Best Dog Harnesses
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Dog owners are constantly bombarded with products for dog walking. A harness is the obvious choice because, unlike a regular collar, it does not put unnecessary tension on the neck, which can lead to health issues. It can also prevent your dog from slipping out of a collar and running away from you.
A harness is designed to evenly distribute pressure over your dog’s body to reduce strain on his neck and back. A harness can also help discourage your dog from pulling, reducing strain on your arms and back as well. A lifting harness is great for older and overweight dogs who have trouble getting into a car or over objects when walking.
Since harnesses serve different purposes, you will want to determine your dog’s size and needs when choosing the right one. The following guide will help you select the best harness for you and your dog.
Compare Best Dog Harness
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BEST HARNESS FOR HIKING
9. Pawtitas Camouflage Reflective Padded Dog Harness |
BEST HARNESS FOR RUNNING
10. Noxgear LightHound LED Illuminated & Light Harness |
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Safety
Crash tested for safe car rides |
Safety
Soft breathable mesh fabric |
Safety
No-pull chest attachment |
Safety
Soft breathable and sturdy mesh fabric |
Safety
Reflective strips and patch |
Safety
Crash tested for safe car rides |
Safety
Durable buckle clips |
Safety
Standard back clip and no-pull front clip |
Safety
Step-through design |
Safety
High-visibility military-grade Cordura fabric |
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Adjustments
Five adjustment types |
Adjustments
Over-head design |
Adjustments
Four adjustment points |
Adjustments
Double secure attachment |
Adjustments
Four adjustment points |
Adjustments
Control handle for easily assisting dogs |
Adjustments
Comfort handle on the back |
Adjustments
Five adjustment points |
Adjustments
Reflective strip |
Adjustments
360-degree protection in low light |
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Price
High price range |
Price
Low price range |
Price
Mid price range |
Price
Low price range |
Price
Mid price range |
Price
High price range |
Price
High price range |
Price
Mid price range |
Price
Mid price range |
Price
High price range |
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Style
Steel nesting buckles |
Style
Adjustable slide on the stomach strap |
Style
Chest strap prevents choking |
Style
Double D rings for leash attachment |
Style
Design distributes weight evenly |
Style
Steel nesting buckles |
Style
Clips easily to any wheelchair |
Style
Reflective nylon stitching |
Style
Back & front clip |
Style
Attachment ring is secured by nylon webbing and reinforced stitching |
What to Consider in a Harness
- Safety: A crash-tested harness that restrains your dog in the car in case of a sudden stop or impact is the safest kind. Some attach easily to your car’s seat belt system and are also walking harnesses.
- Durability: There are many durable materials used in the construction of dog harnesses, but rip-stop nylon, canvas, and denim are some of the more durable.
- Material: Harnesses are made from leather, plastic, nylon, and other types of fabric. If your dog tends to get wet while on walks, consider something that dries quickly. If your dog chews, then you will need a sturdy harness.
- Adjustments: A harness should have many points of adjustment in order to fit dogs of all shapes and sizes. A harness with at least four adjustment points is ideal to find your dog’s perfect fit.
- Comfort: Harnesses should be made from comfortable materials to prevent chaffing. Soft mesh and plush fabrics can help provide adequate comfort around nylon, if well designed.
- Cost: A good harness is a small investment. There are many quality harnesses at reasonable prices, depending on your needs.
- Style: There are many harness styles, and the best choice will depend on your dog’s personality and size. Some styles are no-pull, standard, step-through, dual strap, etc.
- Visibility: If you walk your dog in low-light conditions or hike in wooded areas, you may want a high-visibility harness. Some include reflective material or tiny LED lights to make sure your dog can be seen.
The Best Rated Dog Harnesses
OVERALL BEST
1.
Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Crash tested for safe car rides
- Adjustments: Five adjustment types
- Price: High price range
- Style: Steel nesting buckles
Pros
- Includes seat-belt loop for car
- Chest pad provides comfort
- Difficult for dogs to escape
Cons
- Harness is heavy
- Buckles are in awkward areas
Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness is perfect for all dog sizes and shapes because of its adjustment ability. It’s also a crash-tested dog car harness that keeps your dog safe while riding in the car with straps behind the front legs.
The all-steel Nesting Buckle System is designed by engineers based on harnesses used by rock climbers and linesmen, ensuring strength and safety.
With five adjustments points and several size choices, it’s easy to get a near custom fit for your dog, regardless of his size and proportions.
The chest pad reduces stress on the trachea and sternum while dispersing kinetic energy across the chest of the dog. The chest pad and straps are also designed with comfort in mind, making this dog harness a good choice as an everyday walking harness.
The all-steel Nesting Buckle System is designed by engineers based on harnesses used by rock climbers and linesmen, ensuring strength and safety.
With five adjustments points and several size choices, it’s easy to get a near custom fit for your dog, regardless of his size and proportions.
The chest pad reduces stress on the trachea and sternum while dispersing kinetic energy across the chest of the dog. The chest pad and straps are also designed with comfort in mind, making this dog harness a good choice as an everyday walking harness.
BEST FOR BUDGET
2.
Frisco Soft Mesh Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Soft breathable mesh fabric
- Adjustments: Over-head design
- Price: Low price range
- Style: Adjustable slide on the stomach strap
Pros
- Step in over head style
- Fast release buckle
- Lightweight
- Budget friendly
Cons
- D ring only located on top
- Sizes run small
- Sits high on neck
The Frisco Soft Mesh Dog Harness provides you, the dog owner, with a budget friendly and easy-to-use harness. It is made from a soft, breathable mesh material, keeping your dog comfy and cool while out on a daily walk. The over-the-head design and fast-release buckle make it easy to get on and off, while the adjustable slide on the belly strap ensures that you get the perfect fit to keep your pup secure.
The D-ring at the back of the harness is secured using durable nylon fabric for you to attach your leash to, so you will always feel in control. This soft mesh dog harness comes in sizes from small to extra-large, and in four different colors; pink, red, blue and black.
The D-ring at the back of the harness is secured using durable nylon fabric for you to attach your leash to, so you will always feel in control. This soft mesh dog harness comes in sizes from small to extra-large, and in four different colors; pink, red, blue and black.
BEST FOR DEEP CHESTED DOGS
3.
PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: No-pull chest attachment
- Adjustments: Four adjustment points
- Price: Mid price range
- Style: Chest strap prevents choking
Pros
- Available in many colors and sizes
- 2 quick snap buckles
- Straps are labelled chest, shoulder, belly
- Great for dogs that pull
Cons
- Sizing may not be accurate
- Needs adjusting often
PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness makes walking with your deep chested dog a breeze, as well as discouraging him from pulling and lunging. Instead of pulling on your dog’s sensitive throat, the Easy Walk Harness attaches near the chest, allowing you to steer your dog and regain control over daily walks or runs.
This harness is available in multiple sizes and colors to fit any breed of dog and is very easy to get on and off.
This harness is available in multiple sizes and colors to fit any breed of dog and is very easy to get on and off.
BEST FOR SMALL DOGS
4.
Voyager Black Base Mesh Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Soft breathable and sturdy mesh fabric
- Adjustments: Double secure attachment
- Price: Low price range
- Style: Double D rings for leash attachment
Pros
- Step in style
- Double secure closure on top side
- Lightweight and sturdy
- Available in many sizes and colors
Cons
- D rings only located on top
- Not good for larger dogs
The Voyager Black Base Mesh Dog Harness is a simple, easy-to-use harness that is extremely comfortable for your small dog. It is made from soft, breathable, lightweight mesh, that allows moisture to escape, keeping your pup cool as he walks.
The fabric is gentle against the skin and hugs your dogs’s torso to provide a secure fit. The Voyager Mesh Dog Harness has a fuzzy fastener closure and quick-release buckle for fast and easy adjustments before a run. There are two D-rings for attaching a leash on the top of the harness. This harness comes in a range of sizes from extra-small to extra-large, with several color choices.
The fabric is gentle against the skin and hugs your dogs’s torso to provide a secure fit. The Voyager Mesh Dog Harness has a fuzzy fastener closure and quick-release buckle for fast and easy adjustments before a run. There are two D-rings for attaching a leash on the top of the harness. This harness comes in a range of sizes from extra-small to extra-large, with several color choices.
BEST FOR LARGE DOGS
5.
Blueberry Pet 3M Reflective Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Reflective strips and patch
- Adjustments: Four adjustment points
- Price: Mid price range
- Style: Design distributes weight evenly
Pros
- Available in several colors and sizes
- Eco-friendly materials
- Made from lightweight materials
Cons
- No front ring attachment
- Sizes run big
This stylish Blueberry Pet 3M Reflective Multi-Colored Stripe Padded Dog Harness is great for large dogs for many reasons. This harness is made from lightweight materials for the ultimate in comfort, and the unique dual-vest design helps to distribute weight against even the strongest pullers.
It features reflective material throughout to add visibility during nighttime walks, and the quick and easy assembly is great for daily use. There is also a reflective triangle on top of the vest, a metal D-ring for durability and better attaching of the leash.
There are four adjustment points on the neck and chest to get the perfect fit for large dogs.
It features reflective material throughout to add visibility during nighttime walks, and the quick and easy assembly is great for daily use. There is also a reflective triangle on top of the vest, a metal D-ring for durability and better attaching of the leash.
There are four adjustment points on the neck and chest to get the perfect fit for large dogs.
BEST CAR HARNESS
6.
Kurgo Go-Tech Adventure Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Crash tested for safe car rides
- Adjustments: Control handle for easily assisting dogs
- Price: High price range
- Style: Steel nesting buckles
Pros
- Includes seat-belt loop for car
- Chest plate reduces strain on chest and neck
- No-jingle back D-ring
Cons
- Harness is heavy
- Buckles are in awkward areas
Kurgo Go-Tech Adventure Harness is perfect for the dog who needs a little help getting into the car or even over rocks while hiking. It’s a crash-tested dog car harness that keeps your dog safe even while riding in the car. The all-steel Nesting Buckle System is designed by engineers based on harnesses used by rock climbers and linesmen, ensuring strength and safety.
With five adjustments points, it’s easy to get a near custom fit for any type of dog, regardless of size and proportions.
The chest pad reduces stress on the trachea and sternum while dispersing kinetic energy across the chest of the dog. This is important during those rare but dangerous impact crashes or dogs who are strong pullers. The chest pad and straps are also designed with comfort in mind, making this dog car harness a good choice as a lifting harness that can be used daily.
With five adjustments points, it’s easy to get a near custom fit for any type of dog, regardless of size and proportions.
The chest pad reduces stress on the trachea and sternum while dispersing kinetic energy across the chest of the dog. This is important during those rare but dangerous impact crashes or dogs who are strong pullers. The chest pad and straps are also designed with comfort in mind, making this dog car harness a good choice as a lifting harness that can be used daily.
BEST DOG LIFT HARNESS
7.
Front Lift Combo Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Durable buckle clips
- Adjustments: Comfort handle on the back
- Price: High price range
- Style: Clips easily to any wheelchair
Pros
- Available in many sizes
- Great for dogs with limited mobility
- Over the head design
- Can be used as walking harness
Cons
- Sizing may not be accurate
- Maybe bulky on small dogs
The gentle lifting support of this Front Lift Combo Dog Harness is designed to support your dog’s forearms, wrists, and elbows. It helps stabilize your dogs front legs during walking, and provides a much-needed boost to climb up and down steps more comfortably, get up from laying down, or get onto beds, furniture and even the car.
It’s perfect for pups with joint discomfort, arthritis, limited mobility, or just recovering from surgery, and also ideal for elderly dogs who may need the occasional help.
The soft fleece lining and comfy mesh makes it comfortable for everyday use, and putting it on is easy by simply slipping through front legs and chest, pull up. Adjust the straps for a comfortable height to lift your pup when he needs a boost.
This harness can be washed in the included mesh bag and then hung dry. It’s available in different sizes to accommodate dogs of all sizes
It’s perfect for pups with joint discomfort, arthritis, limited mobility, or just recovering from surgery, and also ideal for elderly dogs who may need the occasional help.
The soft fleece lining and comfy mesh makes it comfortable for everyday use, and putting it on is easy by simply slipping through front legs and chest, pull up. Adjust the straps for a comfortable height to lift your pup when he needs a boost.
This harness can be washed in the included mesh bag and then hung dry. It’s available in different sizes to accommodate dogs of all sizes
BEST HARNESS FOR TRAINING
8.
PetSafe 3 in 1 Reflective Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Standard back clip and no-pull front clip
- Adjustments: Five adjustment points
- Price: Mid price range
- Style: Reflective nylon stitching
Pros
- Made of high-quality material
- Suitable for night walks
- Neoprene padded straps
Cons
- Sizes may run big
- Difficult to put on and off
The PetSafe 3 in 1 Dog Harness is engineered for maximum comfort, adjust-ability, and safety, this harness is perfect for every-day use. With different leash attachment options, this harness can be used as a standard back clip, or a no-pull solution with the front clip option which is great for training your dog.
The car safety restraints limit your dog’s movement in the car, creating a safer driving environment for you and your pup. The reflective nylon stitching adds visibility at night, making those late-night walks smarter and more manageable.
The car safety restraints limit your dog’s movement in the car, creating a safer driving environment for you and your pup. The reflective nylon stitching adds visibility at night, making those late-night walks smarter and more manageable.
BEST HARNESS FOR HIKING
9.
Pawtitas Camouflage Reflective Padded Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Step-through design
- Adjustments: Reflective strip
- Price: Mid price range
- Style: Back & front clip
Pros
- Has front and top leash attachments
- Several sizes and colors
- Easy step through design
Cons
- May run small
- Only two adjustments
Pawtitas Camouflage Reflective Padded Dog Harness has a step-through design that makes it easy to put on your dog. It is a great harness for hiking, day or night, since its reflective strip is designed to reflect light from the environment or ambient light. It even works in low light conditions, providing maximum visibility when you need it most.
This harness has thick neoprene padding which means it’s ultra-comfy to wear, and is available in different sizes and camouflage colors so you can find the right fit for your dog’s size and shape.
This harness has thick neoprene padding which means it’s ultra-comfy to wear, and is available in different sizes and camouflage colors so you can find the right fit for your dog’s size and shape.
BEST HARNESS FOR RUNNING
10.
Noxgear LightHound LED Illuminated & Light Harness
Product Info
- Safety: High-visibility military-grade Cordura fabric
- Adjustments: 360-degree protection in low light
- Price: High price range
- Style: Attachment ring is secured by nylon webbing and reinforced stitching
Pros
- Micro-USB rechargeable LED lights last up to twelve hours
- 2 quick snap buckles
- Select up to 14 colors, multi color and flashing
- Available in four sizes
Cons
- Needs adjusting often
- Not good for heavy pullers
Noxgear LightHound LED Illuminated & Reflective Dog Harness means safe runs and nighttime excursions begin with exceptional visibility, and this innovative harness provides full 360-degree protection. It is made with industry-leading reflective materials, has high-visibility, and made with military-grade Cordura fabric.
This all-season harness is lightweight, weatherproof and machine washable. The micro-USB rechargeable LED lights feature 14 selections of colors, last up to twelve hours, and can be easily removed for cleaning. It’s simple to put on and adjustable for a comfortable fit and the strong zinc alloy leash attachment ring is secured by nylon webbing and reinforced stitching for even more safety while running with your dog.
This all-season harness is lightweight, weatherproof and machine washable. The micro-USB rechargeable LED lights feature 14 selections of colors, last up to twelve hours, and can be easily removed for cleaning. It’s simple to put on and adjustable for a comfortable fit and the strong zinc alloy leash attachment ring is secured by nylon webbing and reinforced stitching for even more safety while running with your dog.
11.
Frisco Padded Front Lead Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Over the head design
- Adjustments: Multi -clip design
- Style: 2 fast release buckles
- Price: Low price range
Pros
- Comes in several sizes and colors
- Adjustable in 3 places
- Padded chest piece
Cons
- Chest padding shifts
- Better for smaller dogs
- Chest padding doesn’t hold up
The Frisco Padded Front Lead Dog Harness is a great option for dog owners who are looking for a no-pull harness that will provide additional control on their walks. It is made with high-quality nylon webbing for durability and a padded mesh chest piece, making sure that your pup is both secure and comfortable.
The O-ring leash attachment on the front of the chest piece discourages pulling by naturally redirecting your dog’s attention back to you without causing neck strain. It is great for dogs who pull or dogs that need a little extra encouragement to walk on a leash. The over-the-head style harness features two fast-release buckles on either side of the belly strap, which makes it easy to get on and off.
There are adjustable slides on the belly strap and both sides of the shoulder straps, so that you can make sure the harness fits just right. There is also an additional leash attachment D-ring on the back of the harness, so it can be used like a traditional dog harness as well. This harness comes in many sizes and colors.
The O-ring leash attachment on the front of the chest piece discourages pulling by naturally redirecting your dog’s attention back to you without causing neck strain. It is great for dogs who pull or dogs that need a little extra encouragement to walk on a leash. The over-the-head style harness features two fast-release buckles on either side of the belly strap, which makes it easy to get on and off.
There are adjustable slides on the belly strap and both sides of the shoulder straps, so that you can make sure the harness fits just right. There is also an additional leash attachment D-ring on the back of the harness, so it can be used like a traditional dog harness as well. This harness comes in many sizes and colors.
12.
Red Dingo Classic Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Trademarked Bucklebone clip
- Adjustments: Strong side-release buckles
- Price: Low price range
- Style: Made from durable, premium-quality nylon webbing
Pros
- Soft, abrasion-resistant material
- Edging is double sewn
- Machine washable
- Available in many sizes and colors
Cons
- D rings only located on top
- Sizes may run small
Red Dingo Classic Dog Harness is just that, classic and perfect for puppies. This harness is available in a wide range of bright, primary colors, and made from premium-quality nylon webbing with sewn seams for maximum strength and to ensure no fraying.
The soft, abrasion-resistant material provides long-lasting comfort while the trademarked Bucklebone clip is among the strongest side-release buckles in the industry. For added safety, the solid stainless steel D-ring on top, ensures a secure connection to both his leash and ID tag.
The soft, abrasion-resistant material provides long-lasting comfort while the trademarked Bucklebone clip is among the strongest side-release buckles in the industry. For added safety, the solid stainless steel D-ring on top, ensures a secure connection to both his leash and ID tag.
13.
HDP Big Dog No Pull Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: No choke design
- Adjustments: Easy snap buckles
- Style: Reflective strip
- Price: Low price range
Pros
- Large top handle for grip
- Extra padding
- Distributes weight evenly
Cons
- No chest ring attachment
- Bulky for narrow dogs
- Runs large
HDP Big Dog No Pull Dog Harness offers an incredible no-choke design. This harness makes an excellent solution for large dogs, like German Shepherds, who need adjustments behind the front legs, as well as senior dogs that need a more gentle option.
The extra wide chest padding distributes the weight throughout your dog’s chest and shoulders, which assists dogs with a comfortable walking experience.
The top mounted D-ring, it gives dogs plenty freedom of motion while leaving the ultimate control to you. A built-in top-handle allows you to keep your dog close when needed, as well as help him over rougher terrain, if off the beaten path.
14.
EzyDog Chest Plate Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: Reflective stitching
- Adjustments: Quick release buckles
- Style: Detachable car restraint
- Price: Mid/high price range
Pros
- Easy to adjust straps
- EVA foam chest plate
- Distributes weight evenly
Cons
- Can be difficult to get on
- Chest plate comes up too high on some dogs
- Chest plate is too narrow on some dogs
The EzyDog Chest Plate Dog Harness provides the ultimate control and comfort for your Labrador Retriever. The ergonomic foam chest plate helps distribute the load across the chest instead of the throat. This makes it easier to handle a dog that tends to tug and pull. It also conforms to your dog’s chest for a comfortable and custom fit.
The quick-release buckle closures and adjustable straps keep the harness snug but also make it easy to put on and take off. For nighttime walks, the EzyDog Chest Plate Dog Harness has light-reflective stitching that helps increase visibility. This harness also includes a car restraint attachment to keep your pup safe in the car.
The quick-release buckle closures and adjustable straps keep the harness snug but also make it easy to put on and take off. For nighttime walks, the EzyDog Chest Plate Dog Harness has light-reflective stitching that helps increase visibility. This harness also includes a car restraint attachment to keep your pup safe in the car.
15.
Chai's Choice 3M Reflective Dog Harness
Product Info
- Safety: 3M reflective material
- Adjustments: Seat belt handle attachment
- Style: Chest o-ring for no pulling
- Price: Mid price range
Pros
- Two leash attachment options
- Mesh padding on chest and belly
- Available in many sizes and colors
Cons
- Best for larger dogs
- Sizes may run small
Chai’s Choice 3M Reflective Dog Harness is a durable and highly reflective option for daily runs and walks with your Golden Retriever. This harness is crafted to remove pressure from your dog’s neck and disperse it through soft and lightweight mesh padding on the chest and belly.
It is also equipped with reflective piping interwoven into its durable nylon exterior to make sure your pup is visible when running in low light. With 4 adjustable straps, nine vibrant color options, and a wide variety of size choices you can customize this harness for your dog.
Chaotic walks and car rides will be a thing of the past if select the chest-mounted O-ring to discourage pulling. You can also buckle your dog in for road trips by slipping a seat belt through the sturdy built-in handle on top of the harness.
It is also equipped with reflective piping interwoven into its durable nylon exterior to make sure your pup is visible when running in low light. With 4 adjustable straps, nine vibrant color options, and a wide variety of size choices you can customize this harness for your dog.
Chaotic walks and car rides will be a thing of the past if select the chest-mounted O-ring to discourage pulling. You can also buckle your dog in for road trips by slipping a seat belt through the sturdy built-in handle on top of the harness.
Harness Features
- LED: An LED dog harness is usually constructed from lightweight materials and comes with a variety of useful features, such as adjustable light modes, reflective strips, and rechargeable batteries for hours of use.
- Back Clip: Back-clip harnesses attach on top of a dog’s back or shoulders. These are best for smaller, calm, or well-trained dogs.
- Front Clip: Front-clip harnesses have a leash attachment on the chest. This gives the owner more control and stops the dog from pulling. These are best for larger dogs or dogs that pull.
- Multi-Clip: Some harnesses come with attachments on both the front and back. This gives you the option to use it as a front or back clip when walking your dog.
- Reflective: A reflective harness is a necessity if you walk your dog at night or in low-light situations. This keeps your dog from harm and makes him easier to see.
- No Pull: No-pull harnesses are a simple way to discourage your dog from pulling. They usually have a front clip attachment, and some have front and top controls for dual control. There are usually straps that cross above the dog’s shoulders and behind their front legs.
- Step-through: A step-through harness means your dog puts his front legs between two loops to get into the harness. Once the dog’s legs are in position, a single buckle attaches behind their front legs.
Final Thoughts
A properly sized harness can help keep your dog safe and healthy and can save your own back when walking. They are not only helpful in distributing weight but have also been shown to be effective in discouraging behaviors such as pulling and lunging. With so many styles to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect harness that not only works great but also looks stylish on your pup.
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dereck
have an 8 month old maltese male..Your opinion on the best harness for Casper...many thanks dereck