Pulling point for dogs: front or back – which attachment point
Pulling point for dogs: front or back – which attachment point
What is the pulling point on a dog?
The pull point (attachment point) is the point where the Leash is attached to Dog Harness or Collar. Biomechanically, the position of the pull point influences how forces are transferred between the dog and the owner—and thus plays a key role in determining whether the system encourages or discourages pulling on the leash.
The main positions: back strap (dorsal, between the shoulder blades), chest clip (ventral, on the sternum), and dual-clip systems (front and back simultaneously). Each system has specific indications—the choice should depend on the training goal, body type, and context of use.
Background + Scientific Context
Pauli et al. (2006, Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, PubMed 16717175) investigated the effect of neck pressure from Collar or Harness on intraocular pressure (IOP): Collar significantly increased IOP—a finding relevant for dogs predisposed to glaucoma (Beagles, Cocker Spaniels). Harness showed no significant increase in IOP. The study demonstrates: Leash pull on Collar causes pressure to be transmitted to the neck structures (trachea, neck vessels, cervical nerves, eyes); Harness distributes forces across the torso.
Haverbeke et al. (2008, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, PubMed 18374741) describe the choice of equipment in professional dog working programs: Working dogs (police, protection) use back harnesses for pulling work (canicross, tracking) — the back ring allows for optimal power transfer and does not restrict movement. For companion dog training and leash pulling issues, the back ring is counterproductive, as it makes pulling biomechanically comfortable.
Millis and Levine (2014, *Canine Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy*) describe Harness in the context of rehabilitation: Y-Harnesses that allow for proper shoulder mobility are orthopedically preferable. Harnesses that constrict the shoulder area (H-harnesses with a chest crossbar) can restrict movement in the forequarters. The pull point and Harness are functionally relevant for active, athletic dogs.
Vitomalia-Position
The back ring on a standard harness makes pulling on the leash comfortable—the dog pulls like a sled dog because the biomechanics allow for exactly that. Anyone who puts their pulling dog in a Harness with a back ring and hopes the problem will resolve itself is mistaken. The choice of pull point is not a cosmetic detail, but a functional training parameter.
When does the pull point become relevant?
- Dog pulls on the Leash (leash training)
- Switching from Collar to Harness (often chosen incorrectly)
- Sports activities (canicross, bikejoring — functional back harness)
- Orthopedic limitations (shoulder, elbow)
- Rehabilitation after an injury or surgery
- Choosing the right tableware from the wide variety available on the market
Practical application
Comparison of pull point positions:
| Position | Biomechanical effect | Useful for |
|---|---|---|
| Back ring | Pull in the direction of travel, comfortable | Sports activities, trained dog |
| Chest clip (front) | Lateral rotation during pulling reduces pulling | Leash training, dogs in training |
| Double clip (front and back) | Coach's assessment + natural position | Transition from Training to Everyday Life |
| Collar (front) | Neck pressure — not recommended for pullers | For dogs that don't pull on the leash only |
Bust clip mechanism: When the dog pulls and the tension is applied at the chest clip, the force of the leash causes the dog to turn sideways—toward the handler. This requires more physical effort than pulling straight ahead and reduces the dog’s motivation to pull. It is not a punishment mechanism, but a mechanical corrective measure.
For canicross/bikejoring: Specialized pulling harnesses (canicross harnesses) feature a back ring and are anatomically optimized for pulling—with a wide chest strap, unrestricted shoulder movement, and often hip attachments for efficient power transfer.
Anti-pull harnesses (front ring + double leash): The combination of a chest clip and a back ring with a Y-lead gives the trainer control over direction and pace. Effective during the learning process—not a permanent solution, but a training aid.
Common Mistakes & Myths
- “A Harness prevents pulling on the leash.” No Harness automatically prevents pulling on the leash. Only the attachment point at the chest clip provides mechanical resistance—the back ring does the opposite. Pulling on the leash is a training issue, not just a matter of equipment.
- “Harnesses can be harmful to the shoulders.” Well-fitting Y-Harnesses with shoulder clearance do not restrict movement. Poorly fitting H-harnesses with a crossbar directly in front of the shoulder, on the other hand, do—fit is crucial.
- “Double-clip systems are complicated.” Double-clip leashes with a chest clip feature are easy to use and allow you to choose the best option for the situation: maximum control (chest clip) or free movement (back ring).
Current State of Research (2026)
Studies on dog harness technology are increasingly focusing on kinematic analyses of shoulder joint mobility with different Harness. Initial studies (2020–2024) show that Harnesses with a crossbar at shoulder level can reduce forelimb stride length. Anti-pull mechanisms (chest clips) have not been well studied from a behavioral biology perspective—practical observations and clinician consensus support their effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dog pull more when wearing Harness than when wearing Collar?
Because the back ring of the harness has the same pulling characteristics as a sled dog harness. The biomechanics encourage forward pulling. Solution: Use a chest-clip harness and incorporate leash-pulling training at the same time.
What type of Harness is best for preventing pulling on the leash?
No Harness can replace training. As an aid: use a chest-clip harness or a double-clip system with a front stop—these mechanically prevent the dog from pulling forward. Combine this with positive leash training (focusing on the handler, using Leash loose Leash as a reward).
Is the tension on the back ring correct for canicross?
Yes—for canicross, bikejoring, and pulling, the back ring paired with an optimized pulling harness is the correct attachment point. Pulling harnesses distribute the pulling forces across the chest and torso—making them ideal for pulling.
Related terms
Sources & Further Reading
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Pauli, A. M., Bentley, E., Diehl, K. A., & Miller, P. E. (2006). Effects of the application of neck pressure by a collar or harness on intraocular pressure in dogs. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, 42(3), 207–211. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16717175/
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Haverbeke, A., Laporte, B., Depiereux, E., Giffroy, J. M., & Diederich, C. (2008). Effects of training methods on the behaviour and stress responses of police dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 114(1–2), 298–310. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18374741/
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Millis, D. L., & Levine, D. (Eds.) (2014). Canine Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy (2nd ed.). Elsevier. ISBN 9781437703092.