Do Dog Harnesses Stop Pulling – or Do They Make It Worse?
One of the most common questions dog owners ask is whether using a harness will stop their dog from pulling on the lead, or whether it actually makes the problem worse. There’s a long-standing belief that harnesses encourage pulling because they’re more comfortable than collars – but this is a misunderstanding of how dogs learn and behave.
Let’s break down the myths and explain what’s really going on.
Do Harnesses Cause Dogs to Pull?
The short answer is no. Harnesses do not cause pulling.
Pulling is almost always linked to:
-
Lack of effective lead training
-
Over-excitement or frustration
-
Anxiety or feeling overwhelmed
-
Emotional responses to certain environments
Dogs don’t pull because they’re wearing a harness – they pull because they haven’t yet learned how to walk calmly on a lead, or because they’re struggling to cope with what’s happening around them.
Check out our range of strap harnesses here and our soft harnesses here
Comfort Is Not the Same as Encouragement
Some people believe dogs pull more in a harness because it’s more comfortable than a collar. While it’s true that harnesses reduce discomfort, this doesn’t mean they encourage pulling.
Physical discomfort is not an effective way to change behaviour. In fact, positive reinforcement – rewarding calm walking with treats, praise or toys – is far more effective than relying on discomfort to stop pulling.
Harnesses don’t encourage pulling; they simply avoid causing pain while your dog is learning.
Correlation Is Not Causation
Dogs naturally resist pressure. When pressure is applied to a collar around the neck, many dogs pull harder to escape it. This can make it look like a collar “stops pulling”, when in reality it’s just uncomfortable.
When a dog pulls in a harness, it’s often because the pulling was already there – the harness just makes it safer and less distressing. That’s correlation, not causation.
What About Sled Dogs and Pulling Sports?
Harnesses are often associated with pulling sports like sledding, which leads some people to assume all harnesses are designed for pulling. In reality, different activities require different equipment.
A harness designed for daily walking is not the same as a specialist pulling harness. Dogs are very capable of learning that different gear means different activities, just as they learn routines and cues in other areas of life.
Four Reasons to Use a Harness for Everyday Walks
1. Harnesses Can Help Reduce Pulling
A well-fitted harness spreads pressure across the dog’s chest and shoulders rather than concentrating it on the neck. Because the dog is more comfortable, they are often less likely to pull in an attempt to escape pressure.
This creates a calmer foundation for lead training.
2. Harnesses Are Safer for You and Your Dog
Repeated pulling and correcting on a collar can increase frustration and stress, sometimes leading to reactive behaviour. A more comfortable walking setup can help reduce tension, making walks safer and more manageable – especially in busy or unpredictable environments.
3. Harnesses Support a Positive Walking Relationship
Walks should be enjoyable, not stressful. A harness allows your dog to move more naturally, helping create a calmer experience for both of you. This supports trust and cooperation rather than conflict.
Choosing the correct size and style is essential. An ill-fitting harness can feel restrictive, so advice is always worth seeking if you’re unsure.
4. Harnesses Are Better for Long-Term Health
Pulling on a collar can put strain on a dog’s neck, throat and spine. This is especially concerning for small dogs, puppies and brachycephalic breeds, where pressure on the airway can cause discomfort or breathing difficulties.
A harness avoids placing force on these sensitive areas.
Training Still Matters
While harnesses are a safer and more comfortable option, they are not a replacement for training. No-pull harnesses and specialist equipment should always be used alongside consistent, positive lead training – not instead of it.
Reward calm walking, manage environments carefully, and give your dog time to learn. The right equipment supports good training; it doesn’t replace it.
In Summary
Harnesses do not cause pulling. Pulling comes from training gaps, emotional responses and environmental factors. A well-fitted harness provides comfort, safety and a better foundation for positive lead training, helping your dog stay happy and healthy on every walk.
Choosing the right harness – and using it alongside kind, consistent training – makes walks better for everyone involved.