Is your dog not yet used to putting on a harness?

LEARN HERE HOW TO DESENSITISE THEM

Is your dog a little unsure about their harness? That’s completely normal! Whether it’s a brand-new experience or your dog has had a bad time with a harness in the past, it’s absolutely possible to teach them that wearing a harness is safe, comfortable - and maybe even fun.

The good news is that the Perfect Fit Harness is one of the easiest harnesses to introduce. Unlike many other harnesses, it doesn’t go over the head and requires minimal movement from your dog. There’s no need to lift legs or push anything over their face - you can simply clip it on gently around their body.

Why Might a Dog Be Wary of a Harness?

• They've never worn one before
• They’ve had negative experiences with previous harnesses
• They feel uncomfortable with people leaning over or handling them
• They’re unsure about unfamiliar sensations or equipment

Step-by-Step: How to Introduce the Harness Positively

Here’s how to gently and positively build your dog’s confidence around their harness:

1. Start Slow

Leave the harness out where your dog can see and smell it. Don’t move it towards them - let them investigate it on their own terms. Reinforce any interest with gentle praise and treats.

2. Let Your Dog Take the Lead

Hold the harness in your lap or at their level and reward them for approaching it. You’re building up a “happy association” with the harness.

3. Keep Sessions Short & Sweet

Aim for just 1–3 minutes at a time. You can do multiple mini-sessions a day. End every session on a good note - ideally before your dog gets bored or overwhelmed.

4. Use Treats, Games, and Praise

Pair the harness with things your dog loves - like tasty treats or a short play session. This helps change how they feel about the harness.

5. Don’t Use the Harness for Walks While Training

If your dog is still uncomfortable, avoid putting on the harness in the training setup way - doing so can set back your progress. Instead, if you must use it, try:

• Popping your dog on a raised surface like a table or into the car
• Distracting them with a Snuffle Mat or a handful of treat crumbs while you clip the harness on

This setup should feel totally different from your training sessions, so your desensitisation work can continue separately.

Need a Visual Guide?

Watch here to see a force-free harness training session in action.

With patience, positivity, and a step-by-step approach, your dog will soon be comfortable - and maybe even excited - to put their Perfect Fit Harness on.