The 5 Best Harnesses for Dogs That Pull, According to a Certified Dog Trainer
The Spruce Pets / Hang Pham
Using a dog harness, which distributes leash pressure across your dog’s body instead of concentrating it on their neck, can contribute to a more comfortable experience for both you and your dog, particularly during leash training.
“If your dog is only wearing a collar and they lunge, try to get ahead, or if you grip the leash too tightly, it can create tension on your dog’s throat and neck,” says Katy Nelson, DVM, associate director of veterinary relations at Chewy. “Harnesses are useful for dogs of all sizes because they put less strain on the neck and are helpful for training your dog to walk by your side, rather than in whichever direction they choose.”
Petpals Care has tested a wide range of dog harnesses in real-world conditions and has identified options considered suitable for hiking and other specific situations. Our evaluation of dog harnesses for pullers involved extensive testing of over 20 harnesses, expert advice from Dr. Nelson, and my own experience as a certified professional dog trainer. We looked for ease of fitting, adjustability, and features designed to discourage pulling.
Our top pick for many dogs is the Blue-9 Balance Harness, which features a front leash attachment ring intended to reduce pulling, six adjustment points for a versatile fit, and a design that aims for minimal restriction and comfort.
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Front and back leash attachment rings offer versatility
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Six adjustment points allow for a more customized fit
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Design aims for minimal restriction
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Appears durable for dogs that pull strongly
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Initial fitting may require some time to understand
Combining features for comfort and control, the Blue-9 Balance Harness is my top choice for dogs that pull. With two leash attachment points, you can use the front or back rings, or both simultaneously with a dual-connection leash. The front clip is designed to make it more difficult for the dog to pull effectively and can reduce the force an owner feels if the dog does pull or lunge. Many of my training clients have reported a noticeable improvement in their dogs’ pulling behavior when using the front ring on the Blue-9 Balance Harness.
The design, which aims to be non-restrictive, also sets this harness apart by allowing for a range of movement, which can contribute to comfort and safety. Many harnesses have straps that sit lower across the dog’s shoulders, potentially hindering their natural gait. The Blue-9 Balance Harness is designed to sit higher, allowing the shoulders a more normal range of motion. If the dog pulls, pressure is intended to be applied to the breastbone instead of the neck or shoulders, which is a generally safer distribution of force.
The Blue-9 Balance Harness features six adjustment points, enabling a more customized fit for your dog. I’ve successfully fitted this harness on dogs of various sizes and shapes, from stocky bulldogs to slim whippets and small poodles. Blue-9 offers helpful videos and resources on their website on how to properly fit the Balance Harness to your dog.
The design is lightweight yet appears quite durable, even when used with strong dogs. Its compact design allows for good airflow, which can help keep dogs cool. I also appreciate that the neck loop has a buckle, so you don’t have to slip it over the dog’s head—a feature many harnesses lack and can be beneficial for dogs sensitive to this action.
Figuring out how to put the Blue-9 Balance Harness on your dog can take some time initially. The extra neck buckle, while useful, can seem confusing at first. However, with practice, it generally becomes quick and easy to use.
Sizes: Extra small to large | Materials: Nylon, plastic, metal
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PHOTO: Petpals Care/Alisa Healy
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PHOTO: Petpals Care/Alisa Healy
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PHOTO: Petpals Care/Alisa Healy
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PHOTO: Petpals Care/Alisa Healy
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PHOTO: Petpals Care/Alisa Healy
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PHOTO: Petpals Care/Alisa Healy
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PHOTO: Petpals Care/Alisa Healy
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PHOTO: Petpals Care/Alisa Healy
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Relatively affordable price point
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Two leash connection points for control options
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Velvet lining intended for extra comfort
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Available in many colors and patterns
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Shoulder strap design may be slightly more restrictive for some dogs
For a more budget-friendly option, the 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Harness is a notable choice for pups that pull on walks. Its design features front and back rings, which can be used separately or together with a dual-connection leash for varying levels of control. While a dog may still pull with a front-clip harness, they are often easier to manage, and the perceived force can be less than with a traditional back ring. The Freedom No-Pull Harness also features a martingale-style loop on the back, which is designed to gently tighten around the chest when they pull.
Compared to my top pick, the strap on the 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Harness sits lower, which in my opinion, makes it potentially more restrictive, though not as much as some other popular harness designs.
Made from nylon webbing, this harness is designed for durability and to withstand pulling. The chest strap is lined with soft velvet, intended to prevent chafing. You can tailor it to your pup’s shape with four adjustment points.
As a fun bonus, the 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Harness is available in 19 solid colors and dozens of patterns.
Sizes: XS to XXL | Materials: Nylon, Velvet, Plastic, Metal
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PHOTO: Petpals Care / Megan Moran
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PHOTO: Petpals Care / Megan Moran
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Three-strap design aims to prevent dogs from slipping out
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Front and back leash connection options for control versatility
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Five adjustment points for a more secure fit
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Includes a padded handle
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Some dogs may require time to acclimate to the design
If you have a dog that pulls and has slipped out of their harness, or if you’re concerned they might, the Huntboo Escape Proof Dog Harness is worth considering. Its design includes front and back leash connection rings, intended to help reduce pulling intensity, plus a third strap designed to prevent them from backing out of the harness.
Most harnesses have a shoulder strap around the front of the dog’s body and a chest strap around the ribs. The Huntboo Escape Proof Dog Harness incorporates an additional strap around the belly, which is designed to keep it in place even if the dog tries to wiggle or back out. It features five adjustment points so you can customize a secure fit.
Escape-resistant dog harnesses can sometimes be bulky and cover a significant portion of the dog’s body. I appreciate that the Huntboo Escape Proof Harness includes padding for comfort but has a more minimalist design compared to some other similar options, allowing for more airflow and freedom of movement.
The Huntboo Escape Proof Dog Harness features a padded handle for times when you may need to provide close guidance or assistance. Made from reflective nylon, this harness can help enhance your dog’s visibility.
Some pups might find the additional belly strap unusual at first. In my experience, most get used to it relatively quickly and wear it comfortably for walks.
Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: Nylon, polyester webbing, plastic, metal
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Breathable material designed to help keep dogs cool
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Quick-drying properties
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Adjustable neck and chest straps for a versatile fit
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Includes a handle for close guidance
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Three leash connection options
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Higher price point
The Non-Stop Dogwear Rock Harness is a higher-priced option, but its features make it well-suited for outdoor adventures with dogs that pull. This harness features front and back leash connection rings, similar to other recommended harnesses. The front clip is intended to reduce pulling and make the dog easier to manage. It also includes a handle, which can be useful for navigating obstacles outdoors or for providing quick, close guidance.
Made with highly breathable HexiVent material, the Non-Stop Dogwear Rock Harness is designed to help keep dogs cool during warm weather or activities that raise body temperature. The material also dries very quickly, making it suitable for swimming or rainy adventures.
This harness is designed with your dog’s comfort as a priority, aiming to make outdoor experiences more enjoyable. The straps are adjustable to customize its size and are padded without being overly bulky. With a design that aims to be non-restrictive, the Non-Stop Dogwear Rock Harness allows for a natural gait and ample shoulder movement.
Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: Nylon, plastic, metal
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Affordable price
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Design aims for minimal restriction for growing puppies
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Four adjustment points
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Soft, durable nylon material
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Must be slipped over the head to put on
It is common for a new, nervous puppy to pull, and a harness can help relieve pressure on their sensitive neck. However, puppies grow very quickly, and purchasing multiple harnesses can become expensive. The Red Dingo Dog Harness offers a potential solution to this common puppy-owner consideration, providing a design aimed at comfort at an affordable price.
Many small puppy harnesses can be bulky and may not fit well, but the Red Dingo Dog Harness has a lightweight and highly adjustable design. It also allows for a good range of movement, as the front strap is designed not to cut across the shoulders. I am generally cautious about putting restrictive gear on growing puppies, so I appreciate that this harness design allows more freedom of movement than many others.
Although this harness has a D-ring on the back for leash attachment, I’ve found that the O-ring on the chest can sometimes be used as a front connection point for a leash, depending on the dog and leash type. The Red Dingo Dog Harness is made of soft, durable nylon that can be machine washed to clean up messes. It’s available in 18 plain colors and a variety of fun patterns.
Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: Nylon, plastic, metal
Final Verdict: Our Top Dog Harness Picks
I favor the Blue-9 Balance Harness for its two connection rings, six adjustment points, non-restrictive fit, and durable construction. In my experience as a professional trainer, the Balance Harness fits a variety of dog shapes and sizes, and often impresses owners with the level of control it can offer. For another good option at a lower price point, consider the 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Harness.
Meet the Expert: Why Consider My Harness Advice?
I am a freelance writer for Petpals Care and a certified professional dog trainer with over a decade of experience. Leash pulling is one of the most common concerns I help dog owners address. Regularly, I teach people how to use a harness as a tool to assist in training their dogs. This includes selecting an appropriate harness for each dog, fitting it correctly, and explaining how different features can help manage pulling. I’ve tested many harnesses over the years and have developed an understanding of what makes a harness comfortable and effective for a wide variety of pups. The Blue-9 Balance Harness is one I frequently recommend to my training clients, and it’s also one I personally use with my two whippets.
Choosing the Right Dog Harness: Key Features to Look For
Leash Connection Points: Front-Clip vs. Back-Clip
Our top picks often include two rings for leash attachment. Understanding how they work may help you choose a suitable harness for your dog.
- Front-Clip: The leash attachment is located on the center of the dog’s chest. This design is often preferred for dogs needing more guidance on the leash, says Dr. Nelson. It can help reduce pulling and give the pet parent more directional control.
- Back-Clip: The leash attaches to the top of the dog’s back. These are often suitable for dogs that don’t pull significantly and for small breeds, as they have smaller, more fragile necks and throats.
- Dual-Clip: This harness allows the leash to be attached to the front or back, and can be comfortable for walking many dogs, whether they tend to pull or not. A dual-connection leash can also be used to engage both rings simultaneously for potentially greater control.
Harness Adjustability: Ensuring a Secure & Comfortable Fit
A harness with multiple adjustment points can help you customize the fit for your dog. The harnesses I’ve highlighted can be adjusted around the chest and neck; however, not all harnesses offer this level of adjustability. Some harnesses on this list have more adjustment options than others. If you struggle to fit a harness to your dog, look for one that allows more adjustments, like the Blue-9 Balance Harness, which has six.
Regardless of the type of harness you choose, a proper fit is crucial, says Dr. Nelson. Each harness fits slightly differently, so measure your dog and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to choose the correct size. You will typically need two measurements: chest girth and neck girth. You might also need to know your dog’s weight.
Harness Design: Prioritizing Comfort and Freedom of Movement
I generally prefer a minimalist, non-restrictive harness design that allows the dog’s shoulders a normal range of motion. These are sometimes called “Y-shaped” harnesses. Some harnesses have straps that sit lower across the shoulders, potentially hindering the dog’s natural gait. Walking in a harness should be a comfortable experience for your dog, so consider a design with a cut above the shoulders.
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Are harnesses generally better than collars for dogs that pull?
In many cases, yes. For example, harnesses are preferable for dogs with neck or throat injuries, as they can reduce the risk of re-injury or worsening the problem, says Dr. Nelson. They can also be a helpful tool in training your dog to walk by your side instead of pulling ahead.
Potential downsides of a harness often stem from improper use, such as it being too loose (allowing the pet to slip out and escape) or too tight (causing chafing or difficulty breathing). Or it might be put on incorrectly, making it less secure, says Dr. Nelson.
Generally, a harness relieves pressure on the dog’s neck and can provide more leverage for the walker than a collar, especially when using a front clip. However, in most instances, a harness alone will not teach a dog to walk calmly on a leash. Appropriate equipment combined with consistent training is usually the most effective approach.
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How do you know if a dog harness fits properly?
Always measure your pet and consult the manufacturer’s sizing guide, as each harness fits slightly differently. Choose the measurement closest to your dog’s; you might consider sizing up if your pup is between sizes to help avoid a harness that’s too tight and uncomfortable.
Follow the “two-finger rule” to help determine if it fits your dog properly. “You should be able to easily slide two fingers between your pet’s skin and the harness without having to push and without extra space,” Dr. Nelson told Petpals Care. A harness that is too tight or ill-fitting can lead to skin chafing, difficulty breathing, and potential injuries to your dog.
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What type of no-pull dog harness is easiest to put on?
Any harness can seem confusing the first time you try to put it on your dog. However, once you’ve adjusted it correctly, you can typically use the quick-release buckles to easily put it on and take it off.
A harness with a neck buckle, like the Blue-9 Balance Harness, can be easier to put on dogs that are sensitive to things going over their head. The neck buckle allows it to be put on in a manner similar to a collar.
Why Trust Petpals Care for Dog Harness Reviews?
This article was written by Alisa Healy, a Petpals Care writer and certified professional dog trainer. She has tested numerous harnesses while helping people train their dogs to walk without pulling on the leash. The selected products were chosen for their features related to safety and comfort for both dogs and owners. Harness durability, ease of use, and features intended to reduce pulling were considered. Additionally, The Spruce Pets’ panel of testers evaluated the harnesses to inform these selections.