Dog harnesses have increased in popularity over the last couple of years; believed to be more humane than traditional options as they don’t put pressure on a dog’s throat and offer more control than the standard collar and lead combination. That said, professional dog trainer and founder of The Paw Professor, Mitch Watson explains harnesses are not a magical cure for dogs that pull.
“A dog harness can be used to help physically control the dog whilst providing comfort. For example, keeping a dog contained in the back seat of a vehicle.” Regular training and voice commands are the best way to stop your dog from pulling.
When looking for a harness Mitch recommends looking for these key features:
- The quality of the material and stitching
- The fit for the dog
- The quality of buckles and clasps
- The quality of the attachments to the lead
- The overall weight of the harness; lightweight is best.
How do you determine the right fit?
Finding the right fit for your dog is crucial. “It should be snug (not too loose), however at the same time not cause any discomfort and prevent the dog from moving freely,” Mitch recommends.
Many brands highlight having the harness fit the girth of the dog (the area behind the front legs and around the body) perfectly should be your starting point. From there you can adjust the strap around the neck.
Note: be sure the harness isn’t left on the dog whilst unattended so that it doesn’t get caught on items and result in choking.
With all that in mind we’ve done an edit of some fabulous options which will help your dog look best in show.
8. Halti Dog Front Control Harness Black
Petbarn, from $40.79
Best for: small dogs and puppies
The Halti Harness is a popular option for younger dogs and small dogs. It has limited padding and the front clip isn’t very strong so it’s best suited to dogs who don’t pull too much.
7. Confetti Dog Harness
Pet Stock, from $57.99
Best for: designer dogs who don’t pull
This Halter Harness is functional, adjustable and stylish with a detachable bow tie and lead. With strong contoured side release buckles, it’s completely adjustable so you can find the perfect fit for your pup.
6. Eagaloo Dog Harness
Kogan, from $70.75
Best for: Active dogs
This dog vest and harness is great for training, walking and running with your dog. The handle on the vest is particularly useful for when dogs get into difficult situations or are swimming and need a little help. The vest is durable yet comfortable and the night-time reflective tape is very handy.
5. Rogz Utility Nitelife Small Explore Dog Harness
Pet House, from $67.99
Best for: boating, running, outdoors dogs
This padded dog harness is not only versatile, it looks great and is perfect for just about any dog. With a padded chest and stomach panel, the load is distributed evenly across the chest. It also comes with two lead attachment points; one which offers more control for when you’re training.
4. Sporn Mesh Dog Harness
Petbarn, from $41.99
Best for: training dogs
This patented design is made with a mesh chest plate which offers comfort and support for your dog. The harness works by applying gentle pressure through the restraints to stop your dog from pulling. Plus, it’s vet-approved.
3. Animates Car Safety Dog Harness
Petbarn, from $32.99
Best for: car safety
In some states, it’s illegal to have an unrestrained dog in the car which is where safety harnesses come in. This one attaches to the seatbelt buckle and will prevent your pup from bouncing around while you drive.
2. Ezydog Convert Harness
Pet Stock, from $67.99
Best for: outdoorsy and adventure dogs
The Convert Harness is perfect for pups that are on the go. The load is distributed across the dog’s chest and is made from high-quality durable materials with a durable polyester outer shell that can survive even the muddiest of dogs.
1. Ezydog Chest Plate Dog Harness
Petbarn, from $54.39
Best for: most dogs (size depending)
The Chest Plate harness is Ezydog’s most popular in the range. The chest plate moulds to the shape of your dog and distributes the load evenly across the chest. It comes with rust-proof rings and sturdy reflective stitching.
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