1. To fit this harness on your dog, remove it from the packaging and lengthen each of the four straps about half way. The webbing should feel a little tight. You may need to thread the webbing through the buckle for it to slide through. You should only need to adjust and fit this once since the sliders will stay put! 

2. Slide the loop part of the harness over your dog's head, with the 'Chest' label on the bottom. The colored straps and Rover Gear logo should be on the top.

3. Next, take the black padded strap 'Belly' label and put it between your dog’s front legs. Fasten the buckles connecting the black straps to the colored straps.

4. Adjust the straps as needed. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the harness and your dog. Make sure the colored straps in the front by the “O” ring are equal lengths. Ensure the harness is not rubbing your dogs skin behind their front legs

Guidance provided by Nicole Ellis, Certified Professional Dog Trainer

One of the most effective ways to train your dog to walk nicely on a leash is by using a front-clip harness. This kind of harness can help to prevent pulling, but to be effective it must be paired with training.

How a no-pull harness works

With a front-clip harness, you clip your leash to a D-ring at the front of the dog’s chest. When your dog pulls, this helps you steer them in the direction you want to go and discourages pulling. 

1. Introduce the harness gradually

Before putting it on or heading out for a walk, let your dog smell and inspect the harness and reward them with treats and praise. Repeat this several times until your dog is comfortable.

2. Fit the harness to your dog

Make sure the harness fits snugly but is not too tight, as this can cause discomfort and restrict movement. You should be able to slip no more than two fingers under the harness when it’s properly fitted.

3. Try it out

Let your dog get used to their new harness indoors by playing their favorite game or letting them enjoy a chew while wearing it. Make it fun!

4. Start training indoors

Begin inside to minimize distractions and help set you both up for success. Try starting next to a wall to encourage your dog to stay close to you while walking. Ask them to sit, reward once they sit next to you, and then take one step forward. Repeat! If your dog goes too far ahead simply go in a circle and lead them with a treat to prevent it next time. Repeat this all over your house.

5. Increase your steps

Once your dog has mastered the sit, step, sit, begin taking multiple steps and rewarding your dog for staying with you. Once you’re both confident doing this indoors it’s time to go outside!

6. Get outside

Begin by taking just a few short steps outside and rewarding your dog for staying next to you. If your dog starts to pull or veer off course, steer them in the right direction by gently pulling on the leash, asking them to ‘come,’ and rewarding when they come back to you. You can also try changing directions when your dog starts to pull.

7. Practice in different environments

Gradually increase the length of your walks and practice in different environments, such as parks, pet-friendly shopping areas, and other areas with distractions. This will help your dog become more confident and well-behaved on walks. 

8. Reward good behavior

Offer treats, praise, and plenty of love and affection to reinforce good behavior.

Pro tip: Get those sniffs out

Remember that dogs need to sniff—it’s healthy and good for them! At the start of your walk try letting your dog sniff and decompress first to set you both up for success. 

Using a front-clip harness is a simple and effective way to train your dog to walk nicely on a leash. With a little patience and training, you can turn your walks into peaceful and enjoyable experiences for both you and your dog. Have fun walking!

Need more help with mastering a no-pull dog walk? We recommend using a virtual GoodPup dog trainer, please visit here for more information. Your first week is free!