Published by Ethan Brehm Oct 05, 2022

Published by Ethan Brehm Oct 05, 2022

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Although dog harnesses predate the modern-day leash by hundreds and hundreds of years, the technology is still being evolved and adapted all the time. Invented for sledding sometime around the turn of the first millennia, these devices are now used as a way to keep our pets safe when out and about. Inarguably a better option for owners with larger dogs who pull, harnesses can also be invaluable for those traveling with their pups in the car or tethering them down.

When choosing the right harness for your hairy friend, you’ll notice there are numerous options available. To solve this problem, we’ve assembled a guide to our favorite dog harnesses to buy right now.

Depending on your reason for getting a harness in the first place, you’ll want to know whether to buy a front hook harness or a body harness. Along with being easy to take on and off, a front hook harness is mostly for dogs that pull, optimal for how it redistributes their energy and momentum by rotating your pup’s body rather than making it tougher for you and more enjoyable for him or her.

On the other hand, body harnesses are not just optimal for well-trained dogs, but have their benefits when traveling in a car or tying down your dog while out in public. Likewise, when hiking or jogging with your four-legged companion, a body harness provides a better range of motion for them.

Just because you have a smaller breed doesn’t mean a harness isn’t still a great option. Safer for strapping them into cars, these devices are to pups what seatbelts are to us — or as close as you can get. Puppia’s RiteFit Dog Harness is not just budget-friendly but is perhaps your best bet if you own a little dog. Made out of polyester and stretchy enough to give him or her enough room to breathe, this harness has an adjustable neck and chest belt to accommodate all builds.

Just because you have a smaller breed doesn’t mean a harness isn’t still a great option. Safer for strapping them into cars, these devices are to pups what seatbelts are to us — or as close as you can get. Puppia’s RiteFit Dog Harness is not just budget-friendly but is perhaps your best bet if you own a little dog. Made out of polyester and stretchy enough to give him or her enough room to breathe, this harness has an adjustable neck and chest belt to accommodate all builds.

Kurgo has a lot of quality harnesses, but its flagship Tru-Fit Smart Dog Harness is built with ultimate safety in mind, especially for riding in the car. In case of emergencies, the UTX Weinerlock quick-release buckles let you rescue your pet quickly and a 10” seat belt loop provides additional tethering that keeps them from distracting you. When going on walks there are two leash attachments, including a ring on the back for casual strolls and a D-ring in the front that turns the dog to the side when pulling.

Despite its simplicity, PetSafe’s Easy Walk is a great no-pull harness, especially for bigger dogs. Available in an array of colors, this no-frills front hook option is a go-to for trainers and vets alike, assisting with pulling pups by gently redirecting their bodies without restricting their breathing. Dual buckles let you take this on and off with ease and the martingale loop in the chest area will keep it from getting twisted. Four points of adjustment and a streamlined construction ensure that your dog won’t mind wearing it either.

Though known for its supreme workwear range, the Michigan-based Carhartt has extended its expertise to the pet world with its Nylon Duck Training Dog Harness. Constructed of super-rugged 500D nylon webbing with duck canvas weave, this reflective hybrid vest has a back loop for casual walks and a front slotted metal D-ring for pull training. Both comfortable and tactical, the chest and back neoprene pads are also covered with water-repellent coated nylon and edge binding to preclude fraying and tears.

Started by a group of dog-loving friends, Wilderdog was launched to fill a void for adventurers who want to bring along their furry companions. It did just that with its colorful range of outdoor gear tough enough to last you a lifetime — with a warranty to back it. The Lightweight Dog Harness is made from breathable and comfortable mesh fabric, equipped with two e-coated D-ring leash tether points, a top-fitted rescue handle, dual-release buckles on the sides, and adjustable straps on the neck and shoulders. What’s more, with every sale, Wilderdog donates food to rescue shelters.

As far as a hybrid harness, RUFFWEAR’s flagship Front Range is arguably the best you can get. With two different tether points — a V-ring at the middle of the back for casual walks with well-trained dogs and a clip on the reinforced webbing in front for redirecting dogs that pull — this harness is made for both pet and owner. Built with foam padding for comfort and four adjustment points for ensuring that it fits properly, the Front Range also has reflective lining for night walks and an ID pocket in case your pup gets lost.

Whether you’re hunting or hiking with your pooch, a good tactical harness is an invaluable investment. Auroth’s super-durable Tactical Training Dog Starter Pack is built around MOLLE, a military-based modular system that ensures you’re prepared throughout your travails. Equipped with dual leash tether points, this harness isn’t just brilliantly constructed with Kevlar straps and CLAD buckles, but features plenty of hooks, loops, and Velcro for attaching an array of gear.

Sometimes peace of mind truly rests in the reliability behind a name. Filson has spent over a hundred years building a reputation for quality clothing and accessories that are made to last. With the Seattle-based brand transposing its skills to the world of dogs, this Bridle Leather Harness is as good of a straightforward option as you will find. Made from North American saddle-grade hide that was tanned in the United States, this harness sports three points of adjustment, with brass adjustment clasps, leash clips, and a top-fitted O-ring. 

Equipped with the brand’s flagship waterproof leash and a poop bag dispenser, Wild One’s all-in-one Harness Walk Kit is perfect for those who desire form, function, and convenience. Built from a stretchy and soft poly base with a woven webbing strap and built-in coated carbon steel D-rings, this top-shelf harness can be mixed and matched (featuring 10 attractive colorways) with different colored leashes. The leash itself is similarly built from a poly-coated webbing, zinc alloy buckles and hook, and steel D-rings.

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