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Labrador Retrievers are sturdy, athletic dogs. That’s part of what makes them so much fun. But they can be a handful on a leash. Using a harness is a great way to secure and manage your busy Lab on walks, hikes, and outdoor adventures.
We spoke with Dr. Ellen Russell, DVM, MPH, a practicing veterinarian and vet consultant to The Malamute Mom, to learn more about the best harnesses for these sporty and smart dogs.
“Labs are usually larger dogs with powerful bodies, making them an ideal companion for outdoor activities such as walking,” she says. “They’re energetic and enthusiastic, often displaying lots of energy when out on a walk. However, even with this enthusiasm, they are also usually very intelligent and relatively easy to train.”
Guided by Dr. Russell’s insights, we’ve chosen seven of the best harnesses for Labs so you can find the right one for your pup’s temperament and needs.
Best Overall: Ruffwear Front Range Harness (Verified Review)
“When selecting a harness for a Lab, it’s important to choose one that’s comfortable and strong enough to support their size and strength,” says Dr. Russell. “Labs are often pullers due to their energetic nature, so a harness with an adjustable fit and additional features such as a chest plate is often recommended,” she adds.
This sturdy everyday harness can take your Lab everywhere, from a stroll through the park to a mountain hike. It has four points of adjustment and a padded chest plate to fit your dog snugly and comfortably. Two leash attachment points, one on the front and one on the back, offer versatility for training and walks. Clip your lead to the front to work on loose-leash walking, or add a long line to the back for a decompression walk to help your Labby find their zen.
We’ve tested this harness ourselves and have been impressed with its long-lasting power. Rover test pup Roo, a rambunctious Lab Mix, has had the same Front Range in rotation since she was a mischievous adolescent. Throughout the years, it’s held up to rolling in mud, chasing critters, splashing in rivers, and strolling around the block.
Key Features:
- Four adjustment points and a padded chest plate distribute pressure evenly
- Leash attachments on chest and back
- Reflective trim
- Long-lasting design
Best No-Pull: 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Harness
If you struggle to keep your Lab walking in a straight line, this no-pull harness has two leash attachment points: a martingale loop on the back that gently tightens around your dog’s chest to discourage pulling, and a front clip for extra control. It’s durable, too, made with stainless steel hardware and strong nylon webbing. Four adjustment points ensure a secure fit.
This harness comes in a wide variety of fun colors and patterns. The EarthStyle line, in particular, has upbeat designs and webbing made from recycled plastic bottles.
Key Features:
- No-pull design for powerhouse Labs
- Two attachment points: martingale loop on the back and front clip
- Made with stainless steel hardware and strong nylon webbing
- Comes with a chewing replacement warranty
Best Everyday Harness: Rover Gear Better Walk No-Pull Harness (Verified Review)
Made with a padded Y-shaped belly strap, the Better Walk is a strong choice for a Lab’s go-to harness. Versatility is its strong suit: it has a D-ring at the front for serious no-pull walking, with another at the back for more casual outings, decompression walks, or play time. It also has clearly labeled top and bottom straps, making it easy to get your pup out the door fast.
Four adjustment points and nylon webbing help pet parents get a close, comfortable fit that’s even on each side—which is especially important for large breeds prone to hip and knee troubles, like Labs.
Features we like:
- Clear visual cues for an accurate fit
- Durable design that reduces shock from pulling or lunging
- The Y-shape front allows for a full range of motion
- Front and back ring to help dogs learn training/working mode vs. leisure/play mode
- Buckles are designed to reduce confusion or twisting of the belly strap
To consider:
- Pet parents with dogs between sizes found it better to size up
Best Multi-Function Bargain: Rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness
This versatile harness does a lot for under twenty bucks, and its well-built, robust design is a solid fit for active Labs. A top handle adds extra control, something Dr. Russell recommends in a harness, especially if your pup is a puller.
The reflective stitching also keeps your Lab visible in dark conditions, while the soft cushioned fabric keeps them ventilated. Plus, it’s easy to put on and take off, with adjustable neck and chest straps and a quick-snap clasp.
Key Feature:
- Available in various sizes
- Affordable price point
- No pull and no choke design
- Overheard harness with two fast-release buckles
Best Lightweight: PetSafe Sure-Fit Dog Harness
Labs have a thick inner coat that protects them from cold temperatures, but this extra insulation can cause them to run hot during the warmer months. To keep your Lab cool as a cucumber, this lightweight harness by PetSafe has breathable webbed strapping. Five points of adjustments and simple clasps help you quickly get your pup geared up when they’re raring to go. And a leash attachment on the front and back offers more control and versatility.
Key Features:
- Available in three sizes
- Made of lightweight, breathable nylon
- Center strap places pressure on the chest, not throat
- Affordably priced
Best Car-to-Walk Harness: Kurgo Tru-Fit Harness
The Kurgo Tru-Fit harness is made to go from road trips to adventures in a flash. With sizes large enough for Labs, it has a padded chest plate, wide straps, and two leash attachment points that offer comfort and control. Plus, the included seatbelt tether has been crash-rated for car safety, using the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for child restraint systems.
Key Features:
- Broad and padded chest plate for comfort and control
- Front and back leash attachments
- Dog seat belt tether included
Best for Puppies: PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness
This no-pull and no-choke harness has tons of puppy safety features, like reflective strips, a soft padded vest, and a lockable neck release button for escape artists. “Puppies need to be trained properly from an early age,” says Dr. Russell, and the soft-padded top handle allows for extra support and control when your pup needs redirecting.
Key Features:
- Four-way adjustable straps
- Available in five sizes and over 20 colors
- Air mesh padding for comfort and breathability
Best for Seniors: Coodeo Dog Lift Harness
Labs are generally a healthy breed but are still prone to health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia and joint problems, especially as they get older. This sling harness provides extra support for seniors and dogs with arthritis and joint issues. The top handle and adjustable straps let pet parents lift their dogs up or down stairs and help them get in and out of the car. The harness also offers breathable, full-body support for dogs with either foreleg or hind leg injuries.
Key Features:
- Sling harness with top handle and adjustable straps
- Can also be used with a normal leash
- Velcro and buckle closures
How We Chose
The products featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a comprehensive look at customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms, and interviews with veterinary experts. We prioritized strength, durability, and comfort. 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.