What is the Freedom No Pull Harness, and should I try it? We review the features and benefits.
Let me start by saying that, without a doubt, harnesses are a great idea for dogs. They help you maintain control — and you in control means your dog is safer on walks — and, more importantly, they prevent any choking that may occur when a dog pulls while on a collar-attached leash.
(Growing up, my family learned this the hard way — we had an eager pup who pulled so much on walks that she would throw up, which is no fun for any of us. The second we got a harness, though, she was totally fine and walks were much better for everyone.)
Of course, like anything, there’s about a million kinds to choose from. We started Lucy on a conventional nylon harness, which you can find just about anywhere. They’re cheap and they do the trick. But when we took her to puppy training, our trainer told us about the Freedom No Pull Harness. A bit more of an investment, yes, but it’s totally worth it. Here’s why:
Pro: Two-Point Connection
The traditional harness wraps around the body and connects to the leash at the base of the neck/upper back. The Freedom harness, however, connects in two spots: at the base of the neck and at the front of the chest.
The two-point system is especially great for dogs who pull on walks — not only do you have more control, but it also helps you guide your dog in a new way. When your dog pulls, the two-point system doesn’t reward that behavior by letting the dog continue forward. Because of the leash connection in front, pulling steers the dog to the side. Over time and with consistent use, pulling should decline.
Pro: Comfort
Most harnesses are made entirely of nylon. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing, since nylon is super durable. However, all-nylon harnesses can present comfort issues, especially when it comes to the strap that goes under your dog’s chest. The hard edges of a nylon harness can lead to chafing, especially if your dog wears one during runs or lengthy play sessions.
The Freedom Harness, on the other hand, has a velvet strap specifically designed for the underbelly area. We’ve seen no chafing, even after long runs. (The rest of the harness is nylon.)
Pro: Easy to Put On
Other harnesses I’ve tried require you to put the dog’s feet through leg holes. As any dog person knows, that can be difficult. The Freedom Harness slips over the head. The chest strap goes down between the front legs, and that connects to the velvet underbelly strap, which goes around your pup’s ribs and connects in two places. (Sounds complicated, but trust, it’s super quick.)
Overall:
Would I recommend it? Heck yes.
Interested in the Freedom No-Pull Harness? Buy it from this link and The Dog Mom Life may receive a small commission, which helps keep this site going.
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is there a harness that sit back a little past their shoulders. I have a Whippet that will be having surgery on her back close to where the harness comes together at her neck, lets and shoulders?
With Regards
Evelyn Schmitz, Sophia’s mom
Hi Evelyn!
I did a little research, and this looked like a potentially good option, as it’s designed to accommodate dogs with shoulder injuries: https://orthopets.com/adaptive-devices/hobble-vest/
I would also suggest considering harnesses that latch on the front of the body, which would alleviate the tension on the shoulders. For example: http://amzn.to/2CxqWzl
Of course, these are just suggestions. For professional advice, please consult your veterinarian. Best of luck to you and your pup! <3