Sometimes a collar and a leash are not enough to control your dog, especially if your pooch likes pulling and jumping a lot. A very active dog will find a leash and collar tiresome, and this will limit its play time. A harness is also an excellent alternative for puppies that are learning how to stroll on a lead. The best dog harness offers a great way to control dogs that have tracheal and breathing problems. This is because a leash and collar adds unnecessary pressure to their throats and neck and often lead to breathing problems which can lead to suffocation. But with a harness, your dog or pup will feel more comfortable, and they are often decorated and thus look cute.
If you are in the market for the best dog harness, we are going to answer all of your questions in our comprehensive buyer’s guide to the best dog harness. We will later review of what we found to be the best dog harness in 2019 and why they deserve to be on our top 10 list.
You better buckle up for a long read!
If you are in a hurry, check out our recommendation list below.
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Noxgear LightHound Dog Harness The harness is reflective and bright making it easy to spot your dog |
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Rufffwear Ruffwear Great for outdoor walks |
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PetSafe Easy Walk Harness You can choose from 7 different colors |
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EzyDog Quick Fit Dog Harness The harness is built using high-quality stainless steel |
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Chai’s Choice Dog Vest Harness It’s reflective and can be used in dark areas |
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BarkOutfitters Dog Vest Harness Has an adjustable and removable chest plate |
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Embark Active Dog Harness Has a customizable fit |
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Kurgo No-Pull Dog Harness It is easy to use |
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EzyDog Convert Dog Harness It is of high-quality thanks to its sturdy construction |
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RABBITGOO No Pull Dog Harness It has an easy off-design that makes putting it on your dog easy |
Let’s get started…
Table of Contents
Why Should You Consider A Dog Harness Of A Leash?
Overactive dogs that tend to pull on their leash most of the times risk straining their neck or worse, damaging their trachea. A dog harness offers a better alternative to a leash because it redistributes and redirects the pulling force more evenly thereby preventing any risk of injury.
Besides, if your dog is not yet well trained or is hard to control, a dog harness will give you more control over your dog during walks. With a collar, you only have a narrow point of control, which leaves you with very little control. A harness, on the other side, redistributes force over multiple areas of your dog.
Another plus with a dog harness is that it is less likely to slip off or break away when your dog pulls itself. Some dogs also feel more secure and comfortable because of how compact a harness makes their body feel. This makes it less fearful of a new environment and can make them more receptive to your commands.
To wind this up, choosing the best dog harness will not only make your pooch feel comfortable but also safer than when it has a regular leash. Having convinced you on that, here is what you should know before buying the best harness for your dog.
How to Choose the Perfect Harness for Your Dog
There are several things you should take into consideration when shopping for a dog harness. Here are the main things to consider;
Material
Dog harnesses are made of different materials. The material you choose depends on the nature of your dog. If you want to use it on a big dog, you need to go for a super strong harness. Others are designed to be easy on the eye and more comfortable. It is up to you to know if your dog is overly active and if it is likely to be pulling hard on its harness. If your dog is destructive, you will need to find a comfortable and robust harness that suits its body.
There are two major types of materials commonly used to make dog harnesses; leather and nylon. Both these materials are considered significant for harnesses for a couple of reasons such as comfort, durability, and cost.
Regarding cost, nylon harnesses are cheaper than those made of leather. This is because nylon is more comfortable to source and can be made in different decorative patterns. However, concerning durability, nylon wears faster as opposed to proper quality leather harnesses.
Regarding comfort, both are comfortable for most dogs unless your pooch has an overly sensitive skin which will necessitate a soft leather dog harness.
Leather dog harness calls for more care and a bit more effort as you will need to use conditioners to keep it in good shape and soft. The good thing with leather is that it looks better with age. Conversely, nylon is more comfortable to keep clean and take care of. You can wash it with a washing machine or hand-wash it using soap and water.
Recently, manufacturers began making harnesses in polyester since it is comfy and warmer for colder days. Although most dogs have enough coat to keep themselves warm, you don’t want to subject them to a cold harness.
Strength
Strength is one of the few factors that dictate the type of harness to go for including aquatic harnesses and car harnesses. You need to know that the type of harness you choose is going to withstand the forces of your dog’s specific needs. Check that the attachment points of the harness are reliable and ensure the material is durable.
Size and Age of Your Dog
Before they learn how to walk on a lead, young puppies need to be taught the right behavior because they are more energetic and unpredictable. A harness does a great job in controlling your young pup and prevents injuries that may have resulted from pulling too much. As your dog matures and learns the manners, you can use a leash and collar.
You will also take into consideration the size of your dog. If he/she is the bulkier breed, you may need to go for a harness to have more control.
Adjustability
You need to check the number of adjustable points that are on the harness in question. The more adjustable points, the more comfortable it will be for them and the better it will fit on your dog. With best dog harnesses, you will not need to readjust it once you have fitted it to your dog. Therefore, don’t worry, you don’t need to adjust the fit each time you put it on your dog.
Your Dog’s Temperament or Behavior
Playful and energetic dogs tend to pull, lunge, or jump a lot while walking. This can lead them to tangle their feet or your legs as you walk with him. If your dog has this behavior and is yet to learn how to walk on a lead, you may need to get them a harness to prevent them from injuring you or themselves.
Quick Drying
If you have a dog that likes playing with water and going swimming, then you need to take into account how fast its harness will dry. Some harnesses are specially designed for dogs that love to go swimming and thus are made of quick-drying material. However, it is not probably going to dry while being worn, unless you are going on a very long walk. But at least, you can be sure it will have dried the next time you intend to use it.
Besides, regular training and exercise outside with your pooch mean they are going to face all types of weather. Think about getting your dog a waterproof harness, which will stay dry even in the wettest of conditions. Because of their larger surface areas, harnesses takes longer to dry than leashes. Besides, a harness that doesn’t soak up water tends to last longer.
Consider a Reflective Dog Harness In Case You Like Going for Night Walks
If you like walking your dog at night, it might be difficult for motorists or other people to see your dog. But with a reflective harness, you will increase the visibility of your dog, which will prevent injuries and accidents.
Type of Harness For Your Dog
The last thing to consider is the type of dog harness. There are different types of dog harness, and you need to know which one suits your dog.
Back Clip Harnesses
These are the most popular types of harness and are designed for smaller dogs. They can either be a series of straps or a large one item. As the name indicates, the leash attaches to the harness on the side of the back.
They are pleasurable to wear for many dogs as they agreeably provide pressure. This is why they are trendy for smaller dogs because of their delicate trachea. Besides, other types of harness cause discomfort to most puppies.
They are easy to put on, even with the most playful dogs. They reduce the risk of injuring your dog as they are hard to tangle in doglegs.
However, back clip dog harnesses have one downside; they offer relatively low control over your dog because their back mount makes it comfortable for your dog to pull on the lead. This makes them only suitable for well-behaved dogs that don’t have a tendency of jumping and lunging around and pulling on their lead during walks.
Front Clip Harnesses
Just as the name suggests, front clip harness has their leash attachment point position on the front of the dog- this is usually at the base of the neck around the chest. This harness gives you more control over the direction your dog should walk in. It offers more control as compared to a back clip harness.
It is also more comfortable for most dogs as they pull on their lead. As such, they are often preferred by dog trainers who are trying to train dogs to stop bad behaviors during leashing.
However, there are a couple of downsides with front clip harnesses. The most obvious is that your dog can get tangled in the legs due to the position of the lead mounting point. To prevent this from happening, you will need to tighten the lead all the times to avoid slackness.
Overall, front clip harnesses are better than back clip harnesses especially for dogs that display lousy behavior such as jumping or pulling while on the lead. However, if your dog has severe behavioral issues or is poorly trained, then you may need to reconsider tightening harness instead.
Tightening Harnesses
It is quite similar to front clip harnesses only that their attachment point is on the chest. They are designed to apply pressure to your dog’s body, and they are meant to discourage the behavior of pulling on the lead. Tightening Harness tightens your dog’s chest when they try to pull away from the lead.
It is usually meant for a short-term solution as your dog cannot use them on a loose leash. Tightening Harness should be used as a temporary measure and in conjunction with a training routine. It is meant to train dogs to behave and acts as a temporary measure until you move over to back clip harness.
However, you should be careful if you decide to use tightening harness on your dog as some may apply pressure on some painful points of your dog- which is not what they are designed for. They are supposed to make your dog feel uncomfortable in them when they pull away; not to hurt them.
With that in mind, you are now in a better position to make an informed purchase decision. Here are the top 10 best dog harnesses you can choose from;
Features That Make Noxgear LightHound Dog Harness Stand Out
- Has 2 leash attachment points for dogs with any pulling behavior- One at the front and one at the back for better control
- Has a heavy built featuring an aluminum attachment ring with an added webbing for further enforcement
- It’s built for comfort with padding in all right places to prevent discomfort
- It boasts a stylish reflective trim that makes sure your dog stays safe even when in twilight colors. You can also attach a beacon light on the harness to enhance visibility, especially in the dark
- Has a powerful and conveniently placed handle which makes it easier to hold your dog even in emergency situations
- It comes in different sizes so you can pick one that fits your dog
Proc of Noxgear LightHound Dog Harness
- The harness is reflective and bright making it easy to spot your dog
- Has a USB port which makes it easy to charge anywhere even inside your car
- Even with amazing green lighting technology, you can use a machine wash to get rid of the dirt
- It has quick release buckles that make it easy to remove after playtime
Conc of Noxgear LightHound Dog Harness
- For dogs with too much aggressiveness, you may lose control easily as the leash attachment is on the back of the harness
- Not the warmest harness if you live in cold areas
Why We Recommend It
While it is not the cheapest option in the market, the Noxgear LightHound Harness has unique light features and a dog-friendly design. The harness is designed to fit in the unique contours that a dog possesses. Whether at late night or early morning, this harness keeps you safe.
Features That Make Rufffwear Ruffwear Stand Out
- Has 2 leash attachment points for dogs with any pulling behavior- One at the front and one at the back for better control
- Has a heavy built featuring an aluminum attachment ring with an added webbing for further enforcement
- It’s built for comfort with padding in all right places to prevent discomfort
- It boasts a stylish reflective trim that makes sure your dog stays safe even when in twilight colors. You can also attach a beacon light on the harness to enhance visibility, especially in the dark
- Has a powerful and conveniently placed handle which makes it easier to hold your dog even in emergency situations
- It comes in different sizes so you can pick one that fits your dog
Proc of Rufffwear Ruffwear
- Great for outdoor walks
- Offers the dog with full-range motion
- Visible in low lights
- It’s escape proof, thanks to the customizable adjustment
Conc of Rufffwear Ruffwear
- Some dogs may not get a fitting size despite the variety of sizes available
- Has a delicate fabric on the position where the hook is attached and can tear easily.
Why We Recommend It
Let’s agree, having a quality harness can go a long way towards curbing any pulling behavior. This is an excellent product for outdoor loving dogs as it has high-quality materials, escape-proof design and comfortable for your pet as well.
Features That Make PetSafe Easy Walk Harness Stand Out
- Safe positioning. The Easy Walk Harness from PetSafe positions is safe on your dog’s body as it rests in the chest area; this means it doesn’t come near your dog’s neck
- It is excellent for hyperactive dogs that are known to be excessive pullers
- It is also great for first timers as it has different colors to guide on where to position it; the front area is colored different from other areas
- There are different sizes to suit different needs; no matter the size of your dog, you will get the right option for you.
- No-pull mechanism to help train your dog how to behave when you are on a walk
Proc of PetSafe Easy Walk Harness
- You can choose from 7 different colors
- Has adjustable fit options to ensure maximum comfort
- It is designed to minimize pulling and tugging
Conc of PetSafe Easy Walk Harness
- It might not do well in wet condition as it soaks easily
- May cause discomforts during the first few days
Why We Recommend It
Being one of the most renowned brands, you can expect it to be a quality dog harness. What sets this product aside is the 7 different color varieties as well as adjustable features to ensure optimal comfort for your pooch.
Features That Make EzyDog Quick Fit Dog Harness Stand Out
- Made with weatherproof stainless steel for durability
- The D-ring leash attachment is welded to ensure that it attaches safely
- Has high visibility reflective stitching that ensures your dog is identifiable from far
- The chest strap is covered with neoprene to ensure a snug fit for your dog
- Has quick buckles that make it easy to remove on your dog quickly after playtime
- Has a convenient design that distributes load across the dog’s chest
Proc of EzyDog Quick Fit Dog Harness
- The harness is built using high-quality stainless steel, hence durable
- The design is comfortable
Conc of EzyDog Quick Fit Dog Harness
- The EzyDog harness offers one point of attachment and hence not suitable for dogs that like pulling
- A few owners also said that the color of the harness could fade quickly
Why We Recommend It
We would recommend this harness for two reasons. First, the design of the harness is great as it prevents any strain around your dog’s throat. Secondly, it has an ergonomic built for owners who like to run together with their dog.
Features That Make Chai’s Choice Dog Vest Harness Stand Out
- Has a convenient design with two loops of different wideness. The harness features sturdy and adjustable straps to secure the dog firmly
- It comes with two rings at the chest and the back. The rings are made of Zinc alloy which is non-corrosive
- Has a mesh lining and padding for comfort and can absorb moisture. What’s more, it’s breathable
- Comes in different colors and sizes to fit your dog size. It has five sizes including extra small, small, medium, large and extra-large
- The harness is a jack of all trades as you can use it for jogging, walkouts, hiking and running
- It is made of reflective material and nylon webbings for enhanced visibility in low light areas
Proc of Chai’s Choice Dog Vest Harness
- It’s reflective and can be used in dark areas
- Has two leash attachments
- Harness is lightweight
- It’s adjustable
Conc of Chai’s Choice Dog Vest Harness
- Comes with thin chaffs which may chafe arms under
Why We Recommend It
If your dog loves being outdoor, this harness is an ideal pick, especially with the high elasticity sponge layer. In case you do not like it or if faulty, the manufacturer offers a 30-day warranty on the product. It’s worth a try.
Features That Make BarkOutfitters Dog Vest Harness Stand Out
- It comes in multiple colors which offers a wide variety that you can choose from
- It also comes in different sizes meaning you will easily find the right size for your dog
- Has an adjustable chest plate that keeps the vest from slipping from side to side. All its adjustable straps make it firm and sturdy
- Has a handle on top which comes in handy when you are training dogs
- The reflective nature of straps makes it ideal for night walks
- Has a smooth, high-quality inner lining for comfort
- It is made of waterproof materials
Proc of BarkOutfitters Dog Vest Harness
- Has an adjustable and removable chest plate
- It is comfortable on your dog
- Sturdy and thus ideal for substantial training and frequent walks
- Very easy to grab for more control
- Has a breathable fabric
- It can handle even the most energetic breeds
Conc of BarkOutfitters Dog Vest Harness
- Although it comes in different sizes, the sizing is not accurate
- Some users complained about its ease of use
Why We Recommend It
This dog harness is not only durable but also comfortable for your dog. It is suitable for stronger dog breeds because of its durability and sturdiness.
Its built-in handles on top of it offer more natural control, and thus you can easily maneuver your pooch during training.
Features That Make Embark Active Dog Harness Stand Out
- It is made by a renowned manufacturer of dog products including harnesses, premium-quality leashes, and other dog related items; you can be assured it is a quality product
- It comes in different size options to suit different dog breeds and sizes. The small sizes are meant for breeds with petite bodies and pups
- It is easy to use and has different points of adjustments
- This harness has a convenient control handle on its rear to offer you more control over your dog
- It is fully customizable, and thus you can adjust it to suit your dog’s size
- It is made of supremely durable and lightweight materials making it durable
Proc of Embark Active Dog Harness
- Has a customizable fit
- Comes with a very convenient design
- It is lightweight and durable
- Has a durable construction
- Available in different size and color options
Conc of Embark Active Dog Harness
- Some have potential problems with the D-rings
Why We Recommend It
This harness from Embark is one of the best dog harnesses in the market thanks to its soft padding on the inside that makes it comfortable on your dog. Your pooch will also benefit from its sturdy materials and lightweight nature. It is designed in a way that needs a single adjustment.
Features That Make Kurgo No-Pull Dog Harness Stand Out
- This harness is ideal while driving with a pooch
- It works with every seatbelt and acts as a car restraints
- Features 5-point adjustment to provide your dog with a perfect fit
- It suits larger dog breeds
- Has a padded chest plate for more protection
Proc of Kurgo No-Pull Dog Harness
- It is easy to use
- Offers excellent value for the money
- It is durable thanks to its sturdy construction
Conc of Kurgo No-Pull Dog Harness
- It is only available in one color
Why We Recommend It
This multipurpose harness is designed for walks and vehicle rides. It keeps your pup/dog secure while driving, thereby keeping you off distractions. Besides being one of the best walking harnesses, it is also designed to protect your dog from injuries which might be caused by sudden braking.
The five adjustment points of this harness ensure proper fitting, and the plastic interlocks make it easy to get on and off your dog. Besides, it is made of quality material and thus will serve you for a long time.
Features That Make EzyDog Convert Dog Harness Stand Out
- It has a durable polyester outer shell that keeps your dog warm and enables it to withstand the outdoor environment
- Has a soft cotton lining for extra comfort
- Has a soft handle for extra security
- It is lightweight for any sized dog
- It is easy to put on
- Has an adjustable chest strap that doesn’t rub the legs
- Features a durable rust-proof welded D-ring
Proc of EzyDog Convert Dog Harness
- It is of high-quality thanks to its sturdy construction
- It is easy to put on and off thanks to its streamline nature
- Has a reflective strip for safety during night runs
- Has an accessible handle if you need extra safety
- You can use it with or without a leash
Conc of EzyDog Convert Dog Harness
- It is stiff and awkward to adjust at first
- Can cause itching in some dogs due to lack of flexibility during the first few days
- The handle is positioned sideways, and thus it is awkward to pick your dog up
Why We Recommend It
There are many types of harnesses available, and a lot of them advertise practicality and comfort, but EzyDog Convert Dog Harness is up there with some of the best. Sporting a stylish, sleek design, this dog harness looks excellent and doesn’t compromise your dog’s safety. And although it doesn’t have storage pockets, this harness is durable and ideal for any weather.
Features That Make RABBITGOO No Pull Dog Harness Stand Out
- It has a streamlined design and thus is easy to put on. One of the things that make RABBITGOO No Pull Dog Harness stand out is how comfortable and easy it is to put it on and off your dog
- It is sturdy and durable. If you are looking for a harness that will stand the test of time, then RABBITGOO No Pull Dog Harness is the best bet. Even when it comes to dogs that pull on it often, this harness will not tear easily.
- Anti-pulling mechanism. This harness has a solid front hook that you can attach your leash to prevent your dog from pulling. Whenever they pull, they will have to turn around to do that. This defeats the purpose since they will be going in the opposite direction. Eventually, they will give up.
Proc of RABBITGOO No Pull Dog Harness
- It has an easy off-design that makes putting it on your dog easy
- It distributes pressure to the body thereby preventing choking
- Features an adjustable slide strap that allows you to create a custom fit for your pooch
- Features reflective straps that ensure your pooch’s safety
- Features 2 leash attachment point on the check and on the back
Conc of RABBITGOO No Pull Dog Harness
- Clipping on the back seems to give your pooch a stronger pull
Why We Recommend It
This harness offers excellent adjustability that makes it easy to attach to your dog. Furthermore, it comes in different sizes and thus can suit different dig sizes.
It also has a soft, inner material that is well padded and breathable so your pooch will not feel uncomfortable while they are in it, and the quality of its material means it will be extremely durable.
Bottom Line
Dog harnesses are better than collars, both regarding comfort and control. Pulling at a collar can put considerable pressure on your dog’s throat and thus can result in injuries. But with a harness, the pressure is evenly distributed throughout the body, and as long as it fits your dog well, there is very little chance of getting an injury.
All the quality harnesses we have reviewed here are durable and will last. We hope that you will find the best dog harness on our list!
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