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Front clip or back clip, which one do you use and when?

Lizette Prevoo
21 August 2026 · 2 min READ TIME
UNBORINGBYPIP dog harness in Cocoa with front clip and back clip attachment

The front attachment sits on the chest and can give additional guidance when a dog pulls. The back attachment sits on the back and is often convenient for relaxed everyday walking. Neither attachment automatically teaches a dog to stop pulling.

What is the difference?

The difference is where the leash connects to the harness. This changes the direction of tension and the amount of guidance you have. It is separate from the shape of the harness itself. Read our Y harness versus H harness guide if you are comparing harness shapes.

When can you use the front attachment?

A chest attachment can be useful when you want additional guidance with a dog that tends to move ahead. It can help redirect some dogs, but it does not automatically turn the dog or solve pulling behaviour.

When can you use the back attachment?

The back attachment is a simple option for relaxed everyday walks and dogs that already walk comfortably. For activities such as running, always use equipment designed for that activity and your dog's needs.

Can you switch between them?

Yes. If a harness offers both attachment points, you can choose based on the environment and what you are practising. The UNBORINGBYPIP Dog Harness has an attachment point on the chest and one on the back.

Does a front attachment stop pulling?

No. It is a management tool. Combine it with loose leash practice. Read whether a no pull harness really works, why dogs pull and what you can do about pulling.

Which leash should you use?

The leash matters too. A fixed or adjustable leash gives a predictable connection. Compare options in our guide to leashes for dogs that pull.

Fit still comes first

Whichever attachment point you use, the harness should remain stable without restricting movement. Read how tight a harness should be and use our size guide.

Browse our dog harnesses.

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