Harness Design & Shoulder Movement: A Real Dog Comparison

Below is a real-world comparison using the same active sport dog Misty, wearing two different harness designs.

How Shoulder Movement Works in Dogs

A dog's front limbs are attached to the body through muscle and connective tissue, which allows the shoulder blade to glide and rotate as they move.

During walking, running or sport, the front leg extends forward and the shoulder blade slides back along the ribcage.

If something sits directly across the front of the shoulder joint, it may limit how freely the leg can extend.

That doesn’t mean every harness causes a problem.

It does mean that strap placement matters.

Meet Misty

Misty is an active sport dog who trains and competes regularly.

Because she works at speed and with precision, full shoulder extension and balanced movement are essential.

Below, you’ll see Misty wearing two different harness designs during activity — photographed from multiple angles to show strap placement and front leg extension clearly.

Harness Design 1: Horizontal Chest Strap

  • Chest strap positioned higher on sternum

  • Horizontal strap sitting across shoulder joint

  • Side clip positioned directly behind the elbow joint.

Harness Design 2: Y-Front Design (WAGD)

  • Chest panel positioned lower on sternum

  • Y-front design sitting clear of shoulder joint

  • Full shoulder extension visible during movement

Why Strap Placement Matters

When a strap sits directly across the shoulder joint, it may limit natural extension during movement.

A Y-front design positions straps away from the joint, allowing freer front leg movement.

For active dogs especially, design can influence comfort and performance.

Professional Perspective: Animal Physiotherapy

  • Logo for 4 Steps Forward Animal Physio & Rehab with blue text and paw print design on a white background

  • Amy Hammond - 4 Steps Forward Physio & Rehab:

    • Bachelor of Science (Physiotherapy), Curtin University
    • Postgraduate Diploma Veterinary Physiotherapy, University of Liverpool

    “When looking for a harness, I’m assessing whether it supports natural biomechanics and distributes pressure appropriately. WAGD’s design allows the scapula to move through its full range by positioning straps clear of the shoulder joint. Proper equipment should support your dog’s movement, not interfere with it. I recommend WAGD harnesses to my clients and use one daily on my own dog, Ember.”
American Staffy Dog wearing a black harness with a pink leash on a white background

What to Look For in a Dog Harness

• Y-front construction that sits clear of the shoulder joint


• Straps positioned away from the front of the shoulder


• Hardware (clips and rings) placed away from the elbow joint to avoid contact during movement


• Lightweight materials that don’t add bulk or restrict natural motion


• Easy on/off design for senior, arthritic or sensitive dogs


• Hardware that won’t rust if your dog swims or hits the beach


• Padding that dries quickly and doesn’t trap moisture

f you’re looking for a dog harness in Australia designed around proper fit and natural movement, the WAGD Dog Harness was built with those principles in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a dog harness restrict shoulder movement?

Some harness designs may limit full shoulder extension if straps sit directly across the joint.

Is a Y-front harness better for active dogs?

Y-front designs generally allow more natural front leg extension compared to horizontal chest strap styles.

Does harness design matter for sport dogs?

For active or sport dogs, unrestricted shoulder movement supports comfort during training and competition.