If you have a dog that’s young, full of energy, and eager to get going on your afternoon walks, if they pull, fight, and drag you most of the way, it can be very frustrating, not to mention painful. It could be just general pulling, or a sudden movement that jerks you unexpectedly, like what can happen if they spot a cat, or another dog. Whatever the reason your dog is pulling you along, the best no pull dog harnesses can be a total lifesaver and one that will save the hassle, frustration, and pain that comes with dealing with a large, eager puppy that is difficult to handle.
I’ve reviewed many different models that earned a high user rating and found only six that had what it takes to make it onto my list of the best models on the market.
Each of these harnesses comes loaded with great features, such as a top handle for extra protection, reflective trim that will make a dog highly visible in low light conditions, and highly adjustable designs that will prevent your dog from slipping their harness. Below, you’ll find a comparison chart that lists some of the similarities and differences between each of these models, which will give you a better idea of which harness will work the best for your dog.
No-pull Dog Harnesses Comparison Chart
| Product | Size Options | Breed | Cost | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Rabbitgoo Dog Harness Check On Amazon! | 4 | Medium | $ | |
TIANYAO Dog Harness Check On Amazon! | 2 | Large | $$ | |
Chai's Choice Dog Harness Check On Amazon! | 5 | All breds | $ | |
RUFFWEAR No Pull Harness Check On Amazon! | 5 | All breds | $ | |
ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness Check On Amazon! | 1 | Large | $$ | |
EXPAWLORER Big Dog Harness Check On Amazon! | 1 | Large | $ |
Best For Pullers-Rabbitgoo Dog Harness No-Pull Pet Harness
Our Rating:
This model by Rabbitgoo is easy to take off and put on, highly adjustable, and made from durable nylon material that will not tear or fray. It’s designed for medium-sized breeds and features a four-strap design and two leash attachment points. The attachment point on top of the harness is designed for dogs who are leash trained, while the front attachment, located on the chest, is designed for dogs that pull. The well-padded and highly breathable design will ensure your dog remains cool and comfortable on your walks, while the harness itself ensures that your dog will no longer be able to drag you all over the neighborhood.
Best Harness for Large Breeds-TIANYAO Dog No-Pull Harness
Our Rating:
This no-pull model by Tianyao is designed with large breed dogs in mind, so it features an impressively rugged and durable design, not to mention highly adjustable straps, for a more custom fit. The harness is also well-padded and highly breathable, and won’t cause skin irritation, which is caused by straps rubbing against a dog’s skin. It comes with two leash attachment points, one on the chest and one on the back. Like other models designed to prevent pulling, the chest attachment is designed to take away your dog’s pulling power and give you total control. This model is the perfect training tool for young dogs or dogs that have behavior issues, such as animal aggression.
Most Versatile-Chai’s Choice Best Outdoor Adventure Dog Harness
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This versatile harness by Chai’s Choice can be used for breeds of all sizes, ranging from toy up to extra-large. This will allow you to choose the perfect fit. The manufacturer stresses the importance of taking your pet’s measurements and referencing their sizing chart, before you hit that buy now button. The harness itself is durable and highly adjustable, while the chest attachment point can be used to train your dog to walk on a leash and prevents pulling. The top leash attachment point can be used once your dog can calmly walk by your side, with a loose leash.
Top Ergonomic Harness-RUFFWEAR – Front Range, Everyday No Pull Dog Harness
Our Rating:
This model is made out of durable material and is designed for large and extra-large breed dogs. It’s also considered an all-day wear harness, thanks to the innovative design that ensures optimal comfort during use. If you have a large breed dog that you’re struggling to control on your walks, then this harness is the perfect solution. The well-padded straps will prevent chafing, while the reflective trim will allow your dog to remain highly visible in low light conditions. The front leash attachment point is perfect for dogs who are prone to pulling. The ergonomic fit is one of this model’s biggest selling points, as is the six color options available.
Best Tactical Harness-ICEFANG Tactical No-Pull Dog Harness
Our Rating:
This harness is designed for large breed dogs and comes loaded with all the right features the outdoors enthusiast is looking for, including a heavy-duty top handle, and a ton of pockets, which you can use to store your pet’s foldable water dish, food, treats, and your personal items. Aside from offering plenty of storage space, the harness is made out of tough, nylon material which will not tear, even with rough use.
The no-pull leash attachment located on the chest will prevent your dog from pulling and will give you back control of your pet and the pace of your walk while taking away your dog’s pulling power. This model is perfect if you’re currently training your dog to walk on a leash or you have a dog that has animal, dog, or people aggression. Basically, the harness will be a great choice if you have a difficult time controlling your dog on walks or in public places.
Most Comfortable-EXPAWLORER Big Dog Harness Soft Reflective No Pull Vest
Our Rating:
This model is perfect for large breed dogs and features a quick buckle design that makes it easy to take the harness off or put it on, even if you have an excited dog on your hands. It comes with the standard two leash attachment points, one on the back, and the second attachment point on the chest, which is the one you’ll use if your dog often pulls you along on your daily walks. The harness also features reflective trim, which will make your dog highly visible in poor lighting conditions. You can use the highly adjustable straps to ensure the proper fit and prevent your dog from slipping the harness when you’re out and about. Overall, the harness itself is very beginner-friendly, well-built, and offers all the right features in a harness that will work as a training tool that can immediately stop your dog from dragging you during your next evening walk.
Buyer’s Guide
The no-pull harness works by applying pressure along the dog’s chest and shoulders. Once your pup starts to pull you, their body is directed back toward you. This will reinforce polite leash walking, and give you more control.
If you’re dealing with a dog that’s aggressive or one that also bites, then this type of extra protection and improved control is essential. With this style of harness, it will only take a second to redirect them.
Ease of Use
This type of harness is incredibly easy to put on. The buckles work using a quick-release mechanism that allows you to remove the harness quickly, and it’s the same buckles that secure it in place. The harness will come with both back and front D-ring leash attachment points. If your dog is just starting to learn how to walk on a leash appropriately, or you have a large dog that’s a very strong puller, then the front leash attachment point can be used for improved control. Once your dog gets the hang of walking with their new harness, they can graduate to using the clip located on the back.
Size Options
Just like with any standard harness, a no-pull harness will come in a variety of sizes. However, getting the right size will be crucial in order for it to be effective. This will involve taking careful measurements of your pup before you buy. Finding a model that fits correctly is crucial. It should fit snug and not loose, however, it also shouldn’t be too tight. Using an ill-fitting harness can lead to chafing, skin issues, and general discomfort. Additionally, if the harness you choose is too large for your dog, then they can easily end up slipping out of it, especially if they’re alerted to a small animal, or another aggressive dog right across the street.
As you can see, this can be a recipe for disaster. Because of this, nothing is more important than choosing a model that fits correctly. Make sure that you look at the manufacturer’s website and check out their specific sizing charts. The sizing charts can vary based on the model and manufacturer. Just because your dog wears a size extra-large harness by one manufacture doesn’t mean they’ll wear the same size with another.
Choosing the right harness can have a big impact on how your dog behaves during their next walk, which is why it’s so important to search for a model that comes loaded with all the right features. As a new dog owner, you’ll have a lot to learn, but with the right tools, such as a no-pull harness, you’ll notice immediately that your dog’s behaviors will change and they’ll become more manageable to walk, allowing both of you to enjoy your time together outdoors.
To learn more about your new pet’s grooming needs, stop by and read my article on how to get rid of fleas on dog.
The whole point of this type of harness is to give you more control over your dog when you’re walking them. With this design, it places pressure on the dog’s chest when they start to pull. Granted, this feeling is not exactly pleasant for them, but it will quickly correct their actions. Once the pressure is applied, it will stop them in their tracks, or they will immediately begin to stop pulling. However, the harness should fit correctly and should never be tight enough that it actually causes your dog pain to wear it.
Durability
When you’re shopping around for a new harness, the first thing you’ll need to do is carefully research the different options available. Many dog harnesses may look great and modern, and appear to be made out of high-quality materials, but they won’t be as durable or as comfortable as others.
When you think of a harness, think of durability. The type of fabric that the harness is made out of should be your first consideration. The material should be durable and strong, yet it should still be comfortable and soft enough against the dog’s skin to prevent chafing. Even a small breed dog can be impressively strong if they’re trying to desperately reach a nearby cat or a dog barking across the street. Because of this, many pet owners will choose models that are made out of nylon material and feature mesh lining and heavy padding.
Adjustability
As I mentioned earlier, a harness that fits properly will be crucial. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a harness that’s uncomfortable for your dog to wear, which can lead to a wide range of other problems. The model you choose should also be highly adjustable. However, keep in mind that the number of adjustment points a harness is equipped with is what makes it highly adjustable. More adjustment points will allow you to expertly fit it to your dog’s body. Look for a model that features at least four adjustment points.
Measuring Your Dog
Before you even get started shopping around, you’ll need to take your dog’s measurements. This way, you can simply refer to a harness sizing chart to identify which models will work for your dog. Make sure you measure the chest girth and neck girth. If you notice that your dog is between sizes, then you’ll need to pick a bigger size, instead of a smaller size, since the bigger harness can be adjusted down if needed.
Does My Dog Really Need This Type of Harness?
Learning how to teach dogs commands is all about teaching your dog how to respect you and listen to you. Unfortunately, if your pup is still learning, then you’ll soon realize how difficult it is to try and redirect them when you’re teaching them how to walk on a leash.
When it’s time for a walk, some dogs get so excited that their first instinct is to simply pull you along for the ride. But if you have a dog that’s over a hundred pounds, it’s easy to see who’s going to win this battle. Because of this, a no-pull harness can be a gentle, humane way to teach your dog how to properly walk on a leash. Prong collars may work for some pet owners, however, for overly excited dogs, older dogs, larger dogs, and aggressive dogs, using one of these collars can lead to a serious injury depending on how determined your dog is.
A harness is a more humane and comfortable solution. These harnesses can be extremely useful, especially when it comes to dog breeds that are very muscular and large. If your dog is not leash trained just yet, then wearing this type of harness will give you total control when you’re taking them for a walk.
A harness will avoid placing pressure on a dog’s neck, which will minimize the risks of causing trachea issues later down the line or soft tissue damage. These harnesses are not just for large breeds, they’re actually perfect for smaller dogs as well. Smaller dogs are more prone to trachea injuries than larger dogs since they’re so fragile. A no-pull harness will teach you how to gently train your dog to walk correctly on a leash, without the risk of injury or permanent damage.
Do These Harnesses Work?
This kind of harness is commonly recommended by dog trainers who utilize positive reinforcement. Many rescues and shelters are also replacing prong and choke collars with no-pull harnesses. One of the biggest benefits of this switch is the fact that prong collars and choke collars often give large breed dogs a more menacing look, whereas the no-pull harnesses are colorful and look comfortable, and can instantly turn a bundle of energy into a calm obedient dog.
Standard Harness-The Difference
But how does this type of harness measure up to a standard harness? They’re much different compared to a standard harness. Standard models clip on the dog’s back and shouldn’t be used for teaching a dog how to walk on a leash since it allows the dog to pull with the strongest part of its body, the chest. This will make it very difficult for you to control your dog, especially if it’s a larger breed or a more muscular dog. So, unless your dog is already well trained on a leash, I would avoid using a standard harness at all costs.
Total Control
Because the leash is clipped to the front of the dog’s harness, right on the chest, it will create an uncomfortable sensation if your dog begins to pull. It should be used as a training tool to teach your dog how to walk, using the loose-leash technique. However, this type of harness doesn’t have to be used specifically for training, especially if you have a large breed or muscular dog. Having this type of total control over your dog as you’re going for a walk will definitely give you some much-needed peace of mind especially if your dog has shown signs of animal or dog aggression.
Large breed dogs can be very difficult to control. Even if they’re typically very obedient, if they see another dog in their territory, or catch a quick glimpse of a squirrel running by, many dogs will be tempted to take chase. If you want the ultimate control over your dog when you’re out of the house, then use this type of harness.
What Type of Dogs Should Not Wear This Type of Harness?
There really no breed restrictions in terms of what type of dog should not use this style of harness. Often, it’s more a matter of your dog’s personality than their specific breed. Pet owners will often turn to this type of harness when all the other styles of collars and standard harnesses fail to work. However, if you have an especially strong dog or a dog that’s very reactive to people, or other dogs, then using this type of harness will give you more control. If you’re still having trouble controlling your dog even after using this type of harness then you’ll need to meet with a trainer for further guidance and obedience training classes.
The Benefits
As a dog owner, nothing is more important than taking your dog out for their routine daily walks. Walks are very beneficial to both owners and dogs since it helps to create a tighter bond. However, it also provides your dog with much-needed exercise, allowing them to burn calories and energy at the same time. It can also be an opportunity for you to socialize your dog if they’re not already dog-aggressive.
Walking around the neighborhood will introduce your dog to many different new sights, smells, textures, and more. This can be very mentally stimulating for your dog. This type of stimulation is very important for most dogs, especially high energy dogs who can easily become destructive should they become bored. Once a dog gets used to their daily walks, they’ll come to look forward to it, and you may even notice a decrease in destructive behavior, depressive symptoms, lack an appetite, and a general positive change in their behavior. As you can see, taking your dog for a walk means everything to them.
If you’re a new pet owner, there are so many things to learn, such as how often should you brush your dog, how much exercise do they need, how often should you walk them, and what is the safest and most effective way to train them to walk on a leash?
A Simple Training Tool
Fortunately, this type of harness comes with many advantages. Many new dog owners struggle with teaching pups how to walk on a leash and how to correct pulling behavior. Unfortunately, some dog owners will even give up on taking their dogs for a walk if they get to the point where walking their pet becomes very stressful and frustrating for both the owner and the pet. Other owners will take a sad approach and rely on shock collars, prong collars, or choke collars in order to resolve the pulling problem. Of course, all of those methods are not exactly humane. With the right equipment, such as this style of harness, you’ll notice a major difference in your dog’s confidence, obedience, and ability to walk correctly on a leash.
Instant Improvement
Once you have your dog under control on your walks, you’ll feel more confident and more likely to stick to your routine dog-walking schedule, without the worry of being embarrassed by your dog dragging you down the street. These Innovative harnesses have really made a huge difference for dog owners who have had trouble controlling their pups on the street.
But the real beauty behind using this type of harness is the fact that the changes are instant, from the moment you put the harness on them. For some dogs, especially those who are very stubborn, it can take a few minutes for your dog to make the connection that if they pull, they will receive a sort of uncomfortable level of pressure on their chest. However, other dogs will make this connection immediately and cease dragging and pulling you right away.
Many pet owners will fall in love with these easy-to-use, highly adjustable, effective harnesses. Once you try one you’ll soon see why many pet owners have made the switch.
In many cases, pet owners simply weren’t aware that this type of harness even existed. Dog owners who have used standard harnesses in the past may not know the difference between the two styles, so they won’t understand how this type of harness works or the type of impact it can have on their dog’s behavior on a walk.
A Humane Alternative
One of the big biggest benefits these harnesses have to offer is the fact that they’re much safer to use than a collar. If you have a dog that’s a notorious puller, then you’ve probably heard her gag and gasp as the collar places a huge amount of pressure on her neck. Well, this feeling it’s not only annoying and irritating for your dog, but it can also cause medical problems later on and their throat will be very painful and sore for hours after.
This is especially true when it comes to small breeds. A collapsed trachea can happen in smaller dogs due to this increased pressure. For larger dogs, this added pressure can significantly restrict their breathing, which will cause them to gasp loudly. This restriction in breathing means that the brain is not getting enough oxygen, something that can cause your dog to panic.
A dog was not meant to be pulled by its neck. There are also many other possible injuries that can occur due to walking your dog using a standard collar. This includes an increase in pressure on the carotid artery, increased ocular pressure, damage to the soft cartilage, pressure on the jugular vein, and damage to the cervical discs. Using a harness will take away the strain that’s placed on the neck, which is what makes using a harness a more humane and safer alternative.
Encourages Loose Leash Walking
When a person attaches a leash to a collar, the leash is placed in a behind position. This also applies when using a regular harness, which takes an even more behind approach in design. Many people will usually confuse regular harnesses with front attachment harnesses and don’t understand how the harness can be used to prevent a dog from pulling. As I mentioned earlier, the biggest difference is that a standard harness has a leash attachment placed on the back, whereas the no-pull variety has a leash attachment point located directly on the chest. The design of this type of harness encourages your dog to walk by your side, instead of trying to get ahead of you, which is how they should walk with you. The goal here is to get your dog to keep pace with you, slow down, and allow for some slack in the leash.
Positive Associations
One of the best parts of using this type of harness is the fact that when used, a dog will not associate it with pain like they tend to do with collars.
As an example, when a prong collar is used, the moment a dog sees the collar, their personality will change out of fear. This is because when a dog wears this type of collar the moment they pull on the leash, the prongs will sink into their skin and cause a painful, unpleasant sensation. Over time, using this type of collar can be seen as a trigger of sorts which can lead to serious behavior problems later down the line. When you use a harness designed to prevent pulling, a dog will not associate the harness with pain, instead, he or she will remember that they must walk at a similar pace that you do in order to get where they want to go faster and easily.
Final Thoughts
The best no-pull dog harnesses will prevent your dog from dragging you down the street and will give you total control over your dog when you’re out for a walk. This type of harness will not cause your dog pain or discomfort like prong collars and choke chains tend to do. My guide is designed to give you an in-depth look at how these harnesses work, the difference between a no-pull and a standard harness, and the many benefits that you’ll immediately enjoy the very first time you take your dog out for a walk. I hope these reviews of the top-selling models and my buyer’s guide will help you find a harness that fits your dog perfectly, and allows you to train them to easily and safely, with no pulling or dragging involved.
