The 10 Best Puppy Harnesses
- May 27, 2023
- By Dr. Deborah Fletcher
Did you know that each year, 1.6 million pups are adopted? Are you the proud owner of a furball with floppy ears and sharp teeth? If you respond yes to this question, it is safe to assume that your heart and hands are full.
Bringing a new puppy home requires some adjustment from everyone, whether or not they are first-time owners. There are many adorable behaviors, but also a great deal of responsibility.
However, the most crucial component of a puppy's existence is training, and there is no better tool for charm school than a harness. This useful item may be used for housebreaking, heeling, etc. However, the most challenging aspect of bargaining is identifying the best alternative.
BestForPets (bestforpets.org) has compiled this list of in-depth evaluations to assist you in finding the best puppy harnesses. We will address queries such as "Can my dog wiggle out of it?", "Is it comfortable?", and "Can it be seen at night?" as well as many others. We will also give a buyer's guide to assist you in navigating the store (or the internet) as you shop.
Reviews
PUPTECK No Pull Dog Harness
If your dog is active and rowdy, the PUPTECK PH009-006 No Pull Dog Harness will provide the necessary security and durability. You may select from small, medium, or large sizes ranging from a 14.8-inch chest to a hulking 30-inch chest size, which are available in six colors.
You will not have to worry about your pet escaping or gnawing their way out because to the high-density webbing and sturdy nylon construction. The harness is held in place by sturdy buckles, while the adjustable straps are simple to adjust and, most importantly, won’t irritate the puppy’s skin.
One of the most difficult aspects of puppy harnesses is putting them on and taking them off. However, not with this option. The back connection of the two D-rings makes it simple to put on and take off. In addition to its durability, the ring is secured by thick double-stitching.
The PUPTECK is a lightweight harness with a hanging identification tag for added safety. It is simple to clean, and the colors are visible in low light or at night. Overall, this is our preferred option for a dog harness.
Pros
- Durable material
- Convenient and lightweight
- Secure buckles
- Reflective material
- Simple to don and remove
- Twin stitching
Cons
- Envious pet owners in the neighborhood
Pawaboo Puppy Safety Harness Vest
When you get a new dog, you incur additional costs. This is why it is essential to locate an economical choice. If this sounds similar, you will appreciate the durability and affordability of the Pawaboo Puppy Dog Safety Vest Harness.
This customizable device is an excellent alternative if you spend a lot of time in the car with your furry companion. The design is intended to function as both a normal vest and a vehicle harness. It has a seat belt lead clip that may be connected to the headrest, car seat loop, and other secure tether points.
The Pawaboo is constructed of sturdy oxford cloth and features a sponge-padded chest. It is available in sizes small, medium, large, and extra-large and in a number of colors. The lightweight harness is equipped with heavy-duty buckles, a stainless steel latch, and a twist-lock carabiner for vehicle attachment.
The smooth, pleasant fabric will not irritate your pet’s underarms and is simple to put on and take off. The only flaw we can identify is that the design lacks reflecting material. Aside from that, though, this is the most affordable dog harness available.
Pros
- Durable material
- Convenient and lightweight
- Secure buckles
- Simple to use
- Includes a vehicle harness
- Heavy-duty equipment
Cons
- No safety reflectors
FakeFace Puppy Safety Harness
If you desire the very best, you will be interested in our premium option. The FakeFace Puppy Dog Safety Harness is a no-pull, no-choke harness designed to keep your dog safe. The backplate is made from 600D nylon fabric and is cushioned for comfort with soft sponge material.
With sizes ranging from small to X-large, you will be able to discover the perfect fit for your dog. You may also choose from fashionable designs like camo and leopard, or you can go for sleek black. This harness incorporates a back handle for enhanced control and also functions as a seat belt restraint.
The FakeFace is not only lightweight and comfy but also scratch-resistant. The welded D-ring is durable and double-stitched. In addition, the quick-release buckles will keep your dog safe and content.
The design of this product is worth mentioning. The FakeFace harness features a horizontal chest strap that prevents your pet from suffocating when pulling. The problem with this design is that it is more difficult to put on and take off than the other two products we have reviewed. The vest has 3M reflective material, is chafe-resistant, and is simple to clean.
Pros
- Durable material
- 3M reflective material
- Confidentiality and ease
- Heavy-duty equipment
- Control lever
Cons
- Not as user-friendly
Classic EcoBark Dog Harness
The EcoBark Classic Dog Harness is available in ten different colors and X-small, small, medium, and large sizes. This non-toxic dog vest features a cushioned chest, robust double-layer construction, and unique stitch covers that keep delicate skin from rubbing raw.
This solution is both weatherproof and escape-proof. The adjustable straps of the eco-friendly EcoBark are made from recycled plastic bottles. In addition, the entire harness is hypoallergenic.
Keep in mind that this vest is more suitable for small and medium-sized breeds. Additionally, the buckles are not as secure as those of competing brands. Beyond that, though, the D-ring is reliable and you will have no trouble putting the pet’s vest on or taking it off.
Pros
- Durable, hypoallergenic material
- Eco-friendly
- Customized cover stitches
- Padded chest
- Simple to use
Cons
- Recommended for small and medium dogs
- Buckles are not durable
Rabbitgoo Dog Harness
The Rabbitgoo DTCW006L Dog Harness ranks fifth. The chest and backplate of this no choke/no pull vest have a sturdy D-ring. As a result of the font hook’s increased control, your dog will pull with less power, making this an excellent solution for dogs that pull aggressively.
Available in sizes ranging from small to X-large, it is important to note that the heavier design is not appropriate for a toy or tiny breeds. In addition, there are six color options, each of which has reflective material for nighttime adventures.
This harness has four adjustable straps, two sturdy buckles, and a breathable, weather-resistant nylon fabric. However, you will need to wash this material by hand. However, your dog will not experience any chafing due to the soft material.
The rear control handle is the last aspect of the Rabbitgoo that we will discuss. This grip is narrow, despite the fact that this is a desirable feature, especially for dogs who are ready to go. It may be unpleasant on the hand if used frequently, and the stitching has been known to come undone at the worst possible times.
Pros
- Durable material
- Front and rear D-rings
- Durable buckles
- Weather-resistant
- Reflective material
Cons
- Not suggested for smaller dogs
- Heavy
- The control handle is thin and fragile
ThinkPet Reflective Puppy Vest Harness
If you live in a warmer region, the ThinkPet PD20004-1-M-BU Reflective Puppy Vest Harness is an excellent choice. Not only is the lightweight, soft, and breathable fabric durable, but it can also be dipped in water to keep your dog cool. The material retains water between its layers, creating a surface that is cool to the touch.
However, you must ensure that the vest is totally dry after each usage; otherwise, it may acquire mildew and a musty odor. The nylon straps are adjustable and fastened by two buckles, to change the subject. Unfortunately, the straps and buckles’ stitching left much to be desired. They can easily tear, allowing your pet to escape.
Additionally, the buckles might become stuck and will not lock in place correctly. This makes putting on and removing the harness more difficult. On the other hand, reflective piping and material are utilized throughout the construction, and there are no frayed or jagged edges that might irritate the skin.
The ThinkPet is available in six sizes and nine colors. It includes strong D-rings for attaching your leash but suffers from the same stitching issue as the rest of the vest’s hardware.
Pros
- Reflective material
- A cooling substance that absorbs water
- Sturdy D-ring
- Soft and breathable fabric
Cons
- The stitching is insecure.
- Buckles stick
- Difficult to use
- Possibility of mold and mildew
Copatchy Adjustable Reflective Dog Harness
The Copatchy Reflective Adjustable Dog Harness is our next design. This choice is ideal for those who enjoy nighttime strolls since, as the name suggests, it offers a decent amount of contemplation. This vest is packed with a sponge and is designed to be non-pull and non-choke. The horizontal chest strap might potentially wrap around your dog’s neck.
The shape of the chest strap makes it simple for your dog to escape the harness if it is not correctly fitted. Although not the worst, boarding and alighting are not the easiest.
The Copatchy has two adjustable straps and a control handle. It is available in sizes ranging from XX-small to X-large with the colors black, blue, red, green, and pink. Unfortunately, the buckles on this vest tend to stick and are not as robust as we would like. In addition, the D-ring is poorly sewn to the cloth and frequently falls away.
The general material is lightweight and sturdy, however, the rubbing and horizontal strap might cause underarm chafing in your dog.
Pros
- Ultralight and robust fabric
- Reflective material
- Control lever
- Padded
Cons
- Buckles stick
- The D-ring is not safe
- Causes chafing
- Difficult to use
- Can induce suffocation
INVENHO Mesh Harness
The INVENHO Mesh Harness is a harness with an innovative design that is better suited for smaller breeds with smaller heads. This vest does not include a neck opening, thus the neck and head measurements must be the same for it to fit correctly. If your puppy has a bigger muzzle or ears, this will not be a suitable alternative.
In addition, the INVENHO is available in X-small, small, and medium sizes, as well as in pink, red, blue, or black. Although the nylon straps are adjustable, the material is not as robust as alternative options. The vest also has 3M reflective material for enhanced visibility in low light.
Other characteristics of this harness to consider are the buckles made of weak plastic and the stiff material that may hurt your dog’s skin. As we noted regarding the fit, it may also be difficult to put on and take off.
Lastly, although the D-ring is robust, it is poorly bonded to the cloth and stitching. To conclude on a positive note, the INVENHO has a collar and seat belt attachment.
Pros
- 3M reflective material
- Includes a leash and a vehicle safety strap
- Adjustable
Cons
- Fabric lacks durability
- Buckels are fragile
- This can lead to chafing
- Fit is challenging
- Difficult to use
Didog Adjustable Mesh Vest Harness
The Didog FZHJ026PI-S Adjustable Mesh Vest Harness occupies the second-to-last position. This is a wonderful option if you are seeking something with a major emphasis on cuteness. Pink vests with small strawberries or gray vests with tiny flowers are available. In addition, it has a front bell, a lace-lined peplum collar, and a matching leash.
Due to the design, this choice is normally reserved for female dogs, and although it is available in small, medium, and large sizes, it is intended exclusively for tiny and toy breeds. Moreover, despite its charm, there is an obvious lack of security.
Despite being described as a step-in harness, the Didog goes over the head and is extremely difficult to put on and take off. In the rear, there is simply one adjustable strap with a metal pinch clasp, similar to what you would see on the back of a canvas baseball cap. The clasp is not only unstable, but it also nicks your pet’s skin.
Furthermore, the fabric is stiff, and unpleasant, and may cause chafing if worn for too long. There is no reflective material and the stitching is inadequate, thus it is possible that your dog may escape.
To be fair, the cloth is robust overall, but the stitching renders the D-ring at best insecure. Typically, the sizes are either too large or too little compared to what is described.
Pros
- Cute design
- Durable fabric
Cons
- Uncomfortable and irritating
- Adjustment is unstable
- Difficult to use
- The stitching is poor
- Suitable for tiny and toy dog breeds
Adjustable Pawtitas Pet Puppy Harness
The fourth choice is the Pawtitas Pet Adjustable Puppy Harness, which is available in sizes X-small, small, medium, and large, but is best suited for little dogs. It is comprised of high-quality nylon that is easily ripped and torn by anything harder than your palm. There are eleven color options for this no-pull/no-choke variant.
This harness is meant to be stepped into, pulled up, and secured in the back with a single buckle; in a manner of speaking, it resembles a bra.
The structure makes it difficult to put on your dog, as they must remain still while you arrange their legs and tighten the straps. Regarding adjustment, this is performed just on one side, thus it might be awkward and uneven. Additionally, it can chafe.
Another issue you should be aware of is how low the breastplate sits. If your dog tugs or wiggles, the vest will simply fall down, allowing your pet to immediately escape. In addition, the rear buckle is not secure, and the double D-ring that connects the two straps together (together with the buckle) may be easily torn off.
In addition to the issues already noted, the material lacks reflection, the stitching is thin, and the harness tangles easily. To conclude on a positive note, the Pastitas harness has black nickel hardware. Nonetheless, this is our least favorite dog harness.
Pros
- Black nickel fittings
- No choke
Cons
- Difficult to use
- Can escape easily
- Fabric lacks durability
- No reflexion
- Easily entangles itself
- Inconvenient and causes chafing
Buyer's Guide
Important Information: Measuring Your Pup
Now that you are aware of the many sorts of puppy harnesses available, we can go on to the next crucial step, which is determining the appropriate size. A poorly-fitting vest can be uncomfortable for your dog, and it might also allow them to escape.
With one key exception, determining the ideal size for a puppy is similar to obtaining measures for an adult dog… A puppy is likely to be a growling, boisterous, ankle-biting, nipping dog that will not remain still till they are out cold. With an older dog, there is a probability that he or she will be calm.
Not to fret, however. We will discuss the necessary dimensions as well as some suggestions for completing the task with as much patience as possible. First, though, let’s examine the necessary measurements:
Evaluation of Your Pup
- Neck: You will need to measure your dog’s neck. You should measure the circumference slightly above the collarbone and below where the collar ordinarily sits. As a reference, you may measure with the collar on so you know the right location.
- Weight is not usually required, but is more likely to be an issue with puppy harnesses than adult dog harnesses. Numerous smaller harnesses are designed for certain breed sizes. For instance, you may see a product that is intended for tiny dogs but yet comes in six sizes. The weight constraints will help you determine if the vest is suitable for you.
- Legs are optional but essential. The underarm cloth of a harness might irritate the extremely delicate skin of a puppy. Attempt a horizontal measurement from armpit to armpit. Select a vest with ample space between the chest plate and the underarms to prevent chafing.
How to Get It Done Quickly and Correctly
Now that you are aware of the necessary measures, you are likely apprehensive about completing the task without a tussle with your pet. Consider these guidelines for measuring your pet fast and precisely.
- The first piece of advice is not to use a measuring tape. Yes, it’s true! Even a fabric tape measure will be difficult to read if your furball is determined to escape. Use a delicate string or shoelace instead. Tie it at the broadest area of their waist. Then, you may either mark the knot or CAREFULLY cut the thread at the knot. Once removed, it can be compared to a ruler. This allows you to take your time and measure in increments. Be cautioned, though, that this is just a good idea for the chest. NEVER tie a string or other object around the neck of your pet unless it is a collar. Nonetheless, we have a tip for the neck…
- The Neck: To measure your dog’s neck, just measure the distance between where the collar rests and the collar bone. Then, measure the circumference of their collar. For instance, if the circumference of your collar is 12 inches and there are 1.5 inches between the collar and the collar bone, you need to add 12 and 1.5. This will provide a fairly precise harness neck measurement.
- Another useful method is to measure your dog’s food while he or she is eating. First, ensure that you are using fabric tape for convenience. In addition, many pups like to feed while sitting or in a semi-lying position. Try placing their food on a platform just below their snout to encourage them to rise up. Then, while your animal companion is focused on eating, you can rapidly collect the necessary data.
- Obtain Assistance: Our final piece of advice is rather apparent, but few pet owners employ it for fear of appearing high maintenance or unprepared for a puppy. Ask your vet for assistance. Most veterinarians and veterinary technicians will be glad to assist you, as they are aware of the detrimental implications of a badly fitted harness. Reach out to obtain support, or stop by if you’re in the area.
Conclusion
BestForPets (bestforpets.org) hope that our reviews have narrowed your search for the best puppy harnesses. Now that you have a cute furball in your life, you would rather focus on playing and cuddling than evaluating the many pet care possibilities.
Need a Puppy training leash to complement your new harness? Check out this post where we discuss the advantages of 10 distinct alternatives.
If you want the absolute finest of the best, go for the PUPTECK PH009-006 No Pull Dog Harness that will keep your pup safe and secure. If you require a less expensive choice, the Pawaboo Puppy Dog Safety Vest Harness is the most economical.
Dr. Deborah Fletcher
Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.
Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher
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