Let's take a walk: 21 best dog harnesses
Let's take a walk: 21 best dog harnesses
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Writer’s note: The following listicle was originally published on January 8, 2022 at the now-defunct website Dog Struggles. The original list included 30 options, but nine are no longer available. (Luckily, my Voyager favorite harness is still being sold; I have owned one in every color as my own dog grew from a puppy until now.) This listicle has been lightly edited for technical details and readability. (If you’re interested in reading non-pet-related top 10-, 15- and 20 lists, click here.)
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A casual glance at a dog breed description may lead you to believe that you can find the ideal dog simply by her breed characteristics. But anyone who has owned a dog knows that you can have two dogs of the same breed who are drastically different personality-wise, regardless of how they’ve been trained. And their personalities usually come out while you’re walking these dogs.
In all fairness, during the puppy year(s), dogs have to get used to anything restraining them and will almost certainly pull. That makes using a dog collar the worst option — when they pull on you, they’re straining their own neck. This is why a dog harness is a better option. Even then though, finding the ideal dog harness comes down to weight, height, strength and then personality is a factor all over again.
Whatever you choose, your walking harness for dogs should be one that both you and your dog are comfortable using. Here are 21 possibilities.
1. Rabbitgoo
This flexible oxford material vest is ideal for dog owners who are casual walkers and joggers.
Key Features
19 color combinations
Six sizes
Four adjustment points
Breathable air mesh
Reflective strips
This non-pulling dog harness is designed with two metal leash rings. Use the chest attachment clip to stop your dog from pulling on walks. The back one is great for casual walks, jogging and hiking.
Cons
Not chew proof
Not machine washable
When you’re ready to walk, just use the two fast-release buckles. Slide the harness over your dog's head, buckle it up and adjust the straps. Grab the top handle for additional control.
2. Matilor
This lightweight harness and leash set is easy to attach to dogs of all sizes. And if it rains, it’s easy enough to machine wash and air dry.
Key Features
Reflective material
Quick-release buckle with safety lock
Five sizes
Nine color combinations
Durable air mesh
Machine washable
Although it may take your dog a little bit of getting used to in order to know to step into the harness, eventually you’ll be able to just unlock the latch and your dog will walk right up to the two openings. You grab either end, snap both sides around your dog’s chest and off you go.
Cons
If not snug, a dog can slide out of the harness
Not ideal for dogs over 30 pounds
If you’re walking your dog on a rainy day, especially if you have a short-haired dog who pulls, be very careful with harnesses that can go over their heads. If they stop abruptly and you’re still walking, they can slide right out.
3. Best Pet Plus (Voyager)
This easy-on dog harness is easy to attach, but it’s imperative that you measure your dog’s neck and chest before buying it, especially for hard pullers and dogs who tend to squeeze in and out of small spaces.
Key Features
All-weather mesh
Two reflective bands on the side
33 color combinations
Hook and loop fastener, buckle, double D-rings fasteners
Lightweight material
Two reflective bands on the sides of this harness enhance your pet’s visibility for early morning walkers and late evening strolls. Just let your dog step into both openers, clip and go.
Cons
May slide off if dog is wet or is a hard puller
One user reported stitching irregularities — one oval opener, the other circular
Make sure you still have room for two fingers around the base of the neck so your dog can be comfortable but secure.
4. Bolux
Avoid accidental pulling, tugging or choking with this dog harness with a handle. Whether you’re looking for a large dog harness or a version for small dogs, this brand covers all sizes.
Key Features
Reflective stitching
Machine washable
Available in 28 colors
Stainless steel D-ring
Wear-resistant
Anti-aging
Bolux no-choke dog harnesses’ pulling pressure is evenly distributed to the body to prevent pulling and choking. The dog vest harness has an adjustable chest strap with snap-on buckle so the dog can move its body parts freely.
Cons
Velcro patches not included
One user reported the D-ring slipped out, along with the adjustable strap loosening
If you’re in a patriotic mood and want to remind people that elections are coming up, check out the flag option. This also comes in handy for holidays.
5. PoyPet
This can be the best front clip dog harness you need — and it’s well-padded to avoid your dog ending up with “dents” in her fur by the time you return home.
Key Features
Five sizes
10 colors
Reflective stitching for night use
Dries quickly
Adjustable straps
This no-pull dog harness has two leash attachments and an easy control handle for additional security during the walk. The harness has soft mesh padding and a dual-elastic design on the belly strap area. And for dogs who need assistance getting in and out of a car, the back handle will help you guide them.
Cons
Not machine washable
Multiple users reported stitching problems and broken clips
After a particularly active dog walk, the scratch-resistant oxford material is easy to clean by hand.
6. PUPTECK
This harness is attractive in a “less is more” way and easy to use. Just let your pup step in, clip it and go.
Key Features
33 colors
Four sizes
Plastic clip closure
Heavy-duty D-rings
Adjustable buckles
ID tag on harness
Both sides of the harness are like a triangle structure, which wraps around the dog’s body. And the stress is on the dog's chest, not its neck, so this harness allows dogs to breathe freely.
Cons
Not chew-proof
Not machine washable
Although it may look like it’s meant for smaller dogs, several users confirm that their large breeds look just as comfortable and are just as secure in the minimalist harness.
7. PetSafe
Created by a veterinary behaviorist in 2004, this harness is strong enough to control your dog but made with less material to avoid overheating your dog.
Key Features
10 sizes
Quick snaps to easily connect and disconnect
Nine colors
One-year manufacturer warranty
The patented Martingale loop design puts gradual pressure on your dog’s shoulders to safely and effectively stop pulling. And for pet owners with hard dog pullers, the front leash attachment helps to guide your dog.
Cons
Not machine washable
One user complained that it’s either too tight around armpits or too easy to chew if loosened around neck area
This harness is best for leashes that are anywhere from four to six feet long.
8. PHOEPET
This no-pull dog harness has a reflective, adjustable vest, making it sturdy to clip on and go for an evening walk after work.
Key Features
Zinc alloy pull ring
Three buckles
Available in five sizes
Metal leash attachment hook
High-strength padding handle
Breathable elastic mesh
If you’ve got a young pup who is in the lunging stage, this training handle will help keep her under control. The two metal leash hooks and three-snap buckles add an extra layer of security, along with the four slide buckles to allow the dog to get used to walking with added help.
Cons
Not machine washable
A few users complain about difficult adjustment straps
Unlike a few harnesses that require going over the dog’s head, this one easily snaps on around the neck and chest area instead.
9. Best Pet Supplies
Put your dog’s right foot in. Then your dog’s left foot in. Fasten the hook and loop, and shake her all around town.
Key Features
Corduroy
Lined with a soft and warm plush fabric
Available in six sizes
Available in 14 colors
Six color options come with a matching leash
Four material options (corduroy, faux leather, plush, suede)
Two reflective bands on the sides
With all its colors and materials, the heavy-duty metal D-ring keeps the leash secure. Hassle owners mention it's hassle-free and comfortable, flexible fabric for the dog.
Cons
Some material options are hand wash only while others are machine washable
Several users complained that the harness size was the same no matter which one was ordered, or too small or too big for their dogs
Started in 2005, this brand has a broad range of premium pet supplies, treats, hygiene essentials, and an array of toys for dogs and cats.
10. Rypet
This no-pull pet harness gives your small dog the option of looking a little fancier around town — with a butterfly bell bow tie.
Key Features
Available in three sizes
Mesh cloth
Plaid design
Flexible fixed buckle
Machine washable
The bow tie is suitable for the following breeds:
Chihuahua
French Bulldog
Pomeranian
Poodle
Pug
Shih Tzu
Yorkie
While other breeds may not be listed, at the puppy stage, all puppies may be an easy Christmas bow tie card (or Instagram pic) before your dog continues to grow up.
Cons
Multiple dogs tore threw the bell and the bow tie
Numerous complaints about a flimsy clip and dog must be just about a newborn puppy to fit the harness
Made of soft and air mesh fabric, keep your pet soft and comfortable. And for puppies who pull, having something breathable to wear may make the trip a little easier for leash walking.
11. Didog
You don’t want your dog to run away when he sees you holding the harness. With this soft, breathable version, it should feel more like a blanket on your dog’s back as opposed to rough material rubbing his skin as he walks.
Key Features
Available in two plaid patterns
Available in three sizes
D-ring on the chest for tags
Plush edges
Inner mesh padding
Use the little bag on the side of this adjustable harness for treats during the walk or backup poop bags. You can also use the leash hook to attach keychain antibacterial ointment, keeping your hands clean as he poops and you scoop.
Cons
Not suitable for large dogs
Not machine washable
This harness is best suited for Chihuahuas, Maltese breeds, Poodles, Toy Poodles and Yorkies, along with puppies (before the large ones really start growing) and cats.
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12. Voopet Service
This no-pull, choke-free dog vest harness is evenly distributed to avoid discomfort. The breathable, nylon cloth vest is designed to be comfortable and protect the animal.
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Key Features
Available in 19 colors
Available in seven sizes
Scratch-resistant
Abrasion resistant
Lightweight
Nylon handle
Rust-proof D-ring
Adjustable buckle
If/when you start getting funny looks for bringing your service dog or emotional support animal into an otherwise pet-free location, the patches on the leash will let people know why the animal is there.
Cons
Not machine washable
One user showed photos of how there’s more material on one side of the harness than the other, so it slid around
If you don’t necessarily want the patches to be on your pup all day, the velcro patches are easy to pull off and re-attach as you see fit.
13. YOOGAO Pet
Made for large, strong dogs, this harness is all set for up to 450 pounds of resistance. This is the answer to hard-pulling dogs and skips considering the choke collars.
Key Features
Available in three sizes (all for larger breeds)
Durable nylon material
Soft ventilate padding
Reflective stitching
Weatherproof strap
D-Ring leash adapter
After receiving the harness, adjust the straps for a comfortable fit on your dog. You can then use the extendable handle for better control and to avoid injury risk. Connect the leash to the D-ring for walking or training, and off you go. The handle on this harness connects with the front chest strap to provide the best stress point, which makes it easier to control and/or stop pulling.
Cons
Not intended for small dogs
Not machine washable
This dog vest harness is particularly designed for large dogs like Great Danes, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Great Pyrenees, Mastiff, Pit bull and other muscular, large pets.
14. Voopet
Doesn’t this harness make you want to post your dog on Instagram with Justin Timberlake’s and Jay Z’s “Suit and Tie” playing in the background? This harness provides a durable, fashionable way to prowl around the neighborhood.
Key Features
Two-piece sets in three sizes
Four plain combinations
Stainless steel clip
100% cotton fabrics
Breathable mesh liner
Adjustable metal clip
The dog harness is made of soft fabric, which avoids friction if your dog is a puller. The breathable mesh also helps avoid skin diseases in dogs. The edge material is also soft and wearable.
Cons
Not intended for large dogs (maximum weight: 16 pounds)
Not machine washable
This dog harness and leash set is designed for cats, puppies and adult small dogs — Bichons, Butterfly dogs, Chihuahuas, Hiromi, Malteses, Poodles, Pug dogs, Schnauzer, Shih Tzus, Teddies and Yorkshire Terriers.
15. COODEO
While a harness can be used to avoid pulling on a dog’s neck while walking, dog lift harnesses are also needed when a dog needs full-body support. This could be for joint injuries, arthritis, paralysis, and even just getting older and wiser.
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Key Features
Iron ring to connect the leash
Available in five sizes
Two color options
Multi-usage product for hind-leg injuries
Washable material
Adjustable straps
This dog harness is designed for senior injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, and for assistance getting up and downstairs and out of cars. For dogs who need a little bit of help, the lift can help to adjust them as they move.
Cons
Not machine washable
Multiple complaints about the buckles not being secure
Just because your dog is older does not mean she doesn’t want to see the neighborhood and enjoy herself. A harness like this helps senior, arthritic and loss-of-stability dogs feel like puppies again — sorta.
16. ThinkPet
This dog harness features a no-pull design. For puppies and adult dogs with a habit of rushing forward, the front D-ring can correct pulling habits.
Key Features
Available in 17 colors
Available in eight sizes
Premium nylon
Wear-resistant
Buckle the leash on the front D-ring. When the dog is rushing fiercely, by default, the leash turns in your direction. The D-ring on the back of this harness can be buckled to the leash, which makes daily walks, running, training and traveling with your dog less strenuous.
Cons
Not machine washable
Multiple complaints about the plastic buckles
This dog vest harness has a wide handle on the back, which allows you to control the dog within seconds of an emergency for instances like when one dog is trying to pounce on someone, is chasing other animals or darting out into the road.
17. 2 Hounds Design
Guide your dog with the sturdy front O-ring while the adjustable straps ensures a secure fit with your new puppy or strong adult dog.
Key Features
Available in seven sizes
19 color options
Patented control loop
Stainless steel hardware
Swiss velvet-lined chest strap
Nylon webbing
The no-pull harness will never rust, and the nylon webbing is advertised to not break no matter how hard your dog pulls.
Cons
Shipping and handling is usually charged unless you’re an Amazon prime member
Harness can be chewed
2 Hounds Design’s harness comes with a hassle-free chewing replacement warranty.
18. RUFFWEAR
This reflective harness is lightweight, durable and designed for all-day outdoor adventures such as camping or hiking. For travelers with dogs, this may be your best bet.
Key Features
Available in nine colors
Available in five sizes
Three leash attachment points
Aluminum V-ring on back
Two reinforced webbing loops
Reflective trim
Equipped with a padded handle and load-dispersing chest/belly panel, this is said to be a popular choice for dogs who need mobility assistance and amputee dogs.
Cons
Not machine washable
The only harness that fit one dog (after two other sizes) was so long that it pressed on the dog’s private parts
Minimalistic yet effective, this harness also has a debris-resistant liner that keeps the harness clean and reduce fur from sticking to it.
19. Beirui Rhinestone
This no-pull reflective bling dog vest adds a little bit of sparkle, with the shiny back area and a bow tie, too.
Key Features
Available in five sizes
Six color options
Plastic buckle
Reflective design
Mesh lining
Rhinestone diamond decor
Made of suede microfiber material with breathable mesh lining in back for extra comfort, this harness is wear-resistant and skin-friendly. The back area has diamond decor and a bow tie, making your dog all the rage at the next ritzy outdoor event.
Cons
Not ideal for dogs who pull
Not machine washable
Each belt has two quick release buckles that allow two-way adjustment. This is especially important for dogs who may have huskier shoulders and chests but slimmer backs (ex. Dachshund).
20. Gooby
Instead of hoping the harness would eventually bend and turn the way your dog does, the neoprene-padded material on this harness contours to the dog’s body.
Key Features
Available in three sizes
Available in six colors
Escape-free functionality
Four-point adjustment
POM plastic ring
Use the stopper on this harness to adjust the firmness around the chest. The adjustability measurements measure for a perfect fit, with the help of two rubber adjustment levers around the chest and two more on the neck.
Cons
Largest harness size is still only meant for small breed dogs
Not clear on washing instructions (Amazon says both “hand wash only” and machine washable)
With the escape-free functionality on this harness, the dog cannot stick his bottom in the air and wiggle around to escape. If he moves around with this one, the harness tightens around the back and chest area to “fit” him and avoid going over his head.
21. ChokeFree
This no-choking harness is an easy step-in harness collar that has a velcro, met closure.
Key Features
Available in seven colors
Available in five sizes
D-ring through velcro lock
If you’re not a fan of harnesses with a bunch of buckles, snaps, buttons or even zippers, this less-is-more harness was made just for you. Let your dog walk both front paws into the arm area, pull over and press firmly into place.
Cons
Not machine washable
One reviewer reported that accessing the D-ring through a closed harness was tricky
Not only is this harness flexible enough to wrap around the dog securely, but you won’t have to worry about pulling on your dog’s neck. If you need to pull your dog away from chasing squirrels, mice or even human beings, this harness helps you do so with less stress on a curious dog’s body.
Bottom Line
While opinions differ on which dog harness matches which dog, including those of the same breed, finding the correct size is half the battle. Carefully observing how your dog reacts to the harness is significant, too. You never want to have a harness that is too tough and rubs against your dog’s skin.
Even if the harness stops a puller or a jumper or even an easy-walking dog, if the harness does not fit correctly, you may find your dog leaping away from the harness from discomfort. Any sign of thinning fur, limping, or stress on the neck are all reasons to cease using any harness immediately.
For commuters who keep their dogs with them, you’re welcome to test out D-rings that have long leash control. This is a useful way to make sure that the dog stays in place in the backseat and can never go too far.
While service training and emotional support dogs may already be prepared to be well-behaved on a walk or in a car, know that it may take a bit of time for an untrained dog or a dog-in-training to get used to any harness.
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Shamontiel is a dog lover to her core: 606 completed walks with 99 dogs, eight dog-housesittings and six dog boardings at the time of this publication.
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