The Best Dog Harnesses for Large Breeds
Controlling big dogs on a standard leash and collar can be difficult, and sometimes it feels like larger dogs are the ones walking you. That's where the advantages of dog harnesses come in. By wrapping around the chest and back, the harness evenly distributes the force created by a pulling dog, keeping you in control. Your dog benefits as well, because harnesses keep the tension away from sensitive areas like the neck, providing a more comfortable experience.
What to Look For
In our search for the best dog harnesses for larger dogs, we asked ourselves three questions: Is it easy to put on and take off? Is it comfortable for the dog? Will it make the walk easy and safe? The step-in harness from Voyager quickly leaped out as a favorite, because it has a large assortment of color and size options for any dog. Its design also allows for quick and easy attachment, so you and your dog will be gearing up and walking right away. However, if you plan on taking your dog for walks at night, then go with Rabbitgoo’s no-pull harness. Not only is it both high quality and comfortable for your dog, but its reflective safety strips mean you’ll be able to see your dog at all times of the night. Keep reading below to find out more about our top picks and why we loved them so much.
Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness
Keep it simple
Sporting a very affordable price tag, this mesh-bodied harness is a favorite in the community for good reason. A common challenge dog owners face when trying to use harnesses is that they can be tricky to put on, especially with non-compliant dogs. This product solves that with its simple step-in design. All you have to do is work your pup’s legs through the leg holes and then secure the top clip around their torso and you’re good to go. Thanks to its lightweight and breathable mesh design, it’s a great warm-weather option, too. Even the sweatiest of canines can find a reason to like the Voyager Step-in harness.
Pros:
- You can pick the style that fits you and your dog’s preference with the huge assortment of available colors.
- There are many different sizes available so you’ll be able to get the harness that fits your dog perfectly.
- It’s extremely easy to put on your dog so you’ll be walking in no time.
Cons:
- They’re designed to fit medium-sized breeds and smaller and might be too snug for larger breeds.
Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness
Safe and secure
Despite the name, Rabbitgoo knows all about dogs. Their no-pull harness has two unique features that make it one of the most popular harnesses available. First, there are four easily adjustable straps, two for the chest and two for the neck, that allow you to customize the fit to your dog’s unique dimensions. Both of these sets are fast-release buckles, making it easy to secure the harness to your pet. Second, the harness features two separate attachment rings for your leash. The chest ring is specifically designed to reduce pulling on walks or for training purposes, while the back ring is made for jogging, runs, or casual play. It comes in sizes up to a 30-inch neck and 40-inch chest, so even the biggest of big dogs can use this one.
Pros:
- You can walk your dog safely at any time of day and night thanks to the bright reflective strips.
- Considering the high quality, we were pleasantly surprised at the affordable price.
Cons:
- The straps are not made of nylon.
Poy Pet No-Pull Dog Harness
For nighttime walks
Already one of the most popular no-pull harnesses manufacturers, Poy Pet has released an upgraded version to make the harness more simple yet effective. The harness now features three snap buckles for release, one near the neck and two on the belly, so you don’t have to put the harness on over your dog’s head. The non-toxic mesh padding around the chest has been expanded, providing more comfort and greater distribution of force away from the neck area. The harness also features two strong metal rings for attaching the leash, one in the back for casual walks and one in front to prevent pulling, especially during training. With four-way adjustable straps accommodating dogs with necks as large as 39 inches, you can be sure there’s a Poy Pet harness to fit even the largest breeds.
Pros:
- It features a handle on top so you’ll have full control of your dog when it needs a little extra handling.
- It comes in a variety of colors and sizes, so you can find the specific design that works best for your own dog.
Cons:
- It weighs heavier than most harnesses on the market.
Bolux No-Pull Reflective Dog Harness
Stroll with style
Can’t decide whether your Labrador would look best in turquoise or rose red? Bolux has you covered. With a huge variety of colorways to choose from, your dog will never again have to be seen donning drab colors while on walks around the neighborhood. Better still, this harness has all the features that responsible pet owners are looking for. It has reflective straps to enhance visibility at night, a strong handle so you can lift Buster when you need to, and easily adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable fit. It comes in six different sizes for all types of dogs, each size customized to the appropriate neck girth.
Pros:
- There are also camo-style options available for a rugged style.
- We love how easy it is to adjust the length and positioning of the straps in a pinch.
Cons:
- You may need to readjust the under-strap periodically, which can be challenging to do while it’s on your dog.
Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness
Show them who's boss
Whether you’re dealing with a Hercules of a dog or your pooch is simple more stubborn than most, you’d be wise to adjust in a harness that makes the training process easier on you both. Aside from being a sleek-looking harness, this one also features all the convenient features you’ll want as you teach Buster how to make nice. From its many buckles, clips, and adjustable straps to its durable nylon vest, this harness will fit comfortably regardless of your pup’s size. And with a comfortable fit, the training process will be that much easier. After all, you can’t teach an uncomfortable dog new tricks.
Pros:
- Aside from the back clip on the top of the harness, this one also includes a front clip that’s great for training, so you’re dog will be an expert walking companion in no time.
- The fluorescent edges are bright, so you can safely walk and keep track of your dog at night.
Cons:
- Material is a bit warm for dogs that tend to run hot
Frequently Asked Questions
My dog pulls against her standard collar but it doesn’t hurt her, so why should I get a harness?
The problem is that your dog may develop bad associations with pulling. If your dog sees another dog and pulls against her collar, she could associate seeing other dogs with an unpleasant experience. This could become a particularly bad association if your dog is either very social or if you have multiple pets. Also, just because she doesn’t display visible signs of pain doesn’t mean the pulling is harmless.
My pooch doesn’t even like collars placed on him. How do I get him used to a harness?
It takes practice and patience. When you first receive your harness, slowly introduce your dog to it. Let him sniff it. Leave it on the ground for him to inspect. Pet him as he inspects the harness. Then take your best guess at correctly adjusting the size before you put it on him. This will prevent you from accidentally pinching your dog as you make final adjustments. Let your dog walk around the house or yard with the harness before introducing the leash.
Why buy a harness that’s not a no-pull harness?
Many pet owners need a harness to physically transport their dogs. Almost every dog harness available on the market has a large, strong handle in the center. This is used to pick up your dog, which may be necessary to take him from the car to the ground, especially with older dogs suffering from joint problems. The harness distributes the dog’s weight more evenly, making it safer and easier for you to carry him from one place to another.
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