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The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

We tested the best dog harnesses from Ruffwear, Rabbitgoo, Atlas Pet Company, and more to find the best option for your needs and budget.
German Shorthaired Pointer wearing Front Range No Pull HarnessLeika models the Ruffwear Front Range Harness, which she's used daily for years; (photo/Sean McCoy)
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Find the best dog harness for your canine companion — whether for daily strolls around town, intensive training sessions or adventurous hiking excursions. A dog harness can safely restrain your pooch and give you better control. It also allows for a great connection between you and your canine buddy.

While necessary for some circumstances, collars can cause uncomfortable pressure on your dog’s spine and trachea. They can also be especially harmful to dogs who tend to pull while on a leash. Compared to a traditional collar, a well-fitted harness provides improved comfort and safety for your dog.

We tested some of the top dog harnesses of the year to help guide your decision. Whether you’re looking for the performance and durability of our overall pick, the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness, or a budget-friendly option like the Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness, we have you covered. 

Many factors must be considered when selecting the best harness for your pup. Dog harnesses vary in adjustability, leash attachment options, visibility, size, style, material, and durability. Scroll through to see all of our recommended buys, or read our inclusive buyer’s guide, price & value section, and comparison chart to learn more about what differentiates dog harnesses from each other.

Editor’s Note: We updated this Buyer’s Guide on October 10, 2024, by including more helpful specs for all products, a price & value section, and by adding 3 new products, including the Ruffwear Flag Line Dog Harness, the Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Dog Walking Harness, and the Fable Signature Harness.

The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024


Best Overall Dog Harness

Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness

Specs

  • Materials 300-denier ripstop polyester/closed-cell foam/nylon webbing
  • Leash attachment points Two
  • Sizes available XS-XL
  • Best for Daily walks and hikes
Product Badge The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Four points of adjustment for easy fitting
  • Fully padded for maximum comfort
  • Light, breathable mesh lining prevents overheating
  • Dual attachment points offer good options for training and everyday use
  • Heavy-duty and easy to wash

Cons

  • Must be put on over dog’s head
  • Neck and chest straps may be loose on dogs with small necks
Best Budget Dog Harness

Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness

Specs

  • Materials Breathable and padded mesh, Durable nylon Oxford
  • Leash attachment points Two
  • Sizes available XS-XL
  • Best for Strong pullers
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Nicely padded air mesh keeps your dog cool during exercise and warm days
  • Four adjustable straps allow a customized fit
  • Abrasion-resistant nylon stands up to wear and weather
  • Dual attachment points offer an effective opportunity for no-pull training
  • Sturdy top handle allows for instant control of your dog
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Must go over dog’s head to put on or take off
Best for Skijoring

Ruffwear Omnijore

Specs

  • Materials 150-denier polyester ripstop with PU coating and PFAS-free DWR finish (Bluesign-approved), closed-cell PE foam, 75 denier polyester lining with PU coating, heat emboss and PFAS-free DWR finish (Bluesign-approved)
  • Leash attachment points One
  • Sizes available S-XL
  • Best for Skijoring
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Lightweight and breathable, yet durable materials
  • Pulling-specific design doesn’t impede the dog’s movement
  • Reflective trim and Ruffwear Beacon capability allow you to see your dog in the dark
  • Easily customizable fit

Cons

  • Dogs can potentially escape the harness by backing out of it
  • Expensive
Best Harness for Small Dogs

Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness

Specs

  • Materials Breathable mesh fabric with a Velcro closure and heavy duty metal D-rings
  • Leash attachment points One
  • Sizes available XXXS-XL
  • Best for Small dogs
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Lightweight mesh for all-weather comfort
  • Simple construction allows for quick fitting
  • Double D-ring clip-in point offers secure and redundant attachment
  • Can double as a harness for some cats

Cons

  • Lack of front attachment point
  • Has been known to irritate some dogs in the chest area
Best Tactical Dog Harness

Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness

Specs

  • Materials 900D Nylon, plastic, durable metal ring, cotton
  • Leash attachment points Two
  • Sizes available S-XL
  • Best for Training and outdoor adventuring
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Durable materials throughout
  • Sturdy harness holds up to use from large, strong dogs
  • Front-end attachment point for no-pull training
  • Included Velcro patch system for customizable appearance

Cons

  • Small dogs may trip over front attachment point, which sits low
Best No-Pull Dog Harness

Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Harness

Specs

  • Materials Heavy duty 1" reflective nylon webbing, reinforced outward-facing seams using Gore Tenara thread
  • Leash attachment points Two
  • Sizes available S-L
  • Best for No-pull training
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Lightweight and quick-drying
  • Effective chest attachment point with anti-pulling in mind
  • Durable, double-reinforced nylon straps
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Hardware can be heavy for very small dogs
  • Expensive
Most Versatile Dog Harness

Ruffwear Flag Line Dog Harness

Specs

  • Materials 50-denier polyester ripstop (Bluesign® approved) shell, 75-denier polyester lining with heat emboss, one aluminum V-ring and two reinforced webbing attachment points
  • Leash attachment points Three
  • Sizes available XXS-XXL
  • Best for Hiking or other outdoor excursions
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Three leash attachment points help customize applicability
  • Padding on both the topside and underside for comfort
  • Broad range of sizes and maximum adjustability

Cons

  • May not fit dogs with larger chests or waists as well
  • Rear D-ring is smaller and may not accommodate larger leash clips
Best of the Rest

Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Dog Walking Harness

Specs

  • Materials Durable ripstop, metal D-rings
  • Leash attachment points Two
  • Sizes available XS-XL
  • Best for Pullers and in vehicles
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Easy on and off, does not require stepping in
  • Included seat belt attachment strap for car rides
  • Five adjustment points for perfect fit

Cons

  • Threading on chest pad became undone after a few uses
  • Lack of padding on underbelly straps may be uncomfortable for some dogs

Fable Signature Harness

Specs

  • Materials 100% polyester performance knit mesh, nylon webbing, plastic buckles, and iron D-rings
  • Leash attachment points Three
  • Sizes available XS-L
  • Best for Walking and training, sensitive dogs
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Completely unbuckles so you don’t need to put over your dog’s head or through the legs
  • Durable
  • Multiple attachment points — one with shock-absorbing technology

Cons

  • Lacks extended sizes
  • Tends to loosen up after walking for awhile

Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo Harness

Specs

  • Materials Durable and water-repellant X-Pac fabric, reflective webbing
  • Leash attachment points One
  • Sizes available S-L
  • Best for Nighttime use and hiking
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • High visibility
  • Ample chest padding
  • Easy to put on
  • Water-repellent materials

Cons

  • New wet webbing can leave scuff marks with excessive rubbing. Recommend washing before first use.

Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse

Specs

  • Materials Polyester fleece lining, metal D-ring
  • Leash attachment points Two
  • Sizes available XXS-XL
  • Best for Cold or rainy weather use
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Outer fabric is durable and resistant to abrasions and weather
  • Reflective trim helps you to see your dog in low light
  • Water-repellent finish keeps moisture out
  • Side buckles are easy to release for quick on and off

Cons

  • Dogs with longer torsos may not be fully covered depending on sizing
  • Coat can sometimes flip up in the wind

Filson Dog Harness

Specs

  • Materials Leather and rustproof brass hardware
  • Leash attachment points One
  • Sizes available S-XL
  • Best for Dogs without pulling issues and daily walks
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Elegant look and handmade feel
  • High-quality saddle-grade bridle leather and brass hardware
  • Easy-fitting system with straightforward buckles

Cons

  • No chest leash attachment point
  • Expensive compared to other harness options

SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness

Specs

  • Material Zinc-alloy double D-ring, 3-layer cooling fabric
  • Leash attachment points One
  • Sizes available XXS-XXL
  • Best for Hot weather
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Cooling technology keeps your pooch cool on the hottest days
  • Easy take-on and take-off thanks to velcro/zipper combo
  • Neon details keep your dog visible
  • Double d-ring makes for redundant leash attachment

Cons

  • Not super adjustable
  • Easily stains
  • Drips water so most suitable for outdoor use
  • No frontal attachment point

NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket

Specs

  • Material 420-denier ripstop nylon, foam, reflective accents, metal leash loop
  • Leash attachment points One
  • Sizes available XS-XL
  • Best for Boating and swimming
The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

Pros

  • Life-jacket style harness will keep your pup afloat in lakes, rivers and the ocean
  • Handle makes it easy to lift dog
  • Reflective elements keep your pup visible

Cons

  • Hard to adjust due to multiple strap system
  • Bulkier than a normal harness

Dog Harness Comparison Table

Dog HarnessPriceMaterialsLeash Attachment PointsSizes AvailableBest For
Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness$50300-denier ripstop polyester/closed-cell foam/nylon webbingTwoXS-XLDaily walks and hikes
Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness
$17Breathable and padded mesh, Durable nylon OxfordTwoXS-XL
Strong pullers
Ruffwear Omnijore
$170Breathable mesh fabric with a Velcro closure and heavy-duty metal D-ringsOneS-XLSkijoring
Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness
$9Breathable mesh fabric with a Velcro closure and heavy-duty metal D-ringsOneXXXS-XLSmall dogs
Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness
$27900D Nylon, Plastic, Durable Metal Ring, CottonTwoS-XLTraining and outdoor adventuring
Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Harness
$84Heavy duty 1″ reflective nylon webbing, Reinforced outward-facing seams using Gore® Tenara threadTwoS-LNo-pull training
Ruffwear Flag Line Front-Clip Dog Harness$6050-denier polyester ripstop (Bluesign® approved) shell, 75-denier polyester lining with heat emboss, one aluminum V-ring and two reinforced webbing attachment pointsThreeXXS-XXLHiking or other outdoor excursions
Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Dog Walking Harness $27Durable ripstop, metal D-ringsTwoXS-XLPullers and in vehicles
Fable Signature Harness$60100% polyester performance knit mesh, nylon webbing, plastic buckles, and iron D-ringsThreeXS-LWalking and training, sensitive dogs
Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo Harness$55Durable and water-repellant X-Pac fabric, reflective webbingOneS-LNighttime use and hiking
Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse
$90Polyester fleece lining, metal D-ringTwoXXS-XLCold or rainy weather use
Filson Dog Harness$115Leather and rustproof brass hardwareOneS-XL
Dogs without pulling issues and daily walks
SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness
$36Zinc-alloy double D-ring, 3-layer cooling fabricOneXXS-XXLHot weather
NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket$60420-denier ripstop nylon, foam, reflective accents, metal leash loopOneXS-XLBoating and swimming

How We Tested Dog Harnesses

The tester’s dog Leika models the updated 2024 Ruffwear Front Range Harness. She’s used a version of this harness daily for more than 5 years; (photo/Sean McCoy)

As they say, dogs truly are a person’s best friend, which is why we want to ensure they are well-equipped with the best gear for all our walks, excursions, and adventures. Lead-tester and lifelong dog owner Meghan LaHatte understands the importance of properly outfitting your dog with a harness that is comfortable, secure, and well-suited for its given purpose. 

No two dog harnesses are made the same. We took the time to curate a list of harnesses designed for daily walks to full-on skijoring adventures. While testing these harnesses, we made note of all the important details — materials, adjustability, and overall functionality. We paid especially close attention to the leash attachment points, fabric type, and maneuverability.

These harnesses have undergone extensive testing, from alpine hikes to daily walks in the park. We can assure you that this list of products includes the best on the market and will continue to be updated as new contenders hit the scene. If you want a complimentary dog collar, dog leash, or GPS tracker, check out our buyer’s guides for each.

best dog harnesses
Keta testing out the Fable Signature Harness on a summer hike in Colorado; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Dog Harness

Harnesses are available in a wide array of sizes and styles. They work by limiting pressure by dispersing the force across the entire front half of a dog’s body. Because the leash attaches to a harness at fixed attachment points instead of around the neck, your dog experiences less potentially damaging leash pressure.

As dog owners ourselves, we realize that sometimes dogs will take advantage of that and pull even harder. The only real solution to pulling is good training.

But for those dogs who are prone to pull or dart, some harnesses have second attachment points that discourage pulling.

The perfect harness for one dog may not be the right choice for another. When shopping for a harness for your pup, there are many factors to consider.

How will you be using it? If you are looking for something to help with training and pulling, be sure to snag one with a frontal leash attachment. Or, if you’re heading out for a hunting weekend, you may want one with a more tactical design like the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness

Be sure to consider your dog’s activity level and preference when choosing a harness. Smaller dogs may need a smaller, lightweight one, whereas larger dogs require more durable and strengthened designs.

Regardless of which harness you choose for your canine companion, we can assure you that any of the options listed in this guide are of superb quality and application.

best dog harnesses
The Ruffwear Flag Line Front-Clip Dog Harness comes in an array of sizes and has maximum adjustability; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

Measure for the Right Fit

First, the proper fit should be your primary consideration no matter what style or function you’re seeking in a harness. Before ordering any harness, we recommend carefully measuring your pup to ensure a good fit.

We suggest using a measuring tape to measure your dog down to the inch or centimeter properly. Doing so will ensure your numbers are correct and the harness will fit perfectly. Most harnesses come with adjustable straps that assist with fit and mobility for your pup.

kurgo car harness
It’s important to make sure your dog’s harness is well-fitted; (photo/Kurgo)

Girth and Back Length

Many harnesses are sized according to girth, which is measured at a dog’s widest area, just behind the front legs. Use a tape measure to fully wrap around your dog’s ribcage and note the girth in inches.

Some are also sized according to the length of a dog’s back. Back length should be measured starting at the base of a dog’s neck and ending at the base of its tail. Back length is an especially important sizing concern for harnesses that double as insulating, rain-repelling coats or vests, such as the Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse and SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness.

Neck Size and Coat Thickness

Another measurement you’ll want to have on hand is neck circumference. Neck girth varies a lot in dogs, so if your best friend has an especially thick neck like some pit bulls, or a thin neck like many Dobermans and poodles, search for a harness designed to work for their body type.

A thick coat can add lots of circumference to girth measurements. If your dog has lots of hair, it may be wise to order one size up to get the best fit. The same goes for overweight and deep-chested pups.

best dog harnesses
With different coat lengths and sizes, Opa and Keta have unique needs when it comes to dog harnesses; (photo/ Meghan LaHatte)

If you’ve got an especially fluffy pooch, make sure the buckles, zippers, and other hardware don’t have any of their fur tangled up in them as this could cause some uncomfortable pinching, itching, or an unwarranted haircut. We suggest using one hand to push their fur out of the way when buckling and adjusting your dog’s harness. 

When a harness is fitted comfortably and properly, there will be a healthy bit of wiggle room in between the material and your dog’s skin. A good fit usually allows the owner to fit two of their fingers underneath the harness. If a harness is overly snug, rashes and hot spots can cause discomfort for your dog.

With this consideration in mind, we recommend sizing up one size if your pooch happens to sit in between two sizes according to the sizing chart of the harness manufacturer.

Most dog harnesses like the Fable Signature Harness (left) and the Kurgo (right) are manufactured with nylon or polyester fabrics; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

Material

When choosing a harness for your furry companion, be sure to consider the material type and design. Most of the harnesses in this guide are made of nylon and polyester with added plastic or metal buckles and hardware. 

Fabrics like nylon are typically lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. For example, the Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo Harness is made with durable nylon that has reflective and water-resistant elements. It’s also machine washable, which is a major plus if your canine likes to take stinky mud baths or roll in dirt.

When considering hardware materials, we recommend sticking with metals like steel or reinforced plastic. It is important that the leash rings are durable enough to withstand your dog’s pulling without tearing away or putting too much strain on you. We especially loved the anti-rust brass hardware and loops on the Filson Dog Harness.

If you opt to stick with plastic materials, consider the Fable Signature Harness for its more robust buckles and easy-to-use adjusters.

Overall, be sure your pup’s harness is made with a comfortable, breathable fabric that works with his or her coat. Dogs with thicker coats can withstand more durable, rugged materials, while pups with sensitive skin or less hair may need something softer and less abrasive.

How Will You (and your dog) Use the Harness?

Dual attachment points disperse force and improve durability; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

Once you have your dog’s measurements figured out, it’s time to decide what you and your dog want and need in a harness. Different harnesses are designed with different applications in mind. For example, a training harness will provide certain features that make it a useful tool for improving your dog’s behavior.

Training

For training to pull less while on leash, owners will want to purchase a harness with a front-end leash attachment point. A front-clip harness will turn a dog’s body to the side if they pull too hard, which helps them to establish new behaviors.

A good no-pull harness will distribute the force of the pull and keep your dog’s throat and neck safe to eliminate gagging and discomfort. Our pick for a training-oriented harness is the Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Harness thanks to its front-clip no-pull technology.

Car Ride Safety

If you’re seeking a harness that can double as a seatbelt for your dog during long car rides, search for an option that easily attaches to your car’s seatbelt system. The Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Dog Walking Harness has an included 10-inch seat belt strap so you can keep your pup secure during car rides. However, this strap is not crash-tested, so we recommend finding one for longer road trips. 

Boating and Swimming

Testing the NRS CDF on a lovely summer’s day at the lake; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

If you want your dog to accompany you on all of your summer boating, fishing, or swimming excursions, be sure to choose a harness with flotation engineering. Even if your pup is a competent swimmer, having the extra peace of mind that your dog will stay afloat should they fall into a lake or a swift current is key. 

The NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket is our pick for a dog-oriented PFD. Designed like any other life jacket, this harness will keep your pup on top of the water so they can swim all day without any fear of drowning. We love this option for elderly or disabled pooches that enjoy swimming, but can’t exert themselves too much. 

The added rear handle makes lifting your dog in and out of your boat and or kayak easy peasy. And the metal leash loop means the CFD also serves as a functional harness. Be sure to grab one if you think your dog needs the extra help swimming — or if you’re whitewater rafting.

For the Active Pup

For the active and outdoorsy pup, a comfortable harness should be made from materials meant to withstand the conditions of adventuring outside.

The Ruffwear Front Range Harness and Flag Line Front-Clip Dog Harness are both hardy and breathable while also offering extra handy features like a place to mount a beacon light and dual attachment points. Others, like the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness prioritize durability in their design and make good long-term options for everyday use.

If you’re taking your pup out on those hot summer days, be sure to consider a cooling harness like the SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness. This harness works by evaporating cool air directly onto your dog’s body, thus keeping them at a comfortable temperature while walking, playing, and hiking in the heat. 

a dog wearing the SGODA dog harness
The SGODA Cooling Vest Harness helps keep hot dogs cool while they’re on the go; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

Some harnesses are easier to put on than others. While some dogs don’t mind having a harness slipped on over their head, for other dogs, this process can be a battle.

When putting on a dog harness, consider your pet’s personality and preferences. Some harnesses can be laid flat on the ground for your dog to simply step into without much hassle. If you are looking for one that provides storage for backpacking or longer day hikes, be sure to check out our guide for the Best Dog Backpacks of 2024.

Tester dog Opa trying out the Tru-Fit Smart Dog Walking Harness in Colorado; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

Price & Value

When considering the prices of dog harnesses, be sure to make note of your budget and your pooch’s needs. We believe you don’t need to break the bank to get a great dog harness, but don’t be afraid to spend a little extra on one that checks all the boxes for your dog. Spending a little more can save you in the long run, especially if you have a strong, active animal. The more expensive models are durable and have stronger attachment points.

Budget

For under $30, there are some excellent dog harness options out there. More affordable options will usually have less robust materials and lack added features like extra attachment points, training tools, etc. However, they will still serve the simple purpose of keeping your pup secure and controlled on walks.

At the lowest cost end of our guide is the Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness ($9), an option well-suited for growing puppies and toy breeds. At just under 30 bucks, the comfortable Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Dog Walking Harness ($27) is ready for any adventure with your canine. The Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness ($17), and the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness ($27) are superb, budget-friendly options that won’t empty your wallet. 

Mid-Tier

Between $30 and $60 are the more moderately-priced dog harnesses. These are typically made with reinforced materials and metal hardware, and they don’t cut any corners on quality or functionality. This mid-tier price point includes the SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness ($36), Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness ($50), Kurgo Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness ($43), Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo Harness ($53), and NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket ($60).

These harnesses ranked as some of our favorites in the guide while being well-designed and reasonably priced. These are a good place to start looking if your pup is fully grown and ready for a long-lasting harness.

In terms of being fairly priced for what you get, we were especially impressed by the Ruffwear Flag Line Front-Clip Dog Harness ($60) for its multiple attachment points and easy adjustment system. The reinforced polyester was easy to clean, and we faced no issues with durability on this harness.

Premium

While it isn’t necessary to drop a pretty penny on a dog harness, we do have some more expensive options listed in this guide. If you’re ready to spend over $60 on a harness, you can expect the highest grade of materials, a focus on lifelong use, and superb functionality. We recommend these selections for folks with dogs who need something for the duration of their life.

Highly durable and made with a magnetic buckle system, the Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Harness ($84) is a life-guaranteed option. For folks with a city dog that needs something more fancy, the luxuriously priced and leather-based Filson Dog Harness ($115) is on the higher end of our price spectrum.

Because it includes multiple accessories and additions for specialized use, the Omnijore Dog Joring System ($176) is priced fairly steep. This multi-leash and harness system is designed for the rigors of skijoring.

When selecting a dog harness, make sure you compare not only the price options, but also the fit, materials, purpose, and style that best serve your pup.

Testing harnesses while at lunch with the humans; (photo/Austin Beck-Doss)

Frequently Asked Question

What is the best harness for a dog that pulls?

Pulling on the leash can be difficult behavior for an owner to manage, and it can also be potentially unsafe for the dog. Strong pulling on a leash attached to an around-the-neck dog collar can potentially injure a dog’s neck, spine, and trachea. The right harness can offer dog safety and effective no-pull training.

First, it’s important to find a harness that has a front-end leash clip, such as the Ruffwear Front Range. By clipping a leash into an attachment point near a dog’s chest, pulling will cause the dog to turn from side to side as the force of the pull is redirected laterally.

Combined with other training methods, a front-end leash attachment point can help a dog to form new behaviors and begin to stop pulling while on a leash.

A sturdy harness will not put unsafe pressure on a dog’s neck and spine, even while pulling on a leash. Instead, the force of the pulling will be safely distributed across the front of the dog’s body. Certain products, like the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness, have additional training-focused features, like a large, strong grab handle located along the dog’s back for quick control.

Does a dog pull more with a harness or collar?

While a dog can pull on the leash with either a harness or collar, a well-fitting harness is a much safer option. A harness with front-end leash clips can be effective for training your dog to stop pulling.

Can dog harnesses be washed?

Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for how to wash our dog harness. While some are made to be machine washable (like the Kurgo Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness), others (like the Filson Dog Harness) should be washed gently by hand.

How should a dog harness fit?

Different dog harnesses are made to fit differently depending on their style and application. Measure around the widest area of your dog’s midsection to determine their girth.

Also, measure their back length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail as well as the circumference of their neck. If your dog has lots of thick fur or is overweight, account for this while measuring.

Once you’ve got your dog’s measurements, look for a harness in a size that aligns closely with the dimensions of your dog. When actually fitting a harness, follow the provided directions carefully and be sure not to pinch your dog’s skin or fur while securing it in place. If your dog happens to be in between two sizes, we recommend opting for the larger size.

Harnesses should generally fit snugly but not be so tight that they are causing discomfort or friction hot spots. Owners should be able to fit two fingers underneath the harness straps. If this isn’t possible, we recommend slightly loosening the harness.

How do I put a harness on a dog?

Different styles of dog harnesses go on in different ways. Some of the more common styles include over-the-head and step-in.

For a step-in harness, begin by unbuckling the harness and laying it flat on the ground. Next, have your dog stand over the harness. Place your dog’s paws into the corresponding loops.

If the harness indicates which paw should go in each loop, be sure to follow these directions. Finally, clip any buckles together and use any straps to customize the fit to your dog.

For an overhead harness, begin by sliding your dog’s head through the neck loop. The top strap will sit on their back, and the bottom straps will go across their belly.

If your harness is pre-connected on one side, have your dog step into the loop and buckle the straps together on the other side of the harness. If not, be sure to secure all buckles and straps on all sides.

Finally, double-check that it fits well and that none of the straps sit on the dog’s throat. If everything looks good, let the walk begin!

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