Choosing a pitbull harness can be complicated. These dogs—which might include American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers or American Staffordshire Terriers amongst other mixed breeds—can be tricky harness customers due to their broad, stocky stature and also because they tend to pull hard when walking on the lead.
To address these challenges, consider the following before buying a pitbull harness:
- Safety and utility. Can you adjust the fit? Will it hold up to extensive use?
- Comfort. Is it designed in a way that your dog will be comfortable wearing it?
- Budget. Is it affordable? A harness is an investment, so don’t go for the easy bargain. But you should be able to find a good option at a reasonable price.
- Style. So your dog might not care what he looks like, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find one that makes him look as cute as a button!
With all that in mind, along with personal experience and online reviews to guide us, we’re ready to recommend four of the best pitbull harnesses available.
Best Everyday Walking Harness for Pitbulls: Ruffwear Front Range
One of two Ruffwear picks on our list, the Front Range is a perfect go-to pitbull harness. It slips over your dog’s head, and with one sturdy clip, you’re ready to go. The softly padded chest provides comfort and a secure fit, and its rugged materials keep it safe in all weather. Online reviewers love how easy it is to put on, and praise the bright, fashionable colours.
Pros
- Four points of adjustment for a custom fit
- Comes in lots of bright colours for visibility and style
- ID pocket lets you slip in tags or a paper note for easy identification
Cons
- It’s not cheap! A quality pitbull harness is a worthwhile investment, but RuffWear runs on the pricy side
- Some reviewers had trouble slipping the harness over their dogs’ heads. Measure carefully before ordering
Most helpful review: “Very well built, fits perfectly. We have a chunky American Pit Bull terrier, I’ve tried other harnesses and leashes. This is the best of all. Very comfortable and breathable fabric, with no loose ends flopping around. My pup loves this also, he would wear it all day!”
Shop Now on AmazonBest No-Pull Pitbull Harness: Hounds 2 Freedom No-Pull Harness
For pitties who like to get their pull on, a no-pull harness can make all the difference. This freedom pitbull harness may look basic, but its ingenious design can be a real life-saver for your back, neck and arms if you dog just won’t stop pulling on her lead. Online reviewers praise it for its gentle control.
Pros
- Four points of adjustment for a safe, comfortable fit
- Reviewers rave over how well it prevents pulling and how comfortable their dogs are in the harness
- Comes in lots of bright colours and fun patterns
Cons
- Getting used to two leashes can be tricky
- The Freedom harness is a training tool, and may not be ideal for everyday/ongoing use
Most helpful review: “I love that the harness turns her towards me and away from what she is obsessing over. I weigh about the same as the dog, and so far I’ve been able to control her when she gets it in her head to go after those pesky squirrels while on our walks along the woods.”
Shop Now on AmazonBest Walk-to-Car Harness: Kurgo Tru-Fit
Any time you take your pitbull for a ride in the car, you should buckle them in for safety. The Kurgo Tru-Fit harness is designed with safety in mind, and is crash-rated for dogs weighing up to 75lbs. Best of all, unlike many car-restraint harnesses, the Kurgo Tru-Fit is equally comfortable and useful as a walking harness.
Pros
- Several points of adjustment for a secure fit
- Padded chest plate and wide straps keep your dog comfortable
- Comes with a seatbelt tether to secure your dog in the car
Cons
- The buckles take some getting used to
- Chest plate collects hair easily, so may require extra cleaning
- Some reviewers doubted the quality of the included carabiner, used to attach the harness to the seat belt tether. They recommend getting a heavy-duty carabiner at your local camping store.
Most helpful review: “I love this! I leave it on my dog all the time, not just for car rides. It is extremely adjustable and efficient for walks too, and I can also use it to help him with his mobility issues.”
Shop Now on AmazonBest Heavy-Duty Harness: Ruffwear Webmaster Secure
A secure pitbull harness is one that ensures your dog stays on leash and under control. If your pitbull backs out of other harnesses, the Ruffwear Webmaster Secure may be your best option! It’s an excellent choice because the chest and belly straps keep your pittie securely harnessed, while the extra padding keeps him comfortable. Online reviewers praise the safety of this model, and say it’s equally useful for active younger dogs as well as ageing dogs who need a little help.
Pros
- A handle for controlled, balanced lifting
- A customisable fit with adjustable, foam-padded straps
- Reviewers with pitbulls say this harness prevents pulling
- Two secure leash attachment points
- Reflective trim for visibility
Cons
- For gentle leash-walkers, this harness may be too bulky
- Getting a proper fit can take some fiddling
Most helpful review: “With the Web Master Harness, her pulling has stopped completely. The handle on the top of the harness has been great as well. We are able lift her over muddy puddles or hoist her into the truck with ease.”
Shop Now on AmazonFurther Reading
All of the above harnesses were chosen with pitbulls in mind, but the advice applies to lots of dogs. Whether you have a pitbull or another breed of dog who pulls on the lead, a good harness can make all the difference. For extra information on great harnesses for other breeds or specific harnesses for puppies, take a look at the articles below.
- The Best Puppy Training Collars, Harnesses and Leashes
- The Best Harnesses for Golden Retrievers
- Your Guide to Harnesses for Small Dogs
Happy walking!
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Featured image: The Natural Vets. Shanti in a Ruffwear harness and lead.
