- This post contains affiliate links. Read more here.
Hiking with dogs is the best. Add some water to the mix (via lake, puddle, or rain), and your dog is in for a good time—but also a messy time. To bypass the familiar “yuck” of wet-dog smell, we think waterproof dog harnesses are the way to go.
If you’re new to the world of waterproof dog harnesses and waterproof collars, here are some features to consider.
How to Choose the Best Waterproof Harness for Your Dog
When choosing a harness that stands up to water and mud, your first consideration should be its materials. Many waterproof harnesses are made with PVC- or TPU-coated nylon or polyester. These vinyl-like coatings are flexible and easy to clean, although they tend to be on the stiffer side. But for canines who really love to swim, a PVC-coated harness is probably your best bet.
Neoprene (the material used in scuba suits) is another good option. While it’s not 100% waterproof like a PVC-coated harness, neoprene dries quickly and wicks away moisture. It’s also a softer material, which could make long outdoor excursions more pleasant for your pet.
Washability is important, too. After a soggy trek through the woods, you’ll appreciate a harness that requires minimal effort to clean. Non-porous, coated harnesses are designed to repel dirt and grime, and most can be wiped clean easily with a damp cloth.
As with all harnesses and dog collars, sizing and adjustability are key. Check your dog’s measurements carefully to make sure the harness you’re considering can accommodate your pup. Usually, harnesses are measured by your dog’s neck size and girth (the widest point of their chest and ribcage), and most companies will provide a sizing chart to help you get it right.
Best for Muddy Hikes: Frisco Waterproof PVC Harness
For keen adventurers, this waterproof Frisco harness ticks a lot of boxes. Constructed with durable polyester and a PVC coating, it repels water and keeps odors at bay. After super muddy outings, it’s easy to clean with a damp towel. Another bonus for cold-weather explorers: this Frisco harness won’t freeze like a typical nylon model.
When your excited pup is dying to get outside, the last thing you need is a complicated contraption to put on them. Frisco’s easy, step-in design means less time fussing and more time adventuring. There are also multiple sliders that make getting the perfect fit easier.
One negative about waterproof dog harnesses: they’re not known for being the most comfortable. We did find a number of users who complained that the stiff, rubber-like material of this harness was unpleasant for their dogs. If your pooch prefers a softer touch, you might be better off using this as a hiking-only accessory rather than an everyday harness.
Key Features:
- PVC-coated polyester
- Available in four sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Three two-toned color options
- Odor-proof
- Durable metal D-ring for secure leash attachment
Best for Pullers: Dogness No-Pull Waterproof Harness
Have a relentless puller? This no-pull Dogness harness may be able to help. The PVC material is waterproof—and strong enough to support seven times your pet’s weight.
Dual D-rings in the front and back allow for two leash positions. And the aluminum alloy buckles are resistant to rust, so no worries about taking a stroll in rainy conditions.
Key Features:
- Available in four sizes: XS/S, S/M, M/L, XL
- Two color options: red and black
- Reflective strip and logo for added visibility
Best for Escape Artists: Wau Dog Heavy Duty Harness
Here’s one for mischievous dogs with a habit of bolting. Equipped with a Smart ID tag, the waterproof Wau Dog harness makes it easier for your dog to be identified. You can sync the tag with the Wau Dog App to create an online profile for your pooch for extra safety.
Available in an array of vibrant neon colors, this harness makes it easier to spot a runaway dog. And it’s easy to adjust, so you can get the most secure fit on your escape artist.
This harness is made with Collartex, a material that repels dirt and water. It also resists smelly odors and is super easy to clean. Most users find this harness durable enough for outdoor activities like boating. However, it may not fare as well with heavy chewers.
Key Features:
- Made with Collartex to repel water and dirt
- Available in three sizes: S, M, L
- Available in six bright colors
- QR tag helps keep your dog safe
Shop on Amazon Shop on Walmart
Best for Car Rides: PetSafe 3-in-1 Reflective Dog Harness
Does it take a hop in the car to reach your favorite outdoor destination? This multi-purpose waterproof harness comes with a car restraint, which will keep your dog safe all the way to the dog park or lake. For extra comfort on your trip, there’s neoprene-lined padding along the straps.
Beyond its utility in the water, this PetSafe harness also makes a good choice for everyday use. It features two different leash attachments, reflective nylon stitching, and five points of adjustability. We also like that it’s not super bulky, so it’s comfortable to wear for longer periods of time.
Key Features:
- Made with nylon and neoprene-lined straps
- Available in four sizes: XS, S, M, L
- Three color options: black, teal, plumb
- Back and front clip for leash attachment
Shop on Chewy Shop on Amazon Shop on Petco Shop on Walmart
Most Comfortable: Arcadia Trail Neoprene Sport Dog Harness
For dogs with sensitive skin, this water-resistant harness blends comfort with functionality. It’s layered with soft neoprene padding, and the multiple D-rings are made with lightweight aluminum, so it won’t weigh your pup down on the trail.
The vibrant material is reflective and wipes clean with a damp cloth. You have the option to attach a leash to the back or front. And should you ever need to scoop your dog out of the water, there’s a convenient handle on the back. Hopefully, you and your dog like yellow, as it’s the only color available.
Key Features:
- Made with water-resistant neoprene
- Available in five sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Comfortable padding
Best for an Adjustable Fit: Terrain D.O.G. Neoprene-Lined Harness
For your dog’s comfort and safety, you need a well-fitted waterproof harness. All four straps of this neoprene-lined harness are adjustable, making it suitable for a range of body types. And the four slides ensure your dog’s range of motion won’t be inhibited on your journeys.
One potential downside is that this harness only features a back D-ring, so it might not be the best option for strong pullers.
Key Features:
- Neoprene-lined straps
- Available in three sizes: S, M, L
- Available in nine attractive colors
- Features four slides for optimal adjustability
- Reflective
Shop on Amazon Shop on Tractor Supply
Easiest to Get On and Off: Frisco Textured PVC Dog Harness
Does your pup go into an excitable frenzy anytime you bring out their leash or harness? While we love the enthusiasm, it does make getting trail-ready more of a challenge. The easy, step-in design of this Frisco harness is perfect for fidgety dogs who are bursting to get out there and explore.
This textured harness is made with durable polyester and coated in PVC, which keeps out water and odor-causing bacteria.
Key Features:
- Durable polyester and PVC-coating
- Available in four sizes; S, M, L, XL
- Three color options: orange, purple, and gray
- Waterproof and stink-proof
How We Chose
The waterproof harnesses featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing and a comprehensive look at customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms. We considered durability, easy cleaning, size range, odor-proofing, visibility, and adjustability. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.
