Best Dog Harnesses of 2025
Well-fitting, durable harnesses to help keep your dog safe in the outdoors
November 7th, 2025
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A well-fitting dog harness is an invaluable tool in a pet owner’s toolbox. The best dog harnesses can keep your dog safer than a leash attached to a collar, and they’re better for your dog’s body long-term than simply using a collar. Harnesses are the best tool for walking, running, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing with your pup, though different dog harnesses are better for different activities.
For dogs that pull, walking them on a collar can cause strain to their neck and trachea. Using a harness instead allows any pulling force to be more evenly distributed over your dog’s body, instead of directly on their neck.
“Well-fitting” is the key word when shopping for a harness. A poorly fitted harness (or a harness with a non-ideal design) can restrict your dog’s range of motion, cause rubbing and chafing, make your dog alter their normal gait pattern, and can even cause orthopedic damage later on. A well-fitted harness is one that allows your dog full range of motion in their shoulders, doesn’t ride up into their armpits, stays stable while connected to a leash, and has enough padding to be comfortable for long-term wear.
I rigorously tested 10 of the top dog harnesses on the market over the course of multiple months (and even years in some cases). I tested each harness on daily walks around the neighborhood, on camping trips, on hikes in Colorado, while running with my dogs, and in lab-style simulated tests.
I primarily evaluated ease of use, sizing and fit, design, mobility, adjustability, and safety for each of the 10 harnesses on this list. I also noted pricing, extra features, size range, and return/exchange policy on these harnesses to find out which ones are worth your time and money.
Harnesses can be difficult to fit perfectly, as each dog is built a little bit differently and different activities warrant different harness types, so knowing your dog’s shape and measurements and choosing a harness with a good return/exchange policy is paramount.
With that being said, the best harness for most dogs is the Non-stop Dogwear Line 5.0 harness. It’s one that I’ve used with my dogs for the past year and have loved. It comes in the biggest range of sizes of any harness I’ve seen available, offers the safest range of motion for dogs, and is comfortable, lightweight, and well-made. Learn more about our top choices and others we tested in this guide.
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Comparison table
| DOG HARNESS | TREELINE AWARD | CLIP LOCATION | MATERIAL | ADJUSTMENT POINTS | MSRP* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-stop Dogwear Line Harness | Best overall Read why |
Rear, underneath for a tracking line, and front (for sizes 3 and up) | Nylon ripstop, nylon webbing, hypalon reinforcements, closed-cell foam core | Two | $50 |
| Kurgo Journey Air Dog Harness | Best affordable Read why |
Front and rear | Ripstop outer, nylon mesh | Four | $40 |
| Ruffwear Front Range Harness | Best for small dogs Read why |
Front and back | Polyester ripstop (63% recycled) with nonfluorinated DWR and PU coating, PE foam, polyester mesh lining | Four | $55 |
| Ruffwear Web Master Harness | Best for large dogs Read why |
Back and rear | Nylon ripstop, closed-cell foam, polyester knit mesh lining, nylon webbing | Five | $75 |
| Ruffwear Flagline Harness | Best for hiking Read why |
Front, back, and rear | Polyester ripstop with DWR and PU coating, polyester shell | Six | $65 |
| Non-stop Dogwear Rush Harness | Best fo rurnning Read why |
Rear elastic leash attachment point | Polyester outer and webbing, Duraflex® trim, Hypalon reinforcement | Two | $75 |
The winners
Best overall dog harness: Non-stop Dogwear Line Harness
MSRP: $50
Clip location: Rear, underneath for a tracking line, and front (for sizes 3 and up)
Material: Nylon ripstop, nylon webbing, hypalon reinforcements, closed-cell foam core
Adjustment points: Two
What we liked: Fully padded neck; total free range of movement in the front; doesn’t slide around during use; wide range of sizing; great armpit clearance
What we didn't like: Brand-recommended sizing runs about one size too small for some dogs; no neck adjustment; no handle, but there is a version online with a handle
At the end of the day, a dog harness is a safety tool, and it should fit your dog safely and comfortably, too. Many dog harnesses on the market are extremely short in the back, ride up in the armpits, and generally feel like they weren’t designed for most dogs’ bodies. The Non-stop Dogwear Line Harness is our top pick because it doesn’t have these common issues. The Line Harness feels like it was specifically designed for active dogs, and the fit was overwhelmingly the safest and least restrictive of the pool.
Non-stop Dogwear Line Harness
The V-shaped neck of the Line Harness is cut perfectly so that dogs can fully extend their shoulders while running and hiking without restriction. The design also allows enough room behind dogs’ front legs so the straps don’t ride into their armpits.
This harness comes in an impressive 10 different sizes—more than any other option on this list. However, I found that the sizing tool on Non-stop Dogwear’s website sometimes recommended one size too small for this model specifically.
When I first tested this harness, I ordered a size four for my Border Collie mix and a size five for my Rough Collie, but both seemed a little bit too small for them. When I sized up, the fit was better. On longer bodied dogs and dogs with deeper chests, I found that sizing up one size offered a more comfortable fit.
Although the Line Harness has tons of sizing options, it doesn’t have as much adjustability as other harnesses. The neck loop can’t be adjusted; only the two side straps that go around your dog’s stomach can change in length.
While testing, I noticed some gaping at the chest when the harness was not attached to a leash on my oddly built, barrel-chested Border Collie mix. This harness tended to fit more “normally” shaped dogs a bit better since it lacks some of the adjustability of other options. However, the lack of adjustability means that you get a fully padded neck and a simple on/off design with only two clips, so there are trade offs either way.
The Line Harness also offers reflective trim, a sturdy rear D-ring, an attachment point for a tracking line, and a front leash attachment point for sizes three and up.
Non-Stop Dogwear has a helpful 60-day free return policy for unused items, so it’s easy to return harnesses if the recommended size doesn’t fit your pup, and gives you a bit of room for error in sizing.
The Line 5.0 harness is a great everyday walking and hiking harness, and I wouldn’t hesitate to use it for running, skiing, or biking with a dog who doesn’t pull or only pulls lightly.
Best affordable dog harness: Kurgo Journey Air Dog Harness
MSRP: $40
Clip location: Front and rear
Material: Ripstop outer, nylon mesh
Adjustment points: Four
What we liked: Sturdy build; high-quality hardware; padded chest
What we didn't like: Not the best fit for long-bodied dogs
Buying a $60+ harness can be a big investment, so if you’re looking for a lower-priced option, the Kurgo Journey Air harness is a durable pick.
Kurgo Journey Air Dog Harness
This harness has a padded chest and back, sturdy metal hardware, and is easy to adjust. The interior of the harness is mesh for breathability, and the harness feels well-made—especially for its $34 price.
This is a harness that I would expect to hold up to daily use on walks around the neighborhood, as well as camping trips and hiking excursions. Brand new, the material on the chest and back is a bit stiff, but it softens up with use over time.
This harness has a slightly longer back length than other budget options we tried. This is helpful for fit on longer-bodied dogs, and if you want to use the back handle to give your dog a boost up rocks or other features while hiking. If the back length on a harness is too short, it can’t support your dog’s weight, rendering the handle mostly useless.
However, this harness still isn’t the best fit for larger, longer-bodied dogs. It fits best on small dogs and square dogs, though sizing up for a bit more back and belly length could help.
Best dog harness for small dogs: Ruffwear Front Range Harness
MSRP: $55
Clip location: Front and back
Material: Polyester ripstop (63% recycled) with nonfluorinated DWR and PU coating, PE foam, polyester mesh lining
Adjustment points: Four
What we liked: Lots of reflective trim; durable; padded
What we didn't like: Too short in the back for most medium and large dogs; no handle; wish it offered a bit more shoulder range of motion in the front
The Ruffwear Front Range harness was very short in the back on all the medium and large-sized dogs I tested it on. I generally wouldn’t recommend it for dogs over 30 pounds, but it’s a great option for small dogs (especially small dogs with a more square build).
Ruffwear Front Range Harness
I tested this harness on a friend’s Boston Terrier, and it had decent shoulder clearance in the front (though not as much as the Line Harness), and didn’t ride into her armpits. It’s also padded enough for light to moderate pullers (so they won’t choke themselves), though I wish it was completely padded around the neck. When you loosen the neck adjustment strap, the padding no longer covers the neck all the way.
For boxy dogs (about the same height and length) like the small terrier breeds, French Bulldogs, and Pugs, the Ruffwear Front Range fits safely and comfortably. On larger breeds, I found that it didn’t offer enough clearance around the armpits, and tended to cause rubbing and chafing.
This harness has a reflective trim on it, so your dog can be visible at night. It doesn’t have a handle, but it does feature a sturdy rear D-ring and a reinforced front webbing loop for attaching a long line or for mild anti-pull control.
Maybe the best thing about this harness is that it’s hardy and durable. A dog trainer friend of mine has had her Front Range Harness for over four years and used it on multiple puppies and adult dogs alike. It’s a solid option if you don’t want to think about replacing your dog’s gear for a long time.
Best dog harness for large dogs: Ruffwear Web Master Harness
MSRP: $75
Clip location: Back and rear
Material: Nylon ripstop, closed-cell foam, polyester knit mesh lining, nylon webbing
Adjustment points: Five
What we liked: Very supportive; sturdy foam padding; chest adjustability; padded belly straps; good for escape-prone dogs; highly visible; new version is step-in style
What we didn't like: Too much coverage for smaller dogs; can flatten long coats; doesn’t have a full chest/belly panel; newer version runs a little bit big
If your dog is too big or too rough on their gear for a lightweight harness, go for the Ruffwear Web Master. A frequent choice of avalanche rescue dogs and service dogs alike, the Web Master is a sturdy harness that can hold up to large dogs.
Ruffwear Web Master Harness
The Ruffwear Web Master was the outdoor dog gear brand’s first harness design, and it still lives up to the hype. For this guide, I tested a previous year’s version of this harness, and noted where my tester harness differs from the current year’s model.
I’ve had the Ruffwear Web Master harness since I got my dog Miso in 2021—it was the first harness I purchased for her. Though I often reach for the lighterweight Flagline Harness these days, this harness was Miso’s trusty companion for multiple years, and I still use it in certain situations.
The 2025 version of the Web Master features a neck clip that allows you to put this harness on and take it off without pulling it over your dog’s head—great for head-shy dogs and older dogs who may lack the mobility to lift their front legs into a harness. It also now has a front webbing loop attachment point.
The rest of the Web Master’s features are identical to the harness I have: closed-cell foam padding, a highly visible high-coverage shell, a sturdy handle for helping your dog maneuver obstacles, and padded belly straps for comfort.
The two separate belly straps on this harness make it a secure pick for escape artist pups. Though the handle and design are good for lifting your dog up and over rocks, ladders, and other hiking obstacles, I do find that the harnesses with one single neck and belly panel offer more comfort/support for this use.
I was able to try the newer version of the Webmaster on one of my dogs and compare it to my older model. I found that the sizing feels ever so slightly bigger on the newer model.
Overall, this sturdy harness is the pick for large dogs who are tough on their gear and spend lots of time outdoors.
Best dog harness for hiking: Ruffwear Flagline Harness
MSRP: $65
Clip location: Front, back, and rear
Material: Polyester ripstop with DWR and PU coating, polyester shell
Adjustment points: Six
What we liked: Highly adjustable; great for long dogs
What we didn't like: Wish the neck was padded; not great for very small dogs or square shaped dogs
The Ruffwear Flagline Harness is the best option for long dogs, barrel-chested dogs, and any pup with a non-standard proportion. It’s equally lightweight, supportive, and secure, and has been my hiking harness of choice for my personal two dogs for multiple years.
Ruffwear Flagline Harness
I tried this harness on multiple dog breeds, and it was the best option of the bunch for dogs who are longer than they are tall. It’s longer in the back and belly than most other harnesses, so for dogs with long torsos, it offers a secure fit without riding into the armpits too much and without putting pressure on the spine.
On more square breeds, this harness may offer too much length—in which case I’d recommend either the Non-stop Dogwear Line harness or the Ruffwear Front Range Harness.
The Flagline harness has six points of adjustability, making it an ideal pick for dogs with non-standard measurements or unique body types. The high adjustability of this harness meant that it didn’t slide around or move back and forth during testing on various dogs, which helped to avoid chafing and unnecessary stress on the dog’s body.
It doesn’t offer quite as much shoulder clearance in the front as the Line Harness or the Rush Harness, but it still left my tester dog’s shoulders clear enough for an unrestrictive fit. The minimal design of this harness also offers a good amount of front coverage that can distribute light pulling evenly, though if your dog is pulling moderately or more, opt for a more padded, X-back harness like the Non-Stop Dogwear Rush Harness.
This harness is the best pick for hiking because of the multiple attachment points, the lengthwise handle, and the sturdy belly panel. The three points of attachment (front, back, and rear) allow you to customize where you connect your dog’s leash based on the activity you’re doing, while the handle and reliable belly panel allow you to easily give your dog a boost up big rock features or tall logs on the trail.
I especially love the rear attachment point for allowing my dog more freedom on the trail (and the leash doesn’t get tangled between dog’s legs when attached to this webbing loop).
I’ve owned this harness for my dog, Miso, for about three years. It’s a bit dirty and dusty from our time on the local Colorado trails, but the webbing, hardware, and all adjustment points have held up wonderfully to regular use.
If you hike with your dog, you may also be interested in a dog backpack so they can carry their own gear. Check out our Essential Gear for Hiking with Your Dog checklist for more ideas.
Best dog harness for running: Non-stop Dogwear Rush Harness
MSRP: $75
Clip location: Rear elastic leash attachment point
Material: Polyester outer and webbing, Duraflex® trim, Hypalon reinforcement
Adjustment points: Two
What we liked: Y-shaped neck allows for full shoulder extension; no armpit chafing; safe for pulling; easy to put on; large range of sizes
What we didn't like: No neck adjustment point means you need a precise measurement for proper fit; elastic leash attachment point may not be secure enough for all pet parents
Most dog harnesses that are designed for pulling cover your dog’s full body to ensure there’s no unnecessary pressure on their back and spine. This long design also makes them difficult and time consuming to put on and take off. The Rush harness meets at the intersection of pulling safety and convenience—it’s safe for canicross, bikejoring, and skijoring with your dog, and is quick and easy to put on.
Non-stop Dogwear Rush Harness
There’s no adjustability at the neck, so you simply need to pull the harness over your dog’s head, then clip the two side buckles, which can both be adjusted for a tighter or looser fit. Since there’s no neck adjustability, you need to ensure that you triple check your dog’s measurements before ordering. There are eight different sizes available though, so there’s a wide range of dogs this harness will fit.
I love that this harness is lightweight and breathable while also having a fully padded neck and front. It also allows for safe, free movement. The Y-shaped neck doesn’t cut off your dog’s front extension while running, and the padded neck and X-shaped back distribute the pulling force evenly over your dog’s whole body, even if they’re pulling hard.
Even with my long-backed tester dogs, this harness seemed comfortable and fit well. It didn’t cut into the armpits on any of my tester dogs, and was true to size.
The Rush harness can be machine washed and air dried, so don’t be afraid to get it a little dirty on the trails.
Though I didn’t experience any issues with it during testing, note that the only leash attachment point is an elastic loop tied with a knot at the back of the harness. This gives the dog extra room when they’re pulling out in front of you, but may not be as secure to a leash as a typical D-ring.
For more tips on running with your dog, check out our Complete Guide to Running with Your Dog.
Other dog harnesses we tested
Non-stop Dogwear Freemotion Harness
MSRP: $100
Clip location: Rear
Material: Ripstop nylon with PU coating, closed cell foam padding
Adjustment points: Five (including adjustable rear leash attachment point)
What we liked: Best option for high impact sports like canicross, bikejoring, and skijoring
What we didn’t like: Difficult to put on and take off
The Freemotion Harness is undoubtedly the way to go for any dog-powered activities where your dog is pulling strongly ahead of you, like canicross, bikejoring, and skijoring. Like Non-stop Dogwear’s other harness options, the Freemotion Harness has a Y-shaped neck that allows for full shoulder extension, and is designed specifically to allow your dog to pull at full force without putting any pressure on their spine. It distributes pulling force incredibly well.
However, it’s big and bulky, and difficult to put on and take off. For most people who bike or run with their dogs recreationally, the Rush harness is more user friendly and still offers similar benefits.
Non-stop Dogwear Freemotion Harness
The Freemotion harness is a bit intense, but is best for frequent canicrossers, skijorers, and bikejorers.
MSRP: $48
Clip location: Front and rear
Material: Poly blend
Adjustment points: Four
What we liked: Flexible material, handle; easy to adjust
What we didn’t like: Only three sizes
The Wilderdog harness outperformed the budget pick in this story, but at almost $20 more, it just didn’t make the cut as a budget option. However, if you’re looking to pay mid-way between the higher end harnesses on this list and the budget pick, the Wilderdog Harness is a solid middle ground.
This harness is sturdy and well-made, breathable, has a solid handle, and is made of a soft mesh fabric that easily molds to your dog’s body. It’s easy to put on, take off, and adjust, and offers a pretty unrestrictive fit. The biggest downside is that it only comes in three sizes, and if your dog is between sizes, sizing up will give a more comfortable fit.
Wilderdog Dog Harness
MSRP: $40
Clip location: Front and rear
Material: Nylon
Adjustment points: Five
What we liked: Adjustable chest length; decent shoulder clearance
What we didn’t like: Very short back length; no padding on chest
For some dogs, the PetSafe Easy Walk Comfort Harness offered a slightly better fit in the armpit area than our Kurgo budget pick. It may be a better budget option for slightly longer dogs in that respect, but don’t expect to use the handle to give your dog a boost—the back length on this harness is comically short.
PetSafe Easy Walk Comfort Harness
MSRP: $20
Clip location: Front and back
Material: Polyester
Adjustment points: Four
What we liked: Sturdy, good quality material; comes in a huge variety of colors; budget friendly
What we didn’t like: Fit was odd for most medium and large sized dogs
Though this budget-friendly harness is durable and sturdy, the fit wasn’t ideal on most of our tester dogs. Even with large sizing, the back was too short for the medium and large-sized tested dogs, and the straps rode up into their armpits.
This harness could be a decent cheaper alternative for folks who are eyeing the Ruffwear Front Range Harness. It fits better on small dogs who are more square in build.
Rabbitgoo Dog Harness
The Rabbitgoo harness was too short in the back for most dogs.
What to look for in dog harnesses
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The most important clip location is a rear clip. For harnesses designed for dogs to pull into, this clip or leash attachment point should be at the very back of the harness, offering them more freedom. It also makes it harder for a dog’s legs to get tangled in their leash. This type of harness is best for running, skiing, and biking with your dog.
For walking or lower-impact hiking harnesses, a back clip in the middle of the harness works well.
Front clips on harnesses should not be used as a pulling deterrent, and should only be used under the guidance of a trainer if absolutely needed. Front clipping a leash on a harness can cause unnecessary stress on your dog’s body, and can often change the fit of their harness.
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The best dog harnesses should be made of thick, durable materials and feature sturdy hardware that can hold up to pulling. Look for options with tightly woven nylon or ripstop materials. Some harnesses will have DWR water repellant coatings to ensure they last longer in rainy, snowy, or muddy weather.
Adjustment points for proper fit
Multiple adjustment points will ensure your dog’s harness is as close to a perfect fit as possible. Ideally, a dog harness should have 2-3 points of adjustment, but more are welcome for different styles. At minimum, you should be able to adjust the neck size and girth size.
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Padding will help distribute any pulling force more evenly, and can keep your dog from getting skin irritation from their harness, especially for dogs with thin coats. For hiking, running, biking, or other high-impact sports, the harness should be completely padded around the neck and chest for maximum safety.
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The best harness for your dog will sit at the intersection of ease of use and safety/mobility during wear. Harnesses with multiple clips and adjustment points can take longer to put on and take off, but may be more adjustable than other options. Harnesses with no neck adjustment point are easier to slip over your dog’s head and faster to put on, but require more accurate sizing to get a proper fit.
If your dog is extremely head shy, consider a harness that has a neck clip so you don’t have to pull anything over their head.
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Reflective elements can keep your dog visible at night or in low light conditions. Look for harnesses that have large strips of reflective materials on the back and sides, which will help cars and other people/dogs see you and your pup while you’re walking. You can also check out our Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark guide for more options for being seen at night.
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If you’re planning on hiking with your dog in their harness, a handle that runs lengthwise down their back is helpful to give your pup a boost up or down any big rock features, logs, or ladders you may come across on your hike. It’s also a useful anchor point to hold your dog from if you see wildlife or other hikers/dogs approaching.
Harnesses with handles meant for lifting dogs should also feature a supportive chest/belly panel.
Running, biking, and skiing harnesses should have an X-back design and a leash connection point at the very back of the harness for more freedom of movement.
Why you should use a dog harness
Safety advantages and health protection: Well-fitting dog harnesses can provide reduced neck strain and trachea protection when compared to collar usage—especially for dogs who pull when walking, for young puppies who are still growing, and for brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds who can’t handle additional trachea strain.
Harnesses are also an injury prevention tool for very small dogs. It’s easy to accidentally pull a small dog too hard on a collar, causing neck or trachea injuries. Harnesses do a better job at redistributing pressure around the dog’s body instead of directly on their neck.
Escape prevention: Harnesses provide a more secure connection to a leash—ideal for anxious or escape-prone dogs. Harnesses can also be backed up to a collar using a security clip to ensure you always have two methods of connection to your dog.
Activity versatility: Whether you’re running, hiking, walking, bikejoring, skiing, or snowshoeing with your dog, harnesses offer the best range of motion for your dog’s body, and offer more padding and force distribution than a collar would for high-impact activities.
Dog harness vs. collar: When to use each
Fully leash trained dogs who do not pull on the leash can be safely walked on a collar. Dogs who pull can do damage to their necks when walked on a collar, so a head halter or a well-fitting body harness is a safer tool choice.
Dogs who are escape artists should wear a collar that’s backed up (i.e., connected) to a body harness, in case they’re able to slip out of either one. A carabiner or a harness to collar safety clip is best for these situations.
Puppies should be walked on well-fitting harnesses that allow for full range of motion to protect their joints as they grow. Just make sure you purchase a highly adjustable harness for your puppy and be prepared to replace it when it’s too small, since young pups tend to outgrow their gear rapidly.
Types of dog harnesses explained
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As a dog trainer, I generally prefer back clip harnesses for all dogs. If you feel your dog needs a front clip harness, it may benefit from more leash training, or another walking tool, like a head halter, instead.
In theory, front clip harnesses can discourage pulling by making it harder for them to pull, and redirecting the pulling force backwards. However, most dogs who pull don’t front front clip harnesses aversive and will continue to pull even when a leash is clipped to the front.
When dogs continue to pull on front clip harnesses, the harness often rotates so it’s not sitting properly over the dog’s body. This can cause skin chafing and irritation, and isn’t safe or comfortable for your dog, since even a proper-fitting harness that rotates like this will no longer sit properly.
Dual clip harnesses are slightly better than just using a front clip harness. Double-ended leashes can be attached to the front and back clips to steer your dog more effectively, like reigns on a horse.
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Many no-pull harnesses have a similar design: a strip of fabric that goes across a dog’s chest horizontally, paired with a front D-ring to attach a leash to. The premise of no-pull harnesses is essentially that it makes it more difficult and slightly uncomfortable for a dog to walk, so they’re less likely to pull.
In reality, no-pull harnesses often don’t stop pulling. Instead, they cut off a dog’s full range of motion in their shoulders, which over time can cause stress on your dog’s joints. These harnesses are more of a management tool, and don’t actually teach your dog to walk nicely on a leash.
A standard harness is safer and more comfortable for your dog. Standard harnesses usually pull over a dog’s head and have a piece of material lengthwise down the chest and stomach, leaving the shoulders free to fully extend. These types of harnesses are unlikely to cause orthopedic issues with long term use.
If you’re having trouble with a strong puller, consider a head halter or finding a professional dog trainer to work with you and your dog on loose leash walking skills.
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Step-in harnesses are specifically useful for brachycephalic breeds and very small breeds to reduce pressure on their tracheas. However, many step-in harnesses cut off shoulder mobility and don’t allow for full extension in the front, so there are trade-offs.
Step-in harnesses can also be used for dogs with extreme aversions to normal harnesses being pulled over their heads.
Vest-style harnesses are recommended for nearly all dogs who don’t have medical issues that would be complicated by pressure around their neck and shoulders.
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If your dog pulls at all, a padded design is the way to go. Pulling on non-padded harnesses can cause chafing and skin irritation. Padded harnesses are generally wider and sturdier than their non-padded counterparts, so they do a better job at distributing force over your dog’s body as they walk. This is important for dogs who pull, as they could damage their trachea or cause orthopedic issues when pulling into a non-supportive harness.
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What your dog is using a harness for will help you select a proper one. Harnesses for hiking should be supportive, breathable, and ideally have a handle so you can help your dog up rock or log obstacles on trail.
Harnesses for running should offer full support for dogs who pull out in front of you. X-backed harnesses with plenty of padding around the neck are best for running.
If you’re choosing a dog car harness for car safety, opt for one crash tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety.
How to measure your dog for a harness
A soft tape measure is ideal for measuring your dog’s size, but if you don’t have one, you can use a piece of string or a flexible dog leash that you then measure against a tape measure or ruler.
Wrap the string or measuring tape around the widest part of your dog’s chest to find their girth measurement. The tape measure or string should sit evenly around their chest, behind their front legs.
For the neck measurement, measure the base of your dog’s neck, where the harness will sit. If your dog has a big, blocky head, you may also need to measure the diameter of their head to ensure the harness will fit over their head.
Not many harnesses offer back length measurements, but it’s helpful to compare a harness back length measurement to where it will fall on your dog’s back. Ideally, at least half of your dog’s back should be covered by the harness. Many harnesses are too short in body length for long-backed breeds.
Harnesses to short in the back tend to ride into dogs’ armpits
How to fit a dog harness properly
Once you’ve taken your dog’s measurements, match them up with a brand’s given sizing measurements. Read reviews from other dog owners as well, especially those with similar breeds and sizes. Sometimes measurements will match but a dog harness still may not fit properly.
You’ll also need to select a harness that works for your dog’s conformation, or build. For example, long-backed breeds like corgis and dachshunds are often too long for short, single clip harnesses. Though they may technically fit in a harness like this, it’s not the best choice for their body type.
A proper fitting harness should offer clearance in your dog’s armpit—at least an inch’s worth. If the harness is digging into the space behind your dog’s front legs, it’s either too small or isn’t the best design for your dog’s body type.
Well-fitting harnesses should also offer full range of motion for your dog’s front legs. This means that any material in the front of your dog’s chest should be a proper thickness so as not to impede their motion in the front—which again, will depend on your pup’s build. The neck material should be Y-shaped, so it leaves your dog’s shoulders fully free to extend.
It’s very common for harnesses to be too small for dogs. Purchase a harness from a retailer with a flexible return policy, just in case you need to return one that isn’t a proper fit.
The Line 5.0 harness is a good example of a harness that gives good shoulder clearance and also doesn’t ride into dogs’ armpits.
How to stop your dog from pulling
If you own a Husky, a Malamute, or a Samoyed: congratulations, you have a dog who was bred to pull heavy loads over long distances! Teaching these breeds how not to pull is counterintuitive for them, and will almost always require the help of a professional trainer.
Dogs who were meant to run fast at long distances (German Short Haired Pointers, Brittanys, English Springer Spaniels) are also prone to pulling if they’re not given the exercise and outlets they need.
When it comes to pulling, make sure your dog is physically and mentally enriched before tackling any leash training. A tired, fulfilled dog is less likely to yank you on a leash than a dog who is under exercised.
If all of your dog’s needs have been met and they still pull, look for a certified professional dog trainer in your area to help you and your pup with leash manners.
Care and maintenance tips
Ensure your dog’s harness is clean and dry before storing it between uses. Follow all manufacturer-suggested wash instructions. Some harnesses can be machine washed and air dried, while others can only be spot cleaned. Store your pup’s harness hung up in a dry place when not in use.
Most harnesses last upwards of 5 years or more. Well-made harnesses may even last through multiple dogs’ lifetimes. Check your dog’s harness every few months for signs of wear or damage. If you notice fraying on any straps or buckles, it’s time to replace the harness. Fraying or broken closures can be a safety issue, and could lead to your dog coming out of their harness unexpectedly.
FAQ
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Back-clip harnesses are generally better. A proper-fitting back-clip harness will ensure your dog’s harness sits properly and doesn’t shift side to side during use.
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A dog harness should be tight enough that you can fit 2-3 fingers underneath it. A harness that’s too loose will move around too much, which can irritate your dog’s skin and may allow them to slip out of it. A harness that’s too tight can also irritate your dog’s skin, and may restrict their range of motion.
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Your dog should only wear a harness all day if they’re supervised 100% of the time. If your dog is unsupervised, wearing a harness can be a safety and choking hazard.
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Harnesses often make it more comfortable for dogs to pull. Ensuring your dog has gotten enough physical and mental exercise and their needs are met can help reduce pulling. Consider using a head halter or consulting a professional trainer for extreme pulling.
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To stop a dog from backing out of their harness, choose a harness that fits snugly and desensitize your dog to wearing the harness. Consult a professional trainer if needed.
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Yes, puppies can—and should—wear harnesses. Proper-fitting harnesses can help keep puppies from damaging their neck or trachea while they’re growing.
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No-pull style harnesses are bad for dogs’ shoulders. Any harness that cuts across the front of your dog’s shoulders restricts their range of motion and can cause orthopedic damage.
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Well-fitting dog harnesses can last multiple years with proper care. Keep your dog’s harness clean and dry between uses. Keeping your dog’s harness away from your dog when not in use can also prevent damage caused by chewing.
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Padded, X-backed harnesses like the Non-stop Dogwear Rush Harness or the Non-stop Dogwear Freemotion 5.0 Harness are best for dogs who pull. These harnesses offer full range of motion and padding around your dog’s neck for safe pulling.
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No, regular harnesses should not be used for car safety. Your dog’s walking or hiking harness will not keep them safe in the event of a car accident. Opt for a Center for Pet Safety-certified crash-tested harness or dog crate instead.
How we researched and tested
I’ve been testing dog harnesses for years, and I’ve used pretty much every popular one on the market at some point. I did extensive market research when pulling together this pool, relying on my own previous harness testing, Amazon top sellers, and other review site recommendations to create a robust testing pool that included multiple types of harnesses for different types of dogs.
Along with my own two dogs, Miso and Dashi, and their neighborhood friends, I tested 10 of the top harnesses on the market. Here’s how I evaluated and ranked all of the harnesses for this article:
Ease of use: I put every harness on multiple different dogs and evaluated which ones were the easiest to put on, take off, and adjust.
Performance on different coat types: With Dashi the rough collie taking the lead, we determined how well each harness worked for long-coated dogs. We noted when a harness tended to flatten Dashi’s coat, or caused tangling or mats.
Sizing: Sizing and fit is the most important thing when purchasing a dog harness, since correct sizing and proper fit equals safe usage for your dog. I tried each harness on two to four different dogs that fit the recommended size ranges so see if the brand recommended sizes lined up with real dogs’ measurements.
Fit: I put each harness on two to four different dogs of different builds to determine how they fit differently shaped dogs. Tester dogs ranged from very long bodied, to barrel chested, to low to the ground, to stocky. The harnesses with the most adjustability tended to be the most versatile, and some harnesses were flat out wrong for certain dogs’ anatomy. Harnesses that dug into the armpits or seemed to put pressure on dogs’ backs were docked in my scoring, as were harnesses that seemed like a safety risk to escape prone dogs.
Pulling test: I let a dog pull on each harness while a leash was attached to each of the connection points. This test showed how well (or how poorly) the harness distributed pulling force across a dog’s body. Harnesses that turned or shifted, bunched up, or created pressure points on dogs’ necks, shoulders, back, or armpits lost points.
Shoulder mobility test: I let dogs run at a full sprint in each harness and video taped them. This video review helped me evaluate how much front mobility each harness allowed. I noted the harnesses that gave the most shoulder clearance.
Size options: Many breeds (and mixes) have slightly different builds, making it hard to recommend a “one size fits all” harness. However, the harnesses with the biggest size range and most adjustability are more likely to work on a variety of dogs.
Exchange policy: I’d need two hands to count the amount of times I’ve purchased a dog harness and had to return it because the sizing was off. Even when measuring your dog, it can be hard to get a perfect fit without trying on a harness in person. Choose one that has a flexible return or exchange policy in the event it’s not quite right for your dog.
Quality and durability: I used each of these harnesses over the course of at least a month, but oftentimes much longer. I’ve been using/testing many of the harnesses in this pool for multiple years, so I’ve been able to evaluate the build quality of each one in real-life hiking, running, camping, and walking scenarios.
Number of adjustment points: I counted the number of adjustment points on each harness and tested each one. Generally, the more adjustability, the better.
Number of connection points: I counted up the number of leash connection points on each harness and tested them via the pulling test listed above.
Extra features: I noted harnesses with reflective elements, breathable materials, extra padding for long-term wear, and other nice-to-have features.
Price: I weighed all the above evaluation points against the price of the harness to determine the options most worth your money. Generally, the cheap Amazon options weren’t worth the price in material quality/fit alone. You’re better off spending more for a harness that will last your dog’s lifetime.
Why you should trust us / About the author
Jae Thomas has tested nearly every dog harness on the market—multiple times. As a long-time gear reviewer in the pet space and as a professional dog trainer, Jae has an eye for dog harnesses that sit at the intersection of safety, convenience, and health for your furry companions.
Jae Thomas is an e-commerce journalist, editor, and dog trainer based in Colorado. She graduated from the New York University journalism program in 2020, and has written and edited commerce content for publications like Mashable, Apartment Therapy, Bon Appetít, Whole Dog Journal, Chewy, CNN Underscored, and more.
Jae is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed, and teaches agility, rally, and other dog sports at Canine Athletics Training Center in Boulder County. Jae uses her background in dog sports and behavior to test outdoor-focused dog gear focused on fit, comfort, safety, and functionality for dogs and their owners.
Jae shares her life with two dogs: mixed breed Miso, and Rough Collie, Dashi. Jae competes in conformation, agility, rally, herding, barn hunt, Fast CAT, and other sports with her dogs and is a pro at traveling, camping, hiking, and adventuring with canine companions in tow.
