The Best Harness for Dogs & Puppies
Find the Perfect Dog Harness for Your Pup
Dog harnesses come in various designs, materials, thickness of straps, and have different levels of breathability. The expert DogGear team of vets, dog lovers, researchers, medical doctors, and professional dog handlers have dedicated hundred of hours to determine the right ones for you and your dog to feel comfortable and enjoy an active life together.
If you are new to the DogGear site, we like you to confirm your dog’s weight to help find the optimal harness for your dog.
Categorizing the dog harnesses by size helps you save time and money. Small dogs are up first. If your dog is a medium or large dog then feel free to skip down to the section below. We do encourage those new to dog harnesses to take our quiz, which will take you just about 1 minute. The quiz helps us find the best products for your dog.
Take the Dogs Harness Quiz
To Find the best dog Harness, select to begin by breed or by size
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Best Harness for Dogs
Best Harness for Dogs
Our top picks by your dog’s needs
The Scoop
Pros and cons
Contender
Fully Adjustable
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Rabbitgoo Dog Harness No-Pull Pet Harness
The Scoop
The Rabbitgoo Dog Harness is hassle-free and made to be easy to take on and off with its fast-release buckles. It’s also lightweight and easy to clean.
Pros and cons
This dog harness includes a sturdy top handle, making it easy to control the dog. The is constructed with padded air mesh, making it lightweight and breathable to ensure pets stay comfortable even on warm days. The sizing is off and it can be a bit loose around the neck for some dogs.
Lightest Design
Simple and Minimal
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Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness
The Scoop
The Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness includes all-weather mesh material, which is water-resistant and breathable. Its safety features add an extra layer of security.
Pros and cons
The reflective bands on the harness make dogs easy to spot outdoors. It delivers a comfortable fit to prevent rashes or chafing as the pet moves. The clasp can be difficult to open and tends to get stuck, requiring a bit of strength and patience.
Most Durable
No Pull and Choke-Free
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BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness No Pull Adjustable
The Scoop
BABYLTRL even distributes pressure when dogs pull at it, which ensures it’s comfortable and doesn’t lead to strain on pets.
Pros and cons
The red locking button is easy to use and locate on the harness. It includes quick-snap buckles and fully adjustable straps for a custom and comfortable fit. The soft sponge padding plate reduces potential injury and makes it more comfortable for pets. However, smaller dogs are capable of getting out of the harness.
Best Fit
Easy to Customize
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Front Range, Everyday No Pull Dog Harness
The Scoop
Made for outdoor adventures, this RUFFWEAR harness is lightweight and durable. It includes four convenient points of adjustment for a full range of motion.
Pros and cons
This harness is easy to see day and night with its bright fabric and reflective trim. The front leash attachment encourages dogs to keep pace with their owners and allows owners to keep them in control. The waist straps can slip and owners should check it occasionally to see if it needs to be retightened.
*Read on to learn about our favorite medium-sized dog harnesses.
Best Harness for Dogs
Our top picks by your dog’s needs
The Scoop
Pros and cons
Best for Training
Easy to Take on and Off
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Copatchy No Pull Reflective Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle
The Scoop
The Copatchy No Pull Reflective Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle offers a comfortable anti-pull effect to prevent choking or stress on a dog’s neck.
Pros and cons
This harness is easy to put on and take off with the use of a clip around the pet’s neck and chest. An extra handle is conveniently placed on the back of the harness to ensure owners can quickly control the dog when necessary. However, it may slip a little when walking one’s pet.
Safest Design
Easy to Use
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Pawaboo Dog Safety Vest Harness
The Scoop
The PAWABOO Dog Safety Vest Harness prevents dogs from jumping out of car windows and prevents drivers from becoming distracted.
Pros and cons
This harness is lightweight, comfortable, and constructed from Oxford fabric. The stainless steel snap hook is electroplated for durability and abrasion resistance. However, the straps on the harness have difficulty staying put and can move around at times.
Highest Quality
Offers a Cozy Fit
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PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness
The Scoop
Designed for maximum comfort and safety, the PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness is padded and features a comfortable handle. Pulling pressure is evenly distributed and the material is flexible.
Pros and cons
This harness includes three-way adjustable straps, ensuring it fits securely and comfortably on pets. It can continue to be adjusted as a dog grows. One of the most convenient and unique features is the mesh pocket included on the outside, which can be used to place the dog’s name card and your contact information. The front restraint doesn’t always stay fastened and can begin to become loose, making it easy for a dog to slip out.
*Last, and certainly not least, the DogGear team did not forget about large dog harnesses!
DogGear Philosophy
Taking regular walks with your dog is more than just enjoyable; it’s vital for his overall health and well- being. Walks offer much-needed exercise and give your pup the opportunity to explore. Plus, it’s just good pup and parent bonding time.
Learn more about harnesses and how to choose the best one for your dog.
How to Choose the Best Harness for Your Dog
But when you’re taking walks, having control over your pooch is vital. If he pulls, you and your dog could be in for a world of trouble; not to mention the fact that it just makes the whole experience a lot less enjoyable. But, having the right gear, like a harness, can help you rein your furry friend in so that you both can have a safe and pleasant experience. But choosing the right harness can be a bit challenging because there are several different options available.
Below, we highlight the three different types of harnesses and share some important features to consider so you can choose the best one for your dog.
Head Halter
Head halter harnesses resemble the harnesses that are used on horses, and for good reason; they were inspired by the equine tools. This type of harness fits over the nose and neck, allowing you to control your pooch’s head. The theory behind this type of harness is simple: where a dog’s head goes, his body will follow. Head halters provide the most control while walking. They’re an excellent tool for large dogs that pull. A head halter should fit your dog properly, so choose the right size for your pup. It should also be adjustable so that you can get the perfect fit for your pet’s unique shape and size. A high quality harness will be made of durable materials and will feature padding for comfort, and to prevent the straps from moving into your pup’s eyes. The leash attachment should also be securely attached.
No Pull Harnesses
If your dog pulls, but not so aggressively that a head halter harness is necessary, than a no pull harness is a great option. This type of harness fits around the upper body and the leash attaches near the chest. This prevents the dog from pulling with the most powerful part of his body – the chest – by creating tightening sensation if he pulls, thus giving you more control.
Like all harnesses, a no pull harness must fit properly, so make sure you choose the right size. Since all dogs are uniquely shaped and size, look for a harness that can be adjusted so you can achieve the perfect fit. The leash attachment should be firmly affixed to the harness and should be positioned on the chest, not the neck, to prevent choking. High quality harnesses will also feature a second leash attachment on the back, which allows you to use it when you aren’t training during leisurely walks, or once your pup is fully trained and no longer pulls. Of course, you’ll want to select a no pull harness that is made of durable materials so that it stands up to pulling and regular wear and tear. The material should also be breathable and prevent friction to avoid irritating your dog’s skin. Nylon webbing with breathable mesh panels is a great option to consider. Padding on the chest straps is also a great feature, as it improves the comfort for your dog. Lastly, you might want to consider a no pull harness that features some type of reflective material that will increase your dog’s visibility during nighttime walks, thereby improving his safety.
Front Clip Harnesses
A front clip harness is another option to consider, especially if your dog pulls. This type of harness works similarly to a no pull harness; they fit around the chest and the leash attachment is positioned on the front instead of the back, like traditional, back clip harnesses. When the clip is situated on the chest, you have more control of your dog, as he will instinctually pull back, away from the pressure, which thereby prevents him from pulling.
If you are thinking about using a front clip harness with your dog, the first thing to consider is the sizing, of course. Make sure that you choose an option that is designed to fit your pup; obviously, if he’s a large breed, you aren’t going to want a small harness. Something that features adjustable straps is also a good idea, as you will be able to achieve the perfect fit for your pet’s unique size and shape. You’ll also want to choose a harness that is made of durable, breathable material that can withstand pulling and normal wear and tear and won’t irritate his skin. Like with a no pull harness, nylon webbing is a great choice. A high quality front clip harness will also feature padded straps to provide greater comfort. Make sure that the clip is situated on his chest and not near his neck to avoid choking and gagging. The clip should also be made out of durable material, such as stainless, and it should be securely affixed to the harness. You also want to look for a harness that is easy to get on and take off; front clip harnesses that feature a step-in design are usually the easiest to use, but what works best for you depends on your dog’s unique personality and needs. Lastly, consider in front clip harness that is brightly colored and has reflective materials for improved visibility and safety.
Related Posts:
Best No-Pull Dog Harness, Best Front Clip Dog Harness, Best Support Harness
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