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Find the perfect dog harness for your canine companion — whether it’s for daily strolls around town, intensive training sessions or an adventurous hiking excursion.
The best dog harness can safely restrain your pooch and allow for better control in a myriad of situations. It also allows for a great connection between the human and canine. We put some of the top dog harnesses of the year to the test.
Going on walks, runs, and even rides together can form a joy-filled relationship between you and your furry friend. Exploring the world with your dog is one of the greatest gifts of dog ownership.
While out on walks, not only is the emotional bond between you and your canine companion strengthened, the physical bond of the leash also joins you together as a unit. For both you and your dog, a dog harness can be a helpful and comfortable difference-maker.
While necessary for some circumstances, collars can cause uncomfortable pressure on your dog’s spine and trachea. And they can be especially harmful to dogs with a tendency to pull while on a leash. Compared to a traditional collar, a well-fitted harness provides improved comfort and safety for your dog and much better control for you.
When selecting the best harness for your pup, there are many factors to consider. Dog harnesses vary by adjustability, leash attachment options, visibility, size, style, material, and durability.
Of all the available options, we carefully selected our picks for the best dog harness in several different categories. With a new high-quality harness for you and your beloved pup, your walks together will be more enjoyable and safer than ever before. Scroll through to see all of our recommended buys or read our inclusive buyer’s guide and FAQs to learn more about what differentiates dog harnesses from each other:
Editor’s Note: We updated this list on October 11, 2023, to include two favorite harnesses, the NRS CFD and the SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness. We also added in-depth information about materials, fit, and more.
A great choice for any outdoors-loving pup and owner, The Ruffwear Front Range ($50) has a padded chest plate for comfortable everyday use.
The harness also has two separate attachment points: an aluminum V-ring centered on the dog’s back for everyday walks and a reinforced front clip made from webbing that works to redirect dogs that pull strongly while on a leash.
We’ve had this harness in testing for more than two years of daily use on a German Shorthaired Pointer, and it’s still going strong. The main attachment point is strong metal, an important feature for any powerful dog like a GSP.
The front webbing clip really does keep her from pulling too hard and works much more like a collar. Our tester calls this her “good dog mode” as she tends to heel better with the harness attached at the front point.
For nighttime or low-light strolls, reflective trim and a built-in light loop help you keep an eye on your dog when visibility is limited. Other Ruffwear products work seamlessly with the Front Range Harness, such as The Beacon — a small and bright safety light — and the Front Range dog leash.
For long-term durability, the updated 2020 version of the harness uses polyester shell fabric that holds up to wear and maintains its color.
This harness is extremely easy to put on your dog. Just slip it over their head and snap shut two side buckles. It’s also easy to adjust the size within its fitted range.
The Front Range comes in five sizes from XXS to L/XL. To determine the best size for your dog, measure the girth of the widest part of your dog’s ribcage. Ruffwear recommends that dogs in between sizes wear the next size up. Accessible buckles along the harness’s webbing allow for easy adjustment of the harness, even while it’s being worn.
The affordable Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness ($17) has two metal leash rings for safe walks with your dog and less pulling. Because both attachment points are metal, they stand up to even the strongest dogs and offer reliable strength.
To use this harness, slide it over your dog’s head and buckle it up. After a quick adjustment of the straps, you’re ready to walk, hike, or jog.
Two neck straps and two chest straps add up to lots of adjustability. Rottweilers and greyhounds alike should be able to make this product from Rabbitgoo work perfectly.
Made from durable nylon and thoroughly padded, the Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness protects your dog’s skin from uncomfortable rubbing while breathable mesh keeps things cool. Super-bright, reflective piping makes it easy to spot your pup during night walks and low-light conditions.
The Omnijore Dog Joring System ($170) from Ruffwear offers a fun and safe way for a dog and human pair to work together as a team. While the dog leads the way and pulls, the human hangs behind and skis or rolls on a bike or skateboard.
It’s worth noting this is not your normal dog walking harness. It’s meant for sports where the dog is encouraged to pull and pull hard.
We’ve tested it in depth while cross-country skiing with our GSP. She’s very fast and loves to pull, and will run a solid 10 miles in this harness during a single skijoring session.
This design is exceptional as it distributes the load evenly on her chest and neck. It also has a long rope attachment point that keeps the leash behind her body while running for increased efficiency. Check out the video of her flying around the track in Leadville, Colorado, below!
The complete Omnijore system includes a harness, a hip belt for the human to wear, and a towline. These components work together to create a comfortable and exciting way to get outside and work together with your pup.
As the main component of the Omnijore system, the harness is built with four different adjustment points for a customized fit, which is specifically designed for dogs who are actively pulling. Slide the harness over your dog’s head and use the adjustment points to tighten until comfortable and snug.
Because this harness has been designed with active use in mind, it doesn’t restrict mobility or ease of breathing. With this kit, you and your dog will be ready to pair up for endless hours of outdoor fun in every season.
For smaller pups, the Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness ($9) is a simple and well-designed harness for the active small pup in your life. Made with an all-weather mesh, this harness is lightweight and breathable, which helps to prevent overheating.
Best described as simple and streamlined, this harness has only one attachment point, located near the center of the dog’s back. The attachment point is made up of double overlapping metal D-rings. Because this harness doesn’t have a front attachment point, it’s not ideal for dogs prone to pulling.
Available in a wide range of sizes, it’s important to measure your dog and refer to Voyager’s sizing chart before purchasing the Step-In Air Dog Harness.
This no-pull dog harness ($27) is specially equipped to train your dog to safely stop pulling on the leash. With two leash rings, including a front no-pull D-ring, dogs will be naturally turned side to side when attempting to pull while wearing this harness. This helps to naturally ingrain better behavior and less frequent pulling.
Once this harness is slipped overhead, it clips on securely with just two buckles. Your pup won’t have to wait long to head out the door and enjoy your next adventure together.
Four adjustment points make the harness easily customizable. Auroth’s CLAD buckles and military-grade Kevlon straps are quick to adjust but provide complete security once locked into place.
Strategically placed padding makes this harness comfortable and irritation-free yet still lightweight. With four different size options, the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness can accommodate dogs from 18 to 135 pounds. Always measure your dog and refer to Auroth’s sizing chart before purchasing.
This no-pull harness was thoughtfully designed for active dogs. With high-quality materials and an innovative and simple magnetic buckle design, the Lifetime Harness ($84) was crafted to improve the life you and your dog share.
To create the perfect fit, adjustments can be made to this harness in the chest, back, and belly areas to prevent the chafing and slippage that some dog harnesses are known for. With outdoor adventure in mind, the Lifetime harness is quick-drying, and its reflective nylon webbing is double-reinforced.
As a sign of the thorough consideration that went into this harness, all of the webbing’s seams are outward-facing for extra comfort.
At the front end, a martingale-style chest attachment keeps your pup from pulling by redirecting their energy to the side. As the name suggests, the Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Harness comes with a lifetime warranty — just in case your four-legged friend somehow damages it.
After years of working to figure out the best way to create a coat-and-harness hybrid, Ruffwear has introduced the Overcoat Fuse ($90). For dogs who usually have to layer their warm layers on top or underneath a full-strength harness, the ultimate do-all single piece of gear has arrived.
In cold or wet weather, many dogs are more comfortable wearing an insulating layer that also keeps the rain off of their fur. The Overcoat Fuse features a 300-denier polyester shell with a water-repellent finish. Also, a soft fleece lining adds extra warmth to keep the shivers away.
With integrated full-strength webbing and two leash attachment points, the Overcoat Fuse doubles as a versatile harness. Two low-profile zippered pockets allow your pup to carry extra treats, doggie bags, or other small pieces of gear. Side release buckles are quick and easy to use, making it a breeze for your pup to suit up.
With six sizes available, measure your dog and refer to the Ruffwear sizing chart before purchase.
Made with saddle-grade bridle leather, the Filson Dog Harness ($115) is carefully crafted in the U.S. to work well and look great. Simply put, the 0.6-inch-wide leather strap and rustproof brass hardware look very handsome and make this harness a great option for everyday use or special occasions.
Made in four sizes, this harness is easy to put on thanks to a standard, belt-like closure that fits around the chest area. In the center of the back, a sturdy brass ring provides a sole attachment point.
Offered in two classy-looking tones, the leather strap can be easily wiped down to quickly clean after a muddy adventure. This harness doesn’t have a chest leash attachment point, so it’s best for dogs that don’t have an issue with pulling while on a leash.
The made-in-Minnesota Stunt Puppy brand punches above its weight class, pushing out a variety of everyday and adventure dog gear, using the latest tech and materials, all from its Minneapolis headquarters. The Go Dog Glo ($55) sports two large reflective panels on the front, flanking the padded X-Pac front panel.
Two slide-buckle attachments — one under each forearm — secure the harness. The harness comes in three sizes and has adjustable Nylon webbing to dial in the perfect fit. The Go Dog Glo harness also has two leash attachment D-rings, one over either shoulder, to better guide your dog toward you when pulled tight.
We’ve used them on our trusty testers, Dash and Bambi, and both eagerly don the harness and have had no issues with discomfort. Plus, the reflective panels on the Go Dog Glo jump off the harness in front of headlights, street lamps, and perfectly placed sunsets.
Ideal for use in scorcher summer weather, the SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness ($36) will keep your pup at a comfortable temp so they can play all day. Once damp, this harness emits cool air onto your dog’s back, chest, and stomach.
To use this harness, simply soak it in cold water and wring it out like you would a towel. Once it is damp, place it on your dog and zip it up. As you walk or hike, the water will evaporate inside the harness, causing cool air to circulate throughout.
While in use, our tester put her hand under the harness and found that it felt almost air-conditioned. Her super fluffy, mixed-breed shepherd was certainly relieved to have this feature while exploring in 80+ degree weather.
And, although the SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness does drip water while in use, its superior cooling effects make it worth it. This is a great pick for anyone with an extra fuzzy breed or dog that has temperature regulation issues.
Whether you’re rafting, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding, you’ll want a harness like the NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket ($60) for your pup that will keep them afloat should they take an unexpected dive or topple into the water.
This CFD kept our tester’s 65-pound shepherd mix well afloat while she swam around an alpine lake in Colorado. Typically, her dog won’t tread water, so having the extra security of a floatation device brought her much comfort. The easy-grab handle made moving her dog from the beach to the car a total breeze.
Better yet, the bright colors and reflective elements on the NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket kept her dog visible while she adventured around. The rear leash attachment point made switching to walk mode for the trek back to the car seamless as well.
While this harness has a very specialized use, it is crucial to snag one for your dog if you’ve got lots of summer boating adventures planned. Be sure to check the size chart and adjust accordingly so the floatation technology works for your pup.
As they say, dogs truly are a person’s best friend, which is why we at GearJunkie want to make sure they are well-equipped with the best gear for all of our accompanied walks, excursions, and adventures. Lead-tester and lifelong dog owner Meghan LaHatte understands the importance of properly outfitting your dog with a harness that is comfortable, secure, and well-suited for its given purpose.
No two dog harnesses are made the same. We took the time to curate a list of harnesses that are made for anything from daily walks to full-on skijoring adventures. While testing these harnesses, we made note of all the important details — materials, adjustability, and overall functionality. We paid especially close attention to the leash attachment points, fabric type, and maneuverability while in use.
From alpine hikes to daily walks in the park, these harnesses have been through extensive testing processes. We can assure you that this list of products includes the best on the market and will continue to be updated as new contenders hit the scene.
Harnesses are available in a wide array of sizes and styles. They work by limiting pressure by dispersing the force across the entire front half of a dog’s body. Because the leash attaches to a harness at fixed attachment points instead of around the neck, your dog experiences less potentially damaging leash pressure.
As dog owners ourselves, we realize that sometimes dogs will take advantage of that and pull even harder. The only real solution to pulling is good training.
But for those dogs who are prone to pull or dart, some harnesses have second attachment points that discourage pulling.
The perfect harness for one dog may not be the right choice for another. When shopping for a harness for your pup, there are many factors to consider.
How will you be using your dog harness? If you are looking for something to help with training and pulling, be sure to snag one with a frontal leash attachment. Or, if you’re heading out for a hunting weekend, you may want a harness with a more tactical design like the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness.
Be sure to consider your dog’s activity level and preference when choosing a harness. Smaller dogs may need a smaller, lightweight harness, whereas larger dogs require more durable and strengthened designs.
Regardless of which harness you choose for your canine companion, we can assure you that any of the options listed in this guide are of superb quality and application.
First, no matter what style or function you’re seeking in a harness, the proper fit should be your primary consideration. Before ordering any harness, we recommend carefully measuring your dog to ensure a good fit.
We suggest using a measuring tape to properly measure your dog down to the inch or centimeter. Doing so will ensure your numbers are correct and the harness will fit perfectly. Most harnesses come with adjustable straps that assist with fit and mobility for your pup.
Many harnesses are sized according to girth, which is measured at a dog’s widest area, just behind the front legs. Use a tape measure to fully wrap around your dog’s ribcage and note the girth in inches.
Some harnesses are also sized according to the length of a dog’s back. Back length should be measured starting at the base of a dog’s neck and ending at the base of its tail. Back length is an especially important sizing concern for harnesses that double as insulating, rain-repelling coats or vests, such as the Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse and SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness.
Another measurement you’ll want to have on hand is neck circumference. Neck girth varies a lot in dogs, so if your dog has an especially thick neck like some pit bulls, or a thin neck like many Dobermans and poodles, search for a harness designed to work for their body type.
A thick coat can add lots of circumference to girth measurements. If your dog has lots of hair, it may be wise to order one size up to get the best fit. The same goes for overweight and deep-chested pups.
If you’ve got an especially fluffy pooch, make sure the buckles, zippers, and other hardware don’t have any of their fur tangled up in them as this could cause some uncomfortable pinching, itching, or an unwarranted haircut. We suggest using one hand to push their fur out of the way when buckling and adjusting your dog’s harness.
When a harness is fitted comfortably and properly, there will be a healthy bit of wiggle room in between the harness material and your dog’s skin. A good fit usually allows the owner to fit two of their fingers underneath the harness. If a harness is overly snug, rashes and hot spots can cause discomfort for your dog.
With this consideration in mind, we recommend sizing up one size if your pooch happens to sit in between two sizes according to the sizing chart of the harness manufacturer.
When choosing a harness for your furry companion, be sure to consider the material type and design. Most of the harnesses in this guide are made of nylon and polyester with added plastic or metal buckles and hardware.
Fabrics like nylon are typically lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. For example, the Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo Harness is made with durable nylon that has reflective and water-resistant elements. It’s also machine washable, which is a major plus if your canine likes to take stinky mud baths or roll in dirt.
When considering hardware materials, we recommend sticking with metals like steel or reinforced plastic. It is important that the leash rings are durable enough to withstand your dog’s pulling without tearing away or putting too much strain on you. We especially loved the anti-rust brass hardware and loops on the Filson Dog Harness.
Overall, be sure your pup’s harness is made with a comfortable, breathable fabric that works with your dog’s coat. Dogs with thicker coats can withstand more durable, rugged materials, while pups with sensitive skin or less hair may need something softer and less abrasive.
Once you have your dog’s measurements figured out, it’s time to decide what you and your dog want and need in a harness. Different harnesses are designed with different applications in mind. For example, a training harness will provide certain features that make it a useful tool for improving your dog’s behavior.
For training to pull less while on leash, owners will want to purchase a harness with a front-end leash attachment point. A front-clip harness will turn a dog’s body to the side if they pull too hard, which helps them to establish new behaviors.
A good no-pull harness will distribute the force of the pull and keep your dog’s throat and neck safe to eliminate gagging and discomfort. Our pick for a training-oriented harness is the Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Harness thanks to its front-clip no-pull technology.
If you’re seeking a harness that can double as a seatbelt for your dog during long car rides, search for an option that easily attaches to your car’s seatbelt system. The Kurgo Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness is crash-tested for dogs up to 75 pounds and offers an easy way to attach your dog to the seatbelt safely.
If you want your dog to accompany you on all of your summer boating, fishing, or swimming excursions, be sure to choose a harness with floatation engineering. Even if your pup is a competent swimmer, having the extra peace of mind that your dog will stay afloat should they fall into a lake or a swift current is key.
The NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket is our pick for a dog-oriented PFD. Designed like any other life jacket, this harness will keep your pup on top of the water so they can swim all day without any fear of drowning. We love this option for elderly or disabled pooches that enjoy swimming, but can’t exert themselves too much.
The added rear handle makes lifting your dog in and out of your boat and or kayak easy peasy. And the metal leash loop means the CFD also serves as a functional harness. Be sure to grab one if you think your dog needs the extra help swimming — or if you’re whitewater rafting.
For the active and outdoorsy pup, a comfortable harness should be made from materials meant to withstand the conditions of adventuring outside.
The Ruffwear Front Range Harness is hardy and breathable while also offering extra handy features like a place to mount a beacon light and dual attachment points. Harnesses like the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness prioritize durability in their design and make good long-term options for everyday use.
If you’re taking your pup out on those hot summer days, be sure to consider a cooling harness like the SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness. This harness works by evaporating cool air directly onto your dog’s body, thus keeping them at a comfortable temperature while walking, playing, and hiking in the heat.
Some harnesses are easier to put on than others. While some dogs don’t mind having a harness slipped on over their head, for other dogs, this process can be a battle.
When putting on a dog harness, consider your pet’s personality and preferences. Some harnesses can be laid flat on the ground for your dog to simply step into without much hassle. If you are looking for a harness that provides storage for backpacking or longer day hikes, be sure to check out our guide for the Best Dog Backpacks of 2023.
When considering the prices of dog harnesses, be sure to make note of your personal budget and pooch’s needs. We believe you don’t need to break the bank to get a great dog harness, but don’t be afraid to spend a little extra on one that checks all the boxes for your pup.
At the lower cost end of our guide is the Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness ($9), the Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness ($17), and the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness ($27). All at under 30 bucks, these harnesses are superb, budget-friendly options that won’t empty your wallet.
At the mid-range price range are the SGODA Dog Cooling Vest Harness ($36), Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness ($50), Kurgo Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness ($43), Stunt Puppy Go Dog Glo Harness ($53), and NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket ($60). These harnesses ranked as some of our favorites in the guide while being well-designed and reasonably priced.
Higher in price, but still fantastic options are the Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Harness ($84), Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse ($90), and the Filson Dog Harness ($115).
The steeply-priced Omnijore Dog Joring System ($176), includes a multi-leash and harness system made for skijoring. Because it includes multiple accessories and additions for specialized use, it is priced much higher than the rest of the harnesses listed.
When selecting a dog harness, make sure you compare not only the price options, but also the fit, materials, purpose, and style that best serve your pup.
Pulling on the leash can be difficult behavior for an owner to manage, and it can also be potentially unsafe for the dog. Strong pulling on a leash attached to an around-the-neck dog collar can potentially injure a dog’s neck, spine, and trachea. The right harness can offer dog safety and effective no-pull training.
First, it’s important to find a harness that has a front-end leash clip, such as the Ruffwear Front Range. By clipping a leash into an attachment point near a dog’s chest, pulling will cause the dog to turn from side to side as the force of the pull is redirected laterally.
Combined with other training methods, a front-end leash attachment point can help a dog to form new behaviors and begin to stop pulling while on a leash.
A sturdy harness will not put unsafe pressure on a dog’s neck and spine, even while pulling on a leash. Instead, the force of the pulling will be safely distributed across the front of the dog’s body.Certain harnesses, like the Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness, have additional training-focused features, like a large, strong grab handle located along the dog’s back for quick control.
While a dog can pull on the leash with either a harness or collar, a well-fitting harness is a much safer option. A harness with front-end leash clips can be effective for training your dog to stop pulling.
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for how to wash our dog harness. While some are made to be machine washable (like the Kurgo Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit Dog Car Harness), others (like the Filson Dog Harness) should be washed gently by hand.
Different dog harnesses are made to fit differently depending on their style and application. Measure around the widest area of your dog’s midsection to determine their girth.
Also, measure their back length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail as well as the circumference of their neck. If your dog has lots of thick fur or is overweight, account for this while measuring.
Once you’ve got your dog’s measurements, look for a harness in a size that aligns closely with the dimensions of your dog. When actually fitting a harness, follow the provided directions carefully and be sure not to pinch your dog’s skin or fur while securing the harness in place. If your dog happens to be in between two harness sizes, we recommend opting for the larger size.
Harnesses should generally fit snugly but not be so tight that they are causing discomfort or friction hot spots. Owners should be able to fit two fingers underneath the harness straps. If this isn’t possible, we recommend slightly loosening the harness.
Different styles of dog harnesses go on in different ways. Some of the more common styles include over-the-head and step-in.
For a step-in harness, begin by unbuckling the harness and laying it flat on the ground. Next, have your dog stand over the harness. Place your dog’s paws into the corresponding loops.
If the harness indicates which paw should go in each loop, be sure to follow these directions. Finally, clip any buckles together and use any straps to customize the fit to your dog.
For an overhead harness, begin by sliding your dog’s head through the neck loop. The top strap will sit on their back, and the bottom straps will go across their belly.
If your harness is pre-connected on one side, have your dog step into the loop and buckle the straps together on the other side of the harness. If not, be sure to secure all buckles and straps on all sides.
Finally, double-check that the harness fits well and that none of the straps sit on the dog’s throat. If everything looks good, let the walk begin!
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