A harness spreads pressure across your dog’s chest and shoulders instead of the neck, which is why many owners prefer it for daily walks, for dogs that pull and for flat-faced breeds. Here is how the main types differ and how to choose one.
Types of dog harness
- Back-clip harness: the leash attaches on the back. Easy to put on and comfortable for dogs that already walk calmly.
- Front-clip (no-pull) harness: the leash attaches on the chest. When your dog pulls, the harness gently turns them sideways, which helps with training.
- Dual-clip harness: rings on the back and chest, so you can switch between everyday walks and training.
- Step-in harness: your dog steps into it and it buckles on the back. Good for dogs that dislike things going over their head.
- Vest or padded harness: wider, padded panels for comfort, often with a handle on the back to help guide your dog.
Harness or collar?
A collar is still the best place for an ID tag, and many dogs wear both: a collar with a tag at all times and a harness for walks. A harness is usually the more comfortable choice for strong pullers, small dogs and flat-faced breeds such as pugs and French bulldogs.
How a harness should fit
- Two fingers fit under every strap, but your dog cannot back out of it.
- The chest strap sits on the breastbone, not on the throat.
- The straps do not rub behind the front legs; check for redness after the first few walks.
- Adjust it again after a bath or a haircut, and as a puppy grows.
How to choose
- Dog pulls a lot: a front-clip or dual-clip harness.
- Walks after dark: reflective straps or a light-up collar. See gear for night walks.
- Nervous about things over the head: a step-in harness.
- Big, strong dog: a padded vest with a back handle.
Find the right size
Measure your dog’s chest just behind the front legs and use our harness size finder. Then browse our dog harnesses and a matching dog leash.