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When you have a dog, you naturally want to incorporate it into your life whenever possible. And if you lead an active lifestyle, that means training your dog to run with you, to join you on hikes, or to simply enjoy leisurely outdoor strolls. And the best dog harnesses can help ensure safety and comfort for both you and your dog on these types of expeditions.
There are plenty of dog harness options to choose from, including options spanning different sizes, styles, and materials. To help you on your search, we assembled a list of the 10 best dog harnesses on the market today, including options for runners, hikers, and beyond.
The Best Dog Harnesses - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Dog Harness: Icefang Tactical Dog Harness
- Best No Pull Dog Harness: Icefang Tactical w/ No-Pull Front Clip
- Best Dog Harness for Large Dogs: Ruffwear Front Range Large Dog Harness
- Best Dog Harness for Small Dogs: OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness
- Best Dog Harness for Walking: True Love Adjustable no-pull dog harness
- Best Front Clip Dog Harness: Bumbinn Tactical Dog Harness
- Best Dog Harness for Hiking: Embark Adventure No Pull Harness
- Best Lightweight Dog Harness: Ancol Viva Lightweight Breathable Harness
- Best Puppy Dog Harness: Pawtitas Vest Adjustable Padded Harness
- Best Budget Dog Harness: TobeDRI No Pull Dog Harness
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Overall - Icefang Tactical Dog Harness
SPECS
- Sizes: S-XL
- Material: Nylon
- Closure type: Buckle
- Colors: 10 colors, including reflective options
Whether you're training a dog or simply looking to spend time with an already-trained pet, the Icefang Tactical Dog Harness is an outstanding option. Our best-in-show pick, it's made with durable nylon and comes with multiple attachments, allowing you to customize your use based on the dog's obedience level. Plus, there are plenty of colors to choose from, including a number of reflective options to enhance after-hours visibility.
What We Like
- Multiple attachment options
- Great for dogs at every level of training
- Multiple color options, including reflective options
- Long-lasting nylon
What We Don't Like
- Multiple buckles make it a little tricky to get the size just right
- Not recommended for really small dogs
BUY: Icefang Tactical Dog Harness
Best No-Pull Dog Harness - Icefang Tactical with No-Pull Front Clip
SPECS
- Sizes: M-XL
- Material: Nylon
- Closure type: Buckle
- Colors: Reflective black, reflective brown, range green
No-pull clips can be helpful to train your dog by offering a safe way to redirect them without causing them undue physical strain or stress. This variant on the Icefang Tactical harness offers just that, along with the other features that make this brand so superior: Secure buckle closures, durable nylon, reflective detailing, and leash attachments on both the chest and the back.
What We Like
- Multiple attachment options
- Reflective detailing available
- Durable nylon
What We Don't Like
- No small size available
- Higher price point
- Limited color options
BUY: Icefang Tactical w/ No-Pull Front Clip
Best Dog Harness for Large Dogs - Ruffwear Front Range Large Dog Harness
SPECS
- Sizes: XXS-XL
- Material: Nylon
- Closure type: Pull-On
- Colors: 10 colors to choose from
The Ruffwear Front Range Large Dog Harness is available in a range of sizes, from XXS all the way up through XL. It excels in each size category, but we think it's especially good for training large dogs. The pull-on closure is easy to get your dog in and out of, while a no-pull design makes it easy to offer your pet some redirection as needed. We also appreciate certain features like its reflective trim, foam padding, ID pocket, and dual leash attachment points.
What We Like
- Multiple attachment options
- Reflective detailing
- Wide range of sizes and colors
- No-pull design
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- Straps aren't quite as durable as we'd like
BUY: Ruffwear Front Range Large Dog Harness
Best Dog Harness for Small Dogs - OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness
SPECS
- Sizes: XS
- Material: Nylon
- Closure type: Buckles
- Colors: Black, green, red, orange, brown
Finding the best dog harness for smaller pups can sometimes prove to be a challenge. Available in XS, the OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness is well-suited for training smaller breeds. Ergonomically designed to be comfortable and chafing-free, this harness offers a secure yet lightweight experience for your pup. Durable nylon, sturdy buckles, and a front slip-in design sweeten the deal.
What We Like
- Well-sized for tinier breeds
- Chafing-free
- Slip-in front design
- Modest price point
What We Don't Like
- No reflective detailing
- No larger sizes
BUY: OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness
Best Dog Harness for Walking - True Love Adjustable no-pull dog harness
SPECS
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: Mesh
- Closure type: Buckles
- Colors: 10+ colors to choose from
If you just want a secure and comfortable way to take your pup on a stroll, the True Love Adjustable no-pull dog harness earns our recommendation. This harness comes in a range of sizes and colors, and offers two attachments for you to choose from. Double stitching ensures security, while soft padding keeps your four-legged friend feeling pampered.
What We Like
- Well-padded
- Strong, durable design
- Wide assortment of colors
- Reflective detailing included
What We Don't Like
- Not as recommended for running
- Mesh material isn't the most resilient
BUY: True Love Adjustable no-pull dog harness
Best Front-Clip Dog Harness - Bumbinn Tactical Dog Harness
SPECS
- Sizes: S-XL
- Material: Mesh, Plastic, Cotton
- Closure type: Buckles
- Colors: 10+ colors to choose from
Front-clip leash attachments tend to be the best option for controlling your dog during training. The Bumbinn Tactical Dog Harness is a great pick for showing your pup the ropes, not only for its front-clip design but also for its nesting buckles, easy to get on and off. The no-pull design is well-suited for obedience training as well as athletics, all ensuring your dog's comfort and security.
What We Like
- No-pull design
- Wide assortment of colors
- Easy to get on and off
- Sturdy buckles
- Modest price point
What We Don't Like
- No reflective detailing
- Mesh material isn't the most resilient
BUY: Bumbinn Tactical Dog Harness
Best Dog Harness for Hiking - Embark Adventure No Pull Harness
SPECS
- Sizes: S-XL
- Material: Nylon
- Closure type: Buckles
- Colors: Black, orange, pink, teal blue
If it's an outdoor adventure that you seek, consider the Embark Adventure No Pull Harness. Made with sturdy yet breathable nylon, this harness is well-suited for trail running, outdoor exploration, even swimming. Plus, it comes with options for safe no-pull training and easy size adjustment.
What We Like
- No-pull design
- Breathable, durable materials
- Lightweight
What We Don't Like
- Limited color options
- Not recommended for really tiny breeds
BUY: Embark Adventure No Pull Harness
Best Lightweight Dog Harness - Ancol Viva Lightweight Breathable Harness
SPECS
- Sizes: S/M, L
- Material: Nylon
- Closure type: Buckles
- Colors: Red, black
The last thing your doggo needs is a leash that weighs it down. The Ancol Viva Lightweight Breathable Harness is a great option for when you need sturdiness mixed with breathability—and, the whole thing weighs just 0.12 kilograms. While the size and color options are a bit limited, it's worth considering this breezy and comfortable mesh harness design.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- Very breathable mesh material
- Sturdy design
What We Don't Like
- Limited color options
- Limited and imprecise size options
BUY: Ancol Viva Lightweight Breathable Harness
Best Puppy Dog Harness - Pawtitas Vest Adjustable Padded Harness
SPECS
- Sizes: XXS-L
- Material: Nylon
- Closure type: Buckles
- Colors: 10+ colors to choose from
Start training 'em when they're young! To get your puppy trail- or road-ready, consider the Pawtitas Vest Adjustable Padded Harness, available in sizes as small as XXS. The no-pull design provides a safe and comfortable training experience for your dog, making it more challenging for them to buck your direction. Plus, the step-in design goes a long way with dogs who are jittery or rambunctious, and reflective detailing makes this harness well-suited for low-visibility conditions.
What We Like
- Step-in design
- No-pull design
- Reflective details
- Modest price point
- Great for small breeds and puppies
What We Don't Like
- Not as well-suited for larger breeds
- Not as breathable as other harnesses
BUY: Pawtitas Vest Adjustable Padded Harness
Best Budget Dog Harness - TobeDRI No Pull Dog Harness
SPECS
- Sizes: S-XL
- Material: Nylon
- Closure type: Buckles
- Colors: Black, Blue, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red
You can get a perfectly good harness for under $25, starting with this option from TobeDRI, which also throws in a pretty decent leash. The nylon construction is plenty durable, there are a few vibrant colors to choose from, and the no-pull, no-choke design is well-suited for the training experience.
What We Like
- No-pull, no-choke design
- Modest price point
- Durable nylon
What We Don't Like
- Not as well-suited for smaller breeds or puppies
- The rope leash won't hold up as long
BUY: TobeDRI No Pull Dog Harness
What to Look for in the Best Dog Harness
As you seek the best dog harness, there are a handful of shopping considerations to keep top of mind.
- Fit. Getting the right fit is essential. If you place your dog into a harness that's too small, it will likely cause chafing. If the harness is too large, it makes it more likely that your dog will escape. As such, we recommend measuring your dog, then noting the manufacturer's size recommendations for the harness you buy. Note that a good harness offers some adjustability, meaning it leaves your dog a little room to grow.
- Material. The main thing to think about here is durability. To ensure a long-lasting leash, look for robust materials such as nylon or polyester. Reflective detailing is a plus, particularly if you enjoy going out with your dog before the sun rises or after it sets.
- Leash attachment. For jittery and rambunctious dogs you're hoping to train, look for a harness where the leash attaches at the chest. But for calmer and well-trained dogs, the best bet is a harness where the leash attaches at the back.
FAQs About Dog Harnesses
What kind of harness is best for a dog?
While there are plenty of great dog leashes to choose from, the best dog harness is typically one that’s durable, offers some adjustability, and fits whatever purpose you’re using it for whether that be walking, hiking, or trudging through the snow.
Is a front or back harness better for dogs?
We recommend front-attaching harnesses for yippy or energetic dogs you're hoping to train. But if your dog is already trained, or tends to be pretty mellow, a back harness is probably the safest bet.
Should a dog wear a harness all the time?
Generally, you should only have your dog wear the harness during walks or during training times. There's no need to have your dog wear a harness around the clock. However, it's okay to keep your dog in a harness for extended periods of time while camping, hiking, etc.
How to Train Your Dog to Run With You | Best Hiking Gear for Dogs | Best Dog Harnesses | Best Dog Foods | Best Dog Leashes | Best Dog Balls | Best Dog Frisbees | Best Dog Backpacks | Best Dog Toys | Best Dog Beds | Best Dog Treadmills
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