Disclosure: Your support helps keep this site running. We may earn a referral fee for some of the services we recommend on this page.

Best Dog Harness for 2022

For a lot of owners, simply attaching the lead to your dog’s collar is not enough. So, a harness is a must-have.

Whether your dog pulls and you don’t want to injure or put pressure on their throat, or whether you don’t want to risk their collar slipping off over their head, a dog harness can help to keep your pooch much safer and make your life easier too.

There are hundreds of different varieties out there, so we have created a separate guide on dog harnesses. Some can help with pulling. You can also buy harnesses that are fully adjustable for thin breeds such as Greyhounds.

When buying a dog harness, there are certain specifications to definitely look for. Padded harnesses will obviously be more comfortable. Something fully adjustable which they can grow into is also great if they’re young. This point also applies if your dog grows a thick winter coat, too.

If you walk at night, a reflective harness would be ideal. Nervous dogs may benefit from a step-in harness that doesn’t have to be slipped over their heads. Models are also available that are personalisable. From their name to a note if they are a ‘nervous’ dog, personalised dog harnesses can convey important messages to others.

The main thing to check is that it is well-fitting, though. Measure your dog fully, including around their chest, neck and stomach. You should be able to fit no more than two fingers between the dog and their harness. Some harnesses have weight limits too, so weigh your dog before buying.

If you’ll be using your dog’s harness in the car, dedicated car harnesses are available that offer better shock resistance and can be secured to seatbelts.

To find out which we chose as the best dog harness to buy online, read below.

Navigate this Article
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    Our Top Picks

    Image Product Details
    Julius-K9 Powerharness
    • Breathable mesh material
    • Can be personalised
    Check Price
    Eagloo No Pull Dog Harness
    • Hand washable
    • Four adjusting spaces
    Check Price
    Woof Inc Adjustable Black Tartan Harness
    • Fully adjustable
    • Washable lightweight material
    • Matching accessories available
    Check Price

    The Top Dog Harnesses Reviewed

    1.
    Julius-K9 Powerharness

    Perhaps the most famous (and consistently voted the best) dog harness around the world, used by police dogs, search and rescue dogs, trainers and now thousands of ordinary dog owners.

    The chest strap ensures that controlling them is an easy job, and it is velcro so can be adjusted to give a comfortable yet secure and perfect fit.

    The reflective patches are interchangeable, so you can keep the reflective branded patches on there or get some which display their job, country of origin, name or something a bit more fun such as Hot-Dog, Mad Dog or Girl Power.

    The personalisation doesn’t stop there, either. You can purchase front control belts of you need a front lead clip, or a chest pad if pulling is an issue or you have a very muscly dog. Scrap the reflective patches altogether and instead velcro some small padded bags on there so the poo bags, water bottles and treats can be carries by your dog if you want to remain bag and pocket-free.

    To round it off, a huge choice of colours and sizes means this harness is truly one for all pets and owners out there.

    Features

    • Breathable mesh material
    • Can be personalised

    Specifications

    • Sizes: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, Baby 1, Baby 2, Mini, Mini-Mini
    • Colours: Multiple
    • Material: Oeko Tex

    2.
    Eagloo No Pull Dog Harness

    Dogs usually pull when being walked. They can be overexcited, they can take a while to understand that their four little legs can make them go further than your two, and they can get a whiff of absolutely anything at a moments notice causing them to dart off.

    But when you’re trying to ensure they don’t do this, and instead stay by your side, you will need a dog harness which makes it effortless for you to hold them back yet is comfortable for them. There is a large padded area which sits on their chest, two zinc alloy rings which sit on their chest and back, and there are reflective linings on the straps.

    Nylon webbing and a breathable mesh lining will help to keep them cool when needed, and won’t be too restrictive on them.

    Features

    • Hand washable
    • Four adjusting spaces

    Specifications

    • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
    • Colours: Black, Green, Orange, Blue, Pink
    • Material: Oxford fabric, Nylon webbing, PP cotton

    3.
    Woof Inc Adjustable Black Tartan Harness

    This isn’t just a practical harness, but one that will turn your dog into a fashionable, handsome pooch too!

    The harness is made from water-resistant neoprene known for its stretchy, breathable properties. You can hand wash it to keep it looking its best too, which is ideal if your dog is drawn to mud.

    It’s lightweight and has a heavy-duty D-ring for their lead. Fully adjustable around the neck and chest, it can be worn all year round (even with a winter coat), and will always fit them perfectly.

    A matching lead is available, but you don’t have to stop there. There’s also a collar, poop bag holder and bow tie for the most fashionable of hounds (and humans!).

    Features

    • Fully adjustable
    • Washable lightweight material
    • Matching accessories available

    Specifications

    • Sizes: XS-L
    • Colours: Black/white
    • Material: Neoprene

    4.
    Halti Black Dog Walking Harness

    If your dog is great at walking off the lead but needs the occasional restraint if there are other dogs around, or they need some help getting into the car, then a handle on their harness could really help.

    It would allow you to hold them still and secure without constantly taking their lead on and off, and ensure it is safe for them again. It could also help with energetic strong dogs who need some encouragement to stay close.

    The handle on this design is quite large, and always there to grab at a moments notice unlike some other designs which have them fastened down with velcro as to not look unsightly or catch on anything.

    Five points of adjustment mean you can get the fit just right, and a lead clip at the back and front gives extra security and control. As it is from Halti, it can be used with the headcollar or training lead.

    It is extremely easy to put on, and there is a size to suit every breed.

    Features

    • Reflective 3M Scotchlite strip
    • Matching accessories available

    Specifications

    • Sizes: XS, S, M, L
    • Colours: Black, Blue, Purple, Red
    • Material: Nylon

    5.
    Ruffwear Webmaster Blue Dusk Dog Harness

    A walk around the block won’t do. You are off on a daily hike up mountains, around lakes and through the woods with your pooch every day – so you need the equipment to match up to it all.

    Supportive, this Ruffwear dog harness is designed to help you manoeuvre dogs up and over obstacles, with the ability to help them out a little bit if needed. Thin foam lining gives support and padding, without restricting their movement.

    Importantly, it is very secure, which can be vital if you are far away from home but your pooch is a bit of a Houdini. You can adjust it with five points of tightness, and the hook for their leash is one of the most secure of the lot, so it won’t accidentally clip off or come loose.

    The preferred harness for many mountain rescue and service dog handlers who need something comfortable yet will keep them scrambling. A light loop adds the finishing touch, for visibility even when dark.

    Features

    • Perfect for climbing or intense movement
    • Washes and dries easily

    Specifications

    • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X Large
    • Colours: Blue, Red, Grey
    • Material: Polyester

    6.
    Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse Harness Dog Jacket

    When the weather gets a bit colder or it is drizzling outside, your dog likely needs a coat. But combining their harness with a coat can be tricky, so why not buy an all-in-one? It will make your life easier when getting them ready, and they will be much more comfortable.

    This jacket-harness combination is rugged with a weather-resistant shell and polyester fleece lining to keep them warm and dry. Two leash attachment points at the front and back can give you a choice on how to control them, or you can have two leads for extra security if you are far away from home.

    Two zip pockets either side will allow you to place your valuables in there without having to carry a bag, and they are low-profile to keep them secure. Reflective trim helps in low-light conditions and there is a dedicated loop where you can attach a light.

    It is a pricey pick, but from a top brand and will really come in handy if you love to explore with your pooch.

    Features

    • 25% recycled polyester
    • Outer is water repellent

    Specifications

    • Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, Xl
    • Colours: Orange
    • Material: Polyester

    7.
    Halti No Pull Harness

    The Halti is loved by professional dog trainers. They have a range of products designed to help train your dog to walk well, but the mix of stop pull lifting action and front control with this harness will have them walking by your side in no time.

    The unique pull lift mechanism means they can walk normally and comfortably at all other times, but when they pull, the harness will tighten. Your dog will soon realise that this is not as pleasant as when it is loose and will learn to stay closer to you to prevent the lifting.

    A clip both at the front and back will give you a choice of where to attach the lead, or you can buy the dedicated Halti Training Lead to clip it onto both rings for extra control. It can also be combined with the Halti Headcollar.

    Bear in mind that no harness is a failsafe resolution to pulling, however – you will also need to use a combination of treats and vocal commands to ensure they know what is going on.

    Features

    • Non-slip chest panel
    • Underarm sleeves

    Specifications

    • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large
    • Colours: Black
    • Material: Polyester

    8.
    Ancol/Pure Dog Listeners Dog Training Harness & Lead Set

    You are at your wit’s end trying to be the walker as opposed to the one being walked. The dog doesn’t listen to what you say, and nothing seems to work.

    When this dog harness is on, your pet will find it harder to pull you or defy orders. The lead attaches to the side, which can be confusing for them at first, so they are more likely to give you their attention.

    Using this with a combination of a calm approach, treats and praise and stopping occasionally for them to walk by your side, and you could have a completely different dog within a few weeks.

    It is nice and easy to get on with a simple buckle clip fastening around their belly. As a bonus, it comes with a DVD tutorial so you can get some much-needed tips on how to use it fully.

    Features

    • Fleece lined belly strap

    Specifications

    • Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large
    • Colours: Black/Purple
    • Material: Nylon

    9.
    TrueLove Dog Harness

    With attachment hooks on the chest and back for extra control and a handle on the back for when you need to hold them close, this is a good harness for any active dogs.

    It is strong, with double stitching and high load capacity buckles. Soft padding on the chest and belly gives comfort, especially if you have to pull them back. The ergonomic design means it won’t rub on their joints and is really easy to take on and off.

    But the best part? There are over 10 colour choices, in sizes XS to XL.

    Features

    • Bright colours for easy visibility
    • Secure buckles

    Specifications

    • Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
    • Colours: 10+
    • Material: Polyester

    10.
    Pets at Home Toy Dog Harness

    Just because your dog is small doesn’t mean they can’t give you a hard time when it comes to controlling them, and they can be the best escape artists too.

    This one will keep your little prince or princess perfectly safe when out and about on walks. Specifically designed for toy dogs, it is fully adjustable to get the perfect fit, and the mesh material is breathable so they will be comfortable.

    It dries very quickly which is good if they love to go for a doggy paddle in the river, and there are two lead rings on the back so you can have a bit of extra security or even fasten two dogs together so they both walk nicely alongside one another.

    Features

    • Soft for a secure fit
    • Padded

    Specifications

    • Sizes: X-Small, XX-Small
    • Colours: Black
    • Material: Nylon

    Buying Guide

    How we chose the best dog harnesses

    The majority of harnesses will come in size variations such as small, medium and large, and perhaps some in between and either side for tiny or huge dogs. We looked for harnesses that offer a range, so if you find the perfect model you don’t have to miss out.

    Most harnesses can be tightened and loosened to get the exact fit on all parts of the body, and to help any grow into it or to loosen it off slightly in warm weather or when they get their winter coat. We looked for models which were both easy and able to be adjusted, around the chest and the stomach. But you should still try to find the best fit and not rely on the adjustment, as over-adjustment could make the harness an uncomfortable fit overall.

    All dog harnesses need a clip for their lead. The majority of harness clips will be on the back of the product, on the centre of the dog back. This is seen as the best place to help control the dog, as any pulling is less likely to hurt them.

    But there are some models where there may be an additional or primary clip on the side or front of the harness. These are great for extra control, such as if your dog really pulls or is strong. A pull on one of these clips can feel a bit strange to them so they are more likely to react to the sensation if you’re training them.

    Having two clips can also be a good idea if you want to use two leads to help keep them secure, or if you want a double training lead that can free up your hands.

    The majority of fastenings involve plastic buckles. This makes for a secure fit, as well as making it quick to get on and off and get going. This was the primary fastening method that we looked for, but some also have metal buckles that can be stronger (although they can also loosen over time).

    Padding was also a key factor we looked for. Padding around the chest is crucial if your dog pulls, or is a Bull breed.

    Remember that a dog harness should be a bit of an investment. You want something which is going to last for quite a long time, yet you’ll likely be using it daily. Most retail for between £20 and £100, with those at the higher price end often having more features.

    You will likely pay more for a larger dog vs. a toy breed.

    Other Buyers Ask...

    How do I find the perfect size dog harness?

    You generally need two measurements – the girth circumference and the length of their body or the circumference of their neck.

    We have a full guide on how to measure your dog for a harness, including which measurements to take and then what to do with that information.

    Why should I use a harness?

    There are many reasons why a harness is better than a collar for taking your dog a walk:

    • Security – Harnesses are less likely to slip off vs collars, as they can’t just slip over their head
    • Control – It is easier to control your dog as the harness covers their whole body, and it can discourage pulling, especially with large strong breeds
    • Safety – Prolonged use of a collar with a dog that pulls can cause lasting throat and trachea damage, especially with Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds
    • Choice – There are a lot more options of harnesses to suit your particular dog compared to collars for a more secure fit

    Does my dog have to wear a collar if they wear a harness?

    It is the law for a dog to wear an ID tag when they’re in a public space, even if they are microchipped. Most people will have this on their collar, but it can also fasten to their harness.

    However, if the harness comes off accidentally, then you are in a bit of a pickle. A collar is likely to remain on until they are found and reunited. It could be a good idea to put a tag on both though.

    Can I attach a Go-Pro to my dog’s harness?

    If you like to go on adventures it could be entertaining to see it all from your dogs level. There are dedicated harnesses out there to which you can mount a camera to. These keep the camera secure, elevated above their bodies or fastened to their chest and in the right position.

    It could be difficult or impossible to attach a camera to an ordinary harness, as they usually don’t have the correct fastenings for this.

    Which harness can I use for running?

    This usually doesn’t require a special harness, as it is all in the lead that you use which attaches around your waist or arm.

    But you may want to look for a harness that gives your dog plenty of room to move such as one for high-activity or adventure dogs, and one which is strong enough for you to pull them back without stopping or ruining your running to do so.

    You may also want to look for a double hook harness, for extra security.