How to Install a Puppy Harness

A harness is a great way to handle a puppy on a leash. You will be able to walk your puppy without fear of the puppy choking himself if he gets wild on the leash, and a harness is much more difficult for a wiggly puppy to escape from than a collar might be. The main problem with a harness for a puppy is that the process of getting it on can be challenging. Here are some tips to make it easier.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Study the harness and notice that two rings, which typically have buckles of some sort, are held together with a back strap. One of the rings is smaller than the other. The small ring goes around the puppy's neck, and the larger ring goes around the body.

    • 2

      Unbuckle the buckles on each of the rings.

    • 3

      Hold the puppy in your lap, facing outward. Do this while sitting on the floor, to protect the puppy from injury if he manages to wiggle out of your lap during the process of installing the harness.

    • 4

      Lay the harness on the puppy, with the open smaller ring around his neck and the back strap running down his back. For now, simply allow the larger ring's straps to flop where they may.

    • 5

      Hold the puppy gently, but firmly, with your legs (if necessary). Use your hands to buckle the neck strap around his neck. The proper tightness will allow you to slip two fingers in between the buckled collar part and his neck. Having the neck strap too tight may strangle, and having it too loose will allow the puppy to escape. Find the proper buckle adjustment; this may take several tries. If the puppy becomes too restless, a dog treat may be of some assistance.

    • 6

      Use the same technique and adjustment procedure (Step 5) to buckle the body harness ring around the puppy's body, behind his front legs.

    • 7

      Let the puppy free (assuming you are in a safe location to release him). He may try to rid himself of the harness, but he'll likely give up in a few minutes. Distracting him with treats, toys or playtime may be helpful.