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How to get my puppy to wear a collar or harness without a fight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My puppy HATES collars/harnesses. Every time I put one on he becomes really angry and starts to try to but me and run away. I can't for the life of me get anything on him. Help!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on April 11th, 2017

Sounds like the collar may still be pretty scary for your pup! Some puppies may also just be very excited and become wiggly or nip/chew on you in excitement. Here are a few things you can do: Leave the collar/harness on the floor and let your puppy approach it first on his own. Toss a treat and give lots of praise any time he shows interest in it or sniffs it. Practice handling your puppy around the neck and shoulders by petting, playing with, cuddling, etc and giving a favorite treat and praise every time you do this so he begins to associate it with a positive experience. Practice snapping a collar/harness closed next to your pup but not on him, offering a treat and praise every time he is curious about it. Practice sitting while placing the collar or harness on, and giving a treat every time you do. If puppy becomes too wiggly or excited, take a break and try again in a few minutes. Offer extra treas and lots of praise when he successfully puts on and wear the collar, even if it's only for a few minutes.

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