The best way to walk your dog, whether it’s a quick trip or a full day hike, is with a harness and leash. Most vets and trainers discourage attaching your leash to their collar because they can damage the sensitive muscles and ligaments in their neck. This is particularly dangerous when your dog bolts or pulls because they’ve seen anything from a squirrel to a bird to another dog.
With a good harness, there’s no strain on your dog's delicate throat and they will be healthier and happier wearing one. A good fit is essential as you don’t want them slipping out of a harness at any point. Look for a model that is the right size for your dog and easy to put on and adjust. Some harnesses will help train your dog to stop pulling on the lead. By having an anchor point on their chest as well as on their back, you will have more control over which direction they move in. Here are the dog harnesses we recommend:
Rabbitgoo Dog Harness
No-pulling or choking with this durable, padded harness
This harness for medium to large dogs is specially designed to stop them from pulling. Use the chest attachment ring for your lead to discourage pulling or the back ring for more casual walks and hikes. It’s hassle-free to get on over your dog’s head with adjustable straps and two fast-release buckles. Made from durable nylon with soft padding, it has mesh for breathability and reflective strips for visibility.
Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness
All-weather harness with reflective bands
Made with a soft breathable air mesh, this lightweight harness is perfect for walks and hikes throughout the whole year. It has a hook and loop fastener, buckle, and double D-rings to stay on securely. Two reflective bands on the sides keep your dog visible for easy morning and evening walks. Simply step in, clip, and go.
BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness
Durable harness with adjustable straps
This harness evenly distributes pressure across the dog’s chest to prevent pulling and choking. It has a sturdy handle to hold and a D-ring leash attachment point to help you control your dog. Breathable mesh and fully adjustable chest and neck straps keep it comfortable and reflective bands make your dog visible when the lights low.
PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness
Steer your dog and fit in seconds with quick-snap straps
Created by a veterinary behaviorist, this harness has a martingale loop and front chest leash attachment that will minimize your dog's pulling and let you steer them where you want. Its light breathable construction will keep them cool and you’ll be able to fit it in seconds with quick-snap shoulder and belly straps.
Bottom line
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A dog harness is essential for all responsible dog owners. They are recommended by experts as the best way to walk your dog, with no risk of damaging their neck. Your dog will enjoy their walk more and you will have superior control so can keep them safe. We recommend the rabbitgoo Dog Harness. It’s a favorite for anyone who wants to stop their dog pulling on the leash and has two anchor points and reflective strips to help them be seen.
The PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness is another sound choice. It’s light and breathable so good if you plan on walking them in hot conditions.
