How to Make a Harness for Your Dog at Home?

Updated On: April 15, 2025

How to Make a Harness for Your Dog at Home?

If you take your dog for a walk everyday, a harness is very useful. The harness does not out pressure on the dog’s neck and makes it easier to control while walking. Harness available in the market are expensive and sometimes not available in the right size. So, yo can make one at home-very cheap, strong and fit your dog perfectly.

What materials will you need?

Strong webbing/strap-nylon, cotton or an old bag strap will work.
2 D-rings-iron or steel.
1 Buckle (clip type)-for attaching the harness.
1 Slider/adjuster-for changing the size.
Sewing machine or needle and thread-for strong sewing measuring tape scissors and lighter.

Step 1:- Take measurements.

take measurements of three area of your dog:-

Neck circumference.
Chest circumference(behind the front legs).
Distance from neck to chest.

When , leave some room-this will prevent the harness from being too tight.

Step 2:- Make the straps.

Cut the strap into three pieces:-

One strap for neck.
Another strap for the chest.
A third strap hat connects the neck to the chest

After cutting, burn the ends (with a lighter)-so they won’t unravel.

Step 3:- Start sewing.

Neck strap: Attach a D-ring to one end and sew it on. Attach the buckle part to the other end.
Chest strap:Attach the D-ring and buckle to this as well, but attach a slider to it so that the fitting can be adjusted.
Connecting strap:Sew this strap in the middle between the neck and chest straps.

Step 4:- Assemble all the parts

When the three straps are joined together, they form a figure 8 shape.
Check that the buckle and D-ring are in the correct position.
check that all the stitching is tight.

Step 5:- Trial run.

Try the harness on your dog.
Check that all the straps fit properly and that there is no rattling.
The straps should not be too tight or too loose-they should be loose enough for two fingers to pass through easily.

Style: It’s not just practical—it’s a stylish detail that can match your dog’s personality, whether they’re quirky, elegant, or adventures

If you want a little more craftiness.

Sew the dogs name, number or patch on the leash.
Apply a reflective strip for nighttime.
Sew a soft fabric to the chest area – it will be comfortable.

Why harness this much important for a dog?

A harness is a very important accessory for a dog, especially when walking, training, or playing outside. Rather than just sitting around the neck like traditional leashes, a harness evenly distributes pressure across the entire chest and shoulders. This puts less strain on the dog's neck and reduces the risk of suffocation or injury, making it a safer option, especially for dogs that pull. Using a harness provides better control over the dog, making it easier to maintain control in crowded areas or during training. It reduces the risk of the dog escaping the leash or becoming strangled.Harnesses are especially beneficial for small breeds, puppies, seniors, or dogs with breathing problems.Many harnesses these days come with comfortable padding, reflective strips (for visibility), and adjustable straps that can be adjusted to the right size. Some harnesses are also suitable for car travel, with seat belt adjustments.In short, harness use is the perfect combination of safety, control, and comfort – all of which are essential for a responsible pet owner.

Benefits of using a Harness for a Dog are as follows.

Provides more control: Harnesses allow you to have better control over your dog,
especially for large or energetic dogs.
No strangulation: Compared to a collar, a harness does not put pressure on the
neck, reducing the risk of airway obstruction or sore throat.
Pull control: Many harnesses are designed to reduce dog pulling, making it more
comfortable when going for a walk.
Increased safety: The dog cannot easily escape from the harness, thus reducing the
chance of running away out of fear.
Even pressure distribution: The harness evenly distributes pressure across the dog's
chest and back, which does not strain the neck.
Suitable for puppies: Harnesses are safer and more comfortable for puppies
learning to walk.
Useful for training: Harnesses make training easier and do not hurt the dog.
Comfortable for long walks: A harness with good quality, soft padding keeps the
dog comfortable even on long walks.
Beneficial for health issues: The harness is a safe option for dogs with respiratory
problems, neck injuries, or tracheal collapse.
Additional features: Many harnesses have reflective strips (for visibility), handles
for grabbing, and adjustments for the seat belt during travel