While just about any harness on the market can get your dog from point A to point B, I’ve discovered a handful of harnesses that I think are a cut above the rest. Here are my top 3 picks for the best anti-pull and best all-around harnesses for everyday walking. All of the products mentioned are excellent choices, but each has their own pros and cons. Let’s “walk” through them:
Best for heavy pullers
The Freedom Harness is my go-to suggestion for dogs who pull. The harness is an across-the-chest style that fits most dogs comfortably while also reducing pulling. It is solidly constructed with a durable front-ring for attaching your dog’s leash. There are many sizes and color options available. The harness itself is wrapped in a soft velvet material to help keep your dog comfortable and prevent rubbing against their fur. This style of harness may slightly restrict your dog’s range of motion during faster movement, so it is not my first choice for use during activities other than leisurely dog walks.
PROS:
- Best at reducing pulling
- Solidly built; Durable enough to withstand strong pullers and large dogs
- Velvet covering helps prevent skin irritation
- Many solid colors and fun patterns available
CONS:
- Tends to fit some dogs better than others
- May require purchase of a separate Y-shaped harness for running, hiking, and vigorous play
Best no-fuss, multi-purpose harness
If you’d like to buy one do-it-all harness, the Balance Harness is a great option. You can use the back-clip while running or hiking with your dog, then easily switch over to the front-clip when you want a bit of anti-pull assistance. And, if you prefer a slim, low-profile look, this harness is the one for you. It comes in a buckle neck variety that provides easy on-off and is especially great for head-shy dogs.
PROS:
- Won’t inhibit your dog’s range of motion while running or hiking
- Durable enough to withstand strong pullers and large dogs
- Buckle neck option good for dogs who are shy of harnesses put on over their head
- Minimal, low-profile design
CONS:
- Material may irritate certain dogs with sensitive skin
- Limited color options
Most customizable, comfortable, and escape-proof
The Perfect Fit Harness consists of 3 separate pieces that can be purchased in different sizes, allowing for a more precise fit. This harness is the holy grail for tough-to-fit or uniquely-shaped dogs since it can be completely customized. Soft fleece covers all contact points with the dog’s body. Because of the Y-shaped front which allows full freedom of movement, the Perfect Fit Harness is a great all-around, do-it-all harness. It also can be buckled around the neck, rather than put over the dog’s head.
PROS:
- Great for mixed breed or difficult-to-fit dogs
- Allows full range of motion
- Fleece helps protect dogs with sensitive skin
- Precise fit gives added security for escape artists or tri-pawed dogs
- Each section of the harness can be swapped out easily to accommodate growing dogs
CONS:
- Limited color options
- May require patience when purchasing, as it can take some trial and error before finding the perfect combination of pieces to fit your dog
- Using the front leash attachment only is not recommended due to durability concerns; a dual-clip leash (clipped to both back and front rings) is recommended
Honorable Mentions:
Here are two more wonderful harnesses with front-clip options that I simply haven’t had the chance to test out yet myself. While I haven’t tried them personally, I’d definitely recommend them if you’d like additional options to consider.
- Front and back leash attachments
- Handle on back of harness
- Non-restrictive and tough to escape from
- Invented by professional dog trainer Joan Hunter Mayer
- Available in 6 bright colors
- Nylon webbing front leash attachment and aluminum ring back attachment
- ID pocket for storing dog tags
- Reflective trim
