Whether you're taking your dog on a long car journey or visiting your local dog park at night, a quality dog harness is an important piece of equipment for you to have. Dog harnesses can offer extra security that a standard collar leash just can't hold up to. They offer more control over your dog during walks, and some of them are made to make your dog's day out safer.
A Quick Overview of Our Favorites
| Editor's Pick | Product Name | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For Car | Kurgo Tru-Fit Enhanced Strength Dog Harness | Buy on Amazon | 4.4 |
| Most Comfortable | Ruffwear Front Range Harness | Buy on Amazon | 4.7 |
| Best Tactical | OneTigris Tactical Dog Vest | Buy on Amazon | 4.6 |
| Best For Large Dogs | Expawlorer Dog Harness | Buy on Amazon | 4.5 |
| Best No-Pull | Rabbitgoo Dog Harness | Buy on Amazon | 4.5 |
| Best Step-In Harness | Best Pet Supplies Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness | Buy on Amazon | 4.2 |
| Best LED | Noxgear LightHound Dog Harness | Buy on Amazon | 4.6 |
| Best For Puppies | PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness | Buy on Amazon | 3.9 |
| Best For Active Dogs | ThinkPet No Pull Harness | Buy on Amazon | 4.4 |
| Most Stylish | PUPTECK Soft Mesh Dog Harness | Buy on Amazon | 4.3 |
The Top 15 Dog Harnesses
1 Best For Car/Traveling: Kurgo Tru-Fit Enhanced Strength Dog Harness
- Crash tested up to 75 pounds
- Five adjustment points
- Includes a 10-inch seat belt loop and a carabiner
- Compatible with any car’s seat belt system
This is a dog harness that has been crash-tested. During rare impact crashes, there’s little a dog owner can do for their pup, but this harness gives your dog a better chance at coming out the other side of that crash. Suitable for dogs up to 75 pounds, you can buckle your dog in using a customizable fit that allows you to adjust five different areas of the harness. The chest pad reduces stress on the dog’s upper chest and throat, while also dispersing the kinetic energy caused during a crash across their entire body.
It’s also an excellent harness for everyday walkies with your pup, but the safety element of the harness really is the selling point for dog owners who regularly drive around with their loyal friends.
- Can also be used for long walks
- Protect’s your dog’s neck and chest from severe injury
- Can accommodate dogs of all sizes
- Not tested for dogs over 75 pounds
- Not chew-proof
2 Most Comfortable: RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Reflective trim for better visibility
- Foam-padded chest straps
- Two attachment points
RUFFWEAR’s no-pull harness fastens around the chest area of your dog and has two different attachment points for a more comfortable harness experience. There’s an aluminum V-ring and a reinforced webbing loop, both of which are attached to the harness’ durable shell. Though this is a great harness to put on your dog at night, thanks to its reflective trim, we’ve listed it as being the most comfortable dog harness out of the products in this guide because of its features.
With its customizable fit, you can easily clip this harness into place over your dog’s chest, and adjust the straps in four different locations to fit your dog’s body type. The straps across the chest of the harness are padded with foam, which helps ensure that your pup stays comfortable when they’re walking or running. That means they can continue wearing the harness when you take them off-lead in a dog park, and then all you need to do is clip your dog’s lead back into place.
- Great for everyday walks
- Perfect for night walks
- Adjust the straps for a proper fit
- Reflective strip lines are quite small
- Not heavy duty
3 Best Tactical: OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness Vest with Handle
- Reinforced stitchwork
- Durable back handle
- K9 ID patch panel for your dog’s identification patch
- Designed with bigger dogs in mind
Tactical dog harnesses provide better comfort and durability for your pup, without the danger of the dog’s skin getting injured if they wear it for long periods of time or pull on the harness. For the best dog harness for military dogs, OneTigris’ Tactical Dog Harness should certainly be one of your top choices. This harness is designed in a way that makes it a better fit for medium and large dogs, thanks to its upgraded structure and reinforced stitchwork.
If your working dogs pull a lot, a harness like this will save you from having to replace your harnesses constantly. Harnesses can get expensive if they break easily, but a tactical harness like this is made to withstand a lot more punishment than a regular harness. More than that, the handle on the back offers you a quick way to grab your dog without hurting the dog’s throat, just in case you find yourself in a hazardous situation.
- Easy to adjust
- Available in several subtle color designs
- Quick-grab handle to pull your dog out of danger
- Not great for small dogs
- Not load-bearing
4 Best For Large Dogs: EXPAWLORER Big Dog Soft Reflective No Pull Harness
- Fast-drying fabric
- Made to be breathable
- Strong, rubber back handle
- Reflective safety band across the back
This harness from EXPAWLORER is better for offering larger dogs a secure fit. There isn’t a strap that connects the chest and stomach belt like other harnesses, but as long as you don’t pull weirdly, the chest belt shouldn’t come anywhere near your dog’s neck. To further prevent this from happening, we’d recommend ensuring that you buy the right harness size for your pup and try to limit pull on your dog’s leash.
A big dog would benefit from this kind of harness because it has wider straps and a more durable attachment point for a leash. You’ll be able to control pulling, keep your dog safe, and still use this harness with a traditional collar if you wanted to.
- Heavy-duty buckle closure and D-rings
- Reflective straps for walking at night
- Wide straps
- Not suitable for small dogs
- Chest strap could be a choking hazard
5 Best No-Pull: Rabbitgoo Dog Harness
- Four adjustment points
- Wide chest plate
- Front clip point
- Breathable cushioned design
Finally, a no-pull dog harness that’s actually designed to help reduce pulling and keep your pup safe if they do decide to test the limits of their new harness set-up. This is an excellent step-in harness, that allows you to create a secure fit with the adjustable straps on either side of the product.
As a harness for your dog, we have to commend this comfortable and stylish design, which is complete with an excellent no-pull system. The front attachment point is low down on the harness, around the center of your dog’s chest, and connects to a cushioned chest plate.
- Suitable for dogs with a broad chest
- Great for dogs of all sizes
- Wide chest plate to prevent pulling hazards
- Clip buckles can be stiff
- Might be too bulky to fit dogs of a small or toy size
6 Best Step-In Harness: Voyager Black Trim Mesh Dog Harness
- Lightweight mesh design
- Step-in harness
- All-weather fabric
- Reflective bands on each side of the harness
For a stylish step-in harness that comes in eight different colors, this mesh design piece from Best Pet Supplies could be exactly what you’re looking for. The Voyager harness, as it’s called, has absolutely no adjustment points, so any potential purchaser must measure their dog as exactly as possible. Without having the correct measurements, you’ll end up with a harness that’s either too big or too small for your pup – and then begins that hassle of returning the item.
Thankfully, there are a huge number of size options, which all have specific measurements for your dog’s chest. Each size spans between an inch and two inches, which means there should be enough wiggle room for your dog without compromising the secure fit of the harness.
- Suitable for a large or small dog
- Dual attachment points on the back
- Easy to pull over your dog’s head
- No adjustment straps
- Can’t customize the fit
7 Best LED: Noxgear LightHound LED Dog Harness
- 8 different colors in one harness
- Bright LED lights
- USB rechargeable battery
- Rainproof
Nothing will keep your dog more visible at night than an LED dog harness. Dog walkers often favor harnesses like this because they’re something easy to put on a small group of dogs, and each of them will be clearly visible when being walked at night. It’s also a great advertising gimmick for dog walkers to have their own unique harnesses so that those who own dogs don’t have to worry about supplying them when they’re in a hurry to leave.
If a dog pulls a lot, these maybe aren’t the best choice of harness for that particular dog, though. They have a back-clip attachment, which won’t prevent pulling. They’re cool little harnesses, though, with 8 different colors and 6 different lighting modes! For an easy on-off dog harness, this is the one for you.
- 12 hours of battery life
- Perfect for night walks
- Can be machine washed
- Not suitable for dogs that pull
- Front-clip area likely be break
8 Best for Puppies: PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness
- Quick-snap buckles
- Color-coded straps
- Martingale loop to prevent strap twisting
- four adjustment points
Although we have this one down as our favorite harness for puppies, PetSafe’s Easy Walk Dog Harness is actually suitable for a range of dog sizes. The harness can be purchased as small as their Petit size (12 to 16-inch girth) up to their X-Large size (32 to 50-inch girth). This is an inexpensive and simple dog harness that is available in a stunning range of color choices, so you can choose the best version of the product for your dog.
It doesn’t matter whether you have a Toy Poodle or a couple of German Shepherds at home, if you need a quick harness to pop on your pup, here’s a solution for you. It’s also a good no-pull harness because of the location of the leash attachment ring!
- Lots of color options are available
- Inexpensive first harness
- Multiple size options
- Doesn’t seem very secure
- Thin straps could dig into your dog’s skin
9 Best for Active Dogs: ThinkPet No Pull Harness
- Breathable mesh design
- Created for active dogs
- Back handle
- Two attachment points for a leash
Another no-pull harness, but one with an important difference – this harness is made for active or sporty dogs who want to run around all day without their harness getting in the way. Perfect for the dog who spends hours in the dog park every week, ThinkPet has developed a breathable sport harness that is suitable for all dog sizes.
The location of the leash attachment creates a perfect pull-resistant system, meaning that your dog shouldn’t be able to jerk you forward if they get excited about something or are startled. Alternatively, you can use the front-clip D-ring to reduce pulling. For other options check out our full review of dog harnesses for running.
- Choose your attachment point
- Keep your dog comfortable while they’re exercising
- Available with a matching leash
- Elastic allows the harness to ride forward a little
- Security locks seem to be an unnecessary addition
10 Most Stylish: PUPTECK Soft Mesh Dog Harness
- Cute plaid and floral designs
- Quick-release buckle
- Wide chest plate
- Made of soft material
Certainly the most fashion-forward dog harness that we’ve showcased in this guide, this soft mesh harness from PUPTECK is sure to turn some heads while you’re out walking your dog! This harness isn’t made for huge dogs, but it’s a cute little thing to have for breeds like Boston Terriers and Yorkies.
To keep your pup safe while they’re wearing this harness, there’s a metal D-ring at the back where you can attach a leash. The design of the chest area is wide, and the straps link around to the back with a strong buckle on the side.
- Cost-effective harness and leash set
- Made from a breathable material
- Easy to take off and put on your dog
- Only available up to size large
- Just one adjustable strap
11 2 Hounds Design Freedom Harness & Leash
- Includes double-connection training leash
- Patented design
- Reduces twisting, straining, and pulling
- Made with heavy-duty nylon
This harness and leash set from 2 Hounds Design is an inexpensive solution to buying separate pieces of dog walking gear. Perfect for dogs as small as a Shi Tzu or for dogs weighing as much as a Newfoundland, this harness set is sure to help you when leash training your pup or getting them used to walking with a harness on.
The design of the harness discourages pulling. It’s surely the best harness to choose if you want something quick and easy to put on your dog, that you can also tug away in your doggy bag for a day out.
- Designed to improve communication between you and your dog
- Helps direct your dog while leash training
- Design prevents rubbing and chafing to front legs
- Thin straps could be uncomfortable
- No padding
12 Sporn Mesh No Pull Dog Harness
- Designed to stop even the hardest pulls
- Provides the ultimate comfort
- Elasticated mesh chest piece
- Padded restraint sleeves
This harness from Sporn is the best dog harness for no-pull leash training your easily stressed dogs. It’s designed for all dogs, including small dogs, to make walking on a leash more comfortable. This harness gives you more control over the actions your dog takes while walking with you, but it doesn’t prevent your pup from moving as they usually do. There are even padded restraint sleeves that go under your dog’s front legs, which offer further comfort.
You may also like out review of the top rated harnesses for chihuahuas.
- Veterinarian approved harness
- Follows your dog’s natural movements
- The best harness for a more natural walking experience
- Not chew-proof
- Difficult to put on
13 Pawaboo Dog Safety Vest Harness
- Different color options
- Includes a seat belt clip
- Strong back-clip for better control
- Adjustable straps
Probably one of the best dog harnesses for a day out with your pup that requires travel in a car or on public transport, this Safety Vest Harness from Pawaboo has great features. With its soft air mesh padding and breathable Oxford fabric, there’s never been a better time to suit up your dog in a harness like this and get on the road for a weekend away.
The harness comes complete with two buckles on either side of the back, which makes it extremely easy to put on your dog. As for leash attachment points, you can find one on the back, which you can change out with a seat belt attachment for better car safety.
- Prevents dogs from jumping out of the car while it’s moving
- Protects your dog if the car stops suddenly
- Lightweight
- Supplied seat belt attachment might not be compatible with your car
- Not great for heavy dogs
14 Puppia RiteFit Over-the-Head Dog Harness
- Authentic Puppia rubber patch
- 100% Polyester
- Quick-release buckle
- Two leash attachment points
A breathable mesh harness for your dog, Puppia presents their over-the-head dog harness called RiteFit. RiteFit has a wide chest strap that comes around the neck and belly of your pup before joining at the back where there’s a strong buckle and multiple leash attachment points.
This harness showcases a very wide chest strap, which will prevent any accidents from occurring should your dog decide to pull too hard. The strap is very secure, and you can adjust the tightness there are across the stomach belt.
- Four adjustable straps total
- Best dog harness for daily walks
- Adjustable neck area
- Wide neck may be uncomfortable on smaller dogs
- Half-padded belly strap
15 ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness
- Load-tested
- Hands-free carrying hooks and loops
- No-pull clip at the front
- Second leash clip on the back
Another tactical harness for our guide, this one is from the ICEFANG brand and is the best harness for working dogs who need a few extra safety features. This front-clip harness may not have the same kind of customizable fit that other harnesses have, but it’s load-bearing on at the shoulder and on the belly, and can carry gear using its built-in hooks and loops. Keep your pup safe by quickly controlling them using the back handle and steering them to safety.
- Comes in several colors
- Load-tested to 1000 pounds at the shoulder
- Safety control handle
- Must be hand washed
- Not very adjustable
The Best Dog Harnesses: Buying Guide & FAQs
Things to Consider When Buying a Dog Harness
When you’re considering a new dog harness for your pup, the main things you need to focus on are the features that each harness offers your and your furry friend. If you need a harness for low-light conditions, you’ll want one that has reflective strips or LEDs, rather than a plain, black harness that offers no extra visibility for your dog at night.
Think about the various situations where you’ve taken your dog out on walks, and what might have been handy for you to have. Larger dogs need sturdier harnesses because they can pull and break parts of them if they aren’t made of durable materials.
You should consider the material, the size, the customization of the harness, and the features it offers. A harness with a handle on the back is perfect for taking your dog swimming, but it might be too bulky for their daily walk.
Benefits of Dog Harnesses
There are a huge number of benefits that come with every dog harness out there, it all depends on what harness you’re considering.
Breathable mesh fabric is perfect for an active dog harness, while a front clip on a harness is better to prevent pulling while you’re leash training your dog. Some harnesses have soft padding built into them, which are great for making your pup more comfortable and can even help during car rides.
Overall, a harness is typically better for a dog than a collar leash. This is because a chest harness spreads the pull of a leash over a larger area of the dog’s body, thus making it extremely difficult to accidentally hurt them if the leash gets caught, they try to pull away, or you pull too hard trying to correct their path. With a collar leash, any force on the leash immediately goes to your dog’s neck.
Different Types of Dog Harnesses
There are plenty of different types of dog harnesses available in the pet industry – from tactical harnesses used in military settings to cute LED harnesses. Here are a few that might interest you:
- Front-clip harness with a front attachment point for a lead
- Back-clip harness with an attachment point where the center of your dog’s upper back would be
- Dual-clip harness, which is a harness with dual attachment points for two leash attachment points
- Heavy-duty harness, a harness that is made for larger and heavier dogs or working dogs
- No-pull dog harness for dogs who tend to pull when being walked
- Tactical or military harnesses, which are suitable for working dogs and are usually heavy-duty harnesses worn around a dog’s chest (some have extra clips, pockets, or pouches for storage)
- LED harnesses, which are flashy, colorful harnesses suitable for walking your dog at night or even taking them to a party
Dog Harness Vs. Collar: Which One is Better?
If the topic in question here is walking your dog, then a dog harness is always the better choice. They won’t hurt your dog’s neck, there are plenty of different harnesses to choose from, and many of them offer various leash attachment options and adjustable chest and belly straps. By using a harness, you have better control over your dog’s movement, and you can make sure they feel comfortable while being walked.
A dog collar does not give you any of these options. In fact, it’s rare to find anything other than a collar with the clip on the back of the neck – which can actually be harmful to your dog and even result in strangulation. If you must walk your dog on a collar, choose one that has a front clip. But really, there’s definitely an affordable harness out there that would work for your dog, so there shouldn’t be any reason to use a collar and leash set up.
How to Put On a Dog Harness
Most harnesses will either go over your dog’s head or they’ll have a clip that you can use to buckle the straps over your dog. Harnesses aren’t particularly complex devices, they usually have just one big clip, maybe two, and then a chest strap that goes over your dog’s shoulders.
You’ll want your dog to feel comfortable wearing their harness, which means it’s a good idea to let them wear it around the house before you take them out for a walk wearing it.
- Undo the clips that are fixing the harness together.
- Get your dog to step into the “armholes”. If they’re struggling because they’re anxious, you can hold your dog and have another person pull the harness onto them.
- Once the harness is flush with their chest, clip the fastenings back together.
- Start adjusting the straps. You don’t want the harness to be too tight – it shouldn’t dig into your dog’s body – but it shouldn’t be slipping down, either.
- Attach a lead, and you’re ready to go!
Frequently Asked Questions
The chest strap should be snug against your dog, but you should be able to easily fit two fingers between the harness straps and your pup’s skin. If it’s too tight, you could cause the straps to chafe against your pup.
A dog can wear a collar and a harness at the same time, provided that the harness isn’t a high-collared harness. When using both items at the same time, be sure to only attach your leash to the attachment points on the harness, never the collar.
It’s not recommended because it could become uncomfortable for your dog, but you can leave a harness on your dog all day as long as it’s properly fitted. If you’re planning on doing this often, we would recommend investing in a more comfortable and lightweight harness that has foam padding.
In some places, it’s a legal requirement for dogs to have identification tags on either their collar or their harness. There’s nowhere that wouldn’t allow you to put your dog’s tags on their harness because it’s a way of someone contacting you if your dog gets lost. We would recommend making sure your dog has a tag or at least something that states they’re microchipped.
Most dog harnesses are machine washable, which is great news for dog owners with pups that enjoy getting as messy as possible. On average, you should try to wash your dog’s harness once a month or so. This will keep the fabric nice and clean, which will make your dog comfortable. You can wash a harness more often if needed.
No-pull harnesses rely on having an attachment point in the front, close to the dog’s neck, and there’s sometimes extra fabric from wide chest straps because of this placement. This means that your pup can’t move their shoulders as well as they should be able to, and they could accidentally choke themselves if they got wrapped up in their lead.
