How to put a harness on your dog and adjust it properly?

Putting a dog harness on your dog may seem simple, but to ensure their comfort and safety, it is essential to do it correctly. Whether for a quiet stroll or a more athletic outing, a well-fitted harness makes all the difference.

Here, we explain how to put a harness on a dog step by step, how to adjust it properly, and how to choose the right model.

Why is it important to properly adjust a harness?

A poorly adjusted harness can hinder your dog's movements, cause chafing, or even lead to pain. Conversely, a well-adjusted harness offers optimal support while preserving their freedom of movement.

It is therefore the foundation for a successful walk or an enjoyable jog together!

Preparing the harness before first use

Even before putting it on your dog, start by identifying the different parts of the harness:

• The strap that goes under the chest
  
  
• The one that rests on the back
  
  
• The straps that encircle the neck and thorax

Loosen your harness more than necessary to make it easier to put on; we will adjust it later.

How to put a harness on your dog

1. Position the harness

Place the harness on your dog, making sure it is facing the right way:

• The longest part is generally located under the chest.
  
  
• The top part rests on the back.

2. Quickly adjust the straps

If the harness is new, perform an initial adjustment before closing the buckles. This will save you from having to redo everything once the harness is on.

3. Close the fasteners

Clip the various harness buckles. Depending on the model, you will find:

• A buckle at the thorax
• Possibly a buckle at the chest.

The harness is now installed, but there is one essential step remaining: adjusting it.

How to properly adjust a dog harness

Proper adjustment ensures both your companion's comfort and safety.

Adjust the neck

You should be able to slide two fingers between the strap and the dog's neck.

• Too tight: the harness becomes uncomfortable.
• Too loose: the support is no longer effective.

Adjust the chest circumference

Apply the exact same two-finger rule.

The harness must stay firmly in place without compressing the rib cage.

Check for symmetry

The adjustments must be identical on both sides to maintain good balance and prevent the harness from rotating.

Tip: have your dog walk a few meters after adjusting to verify that everything remains correctly positioned.

> Also read: Running with your dog.

How to check that the harness is well-fitted?

Here are some sure signs:

• The harness does not rotate around the body
  
  
• The shoulders remain free to move
  
  
• No pressure point seems to bother the dog
  
  
• Your companion remains comfortable and moves naturally

Also remember to check the clips and apply slight tension to the leash to check the overall stability of the harness.

What to do if the harness is poorly adjusted?

If you notice the harness moving, slipping, or bothering your dog:

• Readjust the straps
  
  
• Check the size chosen

A harness that is too big or too small can never be perfectly adjusted, even with many tweaks.

What size harness should you choose for your dog?

Take the following measurements:

• Thorax/chest circumference (just behind the front legs)
  
  
• Chest girth (at the base of the neck, not where the regular collar sits)

At Aventure Canine, all our size guides are displayed in photos to make your choice easier.

Always refer to the guide corresponding to the chosen model, and if your dog falls between two sizes, generally choose the larger one. It is easier to adjust a harness that is slightly too big than one that is too tight.

Harness or collar: which to choose?

It all depends on the intended use:

• For quiet walks, a collar may be enough.
  
  
• For active walks, dogs that pull, or athletic activities (like running with your dog), a harness is highly recommended.
  
  
• If you do traction sports (canicross, dog hiking), choose a specific harness adapted for this practice, designed to handle the forces while preserving your companion's comfort.

Tip: having a collar + a harness allows you to switch depending on the situation.

Check out our collection of dog collars.

Remember to check the adjustments regularly

The harness can move over time due to:

• Repeated pulling
  
  
• Weight changes
  
  
• Seasonal coat changes

Do a quick check before every outing: it only takes a few seconds and can prevent many headaches.

In summary

Putting a harness on your dog is more than just a routine: it’s a moment that prepares your duo for a great walking experience.

Well-fitted, well-adjusted, and well-chosen, it guarantees your faithful companion's comfort, freedom of movement, and safety.

Thank you for reading!