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The Best Dog Harnesses for Your Best Friend

Years of innovation have brought dog owners advanced training, clever toys, and new treats. But perhaps the most important change arrived with the dog harness. Traditional collars provided identification, but the harness improved upon the design by reducing leash pulling and choking. Now you can find a dog harness perfectly suited to you and your dog’s lifestyle. If you have a medium to large dog, the difficult search to find a harness that is comfortable for your pet is over. Here are some fantastic dog harnesses we recommend.

Purchasing a Dog Harness

Keep these things in mind when buying a dog harness for your medium to large dog:

  • Travel: Lifting your dog in and out of the car or taking walks across rough terrain may require you to aid your dog’s movement. If you take your dog traveling, consider a harness with a loop for a seat belt attachment. A built-in handle will also help you lift your dog without having to grab onto their body.
  • Adjustments: For larger dogs, it’s best to use a harness that features an adjustable strap that spans the chest. As breeds like labradors or pit bulls have larger chests, finding the perfect fit that doesn’t constrict this area is important for the dog’s mobility. Shoulder adjustments are helpful for narrow-chested dogs that still need large harnesses.
  • Comfort: While the harness takes the pressure off the dog’s neck, it can cause irritation in other parts of the body. Consider a harness that has padding to reduce tension. Mesh-lined harnesses are also ideal for warm climates as the air can circulate and keep the dog cool.
  • Materials: Nylon collars are durable and come in many colorful styles and materials. If the harness is designed with non-nylon lining, check to make sure the fabric is water-resistant to avoid molding and unwanted odors.

Best Heavy-Duty: ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness with 2X Buckle

This military-inspired dog harness looks intimidating for a reason. Its heavy-duty design allows owners to handle the most unruly dogs with ease. Two alloy metal buckles are placed on each shoulder to effectively deter a dog from pulling as you control the leash from one of the D-rings. The stitching reinforces the material at each joint and load-bearing area to ensure that the harness doesn’t rip during use. And with the special hook and loop panels on the sides of the harness, owners can place small items for the dog to carry.

Best Heavy-Duty

ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness,Large Size, 2X Metal Buckle,Working Dog MOLLE Vest with Handle,No Pulling Front Leash Clip,Hook and Loop Panel

Owners can walk their dogs worry-free with the reinforced stitching and durable handle that allows them to hold the dog close when needed.

Most Adjustable: RUFFWEAR Multi-Use Harness

If you are looking to get the perfect fit for your pooch, consider this adjustable harness from RUFFWEAR. The design features five points of adjustment to fit your pet’s shoulders, chest, and overall girth. Along with the customizable sizing, your dog will enjoy the foam padded straps that keep them comfortable while wearing the harness. You can connect the leash to the aluminum v-ring for a sturdy hold. If you encounter some rough terrain during your walk, owners can easily pick up their dog with the padded handle centered on the harness’s back.

Most Adjustable

Ruffwear, Web Master, Multi-Use Support Dog Harness, Hiking and Trail Running, Service and Working, Everyday Wear, Blue Dusk, Large/X-Large

Dogs will love the comfortable padding of this harness, while owners will enjoy the reflective trim that ensures their dog's safety.

Best Color Options: 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Dog Harness

Fashion and function collide with this harness from 2 Hounds Design. With 19 solid colors to choose from, your pet will be turning heads on every walk. This harness is made from durable nylon webbing and features stainless steel hardware to handle frisky dogs. The straps are lined with velvet to keep your dog comfortable. For the owner’s benefit, this harness is made with a patented control loop that tightens and loosens as the dog pulls against the leash.

Best Color Options

Best Budget: BABYLTRL Big Dog No-Pull Harness

Pet owners can still treat their dogs to a functional harness without breaking the bank. This harness is specially designed for the comfort of wide-chested dogs. The triangle shape reinforces the harness to avoid tearing or damage during use. The front piece is supported by a triangular fitting and snap buckles to lock in the straps. The fast-drying and breathable liner of this harness allow dogs to enjoy all types of terrains without irritation.

Camryn Lang Camryn Lang
Camryn Lang is a freelance writer and copyeditor that has produced a wide variety of content, from breaking news and memorial tributes to web content and fiction novels. While working on her bachelor's degree in English at Texas A&M University, Camryn led writers and editors at the nationally recognized university newspaper, The Battalion. During her free time, she enjoys reading thrillers and fantasy novels and eating desserts. Read Full Bio »
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