Best harness for dogs that pull according to dog lovers

A no pull dog harness stops walkies from turning into a tug of war.

Best harness for dogs that pull

by Natalie Knowles |
Updated on

The best harness for dogs that pull makes walking your dog an enjoyable and controlled experience. Comfort and safety are most important for both you and your pooch. Therefore, it's worth doing a bit of research into the best leads for dogs. A Chihuahua will have very different leash requirements to a Beagle.

A conventional dog collar offers you little control over a dog that's straining on their lead. Not to mention, a dog that's pulling can cause themselves serious damage to their neck and throat which can be distressing. A no pull harness for dogs distributes the strain from the lead evenly across your dog’s chest. It gives you greater control over your pet for easier redirection and discourages pullers.

Best harness for dogs that pull at a glance:

The size of the harness depends on your dog's breed. It needs to fit snugly yet be comfortable for your dog. Ensure the harness fits snugly on your dog's body. To do so, ensure there is two fingers of space under the harness on all sides.

Retractable dog leads can assist in controlling a wandering dog, but they may not be suitable for all dogs due to various factors such as behaviour, size or training needs. In such cases, harnesses are a suitable alternative for better control and comfort. Beagles – with their nose to the ground and their tail in the air – are notorious for pulling on their leads. We want every dog to enjoy their walkies, whether they're sniffing out a scent to follow or just having a chill stroll in the park. Teach your dog the 'heel command' and invest in a training lead that attaches to a harness. So, if you have a spaniel that's inclined to scamper, scroll to the FAQs section below.

Best harness for dogs that pull

Best overall harness for dogs that pull

Best overall harness for dogs that pull

rabbitgoo Dog Harness LargeAmazon/rabbitgo

Rrp: $14.98

Price: $11.98
Alternative retailers
Walmart$24.98View offer

Strap on that harness and unleash some outdoor fun with the rabbitgoo Dog Harness. This is a large dog harness with a neck girth of 46-66cm and chest girth of 43-86cm (other sizes are available). It's designed with two metal leash rings for safer walks. The chest attachment clip helps to prevent pulling, so it's ideal for training or for dogs that are prone to pulling. The back attachment is suitable for casual walks. Its hassle-free overhead style has two fast-release buckles that makes it easy to put on and take off. It has easy-adjustable straps, including two neck straps and two chest straps. Therefore, it minimises slipping, ensuring your dog's comfort. Made of durable nylon Oxford fabric – with soft cushion padding – and a breathable air mesh to keep your dog cool during outdoor activities. Finally, the super bright reflective strips ensure visibility and safety both day and night.

Customer review: "I did a lot of research on dog harnesses before I decided on the rabbitgoo one. It has everything I wanted… a grab handle on the back, easy to get on an off, padded, two lead rings for lead control, funky colours, well made, and the price was very good too."

Pros

  • Available in a range of colours and sizes
  • Safe and comfortable
  • Designed with two metal lead rings for safer walks

Cons

  • Not chew-proof
Size:L (also available XS, S, M, XL)
Material:Nylon
  • Suitable for medium to large breeds like Golden Retrievers, Huskies, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Akitas, etc.
  • Available in 13 colours
  • Four adjustment points for a customisable fit
  • Soft, breathable cushioning
  • Front leash clip, no pull system

Best no pull dog harness for adjustability

Auroth Tactical Anti Pull Dog HarnessAmazon/Auroth

Comfort and companionship go paw-in-paw with the Auroth Tactical Anti Pull Dog Harness. This dog harness has four buckles for effortless fitting and four-way adjustment straps on the neck and chest for a customisable fit. The sturdy plastic buckles are durable and have a lifetime of 50,000 clicks. This tactical-style dog harness features two D-shaped rings on the chest and back. Pulling the front ring helps control your dog's forward motion, while the back ring reduces stress on its neck during walks. The grab handle, to keep your dog safe, can hold up to 1,200lbs. Also, the metal adjusting rings stay secure, so the harness is less likely to slip. Breathable sandwich mesh lining keeps your dog cool, while the durable oxford outer layer resists scratches, ensuring longevity and easy cleaning. Additionally, this harness has a tactical MOLLE system for carrying light objects, as well as a hook and loop panel on the back for attaching custom patches, such as ID information.

Customer review: "I've been using this dog harness for a couple of months now, and I must say it's been nothing short of exceptional. The durability of the material is outstanding, and the overall quality is top-notch. Even though the clasps are made of plastic, they are exceptionally well-made and have proven to be reliable."

Pros

  • Stylish
  • Easy to fit
  • Over 30,000 reviews
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Customer reviews comment that it's not durable
Size:M (also available S, L, XL)
Material:Nylon, Oxford cloth
  • Available in eight colours
  • Reflective strips glow in the dark
  • Breathable
  • Adjustable straps

Best large harness for dogs that pull

HALTI No Pull Harness Size LargeAmazon/HALTI

Rrp: $41.99

Price: $22.94
Alternative retailers
Petco$16.48View offer
PetSmart$19.50View offer
Walmart$26.39View offer

Leash up and hit the trail with your furry explorer. The HALTI No Pull Harness offers a simple anti-pull solution for most dogs. This harness features both a no-pull lifting action and front-control steering. It's ideal for flat-nosed breeds who are unable to wear a headcollar. Designed with a lightweight construction, this harness allows for a full range of movement, while the padded chest and leg straps ensure your dog's comfort during walks. Halti claims: "97 per cent of dog owners saw immediate results with their dogs not pulling." Halti invented the world's first dog headcollar and have been designing award-winning no pull products since 1979.

_Source: Consumer product testing with over 70 dog owners in 2018.
_
Customer review: "Bought this to try and stop my six month old Doberman from pulling. Harness is easy to put on, well made and overall is a decent harness."

Pros

  • Amazon's Choice
  • An award-winning brand with over 40 years experience
  • Effective design to stop pulling
  • Easy to use
  • Reflective for visibility at night

Cons

  • Only available in black
Size:Large (also available in Small and Medium)
Material:Nylon
  • Padded chest and leg straps for comfort
  • Premium webbing
  • Anti-pull

Best medium harness for dogs that pull

OneTigris No Pull Harness for DogsAmazon/OneTigris
Price: $36.99

Get tails wagging for a mission with the OneTigris No Pull Harness for Dogs. Made with high-quality 1000D nylon and soft padding, it ensures a comfortable fit for your furry friend. This easy adjustable harness has four quick-release buckles for effortless fitting and removal. There's a top handle for leash control and a V-ring for leash attachment – it's designed for convenience and safety. Styled with a MOLLE system and military design, it has two MOLLE straps on each side and hook and loop panels for attaching pouches or ID panels. However, note that the harness is not suitable for bearing heavy weights. Available in a range of colours and sizes, it's perfect for your K9.

Customer review: "This harness is perfect for my Dalmatian/Staffy as she used to slip in other harnesses. The buckle straps are perfect for her slim frame, as I can tighten and keep perfect control of her on walks. Really recommend. 10/10."

Pros

  • Military styling
  • Adjustable
  • Durable
  • Rings and handles offer good control

Cons

  • Take care not to overload the harness pouches as it will be a burden for your dog
Size:M (also available XXS, XS, X, L, XL)
Material:Nylon
  • Available in nine colours/styles
  • Solid UTX Duraflex buckles
  • Hook & loop panels to attach patches and ID
  • Two metal D-rings
  • No-pull front clip
  • Back clip for daily walking

Best small harness for dogs that pull

PoyPet No Pull Dog HarnessAmazon/Poypet
Price: $17.89

Put paws to pavement with the PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness. This harness has a three buckle fitting system that eliminates pulling the harness over your dog's head. The grab handle is comfortable for you to grip as it has a soft filling, and it helps you to quickly restrain your dog. This harness has two sturdy metal lead hooks. Use the front chest clip for training or for walking dogs that are prone to pulling. The rear clip is suitable for leisurely walks. Made from soft, breathable mesh padding, this harness ensures pulling pressure is evenly distributed across the body, minimising the risk of choking. It's a popular choice on Amazon for dogs of all sizes.

Customer review: "Do measure your dog's neck and chest as the size table is very accurate and for this harness to work you need a good tight-ish fit. My dog was between sizes (one size for the neck and another for his chest), as he has a normal size neck but in comparison a skinny chest (he’s a cross with a Springer Spaniel and a King Charles Spaniel). The harness are very good quality and I have recommended them to a friend with a cocker spaniel. The harness has done wonders with stopping her pulling on walks."

Pros

  • Easy snap buckles
  • Harness is easy to take off and put on
  • Extra lock buckle around neck
  • Highly reflective strips

Cons

  • Customer comments that the straps were a little stiff to adjust
Size:S (also available XS, M, L, XL)
Material:2 Metal Leash Attachment, Nylon, Wear-resistant Oxford Surface, Breathable Air Mesh with Soft Padded Cushion, 4 Adjustable Slide Clips
  • Available in 16 colours
  • Aluminium alloy lead hook
  • Breathable mesh lining
  • Front metal D-ring
  • Slide buckle

Best XL harness for dogs that pull

TrueLove Dog HarnessAmazon/TrueLove
Price: $28.39

Step-by-step, paw-by-paw, it's a walk in the park with the TrueLove Dog Harness. Another popular choice on Amazon, this harness is stylish, durable and safe. Crafted from high-quality nylon fabric, it looks great without causing irritation. The leash can be connected to the O-ring on the chest; discouraging pulling behaviour during walks. With 3M reflective material, it ensures visibility during night-time walks. Additionally, the integrated handle allows for easy tethering of dogs in the car. For added convenience, the straps are easily adjustable. It's available in five sizes and in a range of vibrant colours.

Customer review: "We purchased our first Truelove Dog Harness in July 2016 for our adopted German Shepherd. Easy to adjust, and it was put through it's paces, both in dry warm days, torrential downpours and snow blizzards. It's even been dunked in lakes, ponds, streams and the North Sea on many occasions. Though washed a few times, dried and reused on a daily basis at least twice a day, it's never had any issues such as broken clips, D Rings, or rusted components. Unlike others, the stitching has remained intact. Hence purchasing a new Red coloured one for my Alusky named Kodi. He's a large hybrid dog, part Alaskan Malamute/ Siberian Husky, in a stunning Wolf Grey mix. The bright red Truelove Harness contrasting nicely against his thick fur coat."

Pros

  • Writable label inside for dog's ID
  • Breathable mesh lining with soft padding
  • Reflective strips
  • Traffic handle

Cons

  • Some reviews comment that it didn't fit their small dogs well
Size:XL (also available XS, S, M, L)
Material:Nylon
  • Available in 11 colours
  • Duraflex quick-release buckle
  • Aluminium alloy D-ring
  • No pull steel O-ring on chest
  • Adjustable slide buckle

Best mini harness for dogs that pull

Julius-K9 PowerharnessAmazon/Julius-K9
Price: $39.20
Alternative retailers
Tractor Supply$49.99View offer

With a harness on, even the smallest stroll feels like a grand adventure. Your pocket-sized partner will appreciate the Julius-K9 Powerharness. Designed for urban walks, this no pull harness offers reliable control in busy environments. The special angle of the chest strap rests comfortably on your dog's chest, for unrestricted breathing and free movement. Express your dog's personality or display useful information with interchangeable hook and loop patches on the harness body. It also features a sturdy handle for confident control, a shatterproof buckle for reliability and reflective elements for visibility. When it needs freshening up, hand wash only, as it's not suitable for a washing machine.

Customer review: "I think this harness is brilliant as it is so easy to put on with only one clip. I have used harnesses in the past with three clips and it was a hard job to put it on. I have a pup and it is so easy to slip over their head and then clip under her front legs. She allows me to put it on without the battle. It must be comfortable as she never tries to take it off. I love the handle on the top of the harness too. Makes it easier to put them on a lead."

Pros

  • Snazzy range of styles
  • Simple one-click fitting process
  • Specially designed for breathability and movement

Cons

  • A customer comments that the buckle was hurting their dog
Size:S/Mini
Material:Nylon, steel
  • Available in six colours/styles
  • Extra small 'Baby' sizes available

Best reflective harness for dogs that pull

haapaw No Pull Dog HarnessAmazon/haapaw

Tiny paws will be ready to explore at night, wearing the haapaw No Pull Dog Harness. This harness is designed for both safety and ease of use. It has two sturdy and durable delta shape rings on the front and back for lead attachment. The front clip is for preventing pulling, and the back clip is for relaxed walking. The harness is constructed with durable thick nylon webbing and enforced stitching to prevent ripping. Easy-to-use quick-snap buckles and locking features provide secure attachment, while four size adjustors allow for a perfect fit. Additionally, there's a close grip nylon handle for better control if you need to restrain your dog. Made of durable materials, including nylon oxford and breathable mesh lining, it's suitable for daily walking, running and training. It's machine washable for easy cleaning. The fabric is woven in jacquard beehive, so it's stronger than regular oxford.

Customer review: "My dog hated harnesses, then someone recommended this for me and it’s been brilliant. She loves her walks now with the added benefit of the lead too."

Pros

  • Amazon's Choice
  • Comes with a free heavy-duty lead
  • Reflective so it's visible in the dark
  • Breathable and quick dry lining

Cons

  • Some reviews comment that the lead was not as good as the harness
Size:M (also available XS, S, L, XL)
Material:Nylon
  • Available in four colours
  • Available as a harness and lead set
  • Adjustable straps
  • Buckle with safety lock

Best no pull dog harness for comfort

Musonic No Pull Dog HarnessAmazon/Musonic

Your dog can take a leisurely stroll in the snug and comfy Musonic No Pull Dog Harness. It's super comfortable, with dual adjustable straps for the neck and chest. With soft no-chafing straps, this harness is bound to become your pet's favourite – as well as being a best seller on Amazon. Unlike collars, this harness won't harm your pet's throat if your dog pulls or lunges. Reflective strips ensure safety and visibility at night. Putting this harness on is a joy for both you and your pet. Doggo doesn't have to lift a paw or step in to put it on – it's literally clip-on and go. Taking it off is just as easy, thanks to the quick-release buckles. Gain immediate control of your dog in training and emergencies with the sturdy safety handle. It's also helpful for assisting dogs out of water or getting physically challenged pets into vehicles and securing them to car seat belts.

Customer review: "Fits perfect, I ordered an M for my slightly chunky Cavapoo. Came with a lead which I wasn’t expecting, reflective too so really happy with it."

Pros

  • Breathable sandwich structure that's soft and comfortable
  • 47.2-inch lead with durable 360° hook is included
  • Best seller on Amazon

Cons

  • Slips as straps can work their way loose
Size:L (also available in XS, S, M, XL)
Material:Nylon, ABS plastic, Cotton, sponge, metal, mesh lining
  • Available in 11 colours
  • Top handle
  • Lockable buckle
  • Oxford surface
  • Reflective strap

Best easy to remove harness for dogs that pull

PHOEPET Reflective Dog HarnessAmazon/PHOPET

Rrp: $27.99

Price: $20.99
Alternative retailers
Walmart$31.40View offer

For a harness that's easy to slip off when you and doggo are back home, go for the PHOEPET Reflective Dog Harness. No need to go over your dog's head, it closes at the side of the neck with an easy snap buckle. There's two additional snap buckles on each side of the torso. Both the front and back D-rings are constructed from durable metal, ensuring strength and reliability. The front D-ring provides full control over dogs and enhances their comfort, while the back D-ring is perfect for daily dog walks, jogging or hiking. The handle provides assistance in controlling your dog's excitement during walks, allowing for better control compared to using a leash or grabbing their collar. Additionally, it can be utilised in the car with a seat belt attachment, ensuring dogs' security in case of sudden stops.

Customer review: "This is a great sturdy harness. I wasn't sure as the price was very reasonable. Better than the ones I have seen in stores. Our dog walks 100 per cent better with this harness rather than a collar. We have way more control. Love the colour as well. Nice and bright. Our pup is five months old and this harness will adjust for when he gets bigger."

Pros

  • Easy to get on and off in just three snaps
  • Four-way adjustable straps
  • Soft padded handle
  • Doesn't go over your dog's head

Cons

  • Some reviews comment that the sizing is a bit off and it was tricky to adjust
Size:M (also available XS, S, L, XL)
Material:Nylon, Breathable Air Mesh with Padded Cushion, Durable Oxford Surface, Metal D-Ring
  • No pull front clip
  • Breathable mesh lining
  • Snap buckles
  • Reflective straps

How to choose a harness for dogs that pull

When purchasing a no-pull dog harness, several factors should be considered to ensure you make an informed choice that's the best option for your dog.

Price can vary depending on the brand, features and materials used. Consider your budget and balance it with the quality and durability of the harness.

Dog harnesses come in various sizes to fit different breeds and body types. It's essential to measure your dog's chest girth accurately to select the correct size. Most manufacturers provide sizing guides to help you choose the appropriate size for your dog.

Harnesses tend to have adjustable straps for a customised fit. When fitting the harness, follow the two-finger rule. If the harness is slipping, then it's not correctly adjusted. Julius-K9 suggests using a harness where a front and back leash can be attached. In their guide on how to stop your dog's harness slipping, they state: "This provides extra control and is designed to distribute pressure more evenly over the dog’s body."

While colour may seem like a less critical factor, it can still be important (and fun!) for pet owners who want their dog's harness to match their personal style. Many harnesses come in a range of colours and designs, allowing you to choose one that suits your taste.

If your dog is particularly energetic, we recommend no-pull harnesses that have front and back attachment points for the leash. The front attachment point, located on the chest, is ideal for discouraging pulling behaviour, while the back attachment point offers more control during regular walks.

No-pull dog harnesses are made from various materials, including nylon, polyester and mesh. Consider factors such as breathability, durability and comfort when choosing the material. Padded harnesses can provide additional comfort, especially for dogs with sensitive skin or those prone to chafing.

Look for a harness made from high-quality materials and sturdy hardware to ensure longevity; especially if your dog is active or tends to pull strongly. Reinforced stitching and strong buckles contribute to the harness's durability.

FAQs

How do I measure my dog for a harness?

To take a neck measurement, place a measuring tape around the base of your dog's neck, at the top of their shoulders. Measure the girth. Girth refers to the circumference or measurement around a specific area of the body – such as the neck or chest – in the case of measuring a dog for a harness.
To measure chest girth, measure across the broadest part of your dog's chest, i.e. the widest part of their ribcage.
Refer to the manufacturer's sizing guide to work out if your dog needs a small, medium or large size (additionally, there may be extra small and extra large sizes).

How do I get my dog used to wearing a harness?

To help your dog get used to wearing a harness, introduce it gradually and associate it with positive experiences. Start by letting your dog sniff and explore the harness before gently placing it on them for short periods.
Give your dog a treat as a reward, and use lots of praise when you've strapped them into the harness. After all, you don't want your furry friend putting you in the dog house, so make reward and positive encouragement a regular aspect of walkies.
Gradually increase the duration of time your dog wears the harness; always monitor their comfort level. If your dog shows signs of discomfort or resistance, take a step back and proceed more slowly. With patience and consistency, most dogs will become comfortable wearing a harness over time.
Battersea has a comprehensive guide on training your dog to wear a harness, lead and collar.

When it comes to dog harnesses, are two leads better than one?

Using two leads on a dog harness – one attached to the front and one to the back – can provide better control and discourage pulling behaviour during walks.

Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Take A Break Pets, specialising in all things cats and dogs. In her other life Natalie is a successful artist and illustrator.

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