Harnesses are a training tool and yes they do deter pulling but it’s not one tool that directly stops the pulling. Owners still have to teach the dog how to walk on a loose leash. The key is to reward any behavior you like on or off-leash. With the leash anytime you have a loose leash or your dog checks in with you, mark and reward. By the end of this post, your answer to will a harness stops pulling will be answered. Will a Harness Stop Pulling?
Why Harnesses are recommended to stop pulling?
For safety more than the ability to stop the pulling. Studies have shown that pressure from a flat collar puts pressure on a dog’s neck which can cause serious health and safety risks. With consistent or hard fast pressure it can injure your dog’s spine, vocal box, thyroid, and more.
However, on the other hand, Harnesses can also cause similar damage so make sure you choose a harness that does not impede the movement of the dog’s legs or across the shoulders. The restriction of movement can lead to joint and other orthopedic issues. The harness should also be below the neck area to avoid choking noises. The harness should be resting on the breast bone. Freedom harness or Easy Walk Harness is the best two harnesses I recommend. Harnesses also give you better body control when you loose leash walking.
Do harnesses cause pulling?
No, but it does make pulling more comfortable for the dog. Now that we eliminated the pain that a collar causes we need to teach the dog how to lose leash walk. Start with the basics and reward the behavior you want when the dog is on the leash. Start with standing still and reward for loose leash and attention. Add in steps and build distance.
Based on your dog’s body type and temperament will a harness stop pulling? That is debatable.
If you are struggling with walking your dog, harness or not please reach out and I would be happy to help.
