We Review the 16 Best Dog Harnesses for Every Kind of Dog in 2021

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Some dogs need more than a plain old collar. Whether your dog pulls on the leash, has mobility constraints, or is easily distracted, a harness may be your new best friend. It’s less stressful on your dog’s neck and provides you with more control on walks.

Harnesses come in a variety of styles and offer a range of uses. Before buying a dog harness, consider the following:

• Safety and durability. Is it adjustable for a secure fit? Will it hold up to extensive use out in the elements? Is it machine-washable or otherwise easy to clean?
• Comfort. Is it designed to keep your dog feeling comfy while in use? Does it avoid putting pressure on their throat and neck? Is there padding or other comfort-forward features?
• Cost. Is it affordable? A good harness is an investment, so don’t go for the bargain. But you should be able to find a solid option at a reasonable price.
• Style. Your dog may not care what they look like, and utility should be your primary goal in selecting a harness. But that doesn’t mean you can’t look for something spiffy.

Whatever kind of dog you have, there’s a harness to suit them. We know because, well, the Rover community walks a lot of dogs.

The Best Dog Harnesses for Every Kind of Dog

We recommend the harnesses we’ve rounded up here based on a combination of in-house testing (indicated by verified reviews), well-researched online reviews, and my own experience as a dog owner of two rescue pit bulls. Read on for the dog harnesses we recommend, plus a bonus list of additional harnesses we like.

One of two Ruffwear picks on our list, the Front Range is a perfect go-to harness for any dog. It slips over your dog’s neck, and with one sturdy clip, you’re ready to go. The softly padded chest provides comfort and a secure fit, and its rugged materials keep it safe in all weather.

Why we like it:

• Four adjustment points for a custom fit
• Comes in lots of colors for visibility and style
• ID pocket lets you slip in tags or a paper note for easy identification

Verified review: “I loved how durable the harness looked and felt. The padding on the chest plate felt comfortable to the touch, and I think this harness will be gentle on my dog’s skin. I also loved that this harness offers both front and back clips. My dog is not a big puller when she walks, so I’ve never felt the need to look for a front-clip harness—but now that the Ruffwear offers both options, I’ll definitely be trying out both leash positions.”

Best Dog Harness for Urban Exploring: Wonder Walker (Verified Review)

The unofficial dog harness of Seattle, the popular Wonder Walker no-pull harness places control around your dog’s center of gravity rather than their head or neck. It can be clipped in front or back. By attaching your dog’s leash to the chest ring, you can gently guide your dog in the direction you want them to move.

Why we like it:

• Made in the U.S.A.
• Only one buckle for easy on and off
• O-rings are large enough for tags

Verified review (size XS): “My Boston terrier puppy tends to pull a lot, because she wants to sniff every.single.tree. I tried collar training with her to keep her on track but I finally threw in the towel and decided to try a harness. This harness can be clipped on the top, or in the front to prevent pulling. I opted to clip it in the front to control pulling and it really has helped. Walks are so much more enjoyable now!”

Verified review (size XL): “First impressions: the material seemed durable, but also lightweight. The harness looked slightly small for an XL, and I wasn’t sure it would fit my bulldog’s wide chest. After trying it out, I was very pleased. There are multiple size adjustments, making this a fairly versatile product (I was able to fit it on my low and sturdy English Bulldog, as well as my 95lb. Lab/Husky mix!) The alternate colored strap makes it easy to ensure the harness is correctly being placed on your pet (it rests on your dog’s back). Overall, I thought the product was really great. The only feature I would change is the placement of the clasp closure. On both of my dogs it sat right under their armpit area and I have concern that this could be uncomfortable on long walks.”

This padded harness is great for deep-chested big dog breeds like German Shepherds and Boxers. Its adjustable straps ensure a good fit, and the metal D-ring leash attachment point is heavy-duty and secure. As a bonus, the Expawlorer harness has a reflective strip across the top for safe walking in low light.

Why we like it:

• Extra-thick straps for comfort and support
• Handle on back offers more control
• Comes in lots of vibrant colors

The Rabbitgoo is another popular style in Seattle—we see this harness out and about everywhere.

This well-reviewed, affordable harness is great for walking in low-light conditions, as the ultra-bright reflective stitching helps with visibility. With back and front leash attachments, plus a handy back handle for extra control in tight spaces, it gives you tons of options for walking your dog. Please note that this harness is recommended for medium-sized breeds.

Why we like it:

• Comes in four sizes and colors
• Designed to withstand weather all year round
• Four adjustable straps for a custom fit

Verified review: Our reviewer liked the quality, ease of use, and fit of this harness, though found its no-pull claims to be lackluster when she used it with her puller of a Puggle. “Even though it has a chest hook in the front, it does not provide any control over your dog if you hook your leash there.” She found instead that the harness worked better with the D-ring on the back. (There is the option of using two leashes, one clipped to the front and one clipped to the back, for extra control).

This harness, made of a soft, padded mesh material, is a good lightweight option for smaller dogs. It’s durable and easy to clean, so it can handle a muddy walk, and it comes in tons of bright colors, offering both fashion and the function of higher visibility. Sizes run small, so be sure to double-check the size chart and measure your dog before ordering.

Why we like it:

• Soft material helps protect your dog’s delicate underarm skin
• Webbed material distributes force evenly across chest
• Adjustable neck and chest straps help ensure dogs can’t back out of the harness

Verified review: “The large fits my 20-pound Cavalier King Charles Spaniel very well as he has a deep chest. The medium also fit but I didn’t feel it was long enough for him. It’s really nice not having to pull the harness over his face and ears! I prefer this version to the original. He seems very content wearing it for walks and car rides—so much so that he tends to pull a bit while wearing it—he doesn’t pull while wearing other types of harnesses.”

For dogs who walk like they’re pulling a wagon, a no-pull dog harness can make all the difference. My dog trainer recommended the Freedom harness, and I agree it’s effective. It may look basic, but its ingenious design with the front clip saved my back (and arms, and everything else) when my dog was at his pulling-est. Online reviewers praise it for its gentle control. It comes with a double-connection training leash too.

Why we like it:

• Four adjustment points for a safe, comfortable fit
• Dog owners who have reviewed this harness rave over how well it prevents pulling, and how comfortable their dogs are in the harness
• Comes in lots of bright colors

Verified review: “This is sturdy and well made: The straps that go under the belly/into the armpits are soft and velvety. I like that this harness seems pretty inescapable and gives me control when my dog pulls and is reactive. You can clip in the front or back, and it’s easy to figure out which side is which because the straps are different colors.”

Best Harness for Flat-Faced Dogs: PetSafe Easy Walk

Pugs, Boston Terriers, and other brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds need harnesses that protect their necks from pressure. Pug enthusiasts love the PetSafe Easy Walk harness because its strong, adjustable straps help distribute pressure evenly across the dog’s chest and belly.

Why we like it:

• Quick-snap buckles make it easy to put on and take off
• Differently colored straps make it easy to put on correctly every time
• Strong, soft nylon is secure and easy to clean

Best Walk-to-Car Harness: Kurgo Tru-Fit (Verified Review)

Do you drive your dog to a walking trail? If so, you’ll want to buckle them up for the ride. The Kurgo Tru-Fit harness is designed with safety in mind and is crash-rated for dogs weighing up to 75 pounds. Best of all, unlike many car-restraint harness systems, the Kurgo Tru-Fit is equally comfortable and useful as a walking harness.

Why we like it:

• Several adjustment points for a secure fit
• Padded chest plate and wide straps keep your dog comfortable
• Comes with a seatbelt tether to secure your dog in the car

Verified review: “The fit was spot on. Whiskey is a Boxer mix, medium-sized (45 lbs) and has a very broad chest but tiny waist. Sometimes it’s hard to find harnesses or coats that are big enough for his chest area. This one was perfect! Whiskey is a leash-puller, so it’s nice to have the option to clip in front or back. The firm fit gave better support and Whiskey seemed to like it a lot on our walk to the beach.”

If you frequently walk your dog in the dark, this light-up LED harness is a must-have. It comes in sizes small to large and four color options. The adjustable straps ensure a secure fit, and the bright LED lights mean you’ll be seen wherever you walk.

Why we like it:

• Two different light modes (fast-flashing and steady glowing) to make you visible on even the darkest night (plus, they’re just plain fun!)
• USB-rechargeable lights
• Comes in sizes to fit dogs from Chihuahuas to Labs and anything in between

If you have a medium- to large-sized dog who backs out of other harnesses, the Icefang tactical dog harness is an option to consider. The chest and belly straps keep dogs securely harnessed, and the strong metal buckles have been tested against a 1000-pound proof-load. Designed for working dogs and canine adventure companions.

Why we like it:

• A handle for controlled, balanced lifting
• A customizable fit
• Two secure leash attachment points

This low-cost pick has a lot in common with other harnesses on the list. The spongey padding and breathable mesh are comfortable for your dog, while the strong handles and connection points give you plenty of control. A good bargain is meaningless if the quality isn’t good, but luckily, reviews for this harness are very high. It’s a great all-purpose harness at a very pleasing price.

Why we like it:

• Comes in five different sizes and colors
• Reflective striping makes your dog easier to see in the dark
• No pressure around your dog’s neck

Other Great Dog Harnesses

In addition to the 11 best harnesses above, these are some other well-reviewed harnesses you can buy online today.

Step-in harnesses that buckle in the back are great for small dogs who can’t wear a traditional collar or front-attaching harness. This colorful choice from Best Pet Supplies is made with plushy fleece and super strong velcro to keep your dog comfy. Plus, it comes in five color options and sizes from extra small to extra large.

Why we like it:

• Velcro, clip, and D-ring closures work together to provide a custom, secure fit
• Easy to put on and take off
• Cozy fleece padding with reflective striping helps with visibility at night and early morning

This slick silver harness has a unique triangular design that distributes pressure and makes for easy adjustments to fit your big dog. The locking attachment points are extra-secure for dogs who pull, and there’s a top handle to grab and use when your dog needs extra control or help getting over an obstacle on the trail. Reviewers love the cute dog print on the chest, too.

Why we like it:

• Breathable and weather-resistant material
• Appropriate for dogs with large chests
• Front and back D-rings

Here’s a bright, no-pull harness that comes in every color of the rainbow and then some. Get a couple of different hues to match your dog’s mood! But it’s not just fashionable: with quick-snap buckles, two sturdy metal leash attachment points, and a dual-elastic construction, it’s comfy and safe for your dog to wear for hours.

Why we like it:

• Chest strap includes a lock for extra security
• Reflective stitching helps with night and early morning visibility
• Three adjustable straps for increased comfort and safety

Looking for a comfy step-in vest harness for your dog? This one is cute and practical, with strong double-layer mesh to keep your pup comfortable. It comes in a wide array of colors to match any dog’s personality, though this style runs particularly small—reviewers note how important it is to measure your dog to find the correct fit.

Why we like it:

• Eco-friendly: made from recycled material
• Designed to ensure puppies and small dogs won’t slip out
• Easy to put on with just one buckle and adjustable strap

This durable, lightweight car harness has a broad padded chest plate for extra protection and comfort. The large leash connection loop makes it easy to hook up a leash and take off on a walk, and the included seat belt attachment keeps your dog securely clicked in on the road. It’s a versatile, adjustable harness that goes from walks to car rides in a snap. And reviewers love the low price point for quality materials.

Why we like it:

• Comes in eight colors and four sizes
• No pressure around your dog’s neck
• Two chest straps are great for dogs who don’t like to step into a harness

Why You Should (or Shouldn’t) Use a Harness

Using a harness in addition to a collar makes it easier to manage your dog on a leash. Plus, harnesses have other advantages:

• They offer better control on walks
• They discourage pulling by redirecting your dog
• Harnesses can double as mobility aids for dogs who need a little help getting up and down
• If your dog has a habit of backing out of their collar, a harness can be a literal life-saver
• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds sometimes have trouble with collars that put pressure on their necks. A harness helps redistribute pressure and keeps your Pug or Frenchie breathing easy.

Despite all the advantages of harnesses, some dogs still do better with a collar. In particular, if your dog loves to pull from the chest, or gets easily tangled in their leash, a flat collar may be just fine. But for many dogs, the right harness can make a world of difference.

Further Reading