Which dogs can learn to put on a harness?

This trick is a bit more challenging to practice than some other tricks, presenting a more demanding mental task for your furry friend. It provides excellent mental stimulation and can be wonderfully showcased because, after all, which dog can put on its own harness? Even dogs that haven’t been fans of harnesses before can slowly get accustomed to them without any force or pressure.

How do I teach my dog to put on a harness?

To make this trick feasible, you’ll need a classic H- or Y-shaped harness, one that goes over the head and fastens around the belly. Additionally, you’ll need treats that your dog finds particularly irresistible – perhaps bits of sausage? If you prefer working without treats, you can use toys or something that your dog won’t hesitate to engage with.

Step 1

Start by turning the harness into something fantastic for your dog. Associate it positively. Take some treats and sit on the floor with your furry friend. Place the harness in front of you and spread good vibes and treats with every interaction your dog has with the harness. If your dog sniffs or approaches it, reward with a treat.

Step 2

Now, proceed with the actual trick. Hold the harness with one hand on the ring that will be on your dog’s back and take several treats in your other hand. The goal is for your dog to stick its head through the loop of the harness. It probably won’t work right away since the ring is usually snugly sized, and dogs typically have to slide it over their ears. For most dogs, this is somewhat uncomfortable. They may endure it, but they wouldn’t necessarily voluntarily stick their head through. So, take it step by step and reward every approach toward the goal.

Hold the harness in one hand and the reward in the other. Position the treat hand behind the neck opening of the harness and lure your dog. If it approaches, acknowledge that. Once the nose protrudes through the opening, express your joy enthusiastically and give a “jackpot reward.” It’s crucial to approach this exercise with a lot of calmness and patience because pressure would be counterproductive. Practice this part many times until your dog is confident enough to voluntarily put its head through, and practice multiple times a day without actually going for a walk afterward.

Step 3

By now, your dog has put its head through the opening several times and is excited when you bring out the harness? Fantastic – you’ve managed to positively associate the harness with your dog, so it doesn’t necessarily mean stress for them. In the next step, plan for your dog not only to stretch its head through but also for you to spread the harness over its body and fasten it. Ensure you quietly connect the closure ends, so your dog doesn’t get startled. Praise and finish.

By the way, for the pros, this trick can also be combined with the second dog. The second dog should be familiar with the “Hold” command and be larger than the other dog to hold the harness for it. It requires some practice but is definitely impressive to watch!