A Respectful, Low-Stress Approach to Harness Training
2 March 2026
A harness is an essential for your dog’s safety and comfort when out on walks, but it can also become a source of anxiety and discomfort if it’s introduced incorrectly. For many dogs, the standard approach: putting their harness on all in one go without warning, can cause stress or even avoidant behaviours. Following a few simple steps can help your dog start to see putting on their harness as something positive. Here is how to gently introduce a harness, with respect and kindness: 1. Associate the harness with positive experiences Before you even think about putting the harness on your dog, start by shifting their perception of it. Too often, harnesses are presented as a purely functional tool, when