Anti-pull leash or harness
Share
Leash or anti-pull harness: which to choose (and when to combine them)?
Does your dog pull on the leash? Should you invest in a shock-absorbing leash , an anti-pull harness … or both? This guide helps you choose based on your dog's profile , your environment , and your goals , with precise adjustments, a training plan, and links to our resources.
Category: Harnesses & No-Pull Leashes • Routine: No-Pull Walk (15 min) • Sizes: Measurement Guide
Summary
- Cushioned leash vs. no-pull harness: the difference
- When to choose one, the other… or both
- Perfect adjustments (Y-shaped harness) + leash grip
- 14-day plan to reduce traction
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Useful links & products
1) Cushioned leash vs. no-pull harness: the difference
Cushioned (elasticated) leash
- Role : absorbs shocks, protects your shoulders and those of the dog.
- Limitation : it does not teach polite walking on its own; it is a comfort , not a method.
Anti-pull harness (front and back attachment points)
- Role : slightly deflects the body during a pull, facilitates pedagogical control .
- Advantage : protects the throat/cervical spine, distributes pressure on the chest.
Conclusion : The cushioned leash provides comfort , and the no-pull harness facilitates training . Together, they accelerate results.
2) When to choose one, the other… or both
| Context | Best option | For what |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy / beginning of training | Anti-pull harness + standard leash | Gentle control + clear guidelines (see 15-minute routine) |
| Adult dog that pulls hard | Anti-pull harness + shock-absorbing leash | Less jolting, better comfort for everyone |
| Jogging / hiking | Comfortable Y-harness + cushioned leash | Absorption of changes in pace |
| A very stimulating city | Front attachment harness + short leash | Precision and safety on the sidewalk |
| A chill stroll in the park | Back harness + semi-long leash | Keep a loose leash, "sniff" breaks on permission |
3) Perfect adjustments (Y-shaped harness) + leash attachment
- Position : Y-shaped junction on the sternum , not on the throat; shoulders free .
- Ease : 2 fingers under each strap; 10-step test (no rotation).
- Attachment : start at the front point to discourage pulling, then move to the back when the leash remains slack.
- Leash grip : soft hand close to the body, relaxed belly of the leash; reward good behavior with the thigh .
Need help with measurements/adjustments? Size guide .
4) 14-day plan to reduce traction
- Days 1–3 : calm zone, “look = reward”, fluid U-turns ( 15 min routine ).
- Days 4–6 : Add 2–3 sniff permissions (5–10 s) when the leash remains loose.
- Days 7–10 : Sidewalk a little stimulating, rewards more spaced out.
- Days 11–14 : usual route, random reinforcements + alternating front/back attachment.
5) Common mistakes to avoid
- ❌ Harness too high on the throat or too loose (risk of rear exit).
- ❌ Leash under constant tension (the dog “forgets” the feeling of relaxation).
- ❌ Sessions that are too long in an overstimulating environment from the start.
- ❌ Punish sniffing : use it as a controlled reward .
6) Useful links & products
- Harnesses & anti-pull leashes
- Walk without pulling: 15-minute routine
- Size guide (take measurements)
- Car safety: harness + seatbelt • Seatbelts: Black • Red • Pink • Blue • Green