DIY Dog Harness

A harnesses can be used as an alternative way to leash a dog instead of attaching a leash to a collar. Harnesses can be used for dogs with trachea issues. They are also suitable for dogs that tend to pull on leashes. A well-fitted harness places no pressure on the throat and allows a dog to be walked without any additional irritation. Harnesses are typically made of nylon rope and wrap around the dog's lower neck, shoulders and front legs. A harness customized to your dog's measurements can be constructed at home using a few simple materials.

Things You'll Need

  • Sewing machine
  • Scissors
  • Straight pins
  • Pen
  • 1-inch metal D-ring
  • 1-inch plastic slider
  • 1-inch plastic snap buckle
  • 1-inch nylon webbing, 4 yards
  • Polyester thread
  • 1-inch diameter pony bead
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Instructions

    • 1

      Thread one end of your webbing over the bar of the slider so it is looped over the bar. Sew two parallel lines of straight stitching across the end of the webbing to secure this loop in place.

    • 2

      Thread the free end of the webbing through the left side of the snap buckle. Make sure the buckle curves outward so it will be flat against your dog's body.

    • 3

      Feed the webbing through the top of the slider then back out through the bottom. One side of the buckle will be attached to the webbing.

    • 4

      Locate the middle of the webbing. Fold the webbing in half and thread it through the pony bead. Pull the loop through the other side. This loop should be large enough to fit over your dog's head.

    • 5

      Thread your webbing through the D-ring. Thread the end of the webbing through the remaining open side of the snap buckle.

    • 6

      Fit the harness to your dog by releasing the buckle. Slip the open loop over the dog's head and guiding its legs through the appropriate holes. Click the snap closed and adjust the harness into place.

    • 7

      Pull the webbing snug around your dog's body but be sure to leave some slack on the slider side of the harness. This will allow for final tightening once the finished harness is on your dog.

    • 8

      Move the D-ring to the center of your dog's back and mark the spot using your pen. Remove the harness once all adjustments have been made.

    • 9

      Pin the harness to hold the customizations in place. Trim the end of the webbing next to the snap buckle. Leave about 2 inches. Reserve the cut webbing for Step 10. Sew the tail end using two parallel straight seams.

    • 10

      Place the D-ring at your center marking. Measure and cut 3 inches of the reserved webbing and place over top of the D-ring and pin into place. Stitch at least two parallel seams on either side of the D-ring to reinforce the stress points.

    • 11

      Place the completed harness on your dog and adjust to fit.