If dogs could talk, my dog’s answer to harnesses used to be a very clear “NO.”

No to straps.
No to buckles.
No to anything coming near her head.

She’s gentle, loving, and incredibly expressive—especially when she doesn’t like something. 😅

Why Some Dogs Push Back

It took me a while to realize she wasn’t being stubborn.

She just hated the process.

Having something slipped over her head felt invasive. Even if it didn’t hurt, it didn’t feel right to her. And once that negative association formed, it stuck.

Trying a Different Approach

I decided to try the BARKBAY OpenFit Comfort Dog Harness, mainly because of one feature:
👉 the neck buckle that opens fully

That meant no over-the-head movement at all.

The first time I put it on her, I expected resistance.

Instead, she stayed still.
No whale eyes.
No backing away.

That alone felt like a win.

More Than Just Easy to Put On

Once we started walking, I noticed something else.

The harness didn’t shift.
It didn’t rub.
And it didn’t trap heat.

The fit was secure but flexible, allowing her shoulders to move freely. She could sniff, trot, and turn without restriction.

Most importantly, she didn’t try to scratch it off the moment we got outside.

Now Walk Time Means One Thing

Excitement.

When I pick up the harness now, she comes closer instead of disappearing. She knows it means comfort, freedom, and time together.

Final Thoughts

Good design isn’t always flashy. Sometimes, it’s one thoughtful detail that makes all the difference.

For us, that detail was the neck buckle on the BARKBAY OpenFit Comfort Dog Harness.

And it turned “no more walks” into “let’s go.” 🐾💛