How to put on a dog harness: Step-by-step directions [with video]

Some dog owners are all about the collar, while others like a harness — and the latter, according to the American Kennel Club, can offer more control (though harnesses do, for the record, require more strength on your end!).

All that being said, if you’re going to use a harness, you need to use it correctly. “The biggest issue that I’d worry about with a harness not being sized or fastened correctly would be the dog slipping out,” says David Wright, a dog trainer and the owner of iWorkDogs.

Here’s how to put a harness on correctly so that your furry friend stays comfortable and safe.

How to use a dog harness

There are two main types of harnesses: step-in harnesses and overhead harnesses. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to put each type on your dog.

Step-in harness

1. Unbuckle the harness and lay it on the ground.
2. Have your dog stand over the harness.
3. Place one of your dog’s front paws in one of the loops and their other front paw in the other loop. If your harness indicates which loop should match up with each foot, be sure to follow those instructions.
4. Snap the strap buckles together on your dog’s back.

Overhead harness

1. Slip your dog’s head through the neck piece.
2. Pull the bottom straps down under their belly and the top strap across their back.
3. If your harness is connected on one side, have your dog step through the loop and then clasp the side straps together on the other side. If your harness is not connected on one side, be sure to clasp the straps on both sides.

Where should you place the harness straps?

After you put on your dog’s harness, you need to check the strap placement. “All harnesses should fit below the neck and never put pressure on the dog’s throat,” says Evans. “A harness chest strap should also never go across the dog’s shoulder joint because it will inhibit the dog’s shoulder stride and thus their leg length stride.”

How should you adjust the harness?

Finally, you should adjust the straps to ensure that the harness is secure, but not too tight. You should use the buckles to tighten the straps until they get to a point at which you can fit two fingers between your dog and the harness.

Before you head out, double-check a few things to make sure that the harness is placed and adjusted properly. “First, check all the appropriate straps and buckles to make sure they’re fastened correctly,” says Wright. “Next, try to move the harness side to side and make sure it doesn’t slide over too far to one side or another.”

Lastly, you should make sure that it’s not constricting your dog’s movement or rubbing against their skin.

One final piece of advice is to use a little self-assurance throughout the process. “Put it on gently, calmly and confidently,” says Evans. “If you trust the harness and yourself, your dog usually will too.”