While most dogs walk well on a standard collar and leash, there are some dogs that pull to the point of choking themselves. Walking your dog should be a pleasure for both you and your dog. However, if pulling is so excessive that your dog gags or you feel like your arm is getting torn out of its socket, switching to a harness will eliminate these problems and allow him to walk in comfort. Several types of harnesses are available for purchase, but you can make your own harness using a standard leash.
Things You'll Need
- Cotton or leather leash, six feet long for small dogs
- Cotton or leather leash, eight to 12 feet long for medium to large dogs
- Standard flat collar
Instructions
Clip the leash to your dog's collar. Stand at your dog's right side. Hold the leash in your left hand with your thumb pointing toward the dog̵7;s collar.
Drape the middle of the leash around your dog̵7;s chest from the left shoulder to the right as you hold the end of the leash with your right hand. The leash should form a "U" across the dog̵7;s chest. Make sure the part of the leash between your left hand and the dog̵7;s collar is slightly slack. Prevent the leash that is across the dog̵7;s chest from rubbing by applying light pressure.
Drop your left hand toward your dog to create additional slack. Continue holding the leash with your left hand as you lift your dog̵7;s left paw. Draw the leash behind the dog̵7;s left elbow and up between his front legs.
Thread the end of the leash in your right hand through the collar from the front so it lays flush against his coat. This helps keep the leash from slipping up and is especially useful for small dogs to prevent them from backing out of the harness.
Hold the leash with both hands and allow some slack between the dog̵7;s coat and the leash̵7;s contact points as you walk together.