Top Rated Dog Harness for 2023 – A Comprehensive Comparison
Those of you who have been asking yourselves “What is the best dog harness that I can find?” probably already know that this is a vast topic that requires time invested in research. That’s why Dr. Fox has decided to bring you directly the answers you need. After extensive research on the top-rated harnesses available on the market, the conclusion is that Industrial Puppy’s Service Dog model is the one you should consider as a first option. This heavy-duty harness was specially developed for service dogs training, which means that it can withstand rough conditions. Moreover, it can accommodate backpacks for various items, such as bowls or medication, which can prove to be extremely useful. Your dog will also be comfortable thanks to the mesh lining this model features. However, if you cannot get your hands on this great product, the most suitable alternative you should keep in mind is Embark’s Active Easy harness.
Comparison table
Specially developed for those dogs that are being trained for service, this harness is a heavy-duty one that features a double-stitched nylon construction. Also, the mesh lining it comes with keeps your dog comfortable, while a wide range of elements such as handles and buckles make it very easy to use. Plus, this model can accommodate backpacks for food, medications, bowls, and others.
The backpacks are sold separately, so you will need to spend an extra buck.
This harness is built for heavy-duty use but also for comfort, so don’t hesitate to give it a try.
Designed to provide your dog with comfort and to enable you to control the pet when needed, this product should also make it to your list of options. The item is highly customizable, so you can easily adjust the neck and the chest size to best suit your dog’s physical attributes. Thanks to the soft, padded interior, your pet will feel no discomfort when you’re running or walking along with him/her.
The item might not be ideal and durable enough for large dogs.
Give this product a try if you want a harness that is both adjustable and comfortable.
If you’re interested in getting a no-pull harness, then you might want to give this product some thought. The item features quick-snap buckles that will withstand abuse, which will make it easier for the pet owner to fasten it on the pet’s body. The product comes with a sturdy handle as well as a D-ring that you can use to attach all sorts of leashes. It also has reflective components.
The product might not fit a larger dog as some buyers mention in their reviews.
If enhanced comfort is what you want to provide your pet with, you might want to check this item.
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Also To Consider
20 Best Dog Harnesses (Reviews) in 2023
Given the wide array of dog harnesses for sale these days, we’ve made sure you can have your pick from some of the most sought-after options we were able to track down. Below, you’ll find some of the critically acclaimed alternatives available nowadays.
- 1. IIndustrial Puppy Service Dog Harness With Velcro Straps and Handle
- 2. Embark Pets Adventure Dog Harness
- 3. Big Dog Harness No Pull Adjustable Pet Reflective
- 4. Copatchy No Pull Reflective Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle
- 5. CoolPets Adjustable Chest
- 6. Urpower Dog Harness Durable Dog Leash
- 7. K-9 Tuff Dog Harness Soft Adjustable No Choke No Pull with Handle
- 8. Kurgo Vehicle Safety Harness for Dogs
- 9. Lifepul No Pull Dog Vest Harness
- 10. Freedom No Pull Dog Harness Training Package
- Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
- Frequently asked questions about dog harnesses
- Best dog harness brands
- How to Properly Put on a Dog Harness
1. IIndustrial Puppy Service Dog Harness With Velcro Straps and Handle
This model offered by Industrial Puppy was specially developed for those pet parents who want to train their friend as service dogs. For this reason, it’s made of tough and sturdy materials that can withstand the rough conditions of effective training, especially if your dog is curious about other elements in his or her environment.
Another aspect that makes this service vest stand out within its category is that it can accommodate backpacks for bowls, food, or medication. These are sold separately, but they can surely be helpful in many situations. The manufacturer also added an easy-to-use belly buckle that allows a quick fitting of the harness.
Thanks to the mesh lining, your furry friend is comfortable, while the reflective straps and patches allow you to easily spot it around. This is a heavy-duty model that features a double-stitched nylon construction, so you can rest assured that it’s reliable.
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2. Embark Pets Adventure Dog Harness
One of the most challenging tasks of pet owners is finding the best dog harness for runners. On the one hand, you need to ensure that the product is well-made and it won’t hurt your pet’s skin with too much chaffing. On the other, it needs to restrain the moves of the dog so as to enable you to control him or her as best as possible.
This Embark alternative should be right up your alley if you are searching for a highly customizable product. All you have to do is to adjust the neck and chest size and then slip the item over your pet’s head.
With its soft, padded interior, this harness will make sure that it won’t cause any discomfort while you’re walking or running along with your dog. The product is available in three sizes, so you’d better take a look at the size chart made available by the manufacturer to avoid risking ordering the wrong one.
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3. Big Dog Harness No Pull Adjustable Pet Reflective
One of the aspects that seems to make the difference between this product and some of the others we have found while researching the market is that this one is a no-pull harness. The pressure is, however, distributed in an even fashion so as to prevent mishaps such as choking or pulling.
In addition to all of this, this model is fitted with quick-snap buckles that withstand a lot of abuse and that make the life of a pet owner a lot easier when it comes to fastening the harness onto the dog’s body.
The handle is sturdy and reliable, and this choice also features a D-ring that’s resilient and can be used as an attachment point for all sorts of leashes. Finally, if you would like to know your pet’s whereabouts even if you usually walk him or her at night, you can safely do so with this option. It comes with reflective components.
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4. Copatchy No Pull Reflective Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle
Despite being one of the most budget-friendly products in this specific category, the Copatchy model should make a great choice for all of those looking for a somewhat basic and easy-to-use harness. It’s available in many sizes and several colors, so you can pick the one that you like best and that which works best with the body of your dog.
Many dog harness reviews note that this product does a great job when it comes to preventing a common mishap, pulling. The sponge-filled component is comfortable and won’t necessarily hinder your dog’s moves too much, so the pet will feel at ease yet remain under your complete control.
Even if the weather is scorching, you can rest assured that the dog will remain comfortable while you walk him or her as this harness is made from a breathable mesh material. The handle is located at the top, so there’s no risk of choking whatsoever.
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5. CoolPets Adjustable Chest
Getting a vest instead of a simple and user-friendly harness can be a bit of a nuisance as you need to go through a lot of trouble to measure out your dog’s chest and neck girth to make sure you can pick the perfect size.
This nylon alternative is thin, yet versatile, but it mostly speaks to the needs of owners whose pups aren’t into pulling. Sure, there is a degree of adjustability you can benefit from, but if the pet is left unattended, it might manage to take the harness off. Some furry buddies can be escape artists.
All of the buckles that can be found on this product are made from a car-level Zinc Alloy, and so there’s no need for you to worry about whether or not they will withstand the test of time. There’s also a leash present in the box, and a set of instructions with the help of which you can fit it on your pet.
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6. Urpower Dog Harness Durable Dog Leash
If what you are after is a sturdy and reliable product that can last for as long as possible, this one might be just what you may have been searching for. It’s constructed of a durable material, and it boasts a quality buckle made of plastic. Also, the D-rings can be used to secure the harness in a safe and convenient fashion.
What’s more, the clasp is made of stainless steel, which should give you a pointer as to how this product can do its job. On the inner side of the harness, you’ll find a PVC cotton padding that makes it possible for the pulling and tugging to be greatly reduced. At the same time, the dog will remain comfortable.
As is the case of some of the other units we have mentioned on this list, this particular one is adjustable and features an anti-twist feature. Since most of those who have purchased the product say that they didn’t expect it to be of such a good quality, it seems worth trying out.
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7. K-9 Tuff Dog Harness Soft Adjustable No Choke No Pull with Handle
Another popular option is this one from K-9 TUFF. It’s available in sizes ranging from small to extra-large, so be sure to measure out your dog before deciding to go for one or the other.
One of the best things about this product is that it is made from a tough 600D Oxford fabric and it has been filled with sponge, so as to ensure both that the unit is durable and makes the pet feel at ease.
As other alternatives, this one is adjustable and has a handle placed in the middle of it. You can use the handle for restraining senior pets or those that have the tendency to get out of your way when you’re not paying attention. Something else that’s worth adding in relation to this choice is that it comes with reflective threads, and so you’ll be able to see your pet conveniently even while walking him or her at night.
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8. Kurgo Vehicle Safety Harness for Dogs
Car harnesses are hard to come by, and that’s because they have to be crash tested to ensure that they are actually worth the money and that they can keep your dog safe all throughout a drive.
If you decide to choose the Kurgo model, you will benefit from an enhanced customization as you can set the right size depending on the physical attributes of your pup. Besides, the model includes five adjustment points and has a no-pull D-ring, so there’s nothing stopping you from utilizing it on a day-to-day basis, too, even if you don’t take car ride anywhere.
With this purchase, you will also get a dog seat belt tether. From the info that we’ve gathered by going through as many reviews as possible, it seems that this attachment is compatible with absolutely any seat belt system nowadays. Having garnered the appreciation of over five hundred buyers, it seems the Kurgo choice is worth looking into.
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9. Lifepul No Pull Dog Vest Harness
These products come in a broad array of shapes and sizes, and some of them don’t even look like harnesses. For instance, this one is a vest, so it protects and covers a broader body area. Sometimes, these kinds of choices are to be preferred, especially if you want to minimize the risk of choking.
This particular unit is made of quality nylon and comes with a soft padding on the inner side. The nickel-plated hardware can give you some peace of mind as you will be able to use any leash without worrying about getting the ring broken.
As with other models out there, this one boasts adjustable locks and can be put on and taken off conveniently and efficiently thanks to the buckle-free switch. Moreover, since the vest also looks good, it can even make a fashion statement for those of you who care about how your doggy looks.
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10. Freedom No Pull Dog Harness Training Package
If you are in the market for a dependable, yet user-friendly harness that doesn’t cover too much of your pet’s body, this one might just be it. It’s also one of the few models that we have found to be manufactured in the United States, so that’s a detail worth mentioning given that many customers tend to think that American-made products are superior compared to others.
The model features stainless steel hardware and the textile is made from super-strong nylon and comes with X stitches. The velvet lining boasted by this particular alternative prevents nasty mishaps such as sores, chaffing, or rubbing.
What do actual owners have to say about the 2 Hounds Design option? Some say that it is great for avoiding pulling, and others note that it’s remarkably durable. It seems to be a winner with seniors who have a hard time controlling the moves of their pets while they walk them.
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11. Alpenglow Solutions No-Pull
With its sleek and nice-looking design, this product is bound to be a favorite of most dog owners. It’s available in sizes that range from small to extra-large, so you can safely pick the one that best suits your pet. The fact that this product is constructed from high-quality materials is a reassuring detail to take into account.
Moreover, the unit boasts a reliable and sturdy metal leash attachment point, as well as a rugged handle located on the back. Even more so, you can safely rest assured that you’ll be able to see your pet accurately even at night, thanks to the reflective straps that this one is outfitted with.
Your furry friend will never feel uncomfortable while wearing this harness as it features a soft, padded component on the inner side. Several of the consumers who have reviewed this unit say that it is safe and comfortable and that it fits well with 70-pound dogs and other breeds, too.
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12. Puppia Authentic RiteFit
Puppia is one of the best-known brands in the industry of manufacturing top-notch harnesses, and that’s because this company has the reputation of using sturdy and dependable fabrics, as well as comfortable liners.
With this choice, you will be able to benefit from an enhanced adjustability as the neck component can be customized to fit your dog’s girth, even if he or she is between sizes. You can select from any of the nine available color combinations to ensure that the design of the harness works best with your pet’s coat.
Even the chest belt of the RiteFit model is adjustable, so there’s literally no way of your dog not at feeling at ease whenever you decide that he or she is in need of a walk. Some owners say that this product runs a bit small, so it can be used for cats, too. Just make sure to check out the size chart before you finalize your purchase.
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13. Puppia International Soft
If you were to look for one of the most comfortable units in this line, chances are you might come across this particular product. Having been praised for being sturdy, versatile, and entirely comfortable for pets of all sizes, this Puppia model is undoubtedly worthy of your consideration.
The product is made from 100% polyester and has been fitted with an air mesh component so as to ensure that your pet feels comfy even when the weather’s hot. The inner filler prevents unfortunate mishaps like chaffing.
Even though it does not cost a fortune, much unlike other products we have checked out, this soft harness vest is capable of doing precisely what it has been designed to do. Over six hundred owners have reported that they are completely satisfied with how easy this harness is to use. Plus, its quality is one of its greatest selling points, as is the fact that it does not choke the dog.
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14. Expawlorer Big Dog
It can be challenging for a medium-sized individual to walk a big dog breed, and that’s because these furry buddies have a lot more strength than one might think while looking at them while at play. The Expawlorer alternative is a no-pull alternative for big-sized pups and adult dogs.
It’s equipped with a reflective strap that can make you feel at ease when it comes to assessing the exact location of your dog. The padded handle is a great addition, too, especially with those escape artists that tend to get out of your sight as quickly as possible.
Besides, this unit also comes with a metal D-ring that can be attached to any leash you might own already. The padded components provide superior comfort. Having received the appreciation of over seven hundred fully satisfied buyers, it’s safe to say that the Expawlorer model is at least worth a look.
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15. Expawlorer Front 3M Reflective
Yet another unit you may be interested in checking out is this particular harness. It’s made with the needs of pet owners in mind, which is to say that it has been designed to avoid things like pulling, but also chaffing or sores. It’s comfortable and convenient, and it comes in three colors and five dimensions.
The lightweight material it has been constructed of will ensure that your pet stays comfortable all of the time. Besides, the mesh lining will allow your dog to feel well even if it’s sweltering outside. There’s a padded soft sponge component located in the chest and belly area.
There are two leash attachment points on this product. One of them can be found on the back, and the other is located on the dog’s chest. Based on the feedback offered by some of the folks who have bought this product, it has excellent padding and boasts four amazing adjustment spots.
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16. Pawaboo Car Safety
Car travel can be dangerous for humans, not just for pets. But with dogs, things can always happen, and you might have no means of preventing them. To ensure that your pet is always safe during your travels, you could use this safety vest harness. It’s easy to put on and take off, and it is made from durable material.
Furthermore, the broad sponge padded chest plate makes it possible for the doggy to feel comfortable and protected. There’s little to nothing in the way of you connecting this vest to the safety belt system that your vehicle comes with because it’s compatible with all types of such systems.
It stands to reason that there shouldn’t be anything preventing you from using this product as a regular harness, too. You don’t always have to use the special attachment for car rides. Although we do suggest you take the time to look at the size chart, it seems that most owners are completely happy with the way this harness fits their dogs.
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17. Rabbitgoo Front Range
When it comes to setting up a harness on your dog, things can always get in the way, especially if the pet doesn’t feel like being restrained at all. Fortunately, with this Rabbitgoo alternative, you don’t have to worry about all of that. It’s easy to put on and take off, and it will allow you to avoid spending several minutes doing so.
The pulling pressure ensured by the design of this product is distributed evenly so as not to restrain your pet in an aggressive manner. Plus, the unit is made from a highly resistant material and features a heavy padding on the chest area.
The two metal leash attachments, one of which is located on the back and the other on the front, can be used with any types of leashes. Plus, they are made of resilient material and are known to last for as long as possible. The seams of this unit seem pretty sturdy, too.
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18 . Voyager All Weather
Since this product is a step-in harness, you need to make sure that you are ordering the perfect size for the body dimensions of your pet. Having been manufactured from a highly breathable material, this model can be used regardless the weather. Its design enables you to utilize it with ease, so you won’t have to bother with fighting with your pet in order to set everything up.
To ensure that the dog never manages to take the harness off while he or she is running around the park, the manufacturing company has equipped this harness with two means of securing it. One of them is a strong velcro closure and the other consists of reliable metal D-rings for attaching the leash.
The unit is available in five main sizes and can be purchased in a broad array of colors. The extra-small alternative is comfortable to use both on small dog breeds and on cats.
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19. OneTigris Tactical
If you own a dog breed that might potentially be considered aggressive, but your pet isn’t in the least so, you may feel more reassured by choosing this particular service dog vest. At least it will give other individuals the feeling that you are using the dog for specific purposes, and so they won’t bother you with questions.
The model is easy to adjust and is manufactured from a high-quality 1000D nylon, which means that it is highly resistant and known to withstand a good deal of time. In all of the areas that might risk hurting your pet’s skin, the product is padded.
Best of all, the OneTigris also comes with a Molle System. While some owners might not find this aspect particularly handy, the fact of the matter is that it can make all the difference if you want to make sure your dog doesn’t get lost or the person finding it knows who to call.
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20. Luoov Back Mount
Not all harnesses are equal, and so the purpose of this one is mainly to capture video of the surroundings of your pet. Dogs have a different perspective on the same environment and things seen by humans, so it’s often adventurous to see the world in their eyes.
While this product isn’t a typical alternative, it can be used conveniently for daily walks, too. The difference between this choice and some of the others is that it also features a sports camera accessories bundle. The chest mount can be removed swiftly and efficiently, so as to speak to the needs of smaller sized dogs.
Thanks to the fabric it was constructed of, this choice can put up with a lot of abuse and can even be used in ponds, for the occasional or accidental swim that your dog might want to take. This product can be hand-washed, or you could use the machine to clean it efficiently.
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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
If you are in the market for the best harness for dogs, perhaps this guide should set some things clear once and for all. We’ve collected some of the most important aspects that you should bear in mind whenever you’re trying to decide on one model or the next. Make sure to consider the needs and specific preferences of your pet above anything else.
Start with the type you prefer
Most of the products you are likely to encounter while doing your research can be split up into several categories. There are step-in models, standard ones, vests, built-in leash harnesses, as well as easy-on alternatives. Although they aren’t typical, in many ways, there are also things called head harnesses.
The latter are usually referred to as head collars. They fit around the head and the muzzle of the pet, so they can be used for discouraging bad behavior. An essential detail to consider is that these products are not made to control their direction and movements by pulling on other parts of the pet’s body except the head and muzzle. Many owners steer clear of them because of this reason.
Step-in choices are comfortable and easy to use, as are easy-on alternatives. With the first type, the dog actually has to step into the straps while with the second, you will have to use quick-release buckles to fasten the product onto the animal as efficiently as possible.
Standard alternatives typically have adjustable straps, which means that you can customize the size of the product as per your dog’s physical attributes. Make sure to opt for this type of product if you are looking for the best no pull dog harness that works with your pet.
Of all of these variations, vests are particularly comfortable, and also fashionable, if that’s one of the features that are important to you. They are capable of covering a wider body area, and many times, they feature soft liners and portions that prevent things like chafing or sore spots.
Materials and padding
Whatever you do and regardless the color or the size of the product you will end up choosing, you need to make sure you’re getting the best-padded dog harness. What this means is that there shouldn’t be any rough edges that might potentially hurt your pet’s skin. This rule is particularly important if you own a breed with short hair.
Let’s not forget that many of the straps and edges of the harness usually come in contact with the pet’s underarm areas, so even if you have a particularly furry dog, that area is likely bald or almost bald, therefore exposing it to chaffing.
As for the fabrics used in the development of the product, there are no golden rules as to which one is worse or which one’s better. Usually, these products are made from synthetic fabrics because they have a better chance at withstanding the test of time, and a lot of abuse. Dogs aren’t like cats, and so they run a lot, take mud baths, and even get into trouble once in a while. That’s why even the best GoPro dog harness has to be resilient and put up with all of these situations.
While with clothes designed for humans, we couldn’t recommend cotton more, in this case, it’s a poor material because it has a low resistance and might not last for a good deal of time.
Get the right size
There are two things you must do if you want to make sure that you are purchasing the right harness for your specific dog breed. One of them relies heavily on research, and it is composed of two processes. Start by checking out the size chart probably made available by the manufacturing brand or the retailer you’re getting the product from. Then, look at some consumer reports of that particular model.
It’s very likely that other people own the same dog breed like you, and if they’ve bought the same harness, they’ll often provide pictures of how it fits their pet.
The next step is to measure your dog’s body, in which case you’ll just need a soft measuring tape. The areas you need to pay attention are the neck and the chest, and you need to find out the girth of both. If you notice that the model you are considering might also restrain the pet in other areas, don’t hesitate to measure out those, too.
For instance, some vests are made to fit even the belly area of your dog. It’s rather obvious you need the girth of that, too, at least if you want such a product.
Back clip or front clip
Back-clip choices are normally fitted with a D-ring on the back, located either a little lower or just between the shoulder blades of your pet. These alternatives are excellent for pets that are small, those that have various neck injuries, or are experiencing problems breathing for one reason or another.
They are not, however, great options for dogs that pull, for those that are extremely powerful, or just for large breeds.
By contrast, front-clip harnesses come with D-rings on the front or the center of the chest. You’ll find that many models actually have both of these D-rings so as to allow the owner to attach the leash wherever he or she or the pet feels most comfortable.
Front-clip models are great for dogs that run, jump, or pull, or are overall too hard to control when you need to walk them. They make rather poor choices for dogs that are aggressive or uncontrolled whenever they see something interesting.
Other circumstances you ought to consider
Now that we have done our best at detailing the traditional harnesses available these days, you may have to take some specific situations into account, too. For example, if you were to take your dog to the vet for a regular check-up, you’d have to transport him or her by car.
Therefore, what you need to look for is the best dog safety harness for car use. Some of these units are thicker and larger compared to standard harnesses because they need to restrain the pet a lot better. Plus, they come with a special strap that attaches to your seat belt system.
Frequently asked questions about dog harnesses
Q: How to fit a dog harness?
The answer to this question largely depends on the type of harness you have purchased. While some are slip-on, and so you don’t have to bother with fiddling with too many buckles, others are a tad more complicated.
Typically, you should start by slipping the pet’s head through the neck piece, and then move on to pulling the bottom straps down so that they are located under his or her belly. The top strap should be across its back. Some products come with detailed instructions in the box, so you can use those to understand how you should put it on.
Q: How does a dog harness go on?
The problem with most choices available for sale these days is that they differ considerably when it comes to their design. That is why it is difficult providing a straight answer to this question. In some cases, all you’ll have to do is slip the harness on conveniently and easily.
If you’re having trouble telling what type of harness you own, we suggest checking out the manufacturing brand’s website to find out more about how you are supposed to put it on your furry friend. If you can’t find any info, just go online and visit sites like YouTube. You wouldn’t believe how helpful they are.
Q: How to measure a dog harness?
The measurements of the harness are one thing, but something that should surely be on your mind is to measure your pet so as to match his or her size to the product you are looking to purchase or make all on your own.
The most important measurements you need to find out are the neck girth and the chest girth. In some situations, however, you do need to measure out other body parts, too. Dogs tend to be a bit slimmer in the belly area, at least compared to how they are in the chest area. If you want to get a vest instead of a harness, you need to measure out that region, too. Then, match all of these figures to the harness size chart.
Q: What are dog harnesses for?
The purpose of a dog harness is indisputable to provide enough comfort and restraint for your dog so as to ensure that he or she doesn’t run away or pull, and at the same time, remains at ease while you are walking him or her.
In order to offer more than enough security, harnesses have to be sized properly. Part of choosing the perfect product in this line is your role because you and you alone know better than anyone else the breed of dog you own and are able to measure out his body.
Q: Are dog harnesses better than collars?
This is somewhat of a dilemma. Some people say that collars are better while others tend to think that harnesses are better. Usually, the latter is true, and that’s because collars put too much pressure on your dog’s neck and if he or she is a puller or a runner, you might risk choking him.
Of course, the chances of you damaging his or her health are rather slim in this case, but you could hurt his neck or vocal cords. We recommend choosing both. You can attach the leash to the harness and use the collar as an identification method, especially if you own a GPS tracker.
Q: How to harness a dog in a car?
Using a car harness is fairly simple, and that’s because its structure resembles that of typical models. It goes without saying that some choices are a bit on the bigger side of things so as to ensure that your dog’s moves are more restrained than usual.
The part that really matters when it comes to dog car harnesses is the strap that you will have to attach to your seat belt system. It needs to be universal, and it has to be compatible with all such systems. Plus, it must be extremely sturdy so as to keep the dog in one place during the car ride.
Q: Why use a dog harness?
First of all, harnesses are far more comfortable compared to collars and any other restraint systems. Many modern models have padded liners or soft chest components that do not risk scratching the skin of your pet to the point that it bleeds or becomes sore.
Plus, a harness provides a way more secure means of you having control over the moves of your pet. For instance, whenever he or she pulls on the leash, you’ll prevent the dog from running away by pulling on his or her chest instead of the neck, as you would if you were to use a collar.
Best dog harness brands
This brand is particularly popular in the United States, and that’s because the company goes out of its way to release all sorts of lines designed for cats and dogs alike. They make and sell anything ranging from apparel, harnesses, beds, and carriers, as well as unique cat products.
One of the reassuring things about choosing a Puppia harness is that the manufacturer has loads of stores across the U.S., and plenty of representatives can answer your questions if you decide to call their customer service.
Unlike some of the other brands present in the industry of manufacturing dog-related products, this one is far more versatile. From Kurgo, you could get anything destined for dog travel, outdoor gear, collars, and leashes, as well as typical harnesses and car seat covers designed specifically for the use of pets.
You can also have your pick from the broad array of pet carriers, travel bowls, booster seats, beds, and even gadgets that can help you keep track on your pet’s whereabouts at all times. Most of the products manufactured by this company are backed by a lifetime warranty.
As the company’s slogan lets us know, safety is Sleepypod’s priority. What this means for prospective buyers is that this brand specializes in designing top-notch equipment for anything ranging from car rides and a variety of other circumstances that might risk endangering the health and security of your pet.
Most of the harnesses sold by this brand have been certified for safety, and the neat thing about them is that the test results are available on the brand’s website. So, as you can see, this company is far more transparent when it comes to the quality of its products, especially when compared to others.
PetSafe makes anything ranging from GPS trackers and training collars to watering systems, bowls, and even doors for cats and dogs. The company manufactures a good deal of feeding items, as well as a wide range of toys, treats, dog clothes, and even gifts.
If you need any support with a product you have purchased from PetSafe, feel free to utilize the company website as it has a plethora of manuals available for customers. This brand is a reliable manufacturer available in over a dozen countries worldwide.
The performance dog gear developed by Ruffwear is considered to be excellent, and that shouldn’t come as a surprise seeing how the company’s engineers are constantly improving these products.
One focus of their path toward designing top-notch harnesses and other dog products is that they rely on their gear to make exploration as comfortable and secure as possible. Some owners might say that Ruffwear units are minimalistic as they are made to be simple and easy to wear by the pets. All of the items by Ruffwear are trail-tested.
What types of harnesses are safe to use on your dog?
Compared to regular collars, harnesses are far safer to utilize on all dogs, regardless their breed, size, gender, or preferences. In some cases, harnesses might not be a reasonable option, and that’s when the pet has undergone surgery in areas like the chest. However, in most other situations, a harness is a reliable and safe way to secure your dog.
Let’s look at some of the safest alternatives that can be found on the market today. One thing that we have to make clear is that dogs are far more comfortable with using a front-attaching model.
Fortunately, most of the choices we have stumbled upon come with D-rings located both in the chest area and on the back. So, depending on your preferences and those of your furry friend, you can attach the leash wherever you find it to be most comfortable.
There are two ways of going about things if you are focused on getting a product that allows your dog to feel at ease at all times. You can either select a standard vest, in which case you will cover a wider body surface, or you can pick a typical harness that comes with several straps. One thing that we do not recommend is a model that boasts particularly thin straps.
Usually, these products are made from synthetic fabrics that aren’t particularly soft. With choices that have extremely thin straps, one of the risks is them piercing through the skin of the animal. Of course, they might not do significant damage, but the will inevitably hamper the moves and have a negative effect on the overall comfort of your pet.
There are also combination harnesses that one should give some thought to. Practically, these options look like standard harnesses, but they have soft liners that protect sensitive areas such as the underarms. Also, many of these units are outfitted with padded chest areas so when you pull on the leash, you’re never hurting the dog.
In the end, vest are way better than harnesses, and they can even act as dog coats, depending on their size. They can be made of breathable materials that will allow your pet’s skin to remain comfortable and neither cold nor warm, regardless the weather. Because many of the vests have to be fastened under the legs and arms of your pet, you need to ensure that the straps are also lined with a soft fabric.
Also, the sizing matters quite a bit, both when it comes to keeping your dog at ease and when it comes to securing the harness in place so as for it to be able to restrain the moves of your pet.
How to Properly Put on a Dog Harness
Dogs are usually more manageable if you put a harness on them, although you must be aware that there can be some medical conditions that will require you to avoid using such a thing on your pet. Neck injuries and other ailments can cause so much discomfort that putting a collar or a harness is highly recommended against.
However, if your dog has no such issues, a harness is a good idea for training your dog. It can give you the possibility to keep your dog better on a leash so that it does not jump or pull. There are several types of harnesses available, and you need to learn about them if you want to make sure that you put the harness on correctly.
What types of harnesses are out there?
If you consider purchasing a new dog harness, the first thing you should do is to decide what sort of harness you want or need for your pet. Depending on each type, you will have to figure out how to put it on.
The back-clip type
Let us see now what common types of harnesses are out there. The back-clip type is a very popular one, and many dogs seem to prefer it and get adjusted to it quite fast. In case you don’t want your dog to become irritated with the harness or a collar, this one is your best bet.
The front-clip type
The front-clip type is considered a good idea for training. If you have a dog that pulls a lot and needs training, this should be your choice. The leash attachment is located in front, and it helps with controlling the direction of your dog with ease.
The step-in type
A comfort wrap is a type of harness that closes on the back. It is quite easy to put on, as you have the dog step in the harness, and then you just clip it in, after pulling the harness around the shoulders.
The vest type
This type is called a vest harness because this is precisely how it looks like. It is made from mesh and can be colored or patterned. This harness will hold the chest and the back of the dog very well and can be used for many dogs. You can slip the vest over the dog’s head and the front legs.
The no-pull type
If you have a dog that poses a problem by pulling at the leash too much, you will need the no-pull type of harness. This model is designed so that the harness tightens when the dog tries to pull, thus adding pressure and signaling the pet to stop doing that. It is a particularly good tool for training, and many people use it.
The auto type
This model is not much different than other harnesses, except that it hooks to the seat belt inside the car, so you can keep the dog safe during car rides. Putting it on is not different from a regular harness.
As you can notice, depending on what type of harness is involved, there are different ways to put one on your dog. Once you figure this out, you will be confronted with no more issues.
Unavailable products
barkOutfitters Service Dog Vest
Despite not being primarily designed for recreational purposes, this service dog vest makes a notable choice. If you’ve been in the market for a model that you can customize as best as possible, we recommend this one as its chest plate is adjustable.
Once you’ve set the chest plate in complete accordance with the physical attributes of your pet, you can rest assured that the vest will not slip from one side to the other. All of the straps that this item has been equipped with are adjustable and easy to utilize.
The design of this choice is great because it prevents people from asking too many questions about your dog. Besides, since the unit is outfitted with a stainless steel D-ring, you can safely and conveniently attach any leash you’re most comfortable with using. Finally, the fact that the barkOutfitters model boasts a neoprene inner lining is reassuring as it won’t hurt your dog.
Bibliography:
2) The Pros and Cons of Using a Dog Harness
3) The benefits of using a harness
4) Different types of harnesses
May 24, 2019 at 7:14 pm
Love our Shepherds Petsafe harness. Wide straps so if we hold her theres less pressure on her and the top handle is front to back, padded and sturdy; not left to right and thin..its easier on the hand if you have to use it to assist in lifting, climbing etc. Only drawback has been that the straps can slip over time and need to be re-tightened
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May 25, 2019 at 7:03 am
Thanks for the input, Jan!
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April 4, 2019 at 3:34 pm
I recently got 2 puglife harness within a few weeks my one 70 pound dog gets excited when he sees other dogs pulled @ the buckle on the dog harness ripped right out of the harness does anybody make a harness that will past my dog flew across the street allmost got hit by a car
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April 5, 2019 at 5:04 am
Hi Vinny. It seems like the issue with the harness wasn’t the harness per se, but the buckle. We love the models designed by Ruffwear https://ruffwear.com/collections/dog-harnesses – If you take a look at the buckle they’re fitted with, you’ll notice that it’s different than the ‘traditional’ and less durable one. You should really try one of their products, they’re incredibly rugged and functional.
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