Tips on Getting A Good Fit For Your Canine
When choosing a harness for your dog, make sure that it is easy to slide and that it allows your dog to move freely and comfortably. It should also be snug enough so it cannot wriggle out of it. You can check if it is adjustable by looking at the girth, the area around the chest behind your canine’s legs.
| Brand | Price Point | My Notes | My Rating/5 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simply Wag | $$$ | Dual closure system. Lots of colors & sizes to choose from. | 4.7 | |
| Freedom No Pull | $$ | Minimizes pulling & neck strain. Soft Swiss velvet lining. Very effective no pull feature. | 4.6 | |
| Ruffwear Front Range Adventure | $$$ | Reflective trim & ID pocket. Comfortable. 4 points of adjustment. Extremely durable | 4.9 |
What Are The Best Dog Harnesses To Buy?
Now that you have an idea of what to look out, let’s have a look at the best dog harness reviews top 10 picks to buy. Here you will find cheaper ones, leather ones, even fashionable frilly ones – there’s so much variety to choose from.
1. Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart with Quick Release Buckles
Kurgo harness is one of the best harness for dogs as it can be used indoors or outdoors. With a padded chest plate and five adjustment points, it is comfortable and very easy to put on and adjust. It is also machine washable and can fit dogs weighing 10 to 80 lbs.
Featuring quick-release buckles and a no-pull ring, this harness makes everyday walking and training easier and more comfortable for your dog.
Made with seatbelt webbing and other sturdy materials, it is also great for restraining while driving as it can be used with any seatbelt. Its five adjustment points ensure near perfect fit and this can also be used to restrain your dog while you are driving.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Highly adjustable harness
- Useful seatbelt attachment
- Versatile and can be used for almost anything
- Ensures perfect fit
Keep In Mind:
- Not ideal for highly active pets
- Sizing may sometimes be inaccurate
2. Noxgear Lighthound LED Harness
This unique illuminated dog harness is certainly one of a kind. If you’re big on visibility for your dog, this one will prove to be very safe as it’s very hard to miss your canine on the roads.
Lightweight and comfortable, your dog will likely not struggle when it’s time to put it on. Adjust it for a snug comfy fit with an easy button and conveniently toss it in the washing machine for cleaning.
This Noxgear harness gives your canine optimal visibility in all sorts of environments. It runs on micro USB rechargeable battery.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Really lightweight and comfortable for your pet
- Easy to fit and slip on with a button
- Offers extreme visibility and safety for your canine
- Its illumination is designed to last a long time
- Conveniently machine washable
- Choose from 4 different sizes
3. Clickit Sport Utility Safety Harness
Ballistic nylon is used to make this harness (the same material used for luggages). You can be sure it’s sturdy, durable, tough, strong and lightweight.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Known to offer thorough, strong support in the case of an accident
- Doesn’t restrict your pet or make it feel uncomfortable
- Tough, sturdy yet lightweight material
4. EzyDog Drive Car Harness
This high quality harness by EzyDrive is great for car safety, having been crash tested for utmost safety. Featuring strong, robust stitching, this harness even has a solid padded chest plate with a unique locking system.
As a walking harness, it’s effective and reliable. With 3 different sizes to choose from, its breathability also means your dog will be very comfortable wearing it.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Comes with unique padded chest plate for even more protection
- Stitching is very strong, durable and of high quality
- 3 sizes to choose from so you can find the perfect fit for your canine
- Crash tested
5. ARIKON Adjustable Heavy Duty Denim No-Pull Training Harness
Made with durable and wear-resistant denim, this harness is not easy to break even when chewed on. It is suitable for different breeds as it comes in different colors and can fit dogs from 11.8 to 27.6 inches.
Designed with hard plastic rings, it can be adjusted easily so it would not be too tight or too loose for your dog. It even has a lock catch that makes it very easy to unlock and fasten. There is even a leash and a hook included, which helps you control your canine when you are walking or jogging.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Easy to put on
- Effective in restraining
- Sturdy and looks great
Keep In Mind:
- Dye runs if not washed properly
6. Unho Dog Body Padded Extra Big Large Medium Small Heavy Duty
Made with a non-pulling mesh and elastic webbing, this dog harness offers total style and comfort. This is one of the top ones for large dogs, especially ones that pull. It can endure any weather as it is made with high quality nylon and nickel-plated material.
It is comfortable due to its skin-friendly soft inner lining. It’s also breathable and sweat resistant. The soft double layer nylon hand strap paired with a heavy-duty metal D ring ensures that your dog would not be able to break free easily. The chest strip is also highly adjustable and it comes in sizes good a chest size of 50 to 110 cm.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Well-made and sturdy
- Easy to put on and adjust
- Comfort and style in one
Keep In Mind:
- Sizing may sometimes be inaccurate
- May get twisted easily
7. Halti Training Harness
Another best harness for dogs – it is designed by a veterinarian! This dog harness has been made to fit all dog breeds, even small dogs – making it one of the best puppy harness. With a padded girth strap, it prevents chaffing and is able to stay firmly in place.
The front chest strap makes it easier for you to have more control and steer it towards your desired direction. There is also a collar clip that you can use to ensure extra security. This is a great choice because you can also use it with a double-ended leash that you can attach to the front and the back. It can fit a girth size of 14 to 40 inches.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Helps decrease pulling and aggression
- Effective in training
- Escape proof
- Provides comfort
Keep In Mind:
- Plastic buckles can be weak
- Fitting instructions may be inaccurate
8. GingerLead Harness
GingerLead is a great harness for injured dogs suffering from knee, back or hip problems. Elderly dogs will also benefit from this. Especially if they’re struggling to walk due to old age diseases such as arthritis or degenerative myelopathy.
This support sling and rehabilitation harness gives your dog a lot of comfort and support. While giving you control over your dog’s movements. It comes with a leash that you can attach to a collar and also includes stay on straps.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Gives lots of comfort and support for elderly or injured canines
- Strongly made, durable and great quality
9. SimplyWag – Best Dog Harness for Small Dogs
Made of 100% polyester mesh and available in 19 different colors, this SimpleWag Body brand is one of the most stylish options and more popular harness for small dogs in the market. It has a dual-closure system that ensures a snug fit for your dog and it can be easily secured with just two fingers.
There is also a Velcro that keeps everything in place, making it easier for you to adjust according to the size of your pet. It comes in sizes perfect for a girth size ranging from 12 to 53 inches.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Provides comfort
- Colors allow high visibility
- Ensures perfect fit
Keep In Mind:
- Sizing may sometimes be inaccurate
10. Wiggles Wags & Whiskers Freedom No-Pull
This is great if you want to train your dog to walk easily on a leash. Made of nylon webbing and X stitches, it can be used daily and can withstand the strongest pets. It is patented, with a dual connection found at the front and back that helps you redirect its attention and discourage pulling.
It also comes in different colors and has a Swiss velvet lining behind the legs also prevents sores, chaffing, and rubbing. It comes in different sizes perfect for chest size ranging from 14 to 44 inches.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Works well for training and walking
- Perfect for high energy pulling dogs
- Worth the money
Keep In Mind:
- Clasps may be a bit bulky
11. Ruffwear Front Range Everyday
This model is perfect for everyday use. Made with four points of adjustment, a padded chest and belly panel, it provides a customizable and comfortable fit. It also has two leash attachment points that are useful for additional control.
One is an aluminum V-ring at your canine’s back and another is reinforced webbing on the chest. Also, there is even an ID pocket that holds your dog’s tags and makes them more accessible. It fits a girth size ranging from 13 to 42 inches. Read more about my Ruffwear review.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Useful dual point attachment
- Allows free movement
- Great investment
Keep In Mind:
- Great for its basic everyday design but could improve on more features
11. Gooby Choke Free Perfect Fit X for Small Dogs
This is great for small dogs and has a stylish choke-free design that provides comfort. Made of 100% polyester mesh with a soft suede trim, it easily dries up when wet and there is less skin irritation due to the synthetic lambskin strap.
The V-neck opening provides comfort and style. And helps reduce pulling as the force is distributed throughout the chest. Its four adjustable points ensures a comfortable fit and it can fit canines with a chest size ranging from 13 to 23.4 inches.
Why It’s So Popular:
- Easy to put on and adjust
- Comfortable and sturdy
- Uniquely designed
Keep In Mind:
- May be a bit loose
Why Use A Dog Harness?
A harness does not put any pressure on the throat. This can be very critical for dogs (small or big) who pull on the leash or have respiratory or throat diseases.
Also, it helps you control your pet during training. As your pet begins to adjust his center of gravity, he finds the position where he is most comfortable and balanced.
Most importantly, it provides more security and comfort. With one, your dog might adjust better as it would be more challenging for him to wriggle out of it.
When introducing your dog to one, you must condition him first. Give him a lot of treats and praise to develop positive associations with the harness.
Different Types of Harnesses
There are different kinds of harnesses that have their own features and purposes. Some types include:
1. Walking
A walking harness is good if your pet is very obedient and has minor behavior issues. This particular type is very light and will not hurt in any way. If strolls are your thing, make sure you get a good walking harness.
2. No Pulling
If your dog likes forcing you to hurry, this best harness for dogs will help train it to become more obedient. It can also develop your pet’s muscles as it allows you to attach some weights. This will make it harder to pull. No Pulling Dog Harness are great as they are a lot stronger and are specifically designed to counter this problem.
3. Training
A training harness is good for pets that are active. Its durability can withstand intense movements while ensuring comfort and the ability to breathe freely.
4. Back-Clip
For this design, the leash attachment is found on the dog’s back. This is great for tiny dogs and will help train it not to pull on the leash.
It is comfortable and very easy to put on. It does not tangle easily and usually comes in many patterns. However, it can provide little control for dogs that are very aggressive and have the tendency to pull on the leash.
5. Front-Clip
With this kind, the leash attachment is found on the dog’s chest. This design allows the owner to control the direction, thus minimizing pulling.
With this, there is a tendency for the leash to tangle easily. A head halter may still be needed for pets that are very aggressive.
6. Tightening
Tightening harnesses are great when you want to hinder your dog from pulling. Because of the slight discomfort due to the tightening, your pet would eventually stop pulling. It is very easy to put on and does not cause pain.
However, this does not help your pet learn how to walk on a loose leash. Note that there are some tightening ones that can cause pain, Be sure to research more into the product.
Learning To Measure Your Dog Accurately
Of course, knowing how to measure your dog’s girth or chest will play a big part in purchasing the right one. Most dog owners are a little lost when it comes to this and they wonder: which one will give a good fit? Check out my guide here on how to measure accurately and choose the right one.
How To Actually Put It On Properly
After you’ve decided on your choice, learning how to actually put it on is essential. Instead of fumbling around yourself, read my guide on putting the harness on step by step the correct way. Especially for small breeds, you need to know how to put it on properly so you don’t hurt your small dog.
Conclusion
There are a wide variety of best dog harnesses in the market in all sorts of sizes, colors and designs. Make sure you do your research and read up on the best dog harness reviews to decide.
Citations:
http://www.ruffwear.com/dog-harnesses-fit-guide
http://www.petmd.com/dog/training/evr_dg_how-to-properly-put-on-dog-harness
