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The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024

A dog harness can improve connection, safely restrain your pooch, and allow for better control in a myriad of situations. Here are the best dog harnesses of the year.

the best dog harnesses of 2023
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Find the perfect dog harness for your canine companion — whether it’s for daily strolls around town, intensive training sessions or an adventurous hiking excursion. 

The best dog harness can safely restrain your pooch and allow for better control in a myriad of situations. It also allows for a great connection between the human and canine. We put some of the top dog harnesses of the year to the test.

Going on walks, runs, and even rides together can form a joy-filled relationship between you and your furry friend. Exploring the world with your dog is one of the greatest gifts of dog ownership.

While out on walks, not only is the emotional bond between you and your canine companion strengthened, the physical bond of the leash also joins you together as a unit. For both you and your dog, a dog harness can be a helpful and comfortable difference-maker.

While necessary for some circumstances, collars can cause uncomfortable pressure on your dog’s spine and trachea. And they can be especially harmful to dogs with a tendency to pull while on a leash. Compared to a traditional collar, a well-fitted harness provides improved comfort and safety for your dog and much better control for you.

When selecting the best harness for your pup, there are many factors to consider. Dog harnesses vary by adjustability, leash attachment options, visibility, size, style, material, and durability.

Of all the available options, we carefully selected our picks for the best dog harness in several different categories. With a new high-quality harness for you and your beloved pup, your walks together will be more enjoyable and safer than ever before. Scroll through to see all of our recommended buys or read our inclusive buyer’s guide and FAQs to learn more about what differentiates dog harnesses from each other:

Editor’s Note: We updated this list on October 11, 2023, to include two favorite harnesses, the NRS CFD and the SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness. We also added in-depth information about materials, fit, and more.

The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024


Best Overall Dog Harness

Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness

Specs

  • Price $50
  • Materials 300-denier ripstop polyester/closed-cell foam/nylon webbing
  • 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

  • Price $17
  • Materials Breathable and padded mesh, Durable nylon Oxford
  • 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

  • Price $170
  • 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)
  • 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

  • Price $9
  • Materials Breathable mesh fabric with a Velcro closure and heavy duty metal D-rings
  • 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

  • Price $27
  • Materials 900D Nylon, Plastic, Durable Metal Ring, Cotton
  • 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

  • Price $84
  • Materials Heavy duty 1" reflective nylon webbing, Reinforced outward-facing seams using Gore® Tenara thread
  • 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
Best Coat-and Harness Combo

Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse

Specs

  • Price $90
  • Materials Polyester fleece lining, metal D-ring
  • 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
Beat Leather Dog Harness

Filson Dog Harness

Specs

  • Price $115
  • Materials Leather and rustproof brass hardware
  • 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
Best Nighttime Visibility

Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo Harness

Specs

  • Price $55
  • Materials Durable and water-repellant X-Pac fabric, reflective webbing
  • 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.
Best Cooling Dog Harness

SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness

Specs

  • Price $36
  • Material Zinc-alloy double D-ring, 3-layer cooling fabric
  • 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
Best PFD Dog Harness

NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket

Specs

  • Price $60
  • Material 420-denier Ripstop Nylon, Foam, reflective accents, metal leash loop
  • Best Use 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 HarnessPriceMaterialsBest For
Ruffwear Front Range Dog Hrness$50300-denier ripstop polyester/closed-cell foam/nylon webbingDaily walks and hikes
Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness
$17Breathable and padded mesh, Durable nylon OxfordStrong pullers
Ruffwear Omnijore
$170Breathable mesh fabric with a Velcro closure and heavy-duty metal D-ringsSkijoring
Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness
$9Breathable mesh fabric with a Velcro closure and heavy duty metal D-ringsSmall dogs
Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness
$27900D Nylon, Plastic, Durable Metal Ring, CottonTraining and outdoor adventuring
Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Harness
$84Heavy duty 1″ reflective nylon webbing, Reinforced outward-facing seams using Gore® Tenara threadNo-pull training
Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse
$90Polyester fleece lining, metal D-ringCold or rainy weather use
Filson Dog Harness$115Leather and rustproof brass hardwareDogs without pulling issues and daily walks
Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo Harness
$55Durable and water-repellant X-Pac fabric, reflective webbingNighttime use and hiking
SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness
$36Zinc-alloy double D-ring, 3-layer cooling fabricHot weather
NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket
$60420-denier ripstop nylon, foam, reflective accents, metal leash loopBoating and swimming

How We Tested Dog Harnesses

Ruffwear Front Range Harness on GSP dog in fall forest
The tester’s dog Leika models the Ruffwear Front Range Harness, which she’s used daily for more than 2 years; (photo/Sean McCoy)

As they say, dogs truly are a person’s best friend, which is why we at GearJunkie want to make sure they are well-equipped with the best gear for all of our accompanied 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 that are made for anything from 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 while in use. 

From alpine hikes to daily walks in the park, these harnesses have been through extensive testing processes. 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.

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 your dog harness? 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 a harness 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 harness, 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.

Measure for the Right Fit

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

We suggest using a measuring tape to properly measure your dog down to the inch or centimeter. 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 harnesses 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 dog 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.

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 harness 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.

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.

Overall, be sure your pup’s harness is made with a comfortable, breathable fabric that works with your dog’s 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 Pup) 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 Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness is crash-tested for dogs up to 75 pounds and offers an easy way to attach your dog to the seatbelt safely.

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 floatation 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 is hardy and breathable while also offering extra handy features like a place to mount a beacon light and dual attachment points. Harnesses 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. 

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 a harness that provides storage for backpacking or longer day hikes, be sure to check out our guide for the Best Dog Backpacks of 2024.

Price

When considering the prices of dog harnesses, be sure to make note of your personal 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 pup. 

At the lower cost end of our guide is the Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness ($9), the Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness ($17), and the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness ($27). All at under 30 bucks, these harnesses are superb, budget-friendly options that won’t empty your wallet. 

At the mid-range price range are 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. 

Higher in price, but still fantastic options are the Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Harness ($84), Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse ($90), and the Filson Dog Harness ($115). 

The steeply-priced Omnijore Dog Joring System ($176), includes a multi-leash and harness system made for skijoring. Because it includes multiple accessories and additions for specialized use, it is priced much higher than the rest of the harnesses listed.

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)

FAQ

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 harnesses, 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 the harness in place. If your dog happens to be in between two harness 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 the harness 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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