Harnais anti-traction : guide complet par tailles

Anti-pull harness: complete size guide

Anti-pull harnesses: the complete size guide

A well-fitted no-pull harness makes all the difference: calmer walks, greater comfort, and less pressure on your dog's neck. This guide shows you how to choose the right size , how to measure your dog, which body types are most prone to errors , and how to adjust the harness like a pro.

See all our no-pull harnesses & leashes

Summary

  1. Why an anti-pull harness?
  2. How to take measurements (3 points)
  3. Choosing the right size: chart & guidelines
  4. Specific breed types: puppies, molossers, greyhounds
  5. Perfect settings in 60 seconds
  6. Common mistakes to avoid
  7. Accessories that help with walking without pulling
  8. FAQ

1) Why an anti-pull harness?

  • Front attachment point (chest): deflects the line of traction, 👉 the dog turns towards you instead of pulling straight.
  • Pressure distribution : no load on the cervical vertebrae as with a collar.
  • Better control : especially in town, at the start of a ride or when faced with distractions.

Combine with an anti-pull leash to absorb sudden jerks.

2) How to take measurements (3 points)

Get a flexible measuring tape . Standing, dog in its natural position:

  1. Chest measurement (essential): at the widest point of the rib cage, just behind the elbows.
  2. Neck circumference (if head harness): at the widest point, base of the neck.
  3. Back length (reference point): base of neck → base of tail (useful on short/long dogs).

Tip: Leave two fingers' width of room in the chest measurement for dynamic comfort.

3) Choosing the right size: chart & guidelines

Each brand has its own pricing structure, but here are some indicative ranges to get you started. Always refer to the technical specifications of the product you choose.

Size Chest circumference (cm) Approximate weight Examples of templates
XS 30–40 2–4 kg Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier
S 38–50 4–8 kg Bichon, Miniature Dachshund, Fine Jack Russell
M 48–62 8–15 kg Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, Shiba Inu
L 60–75 15–25 kg Border Collie, Boxer (fine)
XL 72–90 25–40 kg Sturdy Labrador, German Shepherd
XXL 88–105 40+ kg Molossus, massive Rottweiler

Between sizes? Choose the larger size if your dog is sturdy, very hairy, or if you'll be wearing clothing underneath. Otherwise, choose the smaller size (for better control) if your dog is slim/athletic.

👉 See our adjustable models: anti-pull harnesses .

4) Specific morphologies

Puppies

  • Allow for growth (adjustments + 1 size up if puppy is going to grow quickly).
  • Check the fit every 2–3 weeks.

Molossoid breeds (broad chest, thick neck)

  • Opt for wide chest bands and independent neck/chest adjustments .
  • Avoid harnesses that are too tight and that "cut" behind the armpits.

Greyhounds / very fine dogs

  • Deep chest + small waist = risk of leakage if poorly fitted.
  • Choose well-enclosing Y-shaped designs , with a minimum of two adjustment points .

5) Perfect settings in 60 seconds

  1. Place the Y-junction in the center of the sternum.
  2. Adjusting the chest strap : you should be able to fit 2 fingers between the strap and your body.
  3. Adjust the waist strap (behind the elbows): no rubbing under the armpit.
  4. Test walking : 10–15 steps, check that nothing rises towards the throat.

Need an easy-to-adjust model? Discover our selection: adjustable no-pull harnesses and anti-pull leashes .

6) Common mistakes to avoid

  • Do not weigh them : two dogs weighing 12 kg can have very different chest sizes. Always measure .
  • Harness too loose : risk of slipping out backwards.
  • Harness too tight : chafing, hair loss, breathing difficulties.
  • Attaching to the collar for “better control”: increases traction and cervical stress.

7) Accessories that really help

  • Anti-pull leash (elasticated or double point): to cushion the jerks — see our leashes .
  • Treat pouch : reward for looking at and returning to heel .
  • Clicker (if you use it): precise marker of good behavior.

Training tip (15 min): follow our “Learn to walk without pulling” routine (progressive exercises).

FAQ – Anti-pull harness

Does an anti-pull harness immediately stop pulling?
No. It reduces leverage and gives you back control. Combine it with short, positive learning.

Front or rear attachment point?
The front helps to redirect the dog's trajectory (anti-pull). The rear is suitable for dogs that are already calm. Many models offer both .

My dog ​​is between two sizes…
Choose the larger size if very hairy/plump or if you are putting clothing under the harness; otherwise, choose the smaller size for fine control.

H-harness, Y-harness, T-harness… which to choose?
The Y shape provides good shoulder freedom (often better for walking). The H shape is versatile. Avoid shapes that cut into the shoulder blade.

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