puppies are easily harness-trained right away, and dogs that you adopt at an older age should be introduced quickly once they are comfortable in their new home.
Get the Right Harness: Before training starts, take your dog’s measurements and be sure to get a harness that fits properly–you don’t want your dog accidentally slipping out, or being squeezed uncomfortably as you walk. Play with your dog for a little bit before you begin training to put them in a good mood and burn some excess energy.
Get Him Familiar with the Harness: To begin, simply let your pet explore the dog harness. Set it on the ground and allow them to sniff it to their heart’s content. Reward them with a treat for showing interest in the harness to begin building a positive association. Feel free to leave the harness out for an entire day, rewarding your pup every time they interact with it. The more time they have to become desensitized to its presence, the easier it will be to put it on them later.
Try on the Harness: Next, put the harness on your dog. Use treats as a lure to help them willingly stick their head through the harness and stand still as you buckle it. Take it slow–you don’t want them to form negative associations with it. Once it’s on, just have your dog wear it around the house. Play with them, feed them a meal in it, and give them plenty of treats and praise. It’s likely they’ll be a bit uncomfortable at first and rub against walls or the floor to try to get it off. Anytime they stop fussing, pop a treat in their mouth!
Go for a Test Run: Attach their leash while still at home, either inside or in your yard. Walk around with them so they can get used to how it feels to move in the harness, and be sure to brush up on their “heel” command to prevent pulling. For your first walk in the harness, take them to one of their favorite places. This will also further help in building a positive reaction to wearing the harness.
Harness training is generally easy, because your dog will quickly learn that the harness means they get to go outside on a fun walk. With proper execution and plenty of treats, the training process can be completed within a week or two. Happy walking!
Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training are a dedicated group of dog lovers and professional trainers. We offer obedience classes, puppy training and play care to Sarasota and Manatee County dog owners.
