The Best Puppy Harnesses

Best Puppy Harnesses

When it comes to properly training your new best friend, a puppy harness can really make the process much simpler. A quality puppy harness helps you leash-train your pup by discouraging pulling, relieving pressure points on their growing body, and safely keeping them from becoming tangled on a longer lead. Not all harnesses are created equal, though, so we've done a little work for you by researching the best options out there. Here are some of our very favorite puppy harnesses.

What to Look For

When researching the best puppy harnesses, we focused on three key features: comfort, durability, and safety. Few harnesses combine those features as seamlessly as the Best Pet Supplies Voyager, which is constructed of breathable mesh fabric that won’t rub or ride on your pooch, but also won’t wear out anytime soon, either. Similarly, the Rabbitgoo no-pull harness also incorporates breathable mesh fabric, but adds to it nylon straps that prevent your pup from yanking on their leash and also help you dial in a secure fit no matter their body shape. For more on these picks and to view the rest of our favorite puppy harnesses, read on.

Best Pet Supplies Voyager Step-In Air

Best Pet Supplies Voyager Step-In Air

Lightweight, durable design

Lightweight, breathable, and highly durable, this training harness is a must for an active pup.
Best Overall

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Aptly named the Voyager, this comfortable harness is one your dog will love. Made of a lightweight, breathable mesh fabric that features durable, pull-proof Velcro closures, this harness helps to keep your rambunctious furball from getting into any unnecessary trouble. With extra safety features including multiple reflective bands, a hook-and-loop fastener, and a trustworthy D-ring double buckle system, this harness will keep your pup safe and secure when it matters most.

Pros:

  • This harness is available in multiple bright colors so you can find one that’s right for your pooch.
  • Like many harnesses, this one helps to build better leash manners.

Cons:

  • This harness is not the most adjustable, so make sure to order the correct size.

Rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness with Two Leash Clips

Rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness with Two Leash Clips

Ultra-comfy and breathable

An excellent option for busy dogs, this harness's genius lies in its breathability.
Most Breathable

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While dog harnesses can certainly be helpful when leash training (heck, even when not leash training) there is one issue that repeatedly pops up when it comes to talking harnesses: breathability. Harnesses are notorious for causing a pup to overheat, which can result in (among other undesirable issues) irritated rub marks where the harness has worn through to their fur. This ultra-breathable option is lightweight, won’t pull at pressure points, and will keep them cool even during the dog days of hot weather.

Pros:

  • We appreciate the built-in safety features, like reflective striping, that make this model ideal for night walks.
  • The harness is machine-washable, so it’s easy to keep clean.

Cons:

  • The straps are somewhat thin, though still relatively durable.

PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

Durable, reinforced seams

Strong hardware, durable seams, and a thick material all help to make this an extremely durable option.
Most Durable

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If you’re going the dog harness route, you’ve got to be sure of one major must-have component: it has to be durable. PoyPet’s take on the safety harness is a sure bet when you’re looking for something a little longer lasting. Featuring a lockable snap buckle, a wide, anti-choke strap system, and an easily adjustable fit, this no-pull harness will keep your puppy safe and in line, wear after wear. And where many harnesses come up short in the buckle department, we love that this one has tough hardware. In other words, there’s no chance of an escape artist here.

Pros:

  • We like the soft, comfortable interior.
  • The buckles are thick and durable.

Cons:

  • The straps are prone to twisting in their sleeves.

Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness

Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness

Best in manners

For young pups learning the ropes of leash manners, this trainer is a great start.
Best For Training

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Fully immersed in training mode? Ruffwear’s training harness has you covered. And because it’s made for extended wear, this harness will also work for everyday use. Featuring two attachment points for better control and less wear and tear overall, this padded, breathable, and fully customizable harness is an excellent option for teaching your young pup the tricks and rules of dog life. As a bonus, there are a few extra strips of reflective fabric that will keep them extra safe.

Pros:

  • With two points of contact, this harness allows for increased control during training sessions.
  • We like how easy this is to customize, letting us dial in the exact fit.

Cons:

  • The buckles are a bit too recessed for easy access.

Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness

Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness

Tactical training approved

For your working dog, this tough trainer is a top choice.
Best For Working Puppies

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Tactical dog jobs start with tactical puppy training, and this training harness hits all the must-have markers for being an excellent tactical dog training device right from the start. Featuring ultra-durable clips, rings, straps, and fabric, this entire harness is built for tough training and tough jobs. In fact, there are multiple size options available, so no matter the stage and age of your working pup, they’ll have a tactical harness to grow into as they learn the tricks of their trade.

Pros:

  • We like the durable hardware and wide straps, which together offer extra control.
  • There are multiple top strap systems for training and service work.

Cons:

  • Considering the sizing, this is best for a larger puppy.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do you begin obedience training?

As soon as puppies hit the seven- or eight-week mark. Why wait until then? For starters, anything younger and a puppy simply won’t have the necessary mental development. At around seven or eight weeks, most puppies begin to have maturing attention spans and can start learning basic commands. More formal dog training, however, typically starts around six months of age. And as far as an older pup goes, yes — an old dog really can learn new tricks.

Why use a harness?

Dog harnesses help to reduce strain on the dog’s neck and back. They also work to reduce pulling, which helps in learning proper leash manners. However, some dogs do not like harnesses at all, so it’s best to introduce them young and find one that works for their specific type and size.

About the Author

Tana lives in Vermont with her beloved old crotchety hound dog, Hannah. Growing up on a farm, Tana spent her days with chickens, ducks, and goats, instilling in her a lifelong love and respect for all animals. When she’s not teaching yoga, Tana researches dog products so she can help fellow owners discover the best of the best for their canine.

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