The Best Easy Walk Dog Harnesses
Best dog harnesses can make a huge difference in your walks with your furry friend. Harnesses prevent choking for dogs that pull on the leash and are less stressful on your dog’s neck. While still giving you control during your strolls, the best dog harnesses also keep your doodle comfortable. They come in a variety of designs, styles and uses for you to choose from. With the market being flooded with dog harnesses figuring out the best fit for your canine buddy can be overwhelming. To help you figure out what kind of dog harness you need, today’s guide reviews some of the best dog harnesses and shed light on the night-gritty of dog harnesses. Before looking at our top picks, let’s look at the different types of dog harnesses.
Types of Dog Harnesses
-
Back-Clip Dog Harnesses
These are the most common dog harnesses on the market. They are characterized by a basic design that works great with most pups hence their popularity. The dog harnesses have a metal D-loop sewn into the fabric at the back. It is at this D-loop that the dog leash is attached. With the back-clip dog harnesses, it is less likely for the dog leash to get tangled or tipped on. Also, it is hard for the pooch to reach the leash and chew it. If you are considering a back-clip dog harness we recommend the PetSafe EasySport Dog Harness.
PetSafe EasySport Dog Harness
The harness is a favorite among dog owners. The harness features comfortable padding all around and fully adjustable to cater to the needs of different dog breeds. Its elastic neckline allows for smooth sliding of the harness when attaching and detaching it from the dog. Besides, the elasticity facilitates gentle strolls. For utmost pet control during walks, the dog harness has a rear D-ring that minimizes leash tangling. In situations where you need to control the dog quickly, the harness has a top handle for added safety as you can swiftly deal with the situation. The harness also has two quick snap buckles for easy get on and off.
Key Features
- An elastic neckline for utmost comfort
- D-ring is centrally located to prevent dogs from tripping on the leash during walks
- The top control handle allows for swift control of the pooch
- Great for active dogs courtesy of the comfortable padding
- The basic design that is easy to use
-
Front Clip Dog Harnesses
These dog harnesses are also referred to as anti-pull harnesses as they help teach your pooch not to pull its leash. The loop for leash attachment is located in front of the pup’s chest. An advantage of this type of harness is discouraging the natural pulling instinct of a dog. Front-clip harnesses can either be easy walk harness or sense-action harness. The easy walk harnesses have a martingale loop in the front and multi-colored straps to help you know the underbelly and the back clips. The sense-action harness on the other hand lacks the martingale loop. These harnesses are suitable for stubborn pullers. The front clip dog harnesses are very popular in the dog community and are the most suitable for teaching good leash manners. If you buying a dog harness for the first time, you might want to start with the front clip harness. There are great front-clip harnesses on the market. Our top pick is the PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness.
PetSafe Easy Walk Deluxe Dog Harness
Ask any dog trainer and chances are they will recommend this harness. Dog parents and trainers like the dog harness as it is perfect for teaching leash manners. The harness has a Martingale loop and front chest leash attachment that discourages pulling. The harness rests on the dog’s chest safely so you need not worry about gagging and choking. Another notable feature of this harness is the breathable design that guarantees utmost comfort. The harness is also quick and easy to fit on your canine. Other positive attributes of this harness are sturdiness, durability and quality construction. Enjoy the tranquility of stress-free strolls with these top-notch dog harness.
Key Features
- No-Pull design for stress-free walks
- Quick and easy fit
- Safe and comfortable
- Light and breathable design
-
Dual-Clip Dog Harnesses
This dog harness offers the benefits of both front-clip and back-clip dog harnesses. You can attach the leash on the front or back depending on the dog’s behavior. Since they offer the best of both worlds, these dog harnesses are the most versatile models in the market. On the flip side, these dog harnesses are more expensive and require double-ended leases for attachment to both D-rings. If you are considering a dual-clip dog harness, the Hurtta Casual Reflective dual clip Y-Harness is a great choice.
Hurtta Casual Reflective dual clip Y-Harness
If you are looking for a paw-some and stress-free walking experience, this is the right harness for you. With an adjustable chest circumference, fitting the harness on your dog is an effortless endeavor. For dogs that like to pull, the harness distributes pressure evenly to ensure safety. Another notable feature is the neoprene padding that prevents chafing after extended periods outdoors. The harness has a reflective imprint to enhance visibility and security. The harness is fitted with two buckles so you can easily fit on your dog without lifting any of the dog’s legs.
Key Features
- A comfortable design that pays attention to the dog’s chest
- Easy and quick to use
- Neoprene padding for utmost comfort
- Reflectors into the webbing for visibility and security
- Easy to fit on your dog
-
Step-In Dog Harnesses
These harnesses are suitable for dogs that abhor harnesses put on over their heads. To fit the harness, you first lay on the ground and let the dog step into the two loops created by the straps. Then you pull up the side straps and buckle them together around the pup’s back. These harnesses have a back clip for attaching the leash. These dog harnesses are great for small breeds. Our top pick for this type of harnesses is the Blueberry Step in Back Clip Dog Harness.
Blueberry Pet Classic Solid Nylon Step in Back Clip Dog Harness
This is a premium quality elegant dog harness. The harness features a simple yet classic design that makes it easy to put on and remove. Made of nylon fabric with high-density webbing, the harness is not only durable but comfy on your dog’s chest. The harness has two nickel-coated D rings for leash attachment. This harness is machine washable so you don’t need to worry about the dog picking dirt while in the park. These harnesses are available in different colors for you to choose from.
Watch: How To Leash Train Your Puppy
Without further ado, we will review some of the best dog harnesses.
8 Best Dog Harnesses for Stress-Free Walks
#1) ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness with 2X Metal Buckle
This is an escape-proof harness that can handle up to 1000lb weight. The two alloy metal buckles on the shoulder position bear the load when the dog is pulling. The bar tack stitching with an X pattern on each joint makes the harness firm and will not easily snap. The harness has 4 adjusting points two at the shoulders and two at the chest to give the harness a perfect fitting.
The tough double handle allows you to easily grab the dog if it needs to be lifted. As the one best dog harnesses, ICEFANG tactical dog harness brings the best of both worlds as it has a no-pull front clip and back leash clip for well-trained pups. The harness has plenty of room for patches and two strips of one-inch MOLLE sewn on both sides where your dog can easily carry gear for your hike. This harness is made of nylon material for durability and sturdiness.
The versatility of the harness makes it a top contender of the best dog harnesses. You will be able to use it for training, daily walking and hiking adventures. What’s more? The dog harness lets you hook some items to it such as a dog bowl, water bottle and toys. Some of the positive attributes that make ICEFANG rank highly among the best dog harnesses are durability, sturdiness, security features, and comfort. Majority of the dog owners who have used the harness give it a five-star rating.
Features
- Escape proof.
- Can handle up to 1000 lbs. of weight.
- It has two metal alloy buckles on the shoulder that bear the load when the dog is pilling.
- It has a bartack stitching with an X pattern on each joint to ensure that the harness does not snap.
- A tough double handle for you to lift the dog.
- Two leash attachments, at the front and the back.
- Made of nylon for durability.
- Hands-free carrying.
#2) OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness
Made of nylon, this dog harness is very durable. It is well padded with mesh padding on the high-pressure areas for extra comfort. It has two metal D-rings, a non-pull front ring for dog training and a back one for daily walks. The harness has four quick-release buckles for convenience and is adjustable to give a customized fitting to your pooch. Besides, it has a sturdy top handle for situations that require swift action such as traffic control and a soft velvet neck strap to minimize the risk of your dog getting chocked.
The two adjustable shoulder straps and the belly band ensure that your dog is comfortable and give you added control. It has two MOLLE hoop and loop strips to easily attach pouches, treats, or badges. This harness comes in four colors and two sizes. As one of the best dog harnesses, OneTigris tactical dog harness has a five-star rating when it comes to stability, sturdiness and comfort. Another distinguishing feature of this harness is easy maintenance as it is easy to clean.
Features
- Made of nylon for durability.
- Well-padded with mesh padding for comfort.
- Two metal D rinds; at the front and the back.
- 4 quick-release buckles for convenience.
- Adjustable to give your dog a perfect fitting.
- It has two MOLLE hoop and loop strips to easily attach pouches, treats or badges
- Comes in four colors and two sizes.
#3) Juxzh Truelove Soft Front Dog Harness
Are you looking for a stylish but durable dog harness? The Juxzh Truelove Soft Front Dog Harness would be a perfect choice. It has a stylish scratch-resistant outer material and it comes in a variety of fun colors. It is made of an oxford material for durability and nylon webbing with reflective material for visibility even in low light conditions. This harness is lightweight, has a breathable mesh, sponge padding and an ergonomic design for comfort.
It has two adjustable buckles and neck straps to give a perfect fit to your furry friend. Also, it features a stainless-steel O- front ring and an aluminum alloy V back ring to attach the leash. The sturdy handle at the top allows you to lift your dog if need be. Another facet that solidifies Juxzh dog harness as the most stylish harness among the best dog harnesses is the no-pull design. This makes strolls with your pup stress-free. The buckle is made to have a large loading capacity through its high tensile strength. Another desirable feature of this harness is that is available in different colors and sizes. You will find a good fit for any dog breed.
Features
- Stylish
- Scratch-resistant material.
- Comes in fun colors.
- Made of an oxford material for durability.
- Reflective nylon webbing for visibility.
- Breathable mesh, padded front and an ergonomic design for comfort.
- Two adjustable buckles and neck straps for a perfect fit.
- Stainless steel O front ring and aluminum alloy V back ring to attach the leash.
- Sturdy handle at the top to lift or control your dog.
#4) EXPAWLORER Big Dog Harness
As one best dog harnesses Expawlorer dog harness boasts a sturdy rubber handle that is perfect for grabbing, lifting, or having more effective and direct control over your dog. The heavy-duty back D-ring leash attachment allows for control and the no-pull design allows for pressure distribution all over the dog’s body to prevent suffocation. Besides, the no-pull design gives the pup to more freely.
The dog harness is carefully designed to evenly distribute the tension in the event of an emergency pull. This harness is made of a durable nylon material. What’s extra? The dog harness features a breathable make, has a thick filler and extra-thick straps for comfort. Another desirable thing of the Expawlorer dog harness is the reflective strip at the top for visibility thus is ideal for night or early morning walks. It has quick-release buckles for easy and convenient wear.
This harness comes in a variety of vibrant colors to choose from as well. The dog harness has a five-star rating when it comes to ease of use, sturdiness and comfort. Walking with your big pooch is pleasurable and equipping your big boy this good harness makes it safer and comfortable. Whether it is sitting, walking, or running, dogs feel very comfortable with the dog harness on.
Features
- Sturdy rubber handle for effective and direct control.
- Heavy-duty back D-ring leash attachment for control.
- No pull design.
- Made of nylon for durability.
- Breathable and has thick straps for comfort.
- Reflective strap at the top for visibility.
- Quick-release buckles for easy and convenient wear.
- Comes in a variety of vibrant colors to choose from.
#5) PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness
The Petsafe Easy walk dog harness is vet and trainer recommended. No wonder it is among the best dog harnesses out on the market. The dog harness is ideal for stopping a light to moderate pulling as it has a back clip model and attaches the leash at the front. The front clip D-ring allows you to control your dog during walks and the strap rests on your dog’s chest to prevent choking.
The patented Martingale loop located on the chest piece tightens at the front preventing your pup from tangling while still giving you a relaxed control. It is easy to get on and off as it has quick strap buckles and it fits dogs of all sizes. This harness is designed for correcting bad habits and has a very little form of padding thus not comfortable for puppies and senior dogs.
Features
- Front clip D-ring for control.
- Easy to put on and remove.
- Vet and trainer recommended.
- Back clip model and attaches the leash at the front thus ideal for stopping a light to moderate pulling.
- Strap rests on your dog’s chest to prevent choking.
- Patented Martingale loop that prevents tangling and gives you a relaxed control.
- Fits most breeds.
#6) Labra Veterinarian Approved Dog Support Harness
Has your dog sustained some injuries or has limited mobility due to old age? This would be a good choice. This harness has a sling that makes walking painless for both dogs and humans. If you gave back pain, this dog harness will also work for you as it will allow you to lift your dog without having to bend over.
This harness can be used to support dogs of up to 40 pounds. The soft fleece lining makes this harness a very comfortable choice. The straps are adjustable to suit your preference. It is easy to use as you easily slip the sling under your dog’s midsection.
Features
- Perfect for dogs with limited mobility due to either injuries or old age.
- Suitable for dog parents that prefer not to bend maybe because of back pains.
- Recommended for dogs of up to 40 pounds.
- Soft fleece lining for comfort.
- Adjustable straps.
- Easy to use.
#7) BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness
This is a perfect dog harness for large breeds of dogs. The harness features front and back ring leash attachments for control. It is a non-pull harness as it distributes pressure evenly on your dog’s body reducing a choking instance. This dog harness has adjustable straps both at the back and at the neck that allow you to fit the harness to a dog of any shape.
The easy-grab handle at the back allows you to easily lift or assist your pet during your walks. This harness has a breathable mesh lining and a front plate padding to give your dog the comfort it desires. The vest is reflective for visibility even in low light areas. It is easy to wear due to its simple design and easy snap buckles.
Features
- Perfect for large breeds.
- Easy to wear.
- Has a reflective vest for visibility.
- Adjustable straps both at the neck and the back to give a customized fitting.
- Easy grab handle at the top to give you effective control.
- Mesh lining and padded front plate for comfort.
#8) rabbitgoo Dog Harness
Do you enjoy night walks or early morning walks? If yes, this would be a good choice of a harness as it has ultra-bright reflective stitching that makes it visible even in low light conditions. It features two metal clips, at the front and at the back for attaching the leash. This non-pull harness is safe for your dog as it reduces the risk of choking by evenly redistributing pressure to the dog’s body.
It is made of nylon for durability. It has a padded cushion at the front and a breathable mesh for your pet’s comfort. This harness has an over-the-head fitting and fast-release buckles to make usage easier. It is fully adjustable with two adjustable straps at the neck and two at the chest thus gives your dog some allowance to grow. It is lightweight and easy to clean for convenience and also features a top handle for enhanced control making it one of the best dog harnesses.
Features
- Ultra-bright reflective stitching for visibility.
- Two metal clips both at the back and at the front for attaching the leash.
- It is a non-pull harness thus reduces the risk of your dog getting chocked.
- Made of nylon for durability.
- Padded front and breathable mesh for comfort.
- Over the head, fitting and quick-release buckles make this harness easy to put on and take off.
- Fully adjustable.
- Easy to clean
- It has a top handle for enhanced control.
Related Post: Best Dog Baskets for Bikes
Best Dog Harnesses Buying Guide & FAQs
Factors to Consider when choosing the Best Dog Harnesses
Safety
A good dog harness should be safe for the dog. A perfect dog harness should snug on to the dog so that it does not slip out. It should however not be too tight to cause discomfort on your dog. Besides, it should also not scratch or choke your dog as this would result in other health issues such as trachea problems.
Durability
Your harness of choice should be durable so that it lasts you a long time. Larger and stronger dogs can easily tear off harnesses that cannot withstand pressure. Get a harness that will withstand everyday activities and will last you a long time.
Fully Adjustable
A fully adjustable harness would be a good choice as it would fit a dog of any shape comfortably. An adjustable harness also gives your dog some growth allowance thus you will not have to replace the harness every time your dog increases in size or weight.
Easy to Put on and Take Off
Your harness of choice should be easy to put on and take off. This will help you avoid the hassle of a tedious putting on and taking off process especially on dogs that are not accustomed to using harnesses or those that have sensitive bodies.
Comfort
Your dog needs to be comfortable even when having a harness on. Comfortable harnesses are lightweight, soft, padded, have a mesh fabric and are adjustable. If you get a harness with all these features, you’ll have gotten a very comfortable harness for your doodle. Best dog harnesses with breathable mesh and lightweight cotton are ideal for walking your dog, hiking adventures and other outdoor activities as they facilitate cooling.
Style & Dog Size
We want our dogs to look stylish. Don’t we? Harnesses come in different styles to choose from and you can choose one that you like best. The size of your pet is also a key consideration. It determines whether the dog leash will be clipped on the front or back of the harness. For big boys, front leads are better while smaller breeds work great with leashes clipped to the back of the harness. Certain dog breeds require special considerations. Pugs for instance need straps cut lower to prevent exerting pressure on their neck as it may choke them.
Related Post: Best Dog Leash with Seat Belt Buckle
Why Use A Dog Harness
- Harnesses offer better control during strolls or runs.
- You can redirect your dog thus discourage pulling
- If your dog requires aid to get up and down, the harness doubles up as a mobility aid.
- Harnesses help in distributing pressure and they come in handy especially for flat-faced dogs that find it hard to stand collars that put pressure on their face.
- Harnesses come in handy for dogs that tend to back out from a collar.
See Also: Best Braided Leather Dog Leash
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Dog Harnesses
Q: How do I choose the right size dog harness?
A: Dogs come in different shapes and sizes and no one harness can fit all dogs. To get the right sized harness you need to get the measurements of your dog. Get the chest width by wrapping a tape measure across the chest over the breast bone to approximately one inch behind the front legs. Also, get the dog’s girth by wrapping the tape measure around the deepest part of the rib cage behind the front legs. Compare these measurements with the manufacturer’s measurements to get the right-sized dog harness.
Q: How do I check if the harness is a proper fit for my dog?
A: The harness should snug on the dog’s fur but should not be too tight on your doodle. You should be able to place two fingers between the harness and the dog. The straps should also be well-fitting in that there should be no gaps or pulling. If the skin is bunched up, the straps are too tight. A well-fitting harness should have minimal movement inside while you are walking with your dog. In case you notice irritation spots on your dog, remove the harness as it might be too tight. You should also not be able to pull off the harness by pulling the front straps.
Q: Are Harnesses Good for Dogs?
A: Generally, harnesses are the safest, most secure and most comfortable way to hook a leash onto your dog. Best dog harnesses reduce pulling, they give you more control and minimize the risk of your dog getting hurt during walks and runs.
Q: What is the Difference Between a Head Collar and a Harness?
A: Whereas both head collars and dog harnesses are ideal doggo training tools, deciding between which one to use is mind-boggling. Both tools are effective when training your pooch on how to walk on a leash but they work differently. A dog harness fastens with a chest strap, buckles and has even pressure distribution to impede choking during walks. Dog harnesses are a fantastic tool for training a pup to walk on a loose leash and do not exert pressure on a dog’s chest like traditional collars. On the other hand, head collars fasten at the front of the neck with straps. When the dog pulls a leash attached to a head collar, the dog’s head turns redirecting his/her attention. Headcollars are ideal for pups that pull severely.
You may also like: Best Dog Treat Bags
Conclusion
Which of the best dog harnesses from today’s post will you try first? For most dogs, a harness will be quite beneficial for your walks and runs. Choosing the right harness will give your dog the comfort it desires and also give you control. With the recommendations above, you will be able to bring home the best harness for your dog depending on your need and style.