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KONG is one of the most trusted pet brands in the US, and their harnesses are popular among a wide range of pet parents—especially puppy parents. KONG harnesses are known for prioritizing sturdy leash attachments, control handles, durable stitching, and reflective materials.
Their designs offer lots of flexibility for outdoor adventurers—so much so that, as with other popular dog sporting brands like Ruffwear, it can be hard for pet parents to understand the differences between models. Some designs prioritize padded straps to reduce chafing, for example, while others offer handles on the front or back to make it easier for you to control or pick up your dog when needed.
To help you choose the right harness for your pup, we’ve reviewed the pros and cons of KONG’s most popular harnesses. While shopping, don’t forget to have your dog’s measurements handy and take a close look at size charts.
Best All-Around KONG Harness: KONG Reflective Harness with Pocket (Verified Review)
This versatile harness features strong nylon webbing, comfortable neoprene lining, metal hardware for leash hook-ups, and easy-to-use plastic buckles and adjusters. It’s reflective—ideal for nighttime or low-visibility activities—and has a handle for direct control options. We especially like that it includes a zippered pocket for poop bags or small cargo (such as treats).
Like many KONG harnesses, this includes a comfort chest plate that offers pet parents better control during walks while maximizing comfort for their dogs. It’s available in multiple sizes and colors. For best sizing, choose an option that allows a two-finger width around the neck and chest.
Our product testers thought this harness was an excellent pick for large breed pups.
What We Like:
- Features strong nylon webbing with a soft neoprene lining
- Has metal hardware (one hook-up point) and plastic buckles and adjustors
- Includes a padded handle for improved control
- Reflective striping on the front of the chest panel makes the dog extra visible at night
- The wide front panel distributes weight more evenly to prevent chafing
To Consider:
- This harness is not designed for tie-out
Best for Strong Pullers: KONG Max Ultra Durable Neoprene Padded Chest Plate Harness
This KONG harness offers maximum control and is a good option for strong dogs who are prone to pulling. The long chest plate on this model spreads the force across a greater surface area, reducing chafing for your dog and providing you with greater control.
Like most KONG harnesses, this vest features a soft neoprene lining for maximum comfort and includes the highly-rated neoprene-lined handle for direct control. It has durable metal KONG hardware and strong stitching, with two attachment points for leashes (pullers benefit from front-attaching leashes). The adjustment points and buckles are made from tough plastic and provide easy options for tightening or loosening.
This harness comes in sizes ranging from small to extra-large and is available in four colors.
What we like about it:
- Design offers maximum control for strong dogs while reducing chafing
- Features neoprene lining for maximum comfort
- Includes two attach points for leashes
- Features durable stitching, metal hardware, and plastic buckles
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
To Consider:
- Not suitable for tie-out
Best for Outdoor Adventurers: KONG Ultra Durable Tactical Vest
This durable harness includes many of the features customers love about KONG harnesses but offers increased storage capacity for lightweight loads. KONG designed this vest for active dogs and pet parents, which makes it a good option for hiking and adventuring. This vest features exceptionally strong threading to prevent tears and includes front and back D-rings to provide options for both no-pull training and more casual outings.
The sides of the vest feature materials ideal for patches—lots of options to decorate! Like many KONG dog harness options, this vest is available in medium and large and comes in a few colors.
What We Like:
- Designed for active dogs and pet parents
- A handle on the back provides options for greater control
- Allows for lightweight storage
- Two D-ring leash attach points
- Durable stitching and patch-friendly materials
To Consider:
- Not suitable for heavy cargo or tie-out
Best Minimalist Harness: KONG Comfort Padded Chest Plate Dog Harness (Verified Review)
This comfortable padded harness has a neoprene-lined handle and long chest plate for maximum comfort for both dog and pet parent. It uses tough but easily adjustable plastic buckles to help you get a good fit and reduce opportunities for chafing. Metal D-rings at the front and back give pet parents options for leash attachment, though this harness’s more minimalist profile may make it more suitable for small pullers than giant ones.
Our testers found this a simple and durable harness that holds up well over multiple uses and shines particularly in the summer, where its light profile and relatively quick-drying materials made it a winner.
What We Like:
- Neoprene-lined chest plate and handle for maximum comfort
- Handle on the back of the harness gives pet parents more control
- Machine-washable
- Moderately priced and available in multiple sizes
- Easy to adjust with metal ring and plastic buckles
To Consider:
- Not suitable for tie-out
Best for Car Safety: KONG Secure Eight Chest Harness
This harness is designed to be used with a seat harness. When purchased with an accompanying tether and frog (a connection point), this harness provides comfort and safety for pups riding in a vehicle. Note that this harness is hand-wash only and features nylon fabric and metal adjusters.
What We Like:
- Durable fabric
- Metal hardware for easy adjustments
To Consider:
- Requires additional components to complete the set-up (frog and tether)
- Hand-wash only
- Not crash-tested
Further Reading
- Your Complete Guide to the Best No-Pull Dog Harnesses
- 10 Car Dog Harnesses to Keep Your Best Travel Companion Safe
- We Review the Best Dog Harnesses for Every Kind of Dog
- The Best Waterproof Dog Harnesses for Odor-Free Adventures
- The 10 Best Puppy Harnesses for Walks, Training, and New Adventures