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When choosing a dog harness, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There are so many kinds to consider, from no-pull models to escape-proof designs. Plus, some harnesses cater more to larger breeds, while others are best suited to smaller-framed dogs. All these considerations beg the question: What is the best dog harness for your one-of-a-kind pooch?
To make sense of all the options, we consulted two professional trainers. With their expert insight, we discovered how pet parents can pick the right harness for their dog. Here’s what we turned up.
Different Types of Dog Harnesses
Various harnesses serve different functions. Ultimately, your choice will boil down to how you plan to use the harness—whether for walking, hiking, training, or traveling by car. Additionally, pet parents should consider their dog’s unique body proportions and behavior.
Before landing on a harness, Leigh Siegfried, CPDT-KA, dog trainer and founder of Opportunity Barks Behavior & Training, recommends asking the following questions:
- Are you looking to encourage exploration and adventure?
- Are you looking for safety and containment?
- Are you looking to guide or restrict movement?
- Are you looking to improve leash skills and leash walking?
With your answers now in mind, let’s look at the following harness types.
| Harness Type | What It Looks Like | Who Is It Best For? |
| Back-clip | Has the leash attachment on the back | Small dogs, dogs who don’t pull, dogs on decompression walks |
| Front-clip | Has the leash attachment on the front, near the chest | Large dogs, dogs who pull |
| Dual-clip | Has both front and back leash attachment points | Puppies and dogs in training, dogs who pull |
| Step-in | Requires dogs to step into the harness with their front legs, and then handlers fasten it around their body; usually easy to get on | Small dogs, dogs who dislike harnesses that go over the head |
| Over-the-head | Slips over the head and fastens to the dog’s body | Dogs who don’t like stepping into their harness |
| Car harness | Provides a loop on the back to slide a seatbelt though | Any dog traveling in a car |
| Vest and mesh harnesses | Provides more coverage than belt-style harness; mesh is airy and lightweight | Small dogs, dogs with sensitive skin prone to chafing |
| Haltis and Gentle Leaders | Head collars that loop around a dog’s nose to guide movement and prevent pulling | Dogs who pull, large dogs |
Back-clip harnesses
These harnesses connect to a leash with an attachment on the back (rather than the chest). They’re good for calm, everyday walks with dogs who already have good leash manners.
“A back-clip harness is primarily a great harness for hiking or walking with no intention to guide movement,” says trainer Leigh Siegfried. “Generally, a back-clip harness is there for safety, but it’s not the best piece of equipment for most dogs who pull.”
Back-clip harnesses are sometimes even used to encourage dogs to pull by engaging their opposition reflex. For example, dogs participating in pulling activities, like skijoring or dog sledding, use this type of harness.
Since they take pressure away from the throat, back-clip models like the Blueberry Pet Classic Nylon Harness are ideal for smaller dogs with delicate tracheas. They’re also great for long-line decompression walks, as the leashes are less likely to get tangled underfoot and don’t inhibit your pup’s movement.
Back-clip harnesses are ideal for dogs with good leash skills or for long-line walks and explorations.
Front-clip harnesses
Alternatively, a front-clip harness will have a leash attachment at the dog’s chest. These harnesses offer improved control during walks. “A front-clip harness is a good option for dogs who pull, as it helps to counter pulling without being aversive,” says Joan Hunter Mayer, CCPDT, professional dog trainer and owner of The Inquisitive Canine.
The popular PetSafe Easy Walk, for example, discourages pulling by gently redirecting a dog’s attention to the side when they pull. Front-clip harnesses make sense for dogs in training; however, Siegfried informs us that dogs can become desensitized to them. Front-clip harnesses that restrict shoulder movement in particular should be used in a limited way.
Another thing to watch for with these harnesses is that they may cause leashes to become wrapped around your dog’s legs if you’re not paying close attention.
Dual-clip harnesses
Siegfried describes dual-clip harnesses as a type of “mash-up” between back-clip and front-clip harnesses. These harnesses have two leash attachments: one at the chest and one at the back.
Versatile harnesses like the highly rated Ruffwear Front Range allow handlers to master different walking situations. When you’re trying to guide movement or limit pulling, use the front clip. And when you’d like to build curiosity by allowing more freedom, you can switch to the back-clip attachment.
In some cases, dog parents may want to employ both connections for added control. This might be a good option for power pullers, reactive and aggressive dogs, or pups who tend to escape their harness. Just keep in mind this is a slightly more complicated setup, and using two leashes requires special care.
Step-in harnesses
According to Mayer, step-in harnesses have a more basic design and are usually simpler to get on. To use a step-in harness, place it on the ground, guiding your dog’s front legs in. Then secure it around your dog’s body. The Gooby Step-In Harness is a good example.
“Step-in harnesses are generally for very small dogs like Dachshunds and Frenchies,” says Siegfried. She also explains that step-in harnesses don’t do much in guiding movement. Nevertheless, models like the can be comfortable for smaller dogs or those who dislike having gear slipped over their heads.
Over-the-head harnesses
For dogs who don’t like stepping into their harness, consider one that goes over their head instead. Models like the Didog Padded Harness require folks to slip the harness over their dog’s head before fitting it to their body. Generally, over-the-head harnesses tend to be more secure than step-in harnesses, so they work well for escape artists.
Of course, some dogs will dislike having things put over their heads, Mayer points out. Therefore, pet parents may need to condition their dogs to get used to wearing this type of harness.
Car harnesses
A proper dog car seat or harness is a must for safe car travel. Siegfried explains that a car harness helps limit a dog’s movement inside a vehicle. Typically, these will have a leash connection on the back. While models like the Kurgo Tru-Fit are crash-tested and designed for safety on the road, they may not be the most comfortable option for extended wear.
Vest and mesh harnesses
Comfort-wise, a mesh vest outshines other harnesses. As Mayer points out, a mesh design is breathable and lightweight. For this reason, mesh vest harnesses make an excellent choice for puppies and smaller dogs. The Voyager Air Harness, for instance, allows airflow and is geared toward tinier dogs.
On the downside, mesh vests are often flimsier, and dogs can escape them if they’re not designed well. Consequently, they’re probably not the best choice for strong pullers. And they won’t provide enough control for many larger breeds.
Haltis and Gentle Leaders
To combat leash pulling, some experts recommend using a head collar, which provides better control and helps to redirect a dog’s attention and focus.
But head collars like the PetSafe Gentle Leader and the Halti OptiFit differ from traditional harnesses, says Siegfried. “Dogs need to be acclimated and introduced to this equipment. And handlers need to be educated about how to use the equipment,” she tells us.
Head collars must be fitted properly and won’t work for most brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. Because inexperience may inadvertently lead to misuse (potentially causing discomfort or even injury), Siegfried advises pet parents to seek guidance from a professional trainer when introducing a head halter to their dog.
Rover test pup Roo and her human appreciate the versatility of a dual-clip harness. It’s business in front. Party in the back.
The Best Harnesses for Different Situations and Dog Types
Every dog’s needs will differ based on their breed type and walking habits. Here’s a run-down of the different scenarios you may encounter.
| Dog Type | Best Harnesses | Why They Work |
| Dogs who pull | Front-clip, Halti, or Gentle Leader | They gently redirect your dog’s direction. |
| Escape artists | Dual-clip, over-the-head harnesses | Two leash attachments provide more security. Over-the-head harnesses tend to be harder to wriggle out of. |
| Big dogs | Front-clip | They give handlers more control. |
| Small dogs | Step-in, mesh vest, back-clip | These harnesses provide comfort while preventing small dogs from escaping. |
| Dogs with unusual proportions | Highly adjustable harnesses | Multiple points of adjustment allow for a proper fit on all sizes and body types. |
| Puppies in training | Step-in, mesh, dual-clip | Mesh and step-in harnesses are comfortable and easy to put on. Dual-clip harnesses allow you to transition to more relaxed walks after training is complete. |
| Long-haired dogs | Vest harnesses, soft materials | Fewer straps and soft materials prevent hair from tangling and rubbing. |
| Dogs who chafe | Mesh vest, highly adjustable harnesses | A softer, padded material won’t irritate the skin. Adjustable points keep it from squeezing sensitive areas. |
Dogs who pull
For dogs who pull on-leash, both of our experts recommend a front-clip harness as the best option. If, however, you find that a front-clip harness just isn’t cutting it for your strong puller, Siegfried notes pet parents may need to consider other options, like a head collar.
Escape artists
If you’re working with a Houdini dog, you need an escape-proof harness. Siegfried recommends using a martingale collar alongside your dog’s regular harness for extra security. This type of collar tightens gently when your dog pulls, keeping them from getting loose.
With its martingale loop at the neck, the 2 Hounds Freedom Harness does a good job of containing most escape artists. Also, be on the lookout for escape-proof features like an additional belly strap, durable materials, and multiple adjustment points for a secure fit.
Big dogs
Large dogs can be powerful walkers. They need a harness that’s durable and strong. Wide straps made from tough materials like nylon are usually a safe bet. Siegfried also recommends front-clip harnesses to reign in bigger dogs.
Small dogs
Small dogs need gentle support and a harness that won’t overburden them. Something comfy and lightweight is the way to go. Siegfried tells us that a step-in harness usually works best for small dogs. In addition, breezy mesh harnesses are more comfortable for tinier breeds.
Dogs with unusual proportions
Dogs with deep chests, long bodies, or thin necks can be tricky to suit up in a harness. For these unique body types, adjustable straps are essential. Mayer also recommends choosing a harness that won’t impede your dog’s freedom of movement—whether they’re a low-bodied Dachshund or a deep-chested Great Dane.
Puppies in training
Ideally, puppy harnesses will be lightweight yet durable, easy to put on, and highly adjustable to accommodate growing bodies.
“[Puppy parents] can go with a basic, barebones mesh or step-in harness,” says Siegfried, explaining that most puppies transition out of that equipment in three to four months, so a simple model is best.
As Siegfried tells us, the goal of a puppy harness is to create freedom to explore rather than to restrict their movement. A basic mesh design is often best for this purpose.
Ideal for puppies, small dogs, and pups with skin issues, mesh harnesses are comfortable and breathable.
Long-haired dogs with fur that mats
If your dog is prone to matting, Mayer recommends choosing a harness made with smooth materials that won’t irritate or tangle fur. To that end, airy mesh options are ideal. Also, keep an eye out for harnesses that clip on easily and won’t snag long hair.
Dogs who often chafe
For dogs prone to chafing, Siegfried advises pet parents to prioritize a good fit. Think adjustable straps that allow for a full range of motion. A well-fitted harness shouldn’t be restrictive or affect a dog’s gait. “Ideally, a harness allows a dog’s body to move the way it’s designed to move,” she tells us.
Look for padded harnesses with wide straps lined with soft materials, like fleece or neoprene. Mesh is also a good choice. To reduce the risk of painful rubbing, harnesses should also have multiple adjustment points to allow for the perfect fit.
How We Chose
The harnesses featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a comprehensive look at customer reviews, and interviews with professional trainers Leigh Siegfried and Joan Hunter Mayer. We considered the wide range of pet parent needs when it comes to harnesses, prioritizing durability, comfort, and safety. 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.
