How To Choose a Dog Harness

How to Choose a Dog Harness

How to choose the right dog harness? What's right for one dog may not work for another, the answer really comes down to your own pet's preference, temperament, size and activity level.

One thing we can all agree on: W-A-L-K spells fun! But there are differing schools of thought on the subject of dog collars vs. dog harnesses, and the various pros and cons can be confusing to dog owners.

Many dog owners strike a happy medium, choosing to keep a collar with ID tags on their dog at all times for safety and security, and adding a harness for walks or car rides.

Whatever the style, whatever the purpose, each and every harness we sell is designed to be easy to put on and take off, and comfortable for your dog to wear.

Training Harnesses

If your dog tends to pull, or is rambunctious or easily distracted, look for a no-pull harness. Its front leash attachment distributes the pulling force evenly across the torso instead of the neck, throat and windpipe area, to eliminate the risk of coughing or gagging. Some harnesses include a traffic handle for added curbside control.

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Personalized Harnesses

Invaluable for helping a lost pet return home safely, personalized harnesses are printed or embroidered with your dog's name and phone number, eliminating the need for ID tags. Choices include colorful nylon webbing, reflective fabric, earth-friendly soy or bamboo, and classic leather with brass nameplate.

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Step-In Harnesses

The easiest harness design to put on your dog–you lay it down, he steps into it–this popular style features a back leash attachment that minimizes pressure on your dog's throat. Adjustable quick-release buckles on both sides ensure custom comfort for even the hard-to-fit dog.

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Safety Harnesses

Keep your dog safe and secure when travelling with a crash-tested harness that restrains and protects your pet in case of a sudden stop or impact. Look for one that attaches easily to your car's seat belt system, and can double as a walking harness.

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Assist Harnesses

Supportive body harnesses with lift handles help you lend a hand to an aging or mobility-challenged pet who needs assistance going up and down stairs or entering and exiting your vehicle. Available in rear-lift and whole-body styles.

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Fashion Harnesses

Offered in a wide range of designer colors, fabrics and patterns–some trimmed with festive bows–a stylish new harness is an easy way to dress up your dog for a stroll around town. Breathable, lightweight mesh designs are a cool choice when the weather's warm.

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Size & Fit

Before ordering a harness, we recommend measuring your dog to ensure the best fit. Knowing your dog's weight is also helpful in choosing the perfect size.

Girth: Measure the circumference of your dog behind the front legs, at the deepest part. If your dog is at the upper limit of a size range, we recommend going up one size. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the harness and your dog's neck.

Back Length: Measure from the base of your dog's neck at the collar to the base of the tail. If your dog has a thick coat or deep chest, or is overweight, we recommend going up one size for proper fit.