Dog collars and harnesses allow an individual to not only control the dog but help in sporting the fashion or expression of a person’s personality. A harness is a great tool if a pet parent wants their dog to pull them. For example, during the use of rollerblades or a bike ride. It is also a safe option for dogs that have their faces pushed-in as this restricts breathing, such as pugs, dogs with trachea or throat problems which include Pomeranians, and dogs with elongated, overly slender necks, like Greyhounds, need to avoid certain collars, such as slip collars.
Body straps are mostly preferred by pet owners who have dogs that get distracted easily or are uncontrollable mostly or at times. Using a harness helps to get better control over the movement of the pooches while on a walk. If your pooch belongs to the category above reading on to know more.
10 Best Pooch Harnesses
#1: ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness
Pros
- The lead clips offered at the bottom is of the vests are perfect.
- The harness system is perfectly stitched with no loose threads.
- Available in variant sizes.
- The buckles are present at the right places for providing the perfect fit.
Cons
- All the four buckles provided are not made of metal.
- Gives a feeling that only half of the vest has quality materials – even though the back buckles are heavy duty.
- The grab handle doesn’t have a rubber holder for a better grip.
Why do we recommend this product?
The harness is adjustable to fit the different contours of the canines. It doesn’t rub or ride on the dog, this helps to not only keep the fur of the fido’s in good order but also doesn’t irritate the dog while wearing it. The metal front buckles offer confidence is seen to resist the extreme pulls and the no pull ring in the front aids to train the pets to not pull when on a leash. A special mention needs to be given to the breathable webbing on the underside, as this will help keep the canines cool in the summer.
Final word
A must try dog harness for all dog sizes for a hassle and peaceful waking sessions. https://amzn.to/2UlgD9N
#2: Kurgo Tru-Fit No Pull Dog Harness
Pros
- A comfortable walking harness with five easy adjustable points and a Weinerlock plastic quick release buckles.
- The harness has a front D-ring for the leash attachment that aids to train the dogs to not to pull.
- Comes with a 10-inch lead that can be used as a dog seat belt. This helps in restraining the dog and prevent it from distracting during driving.
- The product comes with a hassle-free Kurgo Lifetime Warranty against manufacturer defects when purchased from an authorized dealer.
Cons
- The product is sturdy but is also clunky and heavy.
- Minimal padding is found on the chest and underside.
- Fitting size is not accurate.
- The strap on the back at the leash attachment is seen to slide around and slip back and forth.
Why do we recommend this product?
A perfect training tool for correcting extensive pulling and behavior problems as the loop on top of the harness aids to the correct the wrong dog actions without hurting it. Has various latching places to latch different things like a leash on top and the car tether underneath. Fits perfectly for even larger dog breeds.
Final word
This no pull dog harness is a perfect training gadget that aids to correct the wrong actions of the pet at a quicker pace without hurting them. https://amzn.to/2TfEk3h
#3: Solvit-Car Safety Harnesses For Dogs
Pros
- Keeps the pet safe and secure in the car at all times.
- The harness is made from a special strength-rated material that also includes a breathable mesh safety vest.
- Can be installed hassle freely in all cars.
- Is seen to easily attach with heavy-duty straps and full metal connectors too.
- Available in variant sizes that fits fido’s that weigh from 6 to 25 pounds.
- The car safety harness helps keep the furry family member snugly in their seat thereby helping to reduce driver distractions.
- The harness features a convenient leash attachment point for quick exits from the vehicle.
Cons
- The use of this harness does not guarantee that the fido’s will be free from injury in the event of any accidents.
Why do we recommend this product?
This car safety harness product is seen to fit all vehicles and comes with a lifetime guarantee. The added advantage of this product that increases its chance of recommendation is that it integrates with the vehicle’s seat belt system to provide some range of motion while traveling, but locks the movement during sudden stops.
Final word
This a well-rated car safety harnesses but customer reviews doubt the pet safety. Hence for enhanced safety, it is recommended to use the leash attachment with a single rather than a three-point connection. https://amzn.to/2G35RRH
#4: Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Dog Harness
Pros
- Is the ultimate harness in flexibility, control, and training.
- Attaching the leash to the martingale loop on the back is seen to allow the pooch to walk in a straight line without twisting or straining and also discourages pulling by gently tightening around the chest.
- The Freedom no-pull harness has a soft velvet lining on the strap that runs behind the legs to prevent sores.
- This harness can be used daily without any hassles even for the strongest and largest breeds.
- It is a perfect product for all dogs from puppies to senior dogs with any deformations and diseases.
Cons
- There is a too big size jump between the small and medium size.
- Cannot be used in the car with the doggies seat belts.
Why do we recommend this product?
One of the best dogs harnesses to correct the fido’s behavior problems without much hassle. The multiple leash connection points provide better control over the pet during the first walk with the harness on. Extremely good for all dogs that pull extensively.
Final word
The Martingale design on the back strap attachment is the primary reason for instantly reducing the pulling ability of the pets when clipped on both front and back clips which aids in providing a peaceful and hassle-free walking experience. https://amzn.to/2B7rHAg
#5: YUP! Pet Head Halter
Pros
* Is specifically designed for heavy to extreme pullers, as it is made with efficient pull control technology
- * Versatile harness that can be converted into a collar in seconds.
- * Hassle free procedure to put on and the collar doesn’t choke the dog.
- * The harness style doesn’t sport the typical muzzle look.
- *The product possesses a padded muzzle strap for optimum comfort.
Cons
- The color options are limited.
- Recommended for walking purposes only.
- The halter cannot be left on the dog when not attended.
- Cannot be used as a tie-out.
Why do we recommend this product?
Makes walks more enjoyable and stress-free for both the pet parent and the pet as it gently guides the dog’s head and controls excessive pulling, jumping or barking. Ideal for pups as well as aggressive dogs. Fits perfectly on all size dog breeds. A veterinary recommended product that comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Final word
An affordable product that is worth a try for its dual functionality of a harness as well as a collar. Opt on how to use the halter based on the situation. https://amzn.to/2DCjNk4
#6: Walkin’ Lift Rear Mobility Harness
Pros
- Available in variant sizes.
- The inside fleece lining provides the canine an ultimate comfort.
- The Pet can do their business comfortably while on the harness.
- The product is made from durable canvas that is easily machine washable and is trimmed to perfection for comfort.
- The product includes a detachable and adjustable handle.
- Is compatible with any dog wheel chair.
Cons
- The size chart needs to be carefully reviewed prior to purchase.
- The harness cannot be left on the pet all day.
Why do we recommend this product?
One of the best gadgets that are available in the market to help handicapped pooches and canines post- surgery. The comfort the mobility harness provides aids the fido’s to poop and urinate normally as it would do.
Final word
A confidence boost up product for the pets that face difficulties to perform their daily activities that is worth a try. https://amzn.to/2sLNpoZ
#7: GingerLead Dog Support & Rehabilitation Harnesses
Pros
- The patented design integrates a padded dog sling with a leash and handle that aids dogs with weak hind legs walk.
- Is ideal support for aging or disabled dogs that need some assistance with their balance or mobility.
- Simple to place on, adjustable, and very ergonomic for the handler.
- Machine washable and dryable.
- The support sling has ample padding for the pet’s comfort without bunching up.
Cons
- The pets on this mobility harness should always be supervised.
- Cannot be left on the pet overnight.
Why do we recommend this product?
The harness is simple to put on, is adjustable, and is handler friendly. It eliminates the awkwardness of traditional “towel walking” techniques or simple slings. This product is recommended by most veterinarians to the pet owners of all of the postop orthopedic patients and for canines that are unstable as the result of old age, severe arthritis, or neurological disease.
Final word
An ergonomic product that not only full fills the unstable senior dog needs but also contents the owners wish to see their pooches happy in the last life stage of their beloved pets. https://amzn.to/2Sefd3w
#8: Lupine 3/4 inch Rain Song Roman Dog Harness
Pros
- The non-restrictive design of the product is seen to remove the pressure from the throat section.
- The harness comes with a guarantee of replacement even if the harness is chewed by the fido.
- This product is suitable for all dog breeds because of its 3/4 inch width.
- The harness possess strong bar-tack stitching, welded D ring and a custom designed side release buckle.
- The product can be machine washed with mild soap and can be air dried.
Cons
- All Lupine products are not recommended for tie-out.
Why do we recommend this product?
The non-restrictive design of the harness is seen to remove the pressure from the throat, hence the pooches can wear it all day comfortably. The high-quality product is made up of Jacquard nylon that is woven in a webbed pattern for longer durability and comes with a replacement guarantee even if the naughty pooches chew them.
Final word
A product worthy of its price. https://amzn.to/2RWs4Za
#9: ROGZ Utility Large 3/4 Inch Reflective Fanbelt Adjustable Dog Step-in-Harness
Pros
- The high quality interwoven webbed design aids to provide strength, durability, and safety.
- The harness has night time visibility too.
- A freedom harness that provides improved control and movement.
- Comes with a matching collar and lead.
Cons
- The gadget needs to be turned inside on when operated in the stealth mode because the reflective stitching is found only on one side.
Why do we recommend this product?
The harness suits all dog breeds of all breed. A highly durable gadget that is hassle-free to put on, is of great quality with reflective stitching that also works well under sunlight. The clip on locking mechanism perfectly aids in controlling extensive pulling pets.
Final word
A reflective and durable harness available in the market that not only controls the movement of the fido’s in the daylight but also in the dark too. https://amzn.to/2TisqFO
#10: No-Pull Front-Attachment Harness
Pros
- Lightweight, water resistant, adjustable vet approved harness.
- Provides comforts to the fido’s as well as the walkers.
- The harness doesn’t tend to loosen with time like the other products in the market. This aids for better security.
- Provides better night time safety due to its reflective material.
- The product comes with a money back guarantee for not satisfied customers.
Cons
- The harness is seen to cause chaffing when a lease of more than six feet is used and also if used for running with the dog.
- Cannot be put on the dog all day.
- The classic black colored harness doesn’t have any reflective details.
Why do we recommend this product?
A front-attachment weightless harness that works well to control extensively pulling pets in the sunlight as well as at the night time. The simple sizing aids in selecting the approximate size.
Final word
Enjoy your walks with this well sized front-attachment reflective harness. https://amzn.to/2WkFoF8
Why is a Harness Better Than a Collar? – Harness vs. Collar
Collars are the usual solution when walking a dog and a wide variety of styles are available in the market. Some collars are intentionally designed to constrict or cause discomfort when a pooch pulls during the training period this includes the choke and prolong collars but these are predominantly not recommended as there are other training options that are seen to cause a positive reinforcement instead.
A common, traditional collar that does not constrict is fine for pets that don’t have respiratory problems and do not pull when on leashes. This is a comfortable option for many dogs, who are on a collar all the time, on the other hand, a harness is not very comfortable for all day use. It is also a discomfort for dogs with long hair as it is seen to get caught up in a harness. However, for pooches that pull hard during walks, a collar is seen to increase the risk of neck injury here a harness is a better option to invest on.
Benefits of a Harness Usage
The following positives have widely increased the usage of a dog harness.
Alleviates the pressure or tension on the dog’s neck.
This is one of the most useful aspects of a harness as the usage of this gadget is seen to equally distribute the pressure on the length of the entire back or on the chest section but never on the neck portion.
Provides better control over the movements of a pooch.
The harness actually covers half the dog’s body length and predominantly comes with two lease attachment points they are seen to aid in giving a better movement control for pet parents during the walks and corrections can be made easily at any point of time.
Provides support for a injures pet dog.
For pets with injuries like dysplasia or leg injuries using a harness aids to reduce the pressure and strain on the infected limb and also provides full body support.
Improves the communication between the pet and the pet parents or walkers.
As most of the pet harnesses come with dual connections this help to provide instant feedback to the pet’s action and also helps to communicate at two body points rather than at a certain section.
What are the different types of dog harnesses?
There are many types of harnesses available in the market these include a wide variety of specialty harnesses for working and disabled dogs. The harnesses are differentiated not only on their types but also the clip positions. The section below will clearly aid a new pet parent to choose a harness that suits their pet.
Based on the clip positions the harnesses are differentiated into the following categories:
#1: Front-clip dog harness
Harnesses with a front clip usually have the leash attachment placed in the center of a pooches chest. These types of dog harnesses are predominantly used for training the canines as they provide plenty of control and help trainers or owners stop dogs from pulling on the leash. This gadget also aids in giving not only giving more control over the dogs but also helps to control the direction in which they move.
Benefits
- Provides extensive control over leash pulling, jumping up, and other bad leash pet behaviors.
- Helps to control the direction of the movement while walking the pet.
Drawbacks
- Though these dog harnesses types offer more control. Strong, heavy and large dogs that have serious behavior issues are seen to probably require a walking tool that provides additional control, like a head halter.
- Since the leash is attached to the dog’s chest, canines front legs often get stuck if given too much slack.
- Procedure to put on the harness is complicated.
#2: Back-clip dog harness
In the back-clip types of dog harnesses, the ring to which the leash is attached is always located on the dog’s back. This pet harness is the most popular amidst the pet owners because they are not only easy to put on and also are easily adapted by the canine. The back-clip harness is particularly helpful for small breeds since they have delicate throats that can easily be damaged by collars or improperly placed front-clip harnesses.
Benefits
- Hassle free usage.
- Comfortable for dogs to wear.
- The leash rarely is rarely seen to get tangled under the dog’s front legs.
- Protects the neck area of the canine.
- Available in wide variants.
Drawbacks
- These are not the best choice for untrained dogs who like to pull on the leash strongly and/or jump up.
- Is not seen to provide enough control over bigger dogs with serious walking issues.
- Not recommended for aggressive dogs because controlling them is an issue that needs to checked.
- Never provide any directional steering.
#3: Dual or multi-clip dog harness
This dog harnesses come with attachments on both front and back and even with three, four and more attachment points. Predominantly was a preferred by canine trainers but more pet owners are starting to use this harness making it the most popular harness type in the market.
Benefits
- Has all the combined advantages of both front- and back-clip dog harnesses.
- Pressure is applied evenly, on multiple points, this aids to prevent injuries caused by a yanking motion.
- Used to successfully train dogs with behavioral problems to not to pull on the leash.
- Comfortable and adjustable for pooches to wear.
Drawbacks
- Expensive.
- Rarely are seen to cause discomforts to pets due to extra clip points.
- Not recommended for long-term use because pet parents must train the dogs to walk on a leash safely without relying on the harness.
Dog harness fitting styles: Over-the-Head vs. Step-in Dog Harnesses
Another common problem canine parents encounter regardless of the choice from the three types of dog harnesses mentioned above is about choosing how to put on a dog harness. Based on the way the harness is put on a dog, they are differentiated into (a) over-the-head harness, and (b) step-in harness.
#1: Over-the-head dog harness
Also known as the standard dog harness. These types of dog harnesses go over the pets head first. This is usually a hassle-free process if an individual has a calm dog that supports the procedure. Due to the neck enclosure, these types of dog harnesses are seen to offer a good weight distribution and complete body control. In addition, the adjustable shoulder straps are seen to provide extra neck protection.
Benefits
Suits best for small dogs and well-behaved dogs with low-energy, but can be still used on dogs of any size, age or breed.
Drawbacks:
The standard over-the-head harness is a two-step process for the placement that takes slightly longer, that may not be the best for dogs without patience.
#2: Step-in dog harness
These harnesses require the dog’s legs to go in first. Here the harness is placed flat on the ground and the canine is made to step in the two holes separated by the square or perpendicular strap in the middle of the harness. Later one needs to pull the sides up and snap the closure, that usually is located on the dog’s back.
Benefits
- Are best suited for obedient dogs, regardless of size or shape. But can also be used on less obedient dogs too.
- This harness style is seen to be easily adjusted to fit any dog.
Harnesses for daily use generally fall into the following categories.
Roman Harnesses
These traditional harnesses are the most common type of harness that come in a wide variety of materials and can be seen in all pet stores. Roman harnesses generally attach around the girth of a dog’s chest and also possess a collar like component that fits around a pooches neck, with a material connecting the two. They usually have multiple points of adjustment and this aids to fit a wide variety of dogs. The leash attachment is positioned on the top of the harness and is seen to sit above the chest strap between the shoulder blades.
Benefits: They are seen to fit all dog breeds.
Drawback: Dogs have the ability to pull very hard when on a traditional harness.
No-Pull Harnesses
These harnesses are seen to offer greater control for dogs that pull hard on other types of harnesses or that which do not respond to any training with collars. These harnesses not only have a girth strap that attaches around the dog’s chest behind the front legs but also have a chest strap that connects across the breast of the dog. The leash attachment is on the dog’s breast strap predominantly but in some models, they also attach through the dog’s collar.
Benefits: When a dog tries to pull on these types of harnesses, the dog is forced to turn as if not its head is pulled down.
What to features need to be evaluated when choosing a canine harness?
A harness is a safety vest that a pooch wears on. Hence one needs to be at most careful while selecting the right product.
The following pointers need to be focused on
1. Fabric
Primarily choose a harness made of sturdy material as a harness is used to support and protect the canine from extensive pulling and other safety stuff. Medium and large breeds require sturdy material harnesses while smaller breeds can use flimsy and thin harnesses as their pulling capacity is not forceful like the former breeds. The stiffness of the sturdy fabric is seen to restrict the movement of small fido’s.
Secondly, pay attention to the way the fabric is stitched at joints. Choose a product with panels that are fused together before being stitched together on the top as single- piece harness are very rarely available. The durability of a harness is excellent if a biased strip is visible and falls around the edges of the canine’s body strap and also make sure that the topstitching not only restricts the top opening but covers the whole body strap.
2. D-ring and strap
D-ring and strap are the pivotal part of the dog harness that aids to connect the harness to the leash. Always check for a good quality D-ring that is well positioned at the center for an efficient leash attachment.
As for the strap always remember to check if it runs the entire length of the fido’s body strap and also is stitched and fused well to the harness neckline with the apt level of reinforcement. The straps construction should be able to provide the pet parent or walker a study control of the canine during the walks.
The placement of the D-ring and the strap on a whole should be able to provide the right pulling force distribution of the harness at the center restricting the neck portion.
3. Length
The recommended length of the dog’s body strap is that it should not cover more than half the comfortably of the pets back.
4. Corners
One of the most neglected components during the dog harness selection. For better mobility and greater motion of joints, experts recommend purchasing harnesses with rounded corners. One needs to watch the corners of the arms, necks and body straps as they at most times are seen to interfere with the free movement of the joints.
How to measure a canine for a new harness?
The following section explains the various steps that are involved to measure a fido for the harness type.
1. Use a measuring tape.
While most of the harnesses are often sold by the weight of a dog, it is always a better option to use a measuring tape to get a more exact measurement. Combining your dog’s weight and measurement in inches or centimeters is seen to help find the best possible harness size for a pooch
Note: Take someone help to hold the dog’s collar to keep him/ her still while you take the measurement.
2. Measure the chest at the broadest part.
The broadest part of a dog’s chest is predominantly found right behind the armpits. Wrap the tape around the chest and over the back and refrain from pulling the measuring tape around a dog too tightly.
3. Use the measurement and the dog’s weight to find the right size.
Jot down the dog’s measurement and weight and take this information along with you while visiting the pet store while figuring out the best harness size for one’s dog. Look for a harness that is about two inches larger than the measurement taken and check the weight range. If the dog’s weight falls into the weight range on the harness package, then that is ideal.
If the dog is between sizes choose to invest in the bigger size as one can always adjust the harness to make it fit tighter.
4. Place the harness on the dog and adjust the fit as required.
Firstly, open the clasps on the harness. position the harness as required and lock the clasps.
Note:
- One may need to adjust the harness to tighten or loosen it based on the dog’s needs until the harness is snug, but not tight.
- To make sure that the harness is not too tight, Place two fingers under each of the harness straps. If one can do so without any hassle then the harness is a good fit. If not, loosen it up a bit.
- Adjust and re-adjust the harness a few times to get the best fit.
What are the different materials that the dog harness is made of?
The dog harnesses are made of a wide range of materials that include nylon, leather, fabric, and cotton. Choose a stylish harness keeping in mind of the pets comforts and needs.
Dog harness sizing chart
The following section helps to find the right size harness for the fido’s. Based on the sizing chart the harness are classified into, XX-small, extra small, small, medium, large, and extra-large. Girth measurement plays a pivotal role in the sizing and is measured by the widest part of the dog’s chest.
XX-small (up to 5 lbs)
- The common breeds that fall in this size include chihuahua and a teacup Yorkshire terrier.
- Girth measurement- 8 to 10 inches
- Recommended leash measurement- 5/16 inch width
X-small (5-10 lbs)
- The common breeds that fall in this size include miniature dachshund, Maltese, Pomeranian, toy poodle, and Yorkshire terrier.
- Girth measurement- 9 to 15 inches
- Recommended leash measurement- 3/8 inch width
Small (10-25 lbs)
- The dog breeds that this size includes pug, miniature schnauzer, Pekingese, Cavalier King Charles, and Scottish terrier.
- Girth measurement- 13 to 23 inches
- Recommended leash measurement- 5/8 inch width
Medium (up to 55 lbs)
- Common breeds that fall in this size include Beagle, a Border collie, English, and French Bulldog.
- Girth measurement- 18 to 29 inches
- Recommended leash measurement- 3/4 inch width
Large ( Up to 75 lbs)
- Common breeds of this section include Labrador, Boxer, golden retriever, and Weimaraner.
- Girth measurement- 22 to 39 inches
- Recommended leash measurement- 1-inch width, 2 ply for strong pullers.
Extra Large (75+ lbs)
- Common breeds include Bernese mountain dog, Great Dane, Mastiff, Rottweiler, and Saint Bernard.
- Girth measurement- 28 to 44 inches
- Recommended leash measurement- 1.25-inch width, 2 ply for strong pullers.
Pointers to be noted while choosing a dog harness for your Pooch.
1. Check the dog’s physical features.
Choose a harness based on the width and weight of a dog. It’s always a safe idea to take the pet to the pet store for size accuracies.
2. Adjustability of the harness.
One needs to adjust the harness based on their individual pet’s requirements.
3. Comfortability
Choose a harness that is comfortable for the fido. Do not look for a flashy and stylish harness that suits the pet parents.
4. Canine feature evaluation.
Check for the D-ring, fabric, length and corners of the harness based on the pooches requirements for stability, safety, and durability.
Sources
- Get the right dog collar and harnesses https://bit.ly/2G4u8Ho
- Picking the perfect collar, harness, and halter https://bit.ly/2SbWmX4
- 20 best dog harnesses in 2019 https://bit.ly/2RivM9W
- Features to look for in a best dog harness https://bit.ly/2CK6Z9H
