There are a lot of potential issues that can arise from using an automatic feeder (particularly the wrong feeder) as well:

• If the feeder isn’t locked or you have a particularly “food-motivated” cat (or if you also have a dog at home) who isn’t afraid to attack the feeder the animals may end up gorging themselves on multiple meals’ worth of food rather than getting it portioned out as you planned.
• Issues with automatic food timers or power sources (cords or batteries) could mean that your cat misses a meal you thought was “automatic”
• If a feeder’s ability to portion food is out of whack, you may wind up over or under-feeding your cat (without even knowing!)

To help you navigate all of this, we asked our expert vet advisor Dr. Jamie Whittenburg to review each and every automatic cat feeder on the market and bring you her findings.

Dr. Whittenburg’s top pick is the Whisker Feeder-Robot.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Whisker Feeder-Robot

Meet our overall top pick for the best automatic cat feeder, the Whisker Feeder-Robot.

Check Price

This automatic cat feeder can dispense up to eight meals or snacks a day and has a total capacity of 32 cups. It can even be connected to a smartphone app to help you monitor your cat’s eating habits, allow you to give your cat a snack remotely, and notify you if the food storage starts to get low.

While this is Dr. Whittenburg’s top pick, she’s also got you covered with a buying guide with tips for what to look for when selecting an automatic cat feeder, a section on who should avoid automatic cat feeders, and her personal selections for the top automatic cat feeder for a variety of use-cases.

The 5 Best Automatic Cat Feeders

1. Best Overall – Whisker Feeder-Robot
2. Best Budget – PetSafe Analog 2 Meal Programmable Pet Feeder
3. Best for Wet Food – Cat Mate C300
4. Best for Multiple Cats – Petlibro Automatic Dual Food Tray
5. Best Microchip Activated – Sure Petcare Microchip Pet Feeder

Automatic Cat Feeders Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers.

Who Should Buy an Automatic Cat Feeder

• Owners who work outside of the home – While most dogs do okay with just a morning and evening meal, cats are generally healthiest when given a few smaller meals throughout the day. Unfortunately, if you work outside the home, you’re not around to be able to give them those meals during the day. An automatic feeder is a great solution to that problem!
• Pet parents who want an alternative to boarding – If you’d prefer to leave your cat at home while you travel, an automatic pet feeder can make sure your cat still gets meals at their regular times. However, you should still make sure that someone comes to check on your cat at least once a day to make sure that the feeder hasn’t malfunctioned and to meet your cat’s other needs.
• Owners who want to sleep in – Many of us are up earlier on workdays and feed our cats before we head out for work. That can be a problem on weekends when your cat expects their morning meal at a certain time but you’d like to sleep in. To keep you both happy, you can set an automatic cat feeder to give your cat their breakfast at their normal time while you snooze a little longer.

Who Should Not Buy an Automatic Cat Feeder

• Owners who want to be able to leave their cats home alone for multiple days – Having an automatic cat feeder doesn’t mean that you can simply leave your cat unattended while you travel. While most automatic pet feeders have features to help avoid malfunctions, they do still occur. If your cat isn’t eating due to a health issue, an automatic pet feeder can’t tell you that. Besides, your cat has needs other than food, like socialization, play, and a clean litterbox. An automatic pet feeder is a handy way to make sure your pet gets their meals at appropriate times while you’re gone, but you should still have someone come check on your cat each day to make sure that they’re eating and that their other needs are met.
• Pet parents who don’t want to have to monitor their cat’s meals – While automatic pet feeders are a great way to ensure that your cat gets their meals at the same time every day, they shouldn’t be an excuse to not pay attention to your cat’s meals. A decreased appetite is a common sign of illness in cats, but if you’re not paying attention, it’s easy to not notice. You should still check your cat’s bowl after meal times to make sure they’re eating. If an automatic pet feeder will encourage you to monitor your cat’s appetite less closely, perhaps manual feeding is a better route for you.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

When choosing an automatic cat feeder, there are several things to keep in mind. Be sure to ask your veterinarian, friends, and family for recommendations when looking for an automatic cat feeder, but also make sure to do thorough research and consider these things so you can be sure to make the right choice for you:

1. Consider how many cats you’re feeding – Most automatic cat feeders are designed to feed a single cat. If you have multiple cats it can make it hard to monitor how much each cat is eating and that no cat is taking more than their share. Fortunately, some automatic cat feeders are designed to feed multiple cats. Others are designed to feed a single cat but have features that prevent other animals from accessing the food. The former style is good if all of your cats eat the same type of food, while the latter is better if you have different pets on different diets.
2. Ensure that the feeder is reliable – In the case of automatic cat feeders, reliability means two things. First, it means that the feeder is unlikely to malfunction, giving your cat the wrong amount of food or even no food at all. Second, it means that your cat (or another pet) can’t break into the closed food storage to snack at their leisure.
3. Make sure the feeder is compatible with your type of food – Most automatic cat feeders are designed to only serve dry cat food. If you give your cat wet food, you’ll need a cat feeder designed for that type of food.
4. Make sure the feeder will hold enough food – If you aren’t able to fill your automatic cat feeder every day, make sure it holds enough food to last several days.

How Much Do They Cost?

$20-$300

Automatic cat feeders are available at a huge range of price points, anywhere from $20 to $300. The lower-cost versions usually have a limited capacity and can only store a couple of meals. These are great if you just want to be able to fill the automatic feeder in the morning so it can provide meals during the day while you’re at work. However, if you want a more hands-off approach where you can fill the automatic feeder and have it last for a while, a suitable one will typically cost you at least $80. With even higher-end options you can get extra, high-tech features. These can include things like the ability to monitor capacity or provide extra feedings via a smartphone app or the ability to provide meals based on which pet approaches the bowl using either your cat’s microchip or an RFID tag.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

As a veterinarian, I frequently talk to other veterinarians, animal nutritionists, and pet owners about how to give pets, including cats, the best possible diet. In those discussions, automatic cat feeders and how they can be a valuable tool often come up. The recommendations I make here are based on those conversations as well as the features and reviews of the products themselves. I considered reliability, capacity, and more to choose the top automatic cat feeders currently on the market. – Dr. Jamie Whittenburg

The Best Automatic Cat Feeder Reviews

1. Best Overall – Whisker Feeder-Robot

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Whisker Feeder-Robot

Meet our overall top pick for the best automatic cat feeder, the Whisker Feeder-Robot.

Check Price

Our vet’s overall top pick for the best automatic cat feeder is the Whisker Feeder-Robot. Full disclosure: this automatic cat feeder isn’t exactly cheap. But in some cases, you get what you pay for, and the Feeder-Robot is an incredibly high-quality automatic cat feeder. The feeder is only equipped to dispense dry food, but it can provide up to eight meals or snacks a day.

But what really sets the Whisker Feeder-Robot apart is that it can connect to your smartphone via an app, available for both Android and iOS. The feeder can be controlled on the unit itself or through the app. The app can also be used to monitor your pet’s meals and get insights into your pet’s feeding habits. It will even let you know when the Feeder-Robot is close to empty. And if you have multiple Feeder-Robots or a Whisker’s Litter-Robot, you can also access them from the same app.

2. Best Budget – PetSafe Analog 2 Meal Programmable Pet Feeder

Best Budget Buy

PetSafe Analog 2 Meal Programmable Pet Feeder

With the PetSafe Analog 2 Meal Programmable Pet Feeder, even on a budget.

$18.95

Buy on Amazon

For those looking for a more affordable automatic cat feeder, the PetSafe Analog 2 Meal Programmable Pet Feeder is a great solution. It only fits two meals at a time, so it’s not intended for feeding your cat regularly over long periods. However, if you just want something that will give your cat meals while you’re at work or serve your cat breakfast while you sleep in, this automatic cat feeder is perfect.

This PetSafe automatic cat feeder can be used for dry or wet food and uses a single AA battery. To set the automatic feeder, simply use the dial timers with half-hour increments up to 24 hours in advance. Once the timer has finished running, the top of the feeder will swing open, exposing your cat’s snack or meal. The lids are tamper-resistant, preventing kitty from getting to their food early and the BPA-free bowls inside are dishwasher safe.

3. Best for Wet Food – Cat Mate C300

Best for Wet Food

Cat Mate C300

The Cat Mate C300 is a great automatic cat feeder for wet cat food.

$44.99

Buy on Amazon

If you primarily feed your cat wet food, it can be tough to find a good automatic cat feeder that works for you. Fortunately, the Cat Mate C300 does precisely that. It comes in two sizes, one that holds three meals and one that holds five. The first meal is immediately accessible to your pet, so it’s best to set it up at a time when your cat already gets meals. All other meals are dispensed with a timer.

What sets the Cat Mate C300 apart from other wet food compatible automatic feeders is that it comes a specialized ice pack. These keep wet cat food cool, so it doesn’t dry out before feeding time. If you’ve fed your cat wet food before, you know how gross and unappealing (not to mention smelly) wet food can get if left out. The icepack avoids all that. However, it only comes with a single ice pack, so if you want to use the feeder every day, it’s a good idea to buy a spare so you rotate the ice packs. The Cat Mate C300 also requires three AA batteries.

4. Best for Multiple Cats – Petlibro Automatic Dual Food Tray

Best for Multiple Cats

Petlibro Automatic Dual Food Tray

For multiple cats, you need the Petlibro Granary Dual Food Tray.

$149.99

Buy on Amazon

Most automatic cat feeders only dispense food into a single bowl and have low limits on how much food can be dispensed at a time, making them less than ideal for homes with multiple cats. The Petlibro Automatic Dual Food Tray, however, dispenses foods into two bowls at once and can dispense in larger volumes. There’s even a movable splitter that allows different amounts to be dispensed into each bowl. It has a total capacity of 5 liters and can provide up to 10 meals.

This automatic cat food dispenser comes in two colors, black and white, to suit different decors and can be run with either the 5V plug charger or batteries. A window in the front of the food storage allows you to visually monitor how much food is left, while the LED screen shows you the feeding schedule and battery levels. The Petlibro Granary Dual Food Tray even allows you to record a 10-second call to play at mealtimes so your cats know it’s time to eat.

5. Best Microchip Activated – Sure Petcare Microchip Pet Feeder

Best Microchip Activated

PETLIBRO Automatic Cat Feeder with Camera for 2 Cats, 1080P HD Video Night Vision, 5G WiFi Pet Feeder Pet Camera with Phone APP 2 Way Audio, Low Food & Motion & Sound Alerts for Cat & Dog Dual Tray

$149.99

Buy on Amazon

Finally, the Sure Petcare Microchip Pet Feeder can help you separate your pets and offer them individualized meals when you are not home. When the pet with the pre-programmed microchip accesses the bowl, the lid will allow them to eat. The lid will stay closed if the incorrect pet tries to access it. No microchip? No problem! The bowl also comes with an RFID tag you can attach to your cat’s collar to activate the bowl instead. Additional RFID tags can be purchased separately. 

This bowl is a great alternative to the Petlibro Granary Dual Food Tray if your cats are on separate diets or if you have cats or other animals that try to steal each other’s food. For pets with separate diets, you’ll need multiple bowls. However, if multiple pets can eat out of the same bowl, you can program the bowl to allow each of those pets access. The Sure Petcare Microchip Pet Feeder comes with a gray mat, a gray single bowl, and a gray split bowl. You can also buy mats and bowls in pink, blue, or green, which is very helpful for keeping multiple bowls straight for pets with different diets. 

Frequently Asked Questions

You can make sure your loved pup doesn’t miss a meal, even if you’re out all day or need to come home late.

There are a lot of potential issues that can arise from using an automatic feeder as well:

• If the feeder isn’t locked or you have a particularly “food-motivated” dog who isn’t afraid to attack the feeder the dog may end up gorging itself on multiple meals’ worth of food rather than getting it portioned out as you planned.
• Issues with automatic food timers or power sources (cords or batteries) could mean that your pup misses a meal you thought was “automatic”
• If a feeder’s ability to portion food is out of whack, you may wind up over or under-feeding your dog (without even knowing!)

To help you avoid these pitfalls, we asked our veterinary advisor, Dr. Melody Aitchison-Steed, to look at all types of automatic dog feeders to determine which is the best option for you and your family. She paid particularly close attention to factors like Wi-Fi, food capacity, timer, reliability, and more.

Dr. Aitchison-Steed chose the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder for its slow feed that prevents jamming, battery backup, and smartphone capability.

Best Overall

PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder

For the best in automatic dog feeders, look no further than the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder.

$124.95

Buy on Amazon

While this is our top pick, you can also read on to find out if an automatic dog feeder is even the right tool for you and your pup, what to look for in evaluating feeders if it is right for you, and Dr. Aitchison-Steed also gave her top picks for multiple specific use-cases which you may want to weigh more than some purchasers of dog feeders.

The 5 Best Automatic Dog Feeders

1. Best Overall – PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder
2. Best Budget – Iseebiz 6L Automatic Pet Feeder
3. Best for Multiple Dogs – PETLIBRO Automatic Feeder
4. Best Smart Feeder – Feeder-Robot – WiFi-Enabled, Automatic Pet Feeder
5. Best Microchip Feeder – SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder Connect

Automatic Dog Feeders Compared

Here are our top picks. Compare the ratings and features of different models to find the right one for you.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy an Automatic Dog Feeder

• Forgetful pet parents – When your life gets chaotic, making time to portion out your dog’s food may fall down your list of to-dos. Pretty soon, it’s 9pm and you’re realizing your pup hasn’t eaten dinner. This is particularly worrisome for the well-mannered dog who doesn’t request food. Fortunately, an automatic feeder can be filled ahead of time and you can still ensure your pup is getting his food when he needs it, whether you remember it or not.
• Those gone for long stretches – If you have to leave for the day, then you may want to make sure your dog still has access to food. (You absolutely will want to make sure he has access to water.) An automatic feeder can make sure he’s still getting plenty of food to give him sufficient sustenance, even if you’re away. Just make sure he has plenty to keep him busy, otherwise, he may entertain himself with the destruction of your home.
• When your dog overeats – If you’re putting your pup on a diet, then an automatic feeder is an excellent idea to make sure he sticks with his portion control. You’ll have the ability to portion out only what he should be eating and the feeder is secure enough to prevent him from eating any additional food.

Who Should Not Buy an Automatic Dog Feeder

• When your dog eats on-demand – If you have a dog who needs to gain weight, a rescue, or a dog recovering from an illness, for example, then you may not want to limit his food intake. Most dogs will eat more food if it is always available,¹ but if he is able to self-regulate, then you don’t need to worry about an automatic feeder.
• Different dogs with different foods – There are ways around food being shared between multiples, even with an automatic feeder, however, there are certain dog dynamics that will preclude the advantages of an automatic feeder. If you have a timid dog on a specialized diet and an aggressive dog who cannot eat that food, even two microchip feeders won’t keep the aggressive dog from eating the food after the timid one has opened it. If you’d rather not separate your dogs for feeding time and you have added complications, sometimes a feeder just won’t help.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

When you are researching an automatic feeder there are a few important considerations to make. Whenever you are researching pet products don’t forget to consult your veterinarian or other reputable sources, including looking at trusted reviews online. Here’s what to consider when selecting an automatic dog feeder:

1. Multiples – Do you have multiple dogs to feed?  If so, do they get along at mealtime?  There are some nice feeders that can feed food into multiple dogs’ bowls, making sure that multiple dogs can all eat together.  These bowls are typically close together, so if your dogs become aggressive around food it would be best to get each dog their own feeder.²
2. Consider how “smart” you want it – Another consideration for automatic feeders is whether you prefer them to connect to Wi-Fi and have an app to access control of the feeder.  There are several feeders out there that can accommodate this!   This can be really helpful if you would like to access information regarding the feeder from anywhere.  Also, you can manually feed your pet remotely.
3. Battery or wireless functionality – Consider whether the feeder has a battery backup in case of power outages or placement where there is limited access to an outlet.  Ideally, the feeder could accommodate both electric and battery-operated functions.
4. Special dietary needs – Finally, consider whether you need to keep other pets away from this food bowl.  If so, then a microchip automatic feeder will be really helpful for your situation.  This can be especially useful when one dog is on a prescription diet and cannot eat from a different feeder.  Or if you have a dog that’s a slow eater and her housemate will eat all the food, then a microchip feeder can be a wonderful solution.

If your dog is struggling with overeating, you may want to try other options, like a snuffle mat, to mitigate his consumption. For pups that are eating because they’re bored, consider alternate ways to entertain them. Of course, if you’re drastically cutting their food intake, you’ll want to make sure they’re not going elsewhere – like the trash (in which case you may want to invest in a pet-proof trash can) – to get scraps.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $70-250

There’s more than just quality and features going into the price range for an automatic feeder. Naturally, the more advanced the technology, the steeper the cost, and of course, the more convenience. But you’ll also pay for the size a giant breed dog will need a larger capacity than a toy breed and you’ll see a significant difference in costs for that difference, as well. You’ll absolutely get what you pay for in an automatic feeder, but you should expect to pay somewhere between $70 to $250. The higher cost will be for the all-electronic, Wi-Fi-controlled feeders, while you can get just timer-controlled feeders for around $65.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

As a veterinarian, I’ve seen a lot of complications to a dog’s health that can be prevented or helped by establishing a healthy feeding schedule. An automatic feeder that takes all the guesswork out of the times and portions can help regulate your dog and save you big in the long run. Between my discussions with other veterinarians and pet owners, I’ve seen plenty of evidence to support this, and combined with my own experience, I know just what features you’ll need and which you’ll love. – Dr. Melody Aitchison-Steed, DVM

The Best Automatic Dog Feeder Reviews

1. Best Overall – PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder

Best Overall

PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder

For the best in automatic dog feeders, look no further than the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder.

$124.95

Buy on Amazon

The PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Pet Feeder is the epitome of dog feeding convenience. You’ll be able to completely control your dog’s food from your fingertips, wherever you are with the free app. That means you’ll be able to ensure the feeding schedule your dog needs, whether you’re home or away. In fact, if you combine this with a doggy door to a backyard, you’ll be able to ensure your dog is independent living. (Just make sure you’re not neglecting him for the sake of your convenience!)

Though we love the single pet feeding capabilities of this feeder, it’s worth noting that it also comes in a two pet feeder that distributes the same food into two separate bowls for your pets who are comfortable eating with each other.

2. Best Budget – Iseebiz 6L Automatic Pet Feeder

Best Budget

Iseebiz 6L Automatic Pet Feeder

The Iseebiz 6L Automatic Pet Feeder will give you the convenience of an automatic feeder without the big expense.

Buy on Amazon

The Iseebiz 6L Automatic Pet Feeder will give you the ability to feed your dog on a set schedule without actively doing it. You’ll program your dog’s feeding schedule and portion directly on the front of the feeder and that means you won’t have to rely on an excellent Wi-Fi signal. You also get to record your voice message of up to 10 seconds so that you will alert your dog to his food delivery – and that may be just the kind of encouragement he needs to stay on schedule.

You can program up to four meals per day, and with the large food capacity, you’ll have your dog fed for plenty of days without ever thinking about it again. The infrared design is perfect for ensuring your pet’s food doesn’t spill or overflow, so if he’s a slow eater, you don’t need to worry about too much food coming out and making a mess.

3. Best for Multiple Dogs – PETLIBRO Automatic Feeder

Best Feeder for Multiple Dogs

PETLIBRO Automatic Feeder

Two dogs fed automatically is a breeze with the PETLIBRO Automatic Feeder.

$89.99

Buy on Amazon

The PETLIBRO Automatic Feeder will dispense food into two bowls, ensuring both your dogs can get the right portion of food, at the right time. If all they need is a separate dish to keep them each happy, this is the fix for you. This is an excellent solution to dogs fighting while they eat. You will still want to supervise the first few tries with this method, though, to make sure they’re eating the right food and not bothered by each other as close as they are.

With the desiccant bag located on the underside of the lid and a sealing strip to make sure your dogs’ food is stored virtually airtight, you can count on fresh bites every time. And you won’t need to worry about attracting bugs or rodents, either.

4. Best Smart Feeder – Feeder-Robot – WiFi-Enabled, Automatic Pet Feeder

Best Smart Feeder

Feeder-Robot – WiFi-Enabled, Automatic Pet Feeder

For an automatic feeder that has all the smart tech you could want, check out the Feeder-Robot – WiFi-Enabled, Automatic Pet Feeder.

$339.00

Buy on Amazon

The Feeder-Robot – WiFi-Enabled, Automatic Pet Feeder will connect to your phone via a free app and you’ll be able to program your dog’s feeding schedule and portions easily. Unlike other Wi-Fi feeders, though, you’ll also be able to feed your pup from the console, as well – so if your Wi-Fi is out, you can still make changes.

The backup battery ensures that even during power outages, you’ll be able to get your dog the food he needs when he needs it. And for the puppy who’s especially curious (and maybe a little mischievous), the feeder is made with BPA-free plastic, an auto-locking hopper, tamper-resistant lid, and a chew-resistant power cord (for more tips on the best new puppy products check out our preparing for a puppy checklist). So your loveable little trouble maker won’t easily destroy the “hand” that feeds him.

5. Best Microchip Feeder – SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder Connect

Best Microchip Feeder

SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder Connect

If you’re looking for an automatic feeder that only opens for the right pet, then you’ll want to check out SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder Connect.

$228.00

Buy on Amazon

After you purchase the SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder Connect, you’ll place a microchip tag on your dog’s collar, ensuring that the food will only be accessed by your pet. (You could also take your pet to the vet for an implanted microchip to better guarantee the chip stays with your pet at all times.) The feeder will detect your dog and open it as he approaches. You can, particularly if you know your pup eats his food quickly or that you won’t be gone long, even use this feeder with wet dog food – a unique quality for automatic dog feeders.

Opening the feeder does rely on your dog’s consistent position for good microchip detection, but once your dog gets the hang of how he needs to stand to get the lid open, it’s smooth sailing from then on. In order to use this feeder, you do need to purchase the Sure Petcare Hub. Fortunately, once you purchase the hub, you can connect multiple feeders fr your multiple pets, and put them in different locations (within the hub’s range) to make sure your dogs are eating their own food in their own areas.

Additional Sources & Resources

If you have additional questions about the right dog food for your puppy, check out some of our other dog food and nutrition-based resources for your pup:

• How to Add More Fiber to Your Dog’s Diet
• How Long Does it Take for a Dog To Digest Food?
• The Farmer’s Dog vs. Nom Nom Now vs. Ollie’s Dog Food Reviews
• The Best High Fiber Dog Food
• Best Foods for Dogs with Allergies 
• The Best Small Breed Puppy Foods
• The Best Dog Food for Dobermans
• The Best Automatic Dog Feeders
• The Farmer’s Dog Food Review

Getting the right harness, though, is a stressful process.

We’ve tested and reviewed all of the major harness brands here at Pet News Daily, and in reading a ton of dog harness reviews from unhappy customers there are typically a few common complaints:

• The harness doesn’t fit right
• It slips off
• The material frays or breaks with use over time

Any of these can be a nightmare if you’re a dog owner. It’s not just about having to get a new harness: these are legitimate safety issues if your dog gets off the harness at the wrong time (or hurts its neck or back because of the wrong fit).

For the right dog, a step-in dog harness can really solve a lot of these issues. But for the wrong dog or with the wrong harness, they can make them worse.

To help you avoid these pitfalls, we asked our veterinary advisor Dr. Jamie Whittenburg (who created our free course on raising a healthy puppy, some of the insights from which you can also find in our free new puppy checklist) to review the top step in dog harnesses on the market.

Dr. Whittenburg chose the Gooby Comfort X Step in Harness as the best overall step in harness due to the patented X shape to avoid choking and putting pressure on your dog’s neck.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Gooby Comfort X Step in Harness – Red, Small – Comfort X Step-in Small Dog Harness Patented Choke-Free X Frame – On The Go Dog Harness for Medium Dogs No Pull or Small Dogs for Indoor and Outdoor Use

An indoor and outdoor harness with a patented X shape for easier and safer step-in functionality.

Buy on Amazon

While this is Dr. Whittenburg’s top pick, you’ll also find a buying guide with tips for what to look for in a harness, a list of factors that may indicate a step-in harness isn’t right for your dog, and Dr. Whittenburg has also shared her recommendation for the best step-in harness models for a variety of purposes.

The 5 Best Step In Dog Harnesses

• Best Overall – Gooby Comfort X Step in Harness
• Best Budget – AIITLE Soft Dog Harness and Leash Set
• Best Padded – Voyager Step-In Plush Dog Harness
• Best for Small Dogs – EcoBark Step in Dog Harness
• Best for Large Dogs – PUPTECK No Pull Dog Harness

Step-In Harnesses Compared

Below are Dr. Whittenburg’s top picks. Compare the ratings and key features of each of the harnesses to decide which one is the best car harness for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Step-In Dog Harness?

• Owners who don’t want to use a collar on their dog (often out of concern for your dog’s neck and trachea if they’re a puller) should opt for a harness generally.
• If your dog has an issue with getting a standard (aka adjustable) harness on, a step-in harness may be a good alternative. Standard harnesses go on over the neck of your dog, whereas a step-in is obviously something they step in so it may be more comfortable for the dog.
• Dogs that are the right shape for a step-in harness – you want to think about the fit for the harness as it relates to your dog’s shoulder blades and use sizing charts to make sure the harness will work for your breed and the size of your dog.

Who Should Not Buy One (Step In Harness vs. Regular Harness)?

• Some step-in harness owners report issues for small dogs particularly those who are “wigglers” being able to escape from some step-in harnesses.
• The opposite of the above points is obviously also true: if you’re someone who prefers a collar as a tool for teaching your dog not to pull (which is a theory some dog trainers subscribe to) you won’t want a harness, and if your dog fits better into an adjustable harness a step in harness won’t be right for your dog.

This is a great video walkthrough of things to think about in selecting the type of harness that’s right for your dog:

And, if you are looking for a step-in harness, below are some additional tips for making the right call from our vet advisor Dr. Whittenburg.

“Step-in dog harnesses should be made out of high-quality, durable materials. The fabric should be soft and breathable for your dog’s comfort. Depending on your use, you will want to ensure that the harness has the leash attachment sites you desire. A harness with multiple adjustment points may be the best choice for oddly shaped dogs. “

How Much Does a Step In Harness Cost?

Between $10 and $25

Step-in harnesses cost roughly $10 to $25, but most tend to run closer to the $10-20 range, depending on the style of harness, the size harness you’re buying, and what material they’re made from.

Budget-friendly harnesses are a less-frills option that is typically still effective. A more expensive dog harness option often features tougher materials, additional points of adjustment for a more customized fit, or may have extra attachment options (some of those listed here have ID tags as well, for instance).

Buying Guide: How to Find the Perfect Step-In Harness

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

“Comfort and security are the most important features to look for in a step-in dog harness. When we test products we look for comfort and security, even in selecting the best budget options. If you have questions beyond what’s covered in this post, I suggest speaking to your veterinarian, and other dog owners, and reading the product reviews for guidance.” – Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM.

Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Step-In Harness for Your Dog

When it comes to finding the perfect harness for your pup, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But, there are a few factors that you should keep in mind if you’re considering purchasing a step-in harness for your four-legged friend. In this guide, we’ll break down the key features of a good step-in harness, what to avoid, specific brands to steer clear of, alternative options (such as collars and a DIY approach), types of dogs that may experience neck and trachea issues with traditional collars, how these issues can start developing in your pup, and tips for fitting and putting on step-in harnesses.

What Makes a Good Step-In Harness?

The best step-in harnesses are designed with maximum comfort and safety in mind. A good step-in harness should have adjustable straps that allow you to tailor the fit to your pup’s body shape for a snug, but not too tight, fit. Look for features such as:

• Breathable mesh material
• Reflective detailing (for extra visibility when out and about at night)
• Padding around the chest area to provide cushioning.
• The buckles should be sturdy, durable, and easy to attach – so you don’t have to struggle to try to get your pup ready for a walk.
• A detailed sizing guide to make sure the harness will fit your dog.

What Makes a Bad Step-in Harness?

When it comes to harnesses, quality matters. Some of the lesser-quality step-in harnesses are made of thin material that can easily stretch and loosen over time, allowing your pup to slip out. These harnesses are also not designed with any kind of padding or cushioning in mind, which can be uncomfortable for your pup to wear for extended periods of time.

Other features to avoid include:

• Cheap metal buckles, which can easily lose their strength over time
• Thin or flimsy material that stretches easily
• No reflective detailing for added visibility
• No adjustable straps
• No sizing guide

Specific Step-In Harness Brands to Avoid

Based on our testing and experience, we’d recommend avoiding Fancy Fido, Big Dogz, All Paws, and Mutt Mate.

A few issues common to these harnesses (and others you may want to avoid):

• They lack adequate adjustable straps and materials that provide the necessary support and comfort to ensure a safe fit for your pet.
• They often use clip-on buckles instead of stronger and more durable metal hardware, which means that the buckles may not stay secure over time or when exposed to rough terrain.
• There is limited padding on the chest plate which can cause irritation or rub against your dog’s skin.
• They lack reflective material which is important for safety during nighttime walks or activities.
• Many of the harnesses from these brands use poor stitching techniques which can lead to seams becoming easily torn or frayed.

Alternatives to Step-In Harnesses

If a step-in harness isn’t the right fit for your pup, there are plenty of other options available. Traditional collars can be an effective way to control your pup and keep them safe, but they should be used with caution. Dogs with shorter necks or those that are prone to neck and trachea issues may need a more supportive collar.

A DIY approach is also an option if you’re comfortable enough to take on the challenge yourself. You can use materials like nylon webbing and sturdy hardware to make a custom harness for your pup.

Types of Dogs Prone to Neck and Trachea Issues

Certain breeds are more likely to experience neck and trachea issues, such as those with shortened or flat faces. Breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Boxers may be more prone to these issues due to their anatomy, and as such should be fitted with a more supportive type of collar.

How Do Dogs Start to Experience Neck and Trachea Issues?

Neck and trachea problems can start developing if your pup is regularly pulling against the collar while on walks.

This kind of pressure can cause the cartilage on their neck and trachea to be strained, leading to issues such as coughing or trouble breathing. To minimize this risk, you’ll want to make sure your pup is properly fitted with the right type of collar for its size and anatomy.

Tips for How to Fit and Put On Step-in Dog Harnesses

When fitting a step-in harness, it’s important to make sure the straps are adjusted properly and securely fastened. Here are a few key tips:

• Measure your pup’s girth (the widest part of their chest) before fitting the harness. This will help you find the right size for your pup.
• Check that all buckles and adjustable straps are securely fastened before each use.
• Check that the straps are not too tight and do not cause any discomfort or restriction of movement.
• Make sure your pup can still move freely while the harness is on, and adjust as needed.
• double-check all buckles to make sure they are securely closed before walking your pup.

Once you’ve found a suitable step-in harness for your pup, it’s important to get them used to wear it before taking them out on walks.

To do this, start by introducing the harness indoors and allow your pup to get used to it without any pressure or expectations.

Once they seem comfortable with the harness, you can take them outside and gradually increase the duration of their walks until they become accustomed to wearing the harness in public.

The Best Step-In Dog Harness Reviews

1. Best Overall – Gooby Comfort X Step in Harness

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Gooby Comfort X Step in Harness – Red, Small – Comfort X Step-in Small Dog Harness Patented Choke-Free X Frame – On The Go Dog Harness for Medium Dogs No Pull or Small Dogs for Indoor and Outdoor Use

An indoor and outdoor harness with a patented X shape for easier and safer step-in functionality.

Buy on Amazon

The Gooby Comfort X Step in Harness is the best overall step in harness according to Dr. Whittenburg.

The X-shaped harness is very easy for most dogs to step into – if you’re opting for a step-in harness because of issues with your pup getting an adjustable harness on, or you want to keep pressure off your dog’s neck and chest. this is a great option.

Overall the harness gets relatively strong reviews (though not the best reviews on this list – that’s the Voyager and Eco Bark):

The negative reviewers mention specific issues with the harness, including:

• Durability- Multiple owners had issues with the harness tearing or being easily chewed through by their pet.
• Escapability – Multiple owners mentioned their dogs being able to easily escape or slip out of the harness, particularly for dogs that are aggressive pullers (and smaller dogs with a difficult fit).

That said each of those is a common complaint across harnesses in general and particularly for step-in harnesses and many customers are very happy with the quality of materials and the X-shaped approach, which is why we recommend this harness even more highly than the standard reviews.

2. Best Budget – AIITLE Soft Dog Harness and Leash Set

Best Budget

AIITLE Summer Soft Dog Harness and Leash Set – Pet Supply No Pull, Step in Adjustable Dog Harness with Padded Vest for Hot Weather, Easy to Put on Medium Dogs Purple L

Vest-style step-in harness with breathable, reflective materials.

$12.99

Buy on Amazon

The AIITLE Soft Dog Harness and Leash Set is our best budget pick.

It feels very lightweight but does have some padding and breathable mesh. It’s geared towards small to medium sized dogs and is a vest-style harness (we prefer the X-shaped design of the Gooby harness but this design may be a better fit for some dogs).

Overall the harness gets reasonable reviews for the price, but is the worst reviewed of those in this post:

The negative reviews tend to center around a few core issues:

• Some customers complained about the fit of the harness (being too big or too small for very small dogs)
• Some customers complained about the quality and durability of the harness

All in all, this is a good option for budget-conscious customers looking for a step in harness.

3. Best Padded – Voyager Step-In Plush Dog Harness

Best Padded

Voyager Step-In Plush Dog Harness – Soft Plush, Step In Vest Harness for Small and Medium Dogs by Best Pet Supplies – Chocolate Suede, XL (Chest: 20.5 – 23″)

[pros title=Pros]

• Padded and made of push, soft corduroy – keeps your dog comfortable
• Reflective bands on the sides of this harness enhance your pet’s visibility in low light
• Easy to put on and take off step-in design
• D-rings and buckles to add safety and security

[/pros][cons]

• The harness being difficult to fit into a dog is the biggest customer complaint
• If your dog is particularly furry and gets tired in the heat the material is relatively heavy and thick

[/cons]

The best-padded step-in harness is the Voyager Step-In Plush Dog Harness.

This is by far the heaviest and most substantial harness on this list. Obviously, the corduroy material makes the harness feel much more durable and it has additional features for durability and security like multiple buckles and a D-ring attachment.

Below is a video of the Voyager being put on a medium-sized dog:

The Voyager is tied for the highest-rated harness among those listed here:

Complaints from customers who had issues with the harness included:

• The fit was the main complaint from upset customers, with some dogs having a tough time getting into and staying in the harness.
• One customer also highlighted that the material stretched over time, so be aware of fit over the life of the harness

All of that said, if you’re looking for a padded step-in harness we highly recommend this one.

4. Best for Small Dogs – EcoBark Step in Dog Harness

[amazon-box banner="Best for Small Dogs" asin="B096MY9S97" title="EcoBark Step in Dog Harness "]A step-in harness specifically designed for small breed dogs.

$14.99

Buy on Amazon

The best step in harness for small dogs is the EcoBark Step in Dog Harness.

This is a much smaller, lighter harness that’s specifically designed for much smaller breeds.

The Ecobark harness is tied for the best-rated harness on the list in terms of ratings:

Customers who had issues with the harness had two common complaints:

• The most common complaint was that the size chart didn’t map correctly to dogs’ sizes and that some dogs have a difficult time fitting the vest
• Additional complaints were that the vest was escapable (again mainly because of fit issues) and the harness chaffed the dog.

All in all, for smaller dogs this is a great option.

5. Best For Large Dogs – PUPTECK No Pull Dog Harness

Best for Large Dogs

PUPTECK No Pull Dog Harness Soft Adjustable Basic Nylon Step in Puppy Vest Outdoor Walking with ID Tag

This adjustable step-in harness comes with an engravable ID tag, heavy-duty D-rings, and a wide chest strap for comfort on larger dogs.

$15.99

Buy on Amazon

The PUPTECK No Pull Dog Harness is our top pick for step-in harnesses for large dogs.

This harness has a lot less material than the other options – when you pick it up its light and feels like collar material fastened into a harness. It’s a particularly good fit for larger dogs due to the four adjustments, wide chest strap, and the fact that it has less material while still being made with high-density webbing for durability.

PUPTECK No Pull Dog Harness is on the lower end in terms of reviews out of our best harnesses:

The biggest complaints among customers who had issues with the harness included:

• Issues with dogs escaping the harness
• Issues with dogs chewing and destroying the harness (it’s just strapped, not as thick as some of the other harnesses listed)

All in all, if you have a larger dog who doesn’t have issues with wiggling out of harnesses and chewing on the harness, this is the perfect harness for you.

Additional Sources & Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit the best escape-proof dog harnesses, check out our series of posts:

• The best dog car harness
• The best dog lift harness
• The best no-pull dog harness
• The best harnesses for huskies
• The Best Puppy Harnesses
• The Best Front Clip Harness
• The Best Service Dog Harness

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

And our breed-specific harness guides:

• The best harness for German Shepherds
• The best Husky Harness
• The best Dachshund harness
• The best Chihuahua harness

Finding the right harness can turn those stressful walks into the peaceful experience you prefer.

The wrong harness – even if it’s labeled as escape-proof – can cause serious issues for your pup:

• The wrong harness on the wrong dog can lead to physical issues
• A poor-fitting “escape-proof harness” can mean that your dog is still able to wiggle free of the harness
• A poorly made harness might be something your dog can bust through when it runs away (or chew through if they’re a chewer)

Harnesses are also expensive and can be difficult to fit and put on a dog, so purchasing the right one is difficult and important.

For all these reasons, we asked our veterinary advisor, Dr. Addie Reinhard, DVM, to carefully consider dozens of dog harnesses to find one that made it most difficult for a dog to escape.

In this article, you’ll also find Dr. Reinhard’s key considerations for selecting the right escape-proof harness for your dog, and even considerations for why an escape-proof harness may not be the right purchase for your dog at all.

Dr. Reinhard looked for the best combination of comfort and quality as well as safety and durability.

She identified the RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness as the best overall escape-proof dog harness.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness

For the best in Escape-proof dog harnesses, look no further than the RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness.

$44.95

Buy on Amazon

While this is our top overall pick, different dogs and their owners will have different concerns and specific use cases, so Dr. Reinhard has also selected the top harnesses for a variety of purposes.

The Best Escape Proof Dog Harnesses

1. Best Overall – RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness
2. Best Budget – Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness
3. Best for Small Dogs – Gooby Dog Harness Escape Free Sport
4. Best for Hiking & Trail Running – RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness
5. Best Tactical – ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness

Escape-Proof Harnesses Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy an Escape Proof Dog Harness

• Escape artist dog parents – If your dog can escape his collar and pull away from his leash, then having a harness that will keep him safe and with you is key to his health and happiness.
• Anxious dogs – For the dog who struggles with outside stressors, having a harness that will keep him feeling secure and safe by your side will make the necessary walks more bearable – and may even convince him to take walks for fun.
• Frequent walkers – Whether your dog pulls or bolts, or even if he’s a trained dog who walks well on the leash, a harness that prevents escape will help make your daily walks all the more comfortable on your pup and for you.

Who Should Not Buy an Escape Proof Dog Harness

• Well-behaved dogs – For the dog who never strays far from his parent’s side, the robust nature of an escape-proof harness may prove to be unnecessary.
•  Pups with health issues – Though there are very few circumstances where the occasional use of an escape-proof harness will harm your dog, if they have any condition where the harness interferes, then you’ll want to steer clear. (For example, dogs who developed skin tags or have injuries in areas the harness will rub and potentially irritate those sensitive areas.)

Buying Guide: Research Tips from a Veterinarian

A quality dog harness is important for ensuring your pup doesn’t escape. Dogs that slip out of their harnesses are at high risk of becoming injured, getting into a scuffle with another dog, or being hit by a car. One of the most important factors when purchasing an escape-proof harness is to purchase the correct size. A correctly fitted harness will prevent major mishaps. Other factors to consider include adjustability, durability, and padding. The following product features are important to consider when purchasing an escape-proof dog harness.

1. Get the correct size – This is perhaps the most important aspect of purchasing a harness. A well-fitted harness will decrease the risk that your dog will be able to escape from the harness. Measure your dog before purchasing the harness to ensure you are ordering the correct size.
2. Look for adjustable harnesses – Every dog is a unique size and shape. Because of this, it is important to seek a highly adjustable dog harness. Look for a harness that has multiple points of adjustment.
3. Evaluate buckle quality – The buckles are usually considered a weak point in the harness design. Look for a dog harness with sturdy buckles that seem durable.
4. Consider multiple leash attachment points – It can be beneficial to have multiple leash attachment points on the harness. If one buckle breaks, the other buckle will serve as a backup. You may even consider attaching the leash to the harness and your pet’s collar to ensure that they won’t escape from you.
5. Look for reflective or bright harnesses – A bright color harness can be safer and easier to spot if you are walking your dog in the evening or at night. Reflective material can also be beneficial so your dog can be easily spotted.
6. Choose durable material – Look for a harness that is made out of a durable material such as nylon webbing. You will want to find a material that will be difficult for your dog to easily chew through.
7. Consider padding – Consider finding an escape-proof dog harness with some extra padding. Your dog may be less prone to slipping out of its harness if it is comfortable. Also, padding may decrease the risk of damage to your pup’s skin, especially if they tug on the leash. 

One additional note: if you plan on taking your dog on walks where he will encounter other dogs, then you’ll benefit from making sure you know how to introduce him to new dogs in the right way to stop problems before they start. An escape-proof dog harness can help you keep your dog under control in situations that could potentially lead to anxiety or aggression, as well.¹

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $30-$60

The good news is that escape-proof harnesses aren’t the type of dog gear that will break the bank. You can find harnesses in a decently wide range of price and quality, but the bulk will fit within the scope of roughly $30 to $60.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

Finding the right harness for your pet can be tricky. As a large dog owner and veterinarian, I have tested many different dog harnesses. These escape-proof harnesses were selected based on my professional experience as a veterinarian and my personal experience as a dog owner. An escape-proof harness should be durable, comfortable, and adjustable, so these key product features were considered when choosing these products. Only products from the most reputable and reliable pet companies were selected to ensure top-notch product quality. – Dr. Addie Reinhard, DVM

The Best Escape-Proof Dog Harnesses

1. Best Overall – RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness

Our Vet’s Top Pick

RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness

For the best in Escape-proof dog harnesses, look no further than the RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness.

$44.95

Buy on Amazon

The RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness (read our review of Ruffwear Web Master) is perfect for your escape artist pup. It’s made of robust, foam-padded straps and features a handle on the back for grabbing and restraining. That also makes it perfect for the owners trying to teach their pets to heel.

The Y-shaped front makes it a comfortable harness. The two leash connection points, along with the anodized aluminum v-ring, make it comfortable for you to guide him, even when he’s being naughty.

2. Best Budget – Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness

Best Budget Buy

rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness

If you’re looking for a quality option that won’t break your budget, try the rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness.

$29.98

Buy on Amazon

The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness uses heavy-duty polyester weaving to reinforce the straps and, when used in conjunction with the lift handle, it makes controlling your over-enthusiastic pup all the easier. (read our review of Rabbitgoo escape-proof dog harness as well)

You’ll be able to select the fit for your dog that you’ll need, but bear in mind these are for larger dogs. There are five adjustable points to make sure your dog’s harness fits just right, and that kind of customization is crucial to making it inescapable.

3. Best for Small Dogs – Gooby Dog Harness Escape Free Sport

Best for Small Dogs

Gooby Dog Harness Escape Free Sport

If your little dog has a tendency to escape, then try the Gooby Dog Harness Escape Free Sport.

$37.75

Buy on Amazon

The Gooby Dog Harness Escape Free Sport is designed to truly be inescapable (read our review of Gooby Dog Harness). Unlike a lot of this harness’s competitors that allow a dog to struggle and slip out by sliding back, this harness offers what it calls an “Escape Free” functionality that prevents this kind of tactic.

This is a harness intended for small dogs, and if that’s what you have, then this is the kind of harness you should be looking for – simply adjusting a large dog harness to fit your small dog may nullify the escape-proof features.

4. Best for Hiking & Trail Running – RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness

Best for Hiking/Trail Running

RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness

If you want to take your dog on your hikes then take a look at the RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness.

$49.95

Buy on Amazon

The RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness (read our review of Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness) uses a more durable shell fabric to make sure that this harness isn’t torn apart with regular wear and tear. That means taking your dog on the trail won’t be a problem.

The two attachment points are reinforced with heavy webbing meant to withstand your dog’s pressure and still allow you control over him while on your hike. That’s certainly a plus when you’re taking your dog someplace where he’s sure to encounter wildlife!

5. Best Tactical – ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness

Best Tactical

ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness

Getting your dog the ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness will make him tacti-cool.

$30.99

Buy on Amazon

The ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness (read our review of Icefang Tactical Dog Harness) is an excellent harness for training your dog, especially if you’re working with him for more advanced training. The metal buckle is tested for up to 1,000 pounds of load-bearing, and the two leash clips will make sure your dog is comfortable and could help ensure he won’t strain himself during your more intense training.

The durable handle has earned the name of “control handle” with good reason. It’s sewn into the harness and strong enough to grab quickly and easily for a more rambunctious dog.

Additional Sources & Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit the best escape-proof dog harnesses, check out our series of posts:

• The best step-in dog harness
• The best dog lift harness
• The best no-pull dog harness
• The best harnesses for huskies
• The best front clip dog harnesses
• The best puppy harnesses
• The best car harnesses for dogs

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

And our breed-specific harness guides:

• The best harness for German Shepherds
• The best Husky Harness
• The best Dachshund harness
• The best Chihuahua harness

• Injuries to their neck or chest.
• Destroying their collar, leash, or harness.
• Pulling themselves into a bad situation with an aggressive dog or another animal.

The right no-pull harness can help address each of these issues, but the wrong no-pull harness can leave you right where you started experiencing any or all of these issues.

To help you navigate all of that, we asked our veterinary advisor, Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM, to review the efficacy, safety, fit, and comfort of a number of dog harnesses.

Dr. Coates chose the 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Dog Harness as the top overall choice because of its versatility, durability, and ease of use.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Dog Harness

Available for dogs weighing about 15 pounds to over 125 pounds, the 2 Hounds no-pull dog harness features five points of adjustment for a more customized fit.

$31.98

Buy on Amazon

The 5 Best No-Pull Dog Harnesses

While this was Dr. Coates’ top pick, in this article she’s also shared her top tips for choosing the right no-pull harness, outlined who should avoid purchasing a no-pull harness for their dog, and has chosen her top pick across multiple specific use cases:

• Best Overall – 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Dog Harness
• Best Budget – PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness
• Best for Large Dogs – Auroth Tactical Dog Harness
• Best for Small Dogs – Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness
• Best Padded – Rabbitgoo Dog Harness No-Pull

The 5 Best No-Pull Dog Harnesses Compared

Below are the top picks from our veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Coates. Compare the ratings and key features of each of the harnesses to decide which one is the best dog harness no-pull choice for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a No-Pull Dog Harness

• Your dog pulls on the leash. If no amount of dog walk training has helped curb your pup’s desire to be the leader and simply continues to wear your arm out, consider a no-pull dog harness. The front leash attachment, coupled with walk training, can help your pooch ease up on the tugging.
• You’re training your puppy or dog to walk on a leash. A no-pull harness can be a great training tool if your pup is new to walking on a lead. With the lead attached to the front of the harness, the harness gently guides your dog back to you when he tries to pull himself forward.
• You have a very strong or large dog. Some dogs are just all muscle. Large, strong dogs also benefit from a no-pull harness. When dogs weighing upward of 100 pounds pull on a leash, injuries are bound to happen.

Who Should Not Buy a No-Pull Dog Harness

• Your dog would benefit from a different type of harness. While no-pull dog harnesses can benefit just about every dog, some dogs do better with other types of harnesses, such as escape-proof harnesses, lift harnesses or service harnesses.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

It’s hard to enjoy a walk with a dog who pulls on its leash, and a leash attachment at the front of the harness (on the dog’s chest) is the most common way to prevent pulling. When a dog pulls, they are spun around to face away from where they want to go. Over time, dogs learn that pulling is counterproductive. A dog training no-pull harness also distributes the pressure from pulling across their body, not just around their neck, which can be dangerous. Here are some more research tips to consider when selecting a dog no-pull harness.

1. Look for a well-designed and sturdy dog harness, no pull style – No-pull dog harnesses need to be well-designed, sturdy, sized appropriately, adjustable, and comfortable. The harnesses recommended here are all made from quality materials, have a wide range of sizes and good sizing guides, and can be adjusted for a precise fit. They’re also well-padded or have other measures to ensure your dog’s comfort.
2. Talk with other pet parents about which no-pull harness they like best – Speak with other pet parents to learn what types of no-pull harnesses have worked well for them. Your veterinarian or dog trainer can also point to any features that might be ideal based on your dog’s age, size, behavior, and health status.
3. Read customer reviews regarding the no-pull dog harnesses you’re looking at – Read product descriptions closely and look at customer reviews posted on trusted sources. This can give you an idea about how satisfied other pet parents are with the harness you’re looking at.
4. Measure your dog correctly – To fit your dog in any type of harness, be sure to measure your dog accurately. Use the manufacturer’s measurement guide when sizing your dog to a specific harness. Dogs are typically measured around the widest part of the chest and around the neck just above the collar bone, but since styles of harnesses vary widely, always use the company’s suggested sizing guide.

No-pull dog harnesses also come in a variety of styles, and multiple sizes, and offer different functions, such as doubling as a dog lift harness or dog backpack harness.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $25 and $50

No-pull dog harnesses cost roughly $25 to $50, but you’ll find both cheaper and more expensive options, depending on the style of harness, what material they’re made from, and what other functions the harness may feature. Budget-friendly harnesses are a no-frills option that is typically effective and constructed well. A more expensive dog harness option often features tougher materials, pouches for storage, additional points of adjustment for a more customized fit, or maybe outfitted with a grab handle and extra leash attachments.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

I chose the top five no-pull dog harnesses using the knowledge I’ve gained from the veterinary profession, as well as from my personal experience with pet parents. Ask other dog owners and your veterinarian for suggestions in picking the right harness. Also, check out reviews from other customers that have purchased and used the no-pull dog harness you’re considering getting. – Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM

The Best No-Pull Dog Harness Reviews

1. Best Overall – 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Dog Harness

Our Vet’s Top Pick

2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Dog Harness

Available for dogs weighing about 15 pounds to over 125 pounds, the 2 Hounds no-pull dog harness features five points of adjustment for a more customized fit.

$31.98

Buy on Amazon

The 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Dog Harness fits dogs weighing as little as 15 pounds with a chest girth of 15 inches to 20 inches up to large dogs over 125 pounds with a chest girth of 38 inches to 44 inches. Available in seven sizes with a wide range of colors to suit your dog’s personality, this no-pull dog harness features four adjustment points to customize the fit better for your dog. The harness is outfitted with two leash attachments – one on the front of the chest and a martingale loop on the back, which can be combined for enhanced no-pull training. However, the leash required – a single handle with two leash hook connection points – is not included and must be purchased separately.

The 2 Hounds no-pull dog harness is made from a lightweight material with a soft velvet inner lining for your dog’s comfort. The hardware is constructed from stainless steel and the harness features strong nylon webbing reinforcement, which adds more strength and durability to the harness. This product is made in the USA and comes with a chewing replacement warranty.

2. Best Budget – PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

Best Budget

PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

The PoyPet no-pull dog harness is available in five sizes and is easy to put on.

$15.99

Buy on Amazon

When you’re on a budget but need a no-pull option, our vet suggests the PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness as the best budget pick. Available in five sizes for dogs with chest girths from 10 inches to 39 inches, this harness is lightweight and features two leash attachments – a metal ring in the front for no-pull control and an aluminum leash hook on the back of the harness for regular walking. Choose from a wide variety of colors, all of which have reflective stitching for better visibility.

The PoyPet no-pull dog harness is padded for your dog’s comfort, featuring breathable mesh that’s also water resistant. Beneficial to both you and your pup, the straps of the harness stretch to help absorb the force and shock from tugging and pulling. Customize the fit of the harness using the four adjustment points, featuring quick-release buckles. There’s also a top grab handle for extra control, which is padded with neoprene for additional comfort.

3. Best for Large Dogs – Auroth Tactical Dog Harness

Best for Large Dogs

Auroth Tactical Dog Harness

The Auroth no-pull dog harness is strong, has metal leash attachments, and a top grab handle.

$24.99

Buy on Amazon

The best no-pull dog harness for large dogs is the Auroth Tactical Dog Harness, which is available in four sizes for dogs weighing up to 135 pounds. From a 20-inch chest girth up to a 42-inch chest girth, this no-pull harness features four points of adjustment for a more customized fit. The harness is made from sturdy and strong 900D nylon material with reinforced stitching and is outfitted with two metal rings for leash attachment, suitable for large, strong dogs. You can also choose from no-pull training or traditional walking.

The Auroth no-pull dog harness features extra wide padding on the harness straps to help protect your dog’s skin from irritation. The durable, but soft, grab handle on the top of the harness helps gives you more control when you need to have your dog close by. And the harness features reflective trim for those times you need to be visible. As a tactical dog harness, it includes the Molle system – a versatile carrying system that allows you to customize the harness for your particular carrying or storing needs. It’s also compatible with a Molle or PALs pouch, enabling you to hook pet items for carrying. (This pouch is sold separately.)

4. Best for Small Dogs – Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness

Best for Small Dogs

Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness

The Ruffwear no-pull harness is foam padded for extra comfort.

$49.95

Buy on Amazon

The best no-pull small dog harness is the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness, (read our review of Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness) according to our vet advisor. This harness is available in multiple sizes from extra, extra small, with a chest girth of at least 13 inches, up to extra large, with a chest girth up to 42 inches. Easy to put on and take off, the lightweight material makes it ideal for smaller dogs. The harness is foam padded for ultimate comfort and features reflective trim for better visibility.

The Ruffwear no-pull dog harness for small dogs is available in multiple colors to match your little dog’s spunky personality and there are four points of adjustment on the straps to create a better fit for your pup. Two leash attachments – a metal ring on the back and a webbing loop on the front, allow you to use the no-pull training method or the traditional method of walking on a harness.

5. Best Padded – Rabbitgoo Dog Harness No-Pull

Best Padded

Rabbitgoo Dog Harness No-Pull

Control your dog in comfort with the Rabbitgoo no-pull harnesses.

$16.98

Buy on Amazon

When comfort is your top priority, the best padded no-pull dog harness is the Rabbitgoo Dog Harness No-Pull. There are four sizes available – small to extra large – making it suitable for dogs with chest girths from 13 inches to 38 inches. Constructed from a soft, breathable mesh, the no-pull harness dog chest and back panels are also thickly padded for extra comfort. The harness features four buckled points of adjustment for customizing the fit to your dog, and the buckles make it easy to put on and take off.

The Rabbitgoo harness is available in a wide range of colors, and though the harness panels are padded, it’s lightweight enough to keep your dog cool. You can also walk your pup using either of the two leash attachments – a metal ring on the chest for no-pull, or one on the back for traditional walking. The straps are outfitted with reflective stitching for better visibility. This no-pull dog harness also features a top grab handle, giving you better control and keeping your dog close to your side.

Additional Sources & Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit the best escape-proof dog harnesses, check out our series of posts:

• The best dog lift harness
• The best no-pull dog harness
• The best harnesses for huskies
• The best step-in dog harness
• The best front clip dog harnesses
• The best puppy harnesses
• The best dog car harnesses
• The Best Service Dog Harness

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

And our breed-specific harness guides:

• The best harness for German Shepherds
• The best Husky Harness
• The best Dachshund harness
• The best Chihuahua harness

First off, a few key points via the ADA to be aware of before you look into purchasing a service harness for your dog:

• The ADA does not require service animals to wear a vest, ID tag, or specific harness
• In situations where it is not obvious that the dog is a service animal, staff may ask only two specific questions: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform? Staff are not allowed to request any documentation for the dog, require that the dog demonstrate its task, or inquire about the nature of the person’s disability.
• Emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals are not considered service animals under the ADA

Since getting the right harness for your service dog involves not only the functionality and fit of the harness (which is hard enough to navigate as you’re choosing a harness) but also how the vest or harness will display that your dog is a service dog.

For that reason, we asked our veterinary advisor Dr. Jennifer Coates to review the top service dog harnesses on the market and make her recommendation for the best models for a variety of purposes.

Dr. Coates chose the PETNANNY Tactical Dog Harness as the best overall service dog harness.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

PETNANNY Tactical Dog Harness

The PETNANNY tactical dog harness has reinforced stitching with multiple handles and heavy-duty buckles.

$37.99

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Coates’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best service dog harnesses, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best harness or vest for a variety of specific use cases.

You’ll leave this post confident you can purchase the right service dog harness for you and your dog.

The 5 Best Service Dog Harnesses (Or Vests)

1. Best Overall – PETNANNY Tactical Dog Harness
2. Best Budget – Cymiler Dog Harness
3. Best with Handle – Bolux Tactical Dog Harness
4. Best Mobility Harness – Activedogs Service Dog Pulling & Balance Mobility Harness
5. Best Service Dog in Training Harness – Industrial Service Dog in Training Vest

Service Harnesses & Vests Compared

Below are Dr. Coates’s top picks. Compare the ratings and key features of each of the harnesses to decide which one is the best car harness for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Service Dog Harness?

• Obviously, someone who has a disability for which they need assistance from a service dog would be the intended market for a service dog harness.
• Some of these harnesses have patches rather than the service dog labels stitched in, so you might consider one if you’re just looking for a heavier-duty harness with additional options even if you don’t require a service dog.

Who Should Not Buy One?

• Obviously, if you don’t need an actual service dog you shouldn’t be buying a harness with that emblazoned on the harness.
• You may also want to consider other options if you have a service dog but don’t require a harness – you can use the best dog collar available and get a vest that doesn’t actually function as a harness, but can indicate to people that your dog is a service dog to avoid things like them asking to pet the dog and to make sure as you enter a retail store that people know the dog is a service dog.

There are a lot of great resources for service dog owners if you’re new to service harnesses or vests. Here’s a great video overview from professional trainer Emily Larlham on training a dog to put its own harness or vest on:

This is a walk-through (literally) of how a woman uses her service harness for balance and to be able to walk (she recommends the Bold Lead harness in the video – that’s a custom made harness so we didn’t include that for review in this post, but you may want to check it out):

This is a video overview of how a woman self-trained her dog to be a service dog:

And, if you are looking for a service dog harness, below are some additional tips for making the right call from our vet advisor Dr. Coates.

“Service dog harnesses need to be well-designed, sturdy, sized appropriately, adjustable, and comfortable. The harnesses recommended here are all made from quality materials, have a wide range of sizes and good sizing guides, and can be adjusted for a precise fit. They are also well-padded or have other measures to ensure a dog’s comfort since service dog harnesses may be worn for extended periods of time.

Comfort is especially important for dogs who help with owner mobility since a lot of pressure can be put on a dog’s body when the harness is in use.

Service dog harnesses should include a MOLLE or hook and loop system that allows service dog patches to be added and removed as the situation warrants.

Talk to pet parents to learn what types of service dog harnesses have worked well for them. Your veterinarian or dog trainer can also point to any features that might be ideal based on your dog’s age, size, and working status. Closely read product descriptions to avoid unpleasant surprises. Looking at customer reviews posted on trusted sources can give you an idea of how satisfied pet parents are with their purchase.”

How Much Does a Service Dog Harness Cost?

Between $15 and $70

Service dog harnesses cost roughly $15 to $70, which is the widest range by far across the many types of dog harnesses we’ve reviewed, but most tend to run closer to the $15-30 range, depending on the style of harness, the size harness you’re buying, and what material they’re made from.

Again it’s not a focus of this post, but if you have specialized needs you can also consider a custom service dog harness, which will tend to be much higher (in the hundreds of dollars per harness in some cases).

Budget-friendly harnesses are a less-frills option that is typically still effective. A more expensive dog harness option often features tougher materials, additional points of adjustment for a more customized fit, or may have extra attachment options (the handles particularly are a focal point for service dog harnesses).

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

“Comfort and security are the most important features to look for in a step-in dog harness. When we test products we look for comfort and security, even in selecting the best budget options. If you have questions beyond what’s covered in this post, I suggest speaking to your veterinarian, and other dog owners, and reading the product reviews for guidance.” – Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM.

The Best Service Dog Harnesses: Full Reviews

Our Vet’s Top Pick

PETNANNY Tactical Dog Harness

A heavy-duty tactical harness with heavy stitching and heavy-duty metal buckles.

$29.99

Buy on Amazon

The PETNANNY Tactical Dog Harness is the best overall service harness according to Dr. Coates.

The tactical harness feels very substantial when I pick it up – it’s made from nylon but the material is thick and there are multiple reinforcements throughout the harness to make it feel much sturdier than some other service dog harnesses we tested.

Here is an unboxing and hands-on review of the harness:

Overall the harness gets relatively strong reviews (though not the best reviews on this list – that’s the Industrial service dog vest):

The negative reviewers almost all mentioned the plastic attaching the clip that you’d attach the leash to being lower quality and ripping off after strong pulls from dogs that are big pullers.

That said many customers are very happy with the quality of materials and the harness as a whole, and we’d recommend this harness even more highly than the standard reviews.

Best Budget

Cymiler Dog Harness

A padded harness with a top handle and multiple sizes with adjustable straps.

Buy on Amazon

The Cymiler Dog Harness is our best budget pick.

The harness feels very lightweight and less substantial and durable than the PETNANNY tactical harness. It has a vest shape and does have service dog patches you can add and remove if you wanted to use the harness for a dog that’s not a service dog.

Overall the harness gets (tied for) the worst reviews of the harnesses featured in this post, but in comparison with other harnesses we’ve tested the reviews are decent for the price:

The negative reviews tend to center around two core issues:

• Some customers complained about the fit of the harness (the size chart not being accurate)
• Multiple customers complained about the quality and durability of the harness (this was the most common review)

That said these are the most common complaints about harnesses we’ve seen reviewing tons of negative customer reviews. All in all, this is a good option for budget-conscious customers looking for a service dog harness.

Best with a Handle

Bolux Tactical Dog Harness

Harness includes multiple patches including service dog and service dog in training, and comes with 2 top handles.

$28.99

Buy on Amazon

The best top-handle harness is the Bolux Tactical Dog Harness.

This mesh harness felt very substantial and heavy when I pick it up – it has a different shape than some of the other harnesses with thick straps underneath and a thick strap across the chest and close to the neck (if you’re looking for open chest space in your harness this isn’t the right harness for you). It also comes with several patches and is the only harness we tested with two handles on the top of the harness, making it our top pick for top-handle harnesses.

Here is a video showing you the harness on a dog, as well as an in-depth review of the harness:

The Bolux harness is tied for the lowest-rated harness among those listed here:

Complaints from customers who had issues with the harness included:

• The patches are not being delivered (multiple customers had this complaint)
• Difficult fit (it was difficult to size when we tested the harness)
• The harness is too heavy, even for a large dog, particularly with the patches on

All of that said, a number of people were happy with the harness and if you’re prioritizing top handles on your harness this is the one we’d recommend.

Best Mobility Harness

Activedogs Service Dog Pulling & Balance Mobility Harness – Fully Adjustable w/Raised Handle – Padded Sheepskin Chest & Straps (Large 34″ – 42″ Girth, Hot Pink)

An expensive mobility harness option with sheepskin material for comfort.

$69.99

Buy on Amazon

The best service mobility harness is the Activedogs Service Dog Pulling & Balance Mobility Harness.

This is a light-feeling harness that feels a bit oddly shaped when you pick it up and put it on your dog due to the sheepskin material.

We’d recommend ignoring the reviews for this product at the moment as of the date of publishing the harness only had 7 total reviews (all 4 or 5 stars), which is not enough to really weigh those either way.

All in all, if you’re looking for a mobility harness this is a great option.

Best for Service Dog in Training

Industrial Puppy Service Dog In Training Vest

This service dog vest features 8 sizes, multiple removable patches, and a top handle.

$21.95

Buy on Amazon

The Industrial Puppy Service Dog In Training Vest is our top pick for service dogs in training.

The harness feels a lot thicker than some of the other harnesses when I pick it up, and the fit is a little strange as there’s a strap underneath and a strap that goes somewhat loosely across the chest (almost like a kid carries a backpack on one shoulder). It’s marketed as a service vest but it does have a top handle and ring to attach a leash, so it’s functionally a harness.

This is actually the best-reviewed of the harnesses we tested by a good margin:

The biggest complaints among customers who had issues with the harness included:

• Issues with the harness being an awkward fit (this was my experience as well)
• Issues with durability and the harness breaking with use

That said again those are the two most common complaints people have about harnesses in general, and the reviews for this harness are overwhelmingly positive. If you have a growing puppy and need a service dog in a training vest, this is definitely your best bet.

Additional Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit the best escape-proof dog harnesses, check out our series of posts:

• The best dog car harness
• The best dog lift harness
• The best no-pull dog harness
• The best harnesses for huskies
• The Best Puppy Harnesses
• The Best Front Clip Harness
• The best Step in Dog Harnesses

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

And our breed-specific harness guides:

• The best harness for German Shepherds
• The best Husky Harness
• The best Dachshund harness
• The best Chihuahua harness

• Will it fit right?
• Will it last?
• Will it do its job?
• Will it hurt my puppy?

A puppy harness is no different.

To help answer these questions and make sure that you’re able to find the right harness for your puppy, we asked our veterinary advisor Dr. Jennifer Coates to review all of the major harnesses on the market.

Dr. Coates chose the RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness  (you can also check out our full in-depth review of the front range dog harness) as the top overall choice because of its versatility, durability, and ease of use.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness

Comes in 5 sizes with 4 points of adjustment and padding for a comfortable fit – making it perfect for puppies.

$49.95

Buy on Amazon

While that’s Dr. Coates’ top pick, she also shares her top tips for selecting the right harness for you puppy, some considerations for why a puppy harness may not be right for you pup, and she also selected the best harnesses for a variety of specific use cases, including.

The 5 Best Puppy Harnesses

1. Best Overall – RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness
2. Best Budget – PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness
3. Best for Small Puppies – Kurgo Dog Harness
4. Best for Training – Rabbitgoo Dog Harness
5. Best Adjustable – PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness

The 5 Best Puppy Harnesses Compared

Below are the top picks from our veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Coates. Compare the ratings and key features of each of the harnesses to decide which one is the best puppy harness for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Puppy Harness

• Harness vs. Collar –  The biggest question in whether a puppy harness is the right choice for your dog is really whether you prefer a harness or a collar for your puppy. There are varying schools of thought among trainers and veterinarians on collars vs. harnesses. Many trainers who favor collars will recommend harnesses because puppies have fragile bones and necks.
• You’re training your puppy or dog to walk on a leash. A harness can be a great training tool if your pup is new to walking on a lead. With the lead attached to the front of the harness, the harness gently guides your dog back to you when she tries to pull herself forward.
• You have a very strong or large dog. Some puppies are surprisingly strong. Large, strong dogs also benefit from using a harness. As untrained dogs grow rapidly they can be very difficult to keep restrained without pulling them back (which can be bad for their neck if you’re using a collar).

Who Should Not Buy a Puppy Harness

• Collar vs. Harness – The flip side is that many trainers feel that a collar is a better training tool for things like walking your dog. Dogs pulling aggressively on harnesses can also cause physical issues for growing puppies. If you do opt for a collar and you’re not sure how tight the collar should be sure to use our dog collar size chart to select the right sized collar.

If you’re still on the fence in terms of whether to choose a harness, a collar, or a combination for your puppy below is a video overview from certified dog trainer, coach, and author Saro Boghozian:

And, if you are looking for a harness, below are some additional tips for making the right call from our vet advisor Dr. Coates.

Tips from Our Vets

Dr. Jennifer Coates
DVM

How to Choose the Right Puppy Harness

Puppy harnesses need to be able to hold up to all that young dogs can throw at them including chewing, pulling, and general craziness.

Puppies can also be escape artists so it’s essential that their harnesses are:

• Well-designed
• Sturdy
• Sized appropriately
• Comfortable
• Able to prevent pulling (to help with training)
• Adjustable

Adjustability is especially important if you want a harness to grow with your puppy.

The harnesses recommended here are have a number of key qualities you want to look for in a harness, including:

• Being made from quality materials
• Having a wide range of sizes and good sizing guides
• Being adjustable for a precise fit
• Being well-padded and having other measures to ensure a dog’s comfort

A harness with a leash attachment point at the front of the chest is also ideal for training a dog not to pull.

Talk to friends and family who are pet parents to learn what types of puppy harnesses have worked well for them.

Your veterinarian or dog trainer can also point to any features that might be ideal based on your dog’s age, size, and other important considerations.

Closely read product descriptions to avoid unpleasant surprises. Looking at customer reviews posted on trusted sources can give you an idea of how satisfied pet parents are with their purchase as well.

How Much Does a Puppy Harness Cost?

Between $15 and $50

Puppy harnesses cost roughly $25 to $50, but tend to run closer to the $15-30 range, depending on the style of harness, the size harness you’re buying (puppy harnesses obviously tend to run smaller and cheaper), what material they’re made from, and what other functions the harness may feature.

Budget-friendly harnesses are a no-frills option that is typically effective and constructed well. A more expensive dog harness option often features tougher materials, pouches for storage, additional points of adjustment for a more customized fit, or maybe outfitted with a grab handle and extra leash attachments.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

“I chose the top five puppy harnesses using the knowledge I’ve gained from the veterinary profession, as well as from my personal experience with pet parents. Ask other dog owners and your veterinarian for suggestions in picking the right harness. Also, check out reviews from other customers that have purchased and used the no-pull dog harness you’re considering getting.” – Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM

Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Fit

When it comes to selecting a puppy harness for your furry friend, there are a few key points to keep in mind. From material and fit to style and safety, finding the perfect harness for your pup can be a daunting task. But fear not! This guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision and ensure that your pup is comfortable and secure when out and about.

What Makes a Good Step-In Harness?

First, let’s discuss what makes a good puppy harness:

• A quality puppy harness should be made from comfortable and breathable material that can stand up to regular wear and tear.
• The straps should fit snugly around your pup’s body without being overly tight or restrictive.
• A design with adjustable straps so you can customize it to fit your pup’s size and shape.

When it comes to safety features, there are a few key things to look for in a puppy harness. Reflective straps and bright colors can help you spot your pup easily in low-light conditions, while emergency clips can allow for quick and easy removal of the harness in case of emergency. These features can provide peace of mind and ensure that your pup stays safe and secure while on the go.

What Makes a Bad Puppy Harness?

When selecting a puppy harness, there are also some things that you should avoid:

• Metal buckles or hardware can be uncomfortable for your pup and could cause them to harm if they snag on something as they’re running around.
• Sharp edges or points in the harness design could cause discomfort for your pup or even injure them if they get snagged on something.
• Weak seams or poorly-constructed straps as these can come apart easily and leave your pup unprotected when they’re out on their adventures.

Specific Puppy Harness Brands to Avoid

To avoid poorly-made puppy harnesses, you can cross-reference the list of key factors to consider with specific brands. For example, our testing and experience have shown that Puppy-Lite Harnesses often have weak straps and easily-disengaged buckles that can fail during play or exercise. Similarly, Puppy-Pup Harnesses are known for their metal buckles, which can cause discomfort or even injury to sensitive pups. By avoiding brands like these, you can ensure that you get a high-quality harness that will keep your pup safe and comfortable.

Alternatives to Puppy Harnesses

In addition to puppy harnesses, there are several other options for protecting your pup while out and about.

Collars are a traditional choice, but they may not be suitable for pups with neck or trachea issues.

In such cases, you may want to consider creating a DIY harness using materials you have at home, such as an old t-shirt or towel.

These can be secured with safety pins and string, and while they may not be as durable as store-bought harnesses, they can provide a cheap and effective alternative.

Types of Dogs Prone to Neck and Trachea Issues

When selecting a harness or collar, it is important to consider the breed of your dog and its potential health concerns.

Smaller breeds with thin necks, such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers, may be more susceptible to neck and trachea issues due to their size.

Additionally, breeds with brachycephalic skulls, such as Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus, may be more prone to trachea issues due to the structure of their skull.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a harness or collar that will be safe and comfortable for your pup.

How Do Dogs Start to Experience Neck and Trachea Issues?

Dogs can develop neck and trachea issues from a variety of causes, including:

• Age-related changes in their bones and muscles.
• Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers are particularly vulnerable due to the structure of their skulls, which can put extra pressure on the trachea.
• The use of collars or harnesses that are too tight, can cause discomfort and even injury.

Tips for How to Fit and Put On Puppy Harnesses

When fitting and putting on a puppy harness, it is crucial to ensure that it fits your pup correctly. The harness should be snug without being restrictive, and you should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your pup’s body.

Additionally, make sure that all buckles and straps are secure and that there are no sharp edges or points that could cause harm. Once the harness is fitted properly, it is important to gradually introduce it to your pup by taking them on short walks with it.

Reward them with treats and positive reinforcement, and gradually increase the length of time they wear the harness as they become more comfortable with it.

Ultimately, choosing a good puppy harness for your pup is a serious matter that requires care and consideration.

The Best Puppy Harness Reviews

1. Best Overall – RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness

Our Vet’s Top Pick

RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness

Comes in 5 sizes with 4 points of adjustment and padding for a comfortable fit – making it perfect for puppies.

$49.95

Buy on Amazon

The RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness (read our review of Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness as well) is our top overall pick for a puppy harness, but it may not be the best fit for you and your puppy. Let’s take a closer look at the harness.

Here are some fast facts about the harness:

• Comes in 5 sizes. xx-small fits dogs with a girth of 13-17 inches.
• Many colors to pick from
• Customizable fit with 4 points of adjustment
• Reflective
• Lightweight
• Foam padded for comfort
• 2 leash attachments including on the front of the chest for no-pull training
• Easy on and off

There are also some nice videos RUFFWEAR has created to give more of a sense of the harness (the video is put together by the company obviously so you want to take it with a grain of salt):

As well as a video walk-through of how to fit and adjust your dog’s harness:

(As a dog owner who finds harnesses in general weirdly rubix-cube-esque I find these kinds of videos helpful).

As you pick up and feel the harness it’s definitely hefty and well-padded. Another thing to keep an eye on for a puppy harness is one that’s highly adjustable (as even smaller puppies will grow, and bigger puppies will grow fast). RUFFWEAR has 5 sizes and 4 points of adjustment so it’s a definite winner from that standpoint.

Overall the harness gets strong reviews (the strongest among all of the puppy harnesses we considered and tested):

But some of the negative reviewers mention specific issues with the harness, including:

• Tears early in the life of the harness
• Plastic clasps instead of metal
• The harness rubbing uncomfortably under their dog’s arms

2. Best Budget – PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

Best Budget

PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

The PoyPet no-pull dog harness is available in five sizes and is easy to put on.

$15.99

Buy on Amazon

The PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness is our best budget pick. It has 5 sizes and 26 (!) colors to choose from, and ranges ~$15-$22 depending on the size and color you pick which is a very low-end range in terms of price.

Some fast facts:

• 5 sizes and many colors to pick from
• 4 adjustment points to ensure a good fit
• Lightweight
• Easy on/off buckles
• 2 leash attachments including on the front of the chest for no-pull training
• Reflective
• Stretchable straps and padded for comfort
• Top handle for extra control

The harness definitely doesn’t feel as robust as something like the RUFFWEAR option, but that is reflected in the price (the largest RUFFWEAR size is more than twice as much as the PoyPet) and there is padding to the PoyPet harness.

Overall the harness gets solid reviews despite the lower price:

The negative reviews tend to center around a few core issues:

• The harness not fitting quite right, particularly for very large or very small dogs
• Not holding up after a few months to a year of use (particularly issues with the buckles)
• The “no pull” mechanism of the harness is easy for some dogs to circumvent

Here is a hands-on review of the harness:

As well as the PoyPet sizing chart (although do note some customers claimed to have issues with sizing even when following the size chart):

All of that said many customers had no issues with the fit or durability of the harness, and it’s a slick-looking harness that will be a good budget-conscious option for many pet parents.

3. Best for Small Puppies – Kurgo Dog Harness

Best for Small Puppies

Kurgo Dog Harness | Pet Walking Harness | Extra Large | Black | No Pull Harness Front Clip Feature for Training Included | Car Seat Belt | Tru-Fit Quick Release Style

The Kurgo Dog Harness is a lightweight reflective harness with five sizes and five adjustable points to ensure a good fit.

$26.95

Buy on Amazon

The best harness for small puppies is the Kurgo Dog Harness. The Kurgo harness has 5 sizes with the extra small fitting puppies all the way down to a neck circumference of 9-13”, a girth of 12-18”, and that weigh just 5-10 pounds.

Let’s look at some fast facts:

• 5 sizes. X-small fits dogs with a neck circumference of 9-13”, a girth of 12-18”, and that weigh just 5-10 pounds.
• 5 adjustment points to ensure a good fit
• 3 colors to pick from
• Good fit guide
• Lightweight
• Easy on/off buckles
• Reflective
• Includes seat belt attachment
• 2 leash attachments including on the front of the chest for no-pull training
• Lifetime warranty

The Kurgo harness is a bit narrower and longer than some of the other harnesses, coming all the way up to the pup’s neck. It definitely doesn’t have the heft and padding of a model like the RUFFWEAR harness.

It does feature an attachment on the front of the chest to help with no-pull training and keep your puppy’s trachea safe.

The Kurgo is rated quite a bit lower overall than the RUFFWEAR harness, and scores particularly low with customers on “stretch” and “chew-proof”:

Complaints from customers who had issues with the harness included:

• Issues with the front attachment being weak / wearing out quickly with use.
• Issues with the fit (overall with the harness sagging, and particularly around the neck)
• Issues with adjustments being tricky

Here is the Kurgo harness overview video (from Kurgo, so take it with a grain of salt):

And here is the size chart for the harness:

While there are negative reviews, a number of customers love their Kurgo harness, and for small puppies, it’s a strong option to fit especially small puppies.

4. Best for Training – Rabbitgoo Dog Harness

Best for Puppy Training

Rabbitgoo Dog Harness

The Rabitgoo Dog Harness has multiple leash attachments including on the front of the chest which is perfect for no-pull dog training.

$21.98

Buy on Amazon

The best puppy training harness is the Rabbitgoo Dog Harness. The presence of multiple leash attachments, as well as a top handle for extra control, make the Rabbitgoo Harness especially well-suited for training.

Some fast facts:

• 4 sizes
• 4 adjustment points to ensure a good fit
• 2 leash attachments including on the front of the chest for no-pull training
• Top handle for extra control
• Top and bottom panels padded for comfort
• Many colors to pick from
• Lightweight
• Easy on/off buckles
• Reflective

The Rabitgoo harness has relatively strong ratings for the price:

Customers who had issues with the harness had two common complaints:

• Durability – the harness wore quickly with the use
• Fit – multiple customers complained that their dog could wriggle out of the harness

Rabitgoo offers multiple videos to show you how to wear the harness:

As well as how to adjust the harness:

And here is a hands-on video review of the Rabitgoo:

All in all, the Rabitgoo is an attractive harness with solid padding and helpful attachments for training. It’s also reasonably priced, and while some customers have issues many are very happy with the harness.

5. Best Adjustable – PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness

Best Adjustable

PetSafe 3 in 1 Dog Harness

PetSafe 3 in 1 Dog Harness has 5 sizes, 5 points of adjustment, and an excellent sizing guide making it a great adjustable harness option.

$29.95

Buy on Amazon

When an adjustable harness is your top priority, the best option is the PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness. It offers 5 sizes, 5 points of adjustment (more than most harnesses), and a helpful sizing guide so that you can pick the appropriate harness and adjust it accordingly for the life of its use.

Some fast facts:

• Comes in x-small, small, medium, and large sizes. X-small fits dogs with a neck circumference of 9-14” and a girth of 13-19”
• 5 points of adjustment for a perfect fit
• Lightweight
• Excellent sizing guide available online
• Has a front leash attachment for no-pull training, as well as a standard leash attachment point on the back. Can use 2 point leash for hard-to-train puppies
• Has a handle on the back for extra control or to use as a seat belt attachment for safety in the car.
• Reflective
• Softly padded for comfort

The PetSafe harness is a much more lightweight harness that has relatively thin straps rather than material covering the dog’s chest. The straps have ample padding but obviously, the PetSafe harness won’t feel as robust as some of the other harnesses. That said the lightweight approach makes it much easier to get on and off and to adjust, which is a pain point for many of the other harnesses listed here and for harnesses in general.

The PetSafe harness has decent reviews for the price (but not as strong as the RUFFWEAR or Rabitgoo):

Customers who had bad experiences with the harness mainly pointed to the harness fraying or wearing after limited use, and multiple customers with larger stronger dogs who were “runners” complained that the harness broke when their dog ran or pulled aggressively.

PetSafe offers a video overview of how to use the harness:

As well as how to fit it:

All in all, if you need a lightweight harness with a high rate of adjustability PetSafe is a good option.

Additional Sources & Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit to the best escape-proof dog harnesses, (read our review of escape-proof dog harness) check out our series of posts:

• The best step-in dog harness
• The best dog lift harness
• The best no pull dog harness
• The best harnesses for huskies
• The best front clip dog harnesses
• The best dog car harnesses
• The Best Service Dog Harness

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

And our breed-specific harness guides:

• The best harness for German Shepherds
• The best Husky Harness

Choosing the right harness for your Dachshund is important for ensuring your dog’s comfort and safety.

As a breed, Dachshunds are prone to back problems, so it’s important to select a harness that is designed to distribute weight evenly and avoid putting unnecessary strain on their back.

Additionally, Dachshunds are small dogs, so it’s important to choose a harness that is adjustable and will fit them properly.

In this article, we will discuss the best harnesses for Dachshunds and why they are a good choice for this breed.

We asked our veterinary advisor, Dr. Jennifer Coates, to carefully selected these harnesses based on their quality, fit, and suitability for Dachshunds.

Read on to find out which harness will be the best fit for your Dachshund.

First off, Dr. Coates chose the RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness  (read our in-depth review of the front range dog harness as well) as the top overall choice.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness

Comes in 5 sizes with 4 points of adjustment and padding for a comfortable fit – making it perfect for puppies.

$49.95

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Coates’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best dachshund harness, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best harness for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Dachshund Harnesses

1. Best Overall – RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness
2. Best Budget – PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness
3. Best for a Small Dau– Kurgo Dog Harness.
4. Best for Training – Rabbitgoo Dog Harness
5. Best Adjustable – PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness

Dachshund Harnesses Compared

Below are the top picks from our veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Coates. Compare the ratings and key features of each of the harnesses to decide which one is the best Dachshund harness for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should & Shouldn’t Buy One

The biggest question in terms of whether you should even buy a Daschund harness (besides whether you actually have a Dachshund) really goes to your preference for a dog collar versus a harness. Here’s a great video on the topic:

And here is a quick rundown of AKC’s take on collar vs. harness:

• There are a variety of collars and harnesses available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
• Dog collars are the most basic product available and easy to use. They come in different styles, including flat, martingale (limited slip), and rolled. Some pros of dog collars include that they may give you better control over your dog while walking them or require less physical strength from you, depending on the size of your dog. However, some cons of dog collars include that they might contribute to back pain or throat damage in dogs if not used correctly.
• Dog harnesses can be more comfortable for your pet than a collar and help prevent slipping out or the leash getting caught under your legs; however, they may be harder to put on/take off and require more physical strength than a collar does from the owner.

And, if you are looking for a harness, below are some additional tips for making the right call from our vet advisor Dr. Coates:

Tips from Our Vets

Dr. Jennifer Coates
DVM

How to Choose the Right Dachshund Harness

Dachshund harnesses need to be able to hold up to all that young dogs can throw at them including chewing, pulling, and general craziness.

It’s essential that Dachshund harnesses are:

• Well-designed
• Sturdy
• Sized appropriately
• Comfortable
• Able to prevent pulling (to help with training)
• Adjustable

Adjustability is especially important if you want a harness to grow with your Dachshund.

The harnesses recommended here have a number of key qualities you want to look for in a harness, including:

• Being made from quality materials
• Having a wide range of sizes and good sizing guides
• Being adjustable for a precise fit
• Being well-padded and having other measures to ensure a dog’s comfort

A harness with a leash attachment point at the front of the chest is also ideal for training a dog not to pull.

Talk to friends and family who are pet parents to learn what types of Dachshund harnesses have worked well for them.

Your veterinarian or dog trainer can also point to any features that might be ideal based on your dog’s age, size, and other important considerations.

Closely read product descriptions to avoid unpleasant surprises. Looking at customer reviews posted on trusted sources can give you an idea of how satisfied pet parents are with their purchase as well.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $15 and $50

Dachshund harnesses cost roughly $25 to $50, but tend to run closer to the $15-30 range, depending on the style of harness, the size harness you’re buying (puppy harnesses obviously tend to run smaller and cheaper), what material they’re made from, and what other functions the harness may feature.

Budget-friendly harnesses are a no-frills option that is typically effective and constructed well. A more expensive dog harness option often features tougher materials, pouches for storage, additional points of adjustment for a more customized fit, or maybe outfitted with a grab handle and extra leash attachments.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

“I chose the top five Dashaund harnesses using the knowledge I’ve gained from the veterinary profession, as well as from my personal experience with pet parents. Ask other dog owners and your veterinarian for suggestions in picking the right harness. Also, check out reviews from other customers that have purchased and used the no-pull dog harness you’re considering getting.” – Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM

The Best Dachshund Harness Reviews

1. Best Overall – RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness

Our Vet’s Top Pick

RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness

Comes in 5 sizes with 4 points of adjustment and padding for a comfortable fit – making it perfect for puppies.

$49.95

Buy on Amazon

We selected the RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness for a number of reasons including:

• It’s a comfortable, lightweight harness that’s great for everyday walks, hikes, and runs. It has two leash attachment points – one on the back and one on the chest – and is available in a variety of colors and sizes.
• Customers love how comfortable the harness is for their dogs and appreciate the two leash attachment points. Lots of reviewers also mention how well-made and durable the harness is.
• Key features include a padded chest and belly for comfort, four points of adjustability for a customizable fit, reflective trim for improved visibility in low-light conditions, an ID pocket

There are also some nice videos RUFFWEAR has created to give more of a sense of the harness (the video is put together by the company obviously so you want to take it with a grain of salt):

As well as a video walk-through of how to fit and adjust your dog’s harness:

RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness is a good harness for a Dachshund because it has a secure, adjustable fit and is designed to be comfortable for dogs to wear for extended periods of time. Additionally, the harness has reflective trim for visibility in low-light conditions, which is important for keeping your Dachshund safe on walks.

Overall the harness gets strong reviews (the strongest among all of the Dachshund harnesses we considered and tested):

But some of the negative reviewers mention specific issues with the harness, including:

• Tears early in the life of the harness
• Plastic clasps instead of metal
• The harness rubbing uncomfortably under their dog’s arms

2. Best Budget – PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

Best Budget

PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

The PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness is a comfortable and adjustable harness that is designed to prevent pulling on the leash.

$15.99

Buy on Amazon

The PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness is our best budget pick.

Some key features of the harness:

• Adjustable fit
• Comfortable for dogs to wear for extended periods of time
• Designed to prevent pulling on the leash
• Reflective strips for visibility in low-light conditions
• High-quality construction and materials
• Suitable for a wide range of dog sizes and breeds

Overall the harness gets solid reviews despite the lower price:

The negative reviews tend to center around a few core issues:

• The harness not fitting quite right, particularly for very large or very small dogs
• Not holding up after a few months to a year of use (particularly issues with the buckles)
• The “no pull” mechanism of the harness is easy for some dogs to circumvent

Here is a hands-on review of the harness:

As well as the PoyPet sizing chart (although do note some customers claimed to have issues with sizing even when following the size chart):

3. Best for Mini Dachshunds – Kurgo Dog Harness

Best for Mini Dachshunds

Kurgo Dog Harness | Pet Walking Harness | Extra Large | Black | No Pull Harness Front Clip Feature for Training Included | Car Seat Belt | Tru-Fit Quick Release Style

The Kurgo Dog Harness is a high-quality harness that is designed to be comfortable, secure, and durable.

$26.95

Buy on Amazon

The best harness for small puppies is the Kurgo Dog Harness.

Some key features:

• Comfortable and secure fit
• Adjustable for a wide range of dog sizes
• Reflective strips for visibility in low-light conditions
• Padded chest and belly straps for added comfort
• Durable construction and materials
• Lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects

The Kurgo Dog Harness is a good harness for a Dachshund because it is designed to be comfortable and secure, and it has reflective strips for visibility in low-light conditions.

Again a key concern for Dachshunds is their propensity to back problems, so it’s important to choose a harness that will distribute weight evenly.

The Kurgo Dog Harness is designed to do just that, with padded chest and belly straps for added comfort.

Additionally, the harness is adjustable, so you can get a good fit for your Dachshund.

The Kurgo is rated quite a bit lower overall than the RUFFWEAR harness, and scores particularly low with customers on “stretch” and “chew-proof”:

Complaints from customers who had issues with the harness included:

• Issues with the front attachment being weak / wearing out quickly with use.
• Issues with the fit (overall with the harness sagging, and particularly around the neck)
• Issues with adjustments being tricky

Here is the Kurgo harness overview video (from Kurgo, so take it with a grain of salt):

And here is the size chart for the harness:

While there are negative reviews, a number of customers love their Kurgo harness, and for small puppies it’s a strong option to fit especially small puppies.

4. Best for Training – Rabbitgoo Dog Harness

Best for Training

rabbitgoo Dog Harness

The rabbitgoo Dog Harness is a comfortable and adjustable harness that is designed to prevent pulling on the leash.

$21.98

Buy on Amazon

The best Dauschund training harness is the Rabbitgoo Dog Harness.

Some key features:

• Comfortable and adjustable fit
• Prevents pulling on the leash
• Reflective strips for visibility in low-light conditions
• Padded chest and belly straps for added comfort
• Durable construction and materials
• Easy to put on and take off
• Suitable for a wide range of dog sizes and breeds

The rabbitgoo Dog Harness is a good choice for training a Dachshund because it is comfortable, adjustable, and designed to prevent pulling on the leash. This can help to make training sessions more effective and enjoyable for both you and your Dachshund. Additionally, the harness has reflective strips for visibility in low-light conditions, which is important for keeping your Dachshund safe during training sessions.

The rabitgoo harness has relatively strong ratings for the price:

Customers who had issues with the harness had two common complaints:

• Durability – the harness wore quickly with the use
• Fit – multiple customers complained that their dog could wriggle out of the harness

rabitgoo offers multiple videos to show you how to wear the harness:

As well as how to adjust the harness:

And here is a hands-on video review of the rabitgoo:

5. Best Adjustable – PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness

Best Adjustable

PetSafe 3 in 1 Dog Harness

The PetSafe 3 in 1 Dog Harness is a versatile harness that can be used as a standard harness, a no-pull harness, or a car safety harness.

$29.95

Buy on Amazon

When an adjustable harness is your top priority, the best option is the PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness.

Some key features:

• The versatile design can be used as a standard harness, a no-pull harness, or a car safety harness
• Comfortable and adjustable fit
• Padded chest and belly straps for added comfort
• Reflective strips for visibility in low-light conditions
• Durable construction and materials
• Easy to put on and take off
• Suitable for a wide range of dog sizes and breeds

The PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness is an excellent option for Dachshunds due to its versatility and comfort. The padded chest and belly straps ensure that weight is evenly distributed and prevent strain on your dog’s back. Furthermore, reflective strips make your Dachshund visible during low-light walks. Overall, the PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness is a high-quality harness that is perfect for Dachshunds.

The PetSafe harness has decent reviews for the price (but not as strong as the RUFFWEAR or rabitgoo):

Customers who had bad experiences with the harness mainly pointed to the harness fraying or wearing after limited use, and multiple customers with larger stronger dogs who were “runners” complained that the harness broke when their dog ran or pulled aggressively.

PetSafe offers a video overview of how to use the harness:

As well as how to fit it:

All in all, if you need a lightweight harness with a high rate of adjustability PetSafe is a good option.

Additional Sources & Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit the best escape-proof dog harnesses, check out our series of posts:

• The best step-in dog harness
• The best dog lift harness
• The best no-pull dog harness
• The best front clip dog harnesses
• The best dog car harnesses
• The Best Service Dog Harness

Our breed-specific harness guides:

• The best harness for German Shepherds
• The best harness for Huskies
• The best Chihuahua harness

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

The vet advisor for Pet News Daily, Dr. Danielle Morosco, DVM, reviewed dozens of cat trees and chose the Hey-brother XL Cat Tree as her top pick. With its strong, wide baseboard and multiple scratching posts, the Hey-brother XL Cat Tree provides optimal support for a large, active cat.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Hey-brother XL Cat Tree

Say hello to the Hey-brother’s three luxury condos, three perches, and enlarged baseboard.

$129.99

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Morosco’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing a cat tree for large cats, a section on who should avoid purchasing them, and she personally selected the best cat trees for large cats for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Cat Trees for Large Cats

1. Best Overall – Hey-brother XL Cat Tree
2. Best Budget – Hey-brother 60 Inches Multi-Level Cat Tree
3. Best Floor to Ceiling – PEQULTI Floor to Ceiling Cat Tree
4. Best Heavy Duty – FEANDREA 67-inch Multi-Level Cat Tree for Large Cats
5. Best with Hammock – Yaheetech 62in Multi-Level Cat Tree Tower Condo

Cat Trees Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Cat Tree for Large Cats

• Owners of large cat breeds – Large breeds like Maine Coons, Savannahs, and Norwegian Forest Cats can easily reach well over 12 pounds and may stand 10 to 12 inches high. If you have one of these breeds, you’ll need a cat tree that can support your cat’s extra weight and height without tipping over and potentially injuring your cat.
• Owners of overweight cats – You don’t necessarily need to own a large breed for your cat to weigh over 12 pounds. An overweight cat or one that’s large for a smaller breed may need a cat tree that can support a larger body.
• Owners of multiple cats – If you own two or more cats, a cat tree for large cats provides perches and scratching posts for all. These models are also stable enough for several cats to climb and rest on without breaking or falling over.
• Lots of extra space – If you want to give your cat plenty of climbing and resting space, a large cat tree provides that and then some. They’re a great option if you’ve got the space, even if your cat is average-sized.

Who Should Not Buy a Cat Tree for Large Cats

• Those with limited space – Small apartments and homes may not have the square footage for a large cat tree.
• Owners of average-sized cats – You can certainly buy a large cat tree if you want. However, if you have an average or small-sized cat, the cat probably doesn’t need the added stability of a model designed for large breeds.

Research Tips from a Veterinarian

I talk to a lot of cat owners about cat trees — what the tree should have and what to watch out for. When looking for a cat tree for your large kitty, make sure you look for large condos and perches. Some cat trees have small platforms and low maximum weight limits, so make sure you research the size of the cat tree and the maximum weight capacities. Asking your family and friends is a great way to find a cat tree perfect for your large kitty!

1. Avoid small cat trees – Cat trees made for kittens and young cats don’t have the support and stability for large cats.
2. Watch out for strings – If you have a cat that likes to eat rope toys, avoid cat trees with dangling strings.
3. Don’t skip scratching posts – Look for multiple scratching posts to keep your cat entertained.
4. Make sure you can secure the cat tree – Look for cat trees with an anti-toppling strap or wall anchors to prevent the tree from potentially falling on your kitty

In addition to a cat tree, large cat breeds may also need a cat bed or cat cave bed to provide additional comfort and support for their extra bulk and weight.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $75 and $200

Most cat trees for large cats cost between $75 and $200. The difference in prices typically comes down to the size and number of features on the cat tree, though material quality can factor in as well. Floor-to-ceiling models often cost more as do models with a higher number of perches, scratching posts, and condos.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

As a veterinarian, I have discussed cat trees and what’s best for cats of all sizes with pet owners and fellow veterinarians. I based my cat tree decisions on the needs of these large, loveable kitties, my professional experience, and a thorough investigation into the features, design, and safety features of each cat tree. A strong, stable base is one of the most important factors. However, the cat tree should have a safety strap or mechanism to attach the tree to the wall for added safety. Lastly, a solid cat tree will have plenty of perches and scratching posts so your kitty stays safe and doesn’t get bored. – Dr. Danielle Morosco, DVM

The Best Cat Trees for Large Cats Reviewed

1. Best Overall – Hey-brother XL Cat Tree

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Hey-brother XL Cat Tree

Say hello to the Hey-brother’s three luxury condos, three perches, and an enlarged baseboard.

$129.99

Buy on Amazon

The Hey-brother XL Cat Tree is a complete package for your large feline. It makes the top of the list for the wide, stable baseboard that stabilizes the overall structure so that cats of all sizes can play, scratch, and relax. This cat tree has a 20.9 x 20.9-inch base and stands 73.4 inches tall. There are more than enough sisal-covered scratching posts, including ten posts throughout the structure and a wider scratching board at the bottom. With three condos, a hammock, and dangling toys, there isn’t much that this setup doesn’t have.

The cat condos are large enough that big cats can fit in them as well. The Hey-brother also features a quality build that’s strong enough to house more than one large cat. Another big bonus with this model is the easy setup. The directions are easy to follow, and it comes together quickly. The only issue we have with this Hey-brother is that some of the platforms are a little small for bigger cats.

2. Best Budget – Hey-brother 60 Inches Multi-Level Cat Tree

Best Budget

Hey-brother 60 Inches Multi-Level Cat Tree

This model’s choice in colors, easy assembly, and step entry make owners and cats happy.

Buy on Amazon

The Hey-brother 60 Inches Multi-Level Cat Tree is a little smaller than some of the other models on the list. However, it’s no less entertaining for your kitty. Two top perches let him get a good look at the layout, and he’s still got two cat condos where he can get some privacy and rest. This model features a step pattern for cats to jump their way to the top. Plus, there are two dangling toys when they’re feeling frisky. Along the way, there are nine scratching posts for sharpening their claws and strengthening their backs.

This Hey-brother model has a 19.69 x 19.69-inch base and stands at 60.24 inches tall. It comes with anti-toppling fittings for added stability. Users report that assembly is easy and straightforward. The smaller base and shorter height are what give it the affordable price. However, the cat still gets plenty of places to safely rest, play, and perch.

3. Best Floor to Ceiling – PEQULTI Floor to Ceiling Cat Tree

Best Floor to Ceiling

PEQULTI Floor to Ceiling Cat Tree

This height adjustable cat tree has scratching posts, a hammock, and a bucket perch.

$132.99

Buy on Amazon

The PEQULTI Floor to Ceiling Cat Tree features a height-adjustable design that reaches from 92.92 to 101.6 inches high. You adjust the post height according to the room, adding stability and giving your cat more square footage to play – without eating up tons of floor space. A fan-shaped 18.9 x 18.9-inch base makes it easy to sneak this cat tree into an unused corner, too. This model also comes with safety straps to attach it to the wall for added stability.

The PEQULTI also gets high marks for some unique features, like an acrylic nest. Here, your cat can relax while still keeping an eye on the room. The cat tree features eight scratching posts, a hammock, a bucket perch, and one condo. There are additional platforms and a couple of toys, too. This design offers a lot of entertainment in a confined vertical space. The base’s stability and the safety straps will keep it in place when your large cat climbs, scratches, and relaxes. However, measure your ceiling to make sure the cat tree will reach high enough to be fully secured.

4. Best Heavy Duty – FEANDREA 67-inch Multi-Level Cat Tree for Large Cats

Best Heavy Duty

FEANDREA 67-inch Multi-Level Cat Tree for Large Cats

Thick posts and reinforced battens give this cat tree stability and strength.

$109.99

Buy on Amazon

The FEANDREA 67-inch Multi-Level Cat Tree for Large Cats has a solid build that starts with a 24 x 19.3-inch base and stands at 67 inches tall. The four base posts are each 3.4 inches wide, adding strength and durability to the overall structure. Strengthened battens at the bottom and safety straps provide additional structure and support.

It has 15 scratching posts in total with a scratching board that acts as a ramp. There are two cat condos, one of which is extra-large (for those extra-large kitties). This design gives even the largest, most rambunctious cats room to climb, scratch, hide, and play. The FEANDREA can take the Maine Coons and other large breeds that need extra space and reinforced stability. The point of weakness tends to be at the carpet around the scratching posts, which can break down after heavy use.

5. Best with Hammock – Yaheetech 62in Multi-Level Cat Tree Tower Condo

Best Cat Tree with Hammock

Yaheetech 62in Multi-Level Cat Tree Tower Condo with Scratching Posts

This model’s wide, stable hammock and fun toys give large cats room to play.

$59.99

Buy on Amazon

The Yaheetech 62in Multi-Level Cat Tree Tower Condo has two hammocks, but it made the list as the best cat tree with a hammock for the large 16.3-inch hammock, in particular, that dangles from the second level. Each anchor extends far so that larger cats can get the stability they need to rest without the hammock collapsing on them. There is an additional bucket perch just above it as well. While this model has eight scratching posts, it has a unique rope for scratching and climbing that’s replaceable.

There are several platforms and a single condo when you’re kitty needs some time alone. The Yaheetech has a wider base than many other models at 29.5 x 29 inches and stands at 62 inches tall. It comes with a wall anchor and safety strap for added stability. Where this model can fall short is in the consistency of build quality. Usually, it’s fantastic. However, there tends to be a unit here and there that falls apart sooner than it should.

Our vet advisor, Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, looked at all types of dog backpacks to determine which is the best option for your pup and she personally selected the Lekereise Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack as her top choice.

Best Overall

Lekereise Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack

For the best dog backpack carrier there is, look no further than the Lekereise Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack.

$42.46

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Whittenburg’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best dog backpack, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best backpack carriers for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Dog Backpack Carriers

1. Best Overall – Lekereise Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack
2. Best Budget – Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier
3. Best for Small Dogs – WOYYHO Pet Dog Carrier
4. Best for Airline Travel – Petsfit Pet Backpack Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats
5. Best for Walking & Hiking – FUR CADET Plush, Comfy Dog Carrier Backpack

Dog Backpack Carriers Compared

Here are our top picks. Compare the ratings and features of different models to find the right one for you.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy Dog Backpack Carriers

• Active pet parents. When you’re constantly on the go – hiking, traveling, kayaking – you may be especially pleased with the flexibility that a dog backpack carrier provides you. You can still do all the things you want – and you won’t have to leave your dog behind.
• Old dogs. When you have a dog who can’t keep up with you like he used to, then it may be time to invest in a way to carry him so he doesn’t have to strain himself.
• Road Trips. If your pup is good in the car, then you don’t necessarily need a crate for him (though you should keep him secure in case of an accident, of course). But sometimes a leash isn’t appropriate when out with him – and crates aren’t very portable anyways. A backpack for your pup will have you covered so that you can keep your dog a part of your movement every step of the way.

Who Should Not Buy Dog Backpack Carriers

• Airline travel. For some smaller breeds, on some airlines, it’s ok to travel with your dog in a backpack. But that’s still not the norm, so don’t rush into a purchase or show up to your flight without researching that very thoroughly.
• Large breed parents. We could tell you that if you get the right backpack, you can carry any breed of dog, but everyone knows that’s a lie. You’re not going to walk for very long with a saint bernard on your back, even if you can find a backpack that safely carries 200 pounds of dog.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

Because purchasing an air purifier can be a moderate investment financially, you will want to do some research and find a unit that will fit your needs. Here’s what to consider when picking an air purifier for eliminating pet odors: 

1. Comfort. The most important factor when choosing a dog backpack carrier is to consider the comfort, of both you and your dog. Carriers that are small, easily collapsible, lack a rigid bottom, or have poor ventilation will be uncomfortable for your dog and should be avoided. Likewise, it is important to look for wide, padded shoulder straps, and a snug-fitting chest strap for the wearer’s comfort.
2. Find the right size. Measure your dog and ensure they will fit comfortably inside the backpack. Medium and large-sized dogs should not be carried in these types of carriers. – Even if you can find the type that is sturdy enough for them, you shouldn’t attempt to carry them this way; it will only end in pain for you both.
3. Escape-proof. Because you will be unable to see your pet while you are carrying them, it is also essential to ensure the backpack is made of sturdy materials and cannot be escaped. That means zippers are secure and
4. Skip the legs out. Due to discomfort and possible strain on the dog’s body and joints, I do not recommend backpack carriers that fit around the dog with holes for their legs. This is an unnatural position for a dog, and it can lead to distress and injury to your pet.

It’s important to remember that the backpack carrier isn’t for all dogs. Dogs who are too large won’t be comfortable and neither will you. But if your pup just needs to lose a little weight, making him walk with you may help him a great deal! You may want to bring the backpack along, though, just in case he plops and can’t be coerced to continue on the way back. And if you have more than just your dog, don’t forget that you can carry your cat with you on your outings, too!

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $30-70

The good news is, dog backpacks may be the least expensive carrier there is. No matter how robust, or flexible the design, you can pretty much count on it being under $100. In fact, the bulk of the carriers will be between $30 and $70. You’ll get more features and durability with the high-end backpacks, but even the lower-cost versions will more than get the job done.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

As a veterinarian, I’ve been faced with several questions about dog carrying. I also have my own dogs, so I understand the desire to take your pups along with you whenever you can. You need to make sure you’re doing so safely, though, and that’s where my (and your vet’s) education can help you along the decision-making process. You’ll need to make sure your choice is the right fit, so your dog is comfortable and you are, too. Keep in mind that a dog backpack isn’t the same as a baby carrier; all legs and arms must be secured within the backpack or you can cause serious bone and joint strain on your pup. If you’re ever concerned about your choice, pick up the phone and make the effort to talk to your vet.- Dr. Jamie Whittenburg

The Best Dog Backpack Carrier Reviews

1. Best Overall – Lekereise Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack

Best Overall

Lekereise Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack

For the best dog backpack carrier there is, look no further than the Lekereise Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack.

$42.46

Buy on Amazon

The Lekereise Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack is labeled as a “cat backpack carrier” but is actually my overall favorite for dogs as well. It is made of quality materials, is airline-approved, and has padded straps for the comfort of the pet owner. One great feature of this backpack is the expandable back that gives your pet more room when opened up.

In its carrying state, this backpack has four mesh windows to allow your pet good air circulation as well as an unobstructed view. In the expanded state, there are seven. This eases pet anxiety, prevents overheating, and makes being carried a more enjoyable experience. This backpack is easy to store too as it collapses down into a small size

2. Best Budget – Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier

Best Budget

Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier

The Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier allows you to carry your pup without breaking your back – or your bank.

$24.99

Buy on Amazon

Slightly larger than most, the Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier can hold dogs up to 18 pounds. All three exposed sides are made up of large mesh panels which allow for good ventilation and view.

This backpack is equipped with padded shoulder straps and a chest strap that are both comfortable for the wearer and add security for the pet. Made from strong materials that will keep your pet safe, along with a removable bottom pad that makes cleaning easy, this backpack is a great basic model.

3. Best for Small Dogs – WOYYHO Pet Dog Carrier

Best for Small Dogs

WOYYHO Pet Dog Carrier

The WOYYHO Pet Dog Carrier is ideal for your small ad toy breed dog.

$35.99

Buy on Amazon

If you have a small dog and are looking for a backpack carrier that is comfortable for both you and the dog, the WOYYHO Pet Dog Carrier is an excellent option. This carrier is for small dogs and only accommodates up to a 10-pound dog. The carrier backpack has the ability to be adjusted to fit the wearer comfortably – both the shoulder straps and the chest strap can be adjusted for fit.

The bottom of this backpack is solid and rigid which keeps the backpack from collapsing onto your pet and makes it easy to clean. For safety, the backpack features a built-in security leash, as well as both waist and chest buckles to prevent the backpack from falling off of the wearer.

4. Best for Airline Travel – Petsfit Pet Backpack Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats

Best for Airline Travel

Petsfit Pet Backpack Carrier for Small Dog and Cats

If you plan on using a backpack for your dog to fly, then check out the Petsfit Pet Backpack Carrier for Small Dog and Cats.

$54.18

Buy on Amazon

The Petsfit Pet Backpack Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats is perfect for traveling, especially on airplanes. The most important feature that makes it a good choice aboard the airplane is the steel rim construction that prevents any part of the carrier from collapsing. This is a must when placing your pet under the seat in front of you. It’s made of extra durable PVC Oxford cloth and claw-resistant mesh so you can rest assured that your pet is safely contained in the backpack while traveling. Locking zippers add to the security.

Labeled for pets up to 22 pounds, this is also a large carrier with a spacious interior, but it is airline-approved to meet requirements for flying. Also a plus for the airline traveler, this backpack comes with multiple side storage pockets as well as a D ring for hanging small travel supplies.

5. Best for Walking & Hiking – FUR CADET Plush, Comfy Dog Carrier Backpack

Best for Walking and Hiking

FUR CADET Plush and Comfy Dog Carrier Backpack for Hiking

For a dog backpack carrier that works brilliantly with on your hike, try the FUR CADET Plush and Comfy Dog Carrier Backpack for Hiking.

Buy on Amazon

When hiking or walking, it is important to find a dog backpack carrier that is comfortable for both the dog and the wearer. The FUR CADET Plush, Comfy Dog Carrier Backpack is both. Equipped with a plush interior for your dog as well as thick, padded straps for you, this backpack is a great choice for hiking with your small dog. Made of durable and waterproof nylon, this backpack also comes with a lifetime replacement policy should the backpack not hold up to use.

The backpack comes with a collapsible dog bowl, and easy-access waste bags to keep you prepared for your hike or walk. A nice addition to purchasing this backpack, the company donates a portion of its profits to humane shelters and pet adoption/rescue centers.

My dog is a giant Bernedoodle with a durable pink collar – it’s very cute on him, while still being practical.

To help you find the right fit for your dog, we tested and asked our veterinary advisor Dr. Jennifer Coates to review the top cute dog collars on the market to help you find a balance between getting a cute collar that’s also durable and a good fit for your pup.

Dr. Coates chose the Blueberry Pet Dog Collar as the best overall dog collar.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Blueberry Pet Dog Collar

A multi-colored dog collar with a variety of different options for color combos.

$18.99

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Coates’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best cute dog collar, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best cute dog collar for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Cute Dog Collars

1. Best Overall – Blueberry Pet Multi-Colored Stripe Dog Collars
2. Best Budget – Downtown Pet Supply Collars
3. Best Leash & Collar Set – Lucky Love Dog Collar Combo Set
4. Best for Males – Wolfgang Man & Beast Collar
5. Best for Females – Native Pup Flower Dog Collar

Cute Dog Collars Compared

Below are Dr. Coates’s top picks. Compare the ratings and key features of each of the collars to decide which one is the best collar for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Cute Dog Collar?

• Anyone who is sure they want to use a collar for their dog (more on this below) and wants a cute collar with a print, design, or cute mix of colors to show off on a pup will find this post helpful.
• If you’re training a dog and believe that a collar is the best tool for teaching a dog to follow your lead on walks, a dog collar will be a fit for you and your dog.
• If your dog will have issues with a harness (which can be hard on the back and chest, or for some dogs can be difficult to fit and/or to get onto the dog) then a collar is a good fit for your dog

Who Should Not Buy One?

• Obviously these “cute” dog collars have an emphasis on design elements (and options). If that’s not a key concern of yours you can check out our best overall dog collars for collars ranked purely by fit and durability.
• The major concerns about collars are typically that they’re tough on a dog’s neck and trachea – if you have concerns here and have a dog who is a puller, a dog harness may be a better bet (we have a series of guides on choosing the right harness for your pup as well).

If you’re not sure about whether a collar or harness is right for your dog, this is a great video from veterinarian Dr. Gary Richter:

Buying Guide: Research Tips from a Veterinarian

If you are settled on a cut collar for your dog, below are some additional tips for making the right call from our vet advisor Dr. Coates.

“Cute dog collars need to have the same basic attributes as any dog collar. The right one depends on a dog’s lifestyle and personal needs. Cute dog collars need to be durable, safe, and fitted correctly for comfort and so that a dog can’t easily slip it off. Attachments for an identification tag and leash (ideally separate) are standard.

After these basics are ticked off, style comes into play. Pet parents have different tastes, but quality collars that come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and styles are ideal. If you’re looking for a way to signal to the world that your dog is a girl or a boy, a collar that comes in traditionally “feminine” or “masculine” colors and styles is ideal.

Talk to friends and family who have purchased dog collars to learn what types have worked well for them. Your veterinarian or dog trainer can also point to any features that might be ideal based on your dog’s specific needs. Closely read product descriptions to avoid unpleasant surprises. Looking at customer reviews posted on trusted sources can give you an idea of how satisfied pet parents are with their purchase.”

Additionally, a few other resources you may find helpful: Dr. Coates also developed a great dog collar size chart for us and also selected the best overall dog collars, and veterinary advisor Dr. Jennifer Masucci provided an in-depth answer to the question of how tight should a dog collar be?

How Much Does a Cute Dog Collar Cost?

Between $9 and $35

Dog collars cost roughly $9 to $35, but most tend to run closer to the $10-20 range, depending on the style and the size collar you’re buying, and what material they’re made from, and in the case of this list whether a leash is included.

Budget-friendly collars are typically a less-frills option that are still effective but may not be as durable or have some of the specific features you’re looking for.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

At Pet News Daily we test the products we recommend, and we have a licensed veterinarian hand pick every product we recommend. Here’s a note from Dr. Coates, the vet who chose the list for this post, on her process for selecting the best products:

“Comfort and security are the most important features to look for in a dog collar. When we test products we look for comfort and security, even in selecting the best budget options. If you have questions beyond what’s covered in this post, I suggest speaking to your veterinarian, other dog owners, and reading the product reviews for guidance.” – Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM.

The Best Cute Dog Collar Reviews

1. Best Overall – Blueberry Pet Dog Collar

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Blueberry Pet Dog Collar

A multi-colored dog collar with a variety of different options for color combos.

$18.99

Buy on Amazon

The Blueberry Pet Dog Collar is Dr. Coates’s top pick for overall cute dog collar. The collars are vibrant and the threaded polyester material feels very thick and substantial, while the colors on the collar really pop.

Overall the collar gets very strong reviews (not quite the best among the collars listed here but very strong relative to other products we’ve tested and reviewed):

The negative reviewers centered around two issues:

• Durability and the collar wearing out (after a few months to a year)
• Fit and comfort (one review highlighted a reaction to the polyester, another that the collar pulled at their dog’s fur and another that it chafed the dog’s neck)

Blueberry Pet has a nice, quick guide to choosing the right size Blueberry collar for your pet:

That said many customers are very happy with the quality of materials and the collar as a whole, and we’d recommend this collar even more highly than the standard reviews.

2. Best Budget – Downtown Pet Supply Dog Collar

Best Budget

Downtown Pet Supply Dog Collar

A lightweight adjustable dog collar with lots of different design options.

$9.99

Buy on Amazon

The Downtown Pet Supply Dog Collar is our best budget pick.

The collar feels very light (especially compared to the Blueberry Pet Dog Collar) with a plastic buckle. It definitely doesn’t feel like the thickest or most substantial collar, and just picking it up I’d assume it’s a better fit for a non-puller / smaller dog.

Overall despite the low price the collar gets relatively strong ratings (the worst on this list, but strong relative to the hundreds of other dog products we’ve reviewed and tested):

The negative reviews tend to center around two core issues (there are very few total negative reviews):

• Sizing and fit
• Durability and material quality

That said these are the most common complaints about collars we’ve seen after reviewing tons of negative customer reviews. All in all this is a good option for budget-conscious customers looking for a dog collar.

3. Best Leash & Collar Set – Lucky Love Dog Collar Combo Set

Best Leash & Collar Set

Lucky Love Dog Collars, Vivid Floral Girl or Boy Dog Collar & Leash Set for Large Dogs, Blackbird Combo, Large

A vivid leash and collar set with a variety of different design options.

$34.79

Buy on Amazon

The best cute leash and collar combo are the Lucky Love Dog Collar Combo Set.

This is a pretty standard-feeling nylon collar (similar to the Downtown Pet Supply collar and less weighty and substantial than the Blueberry Pet collar) with a leash along the same lines. Again here if you have a large dog that’s an aggressive puller this material may not be a good fit (no pun intended).

The set has extremely strong ratings, tied for the best on this list and among the highest of any dog product we’ve tested and reviewed:

Complaints from customers who had issues with the collar included:

• Many customers complained that the color on the collar faded quickly
• Some customers complained that the leash wasn’t shipped with the collar
• Some complained about fit and durability

All of that said, a number of people were happy with the harness and if you’re prioritizing comfort this collar is the one we’d recommend.

4. Best Cute Dog Collars for Male Dogs – Wolfgang Man & Beast Premium Adjustable Dog Training Collar

Best for Males

Wolfgang Man & Beast Premium Adjustable Dog Training Collar, Made in USA, WhiteOwl Print, Medium (1 Inch x 12-18 Inch)

A thick, durable collar with multiple design and color options.

$19.95

Buy on Amazon

Our choice for best cute dog collars for male dogs is the Wolfgang Man & Beast Premium Adjustable Dog Training Collar.

This is one of the thicker and sturdier feeling collars of those we tested, and both the collar material and D ring to hook to a leash feel sturdier than a standard collar (the plastic buckle is basically your average buckle).

Reviews for the harness are extremely strong, and it’s tied for the best reviews on the list (and one of the best reviewed dog products we’ve tested and reviewed):

Major complaints from people who did have low reviews centered around:

• The majority of the negative reviews of the product focused around the material wearing, becoming frayed, or color fading.

Here’s a good video review of the martingale collar:

And Wolfgang themselves have a product overview video:

As well as a video on sizing:

And cleaning your collar and leash:

All in all many reviewers were extremely happy with the product, however, and if you’re looking for a dog body collar this is a great option.

5. Best Cute Dog Collar for Female Dogs – Native Pup Flower Dog Collar

Best Female Dog Collar

Native Pup Flower Dog Collar

An adjustable, bright, flower printed female dog collar.

$10.99

Buy on Amazon

The Native Pup Flower Dog Collar is our top pick for a cute female dog collar.

This is a light-feeling collar with a plastic buckle that definitely doesn’t feel substantial enough for a large, pulling dog but has similar thickness, feel, and weight to the other nylon collars reviewed in this post.

The reviews for the collar are not the best among those reviewed in this post, but they are relatively strong:

Negative reviews centered around the ring breaking on the collar particularly.

That said we recommend this highly.

That said, lift harnesses are specifically designed for dogs who are likely to have issues with traditional harnesses or collars. As a result, there’s a lot that can go wrong if you select the wrong lift harness for your dog, including:

• Injuries or the worsening of injuries to senior dogs.
• Smaller dogs can slip the harness and run away, into the street, etc.
• The wrong harness can break or fray quickly, making it both a hazard for your dog as well as a waste of money (lift harnesses are expensive!)

To help you navigate all of this, we asked our veterinarian advisor, Dr. Jennifer Coates, to review each of the top dog lift harnesses on the market and share her top picks.

After looking through a variety of styles and types, Dr. Coates chose the Ruffwear Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness (read our full review of the Ruffwear Web Master) as the best dog lift harness due to its solid structure and versatile uses.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Ruffwear Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness

The Ruffwear dog harness is a front-lift, walking harness with attached lift handle.

$44.95

Buy on Amazon

For everyday wear when your dog may need an assist or two, this dog harness with a lift handle can help you hoist your dog up a step, help her over a log, or hold her close in a safe way.

While this was Dr. Coates’ top pick, we also asked her to go a step further and share specific tips for choosing the best lift harness, to help readers understand which dogs may not be a fit (literally and figuratively) for a dog lift harness, and to share her top choice in harness for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Dog Lift Harnesses

• Best Overall – Ruffwear Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness
• Best Budget – Pet Friendz Dog Lifting Harness for Rear Legs
• Best Full-Body – Doggie Stylz Multi-Functional Full-Body Lifting Dog Harness Vest
• Best Rear Lift – Walkabout Back End Harness
• Best for Large Dogs – Coodeo Dog Lift Harness

Dog Lift Harnesses Compared

This handy table features the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and key features of each lift harness to decide which one is best for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Dog Lift Harness

• For active dogs who need extra support. Dog lift harnesses are good for dogs who are active and need the occasional helping paw on a hike or walk. Maybe your dog is an avid trekker but sometimes needs extra support for getting around obstacles, such as over boulders, logs, or up a steep hill. Or perhaps your Corgi needs help getting up or going down steps on your daily walk.
• For senior dogs. Dog lift harnesses are a great mobility tool to help your older dog get around. Whether because of arthritis or tired, shaky legs, a dog lift harness enables you to comfortably steady your dog on his legs, aid him in walking, or gently hoist him up the steps.
• For injured dogs. As this is not recommended for every scenario, you should consult with your veterinarian before using a dog lift harness for an injury. A dog lift harness could help an injured dog who isn’t on bed rest and still needs to get around safely, indoors or out.
• For handicapped dogs. Dog lift harness systems for handicapped pets help dogs who need full-time support. Whether your dog needs a front-end lift, back-end support, or a full-body wheelchair, dog lift harness systems for handicapped dogs are often available in matching attachable and detachable pieces that can be used together or separately, and also allow you to create an entire wheelchair-compatible harness system.

Who Should Not Buy a Dog Lift Harness

• Your dog is young, healthy, and does not require assistance. Dog lift harnesses are a pretty good idea for most dogs, even young, healthy, active dogs, but some dogs may not like a lift harness. If it’s not necessary, there’s no reason to stress your dog when there are plenty of other harnesses to choose from.
• If your dog won’t fit in one comfortably. Dog lift harnesses are typically bulky. They are, after all, designed to support your dog’s body and need to cover a wide area. They’re also designed to aid your dog, and if the harness isn’t comfortable or doesn’t fit well, it won’t help, it’ll hinder.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

Talk to other pet parents to learn what types of dog lift harnesses have worked well for them. Your veterinarian can also point to any features that might be ideal based on your dog’s age, size, and health status. Do your research, read product descriptions carefully, and check out trusted reviews from pet parents. Here are some more tips and best practices to consider when choosing a dog lift harness.

1. Look for a well-designed dog lift harness – To prevent injuries, dog lift harnesses need to be well-designed, durable, sized appropriately, and adjustable. Comfort is very important, too, since a lot of pressure can be put on a dog’s skin when the harness is in use.
2. Consider whether the harness is for short-term or long-term use – Dog lift harnesses are used for mobility assistance. Sometimes the need is short-term, in which case a simple solution like the Pet Friendz Dog Lift Harness may be all that’s needed. For long-term situations, it makes sense to purchase a dog lift harness that is more precisely tailored to the dog’s particular needs. The right lift harness will not only increase a dog’s mobility but also ease the work of the person using it.
3. Decide which style of lift harness your dog needs – With the many different types of dog lift harnesses there are to choose from, it’s important to know which type your dog needs or may need. If your dog needs help with his hind end, look for either a mid-section or rear lift harness. If you think your dog may need help with both his front and back legs at some point in the future, consider getting a full-body dog lift harness that can be used as either a front, mid or rear lift harness separately.
4. Measure your dog accurately – Be sure to measure your dog according to whichever harness you have opted for. Front dog lift harnesses use a neck (just above the shoulders) and chest girth measurement, mid-section harnesses use chest and abdomen girth measurements, and rear dog lift harnesses use upper thigh and abdomen girth measurements.

Does your dog need help around the home, too? Things like dog stairs, steps, and ramps can help your pooch maneuver around the house easier. Mobility tools such as a pet ramp for the car, joint supplements for everyday walking, or a dog harness with a handle for lifting your dog go a long way to giving your dog the best life possible.

How Much Do They Cost?

Around $50

Dog lift harnesses average about $50, though you can spend anywhere from $20 to $200 depending on how involved the harness is. With simple solutions like the sling, you’re more apt to spend less than $50. With more complex needs like a full-body harness, the price goes over $50 and is often more than $100.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

The harnesses recommended here are all made from quality materials, have a wide range of sizes, and have good sizing guides, and most can be adjusted for a precise fit. They are also well-padded or have other measures to ensure a dog’s comfort. -Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM

The Best Dog Lift Harness Reviews

1. Best Overall – Ruffwear Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Ruffwear Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness

The Ruffwear dog harness is a front-lift, walking harness with attached lift handle.

$44.95

Buy on Amazon

The Ruffwear Web Master Multi-Use Support Dog Harness makes a great overall dog lift harness due to its versatility and quality construction. Available in sizes from extra, extra small to extra large, this lift harness is designed to help lift the front end of your dog. With five points of adjustment, this dog lift harness can be customized to fit most dogs comfortably. It can be worn for extended periods of time but is not recommended for overnight wear.

Use the padded and reinforced lift handle to help maneuver your pooch up and over obstacles. The chest and underside straps are foam padded for your dog’s comfort and also allow for moving around easily. There are two leash attachments on the lift harness – a solid, metal V-ring and a webbing loop, placed directly in front and back of the handle. The harness comes equipped with reflective trim and a loop to attach a safety light  (beacon light sold separately.)

2. Best Budget – Pet Friendz Dog Lifting Harness for Rear Legs

Best Budget

Pet Friendz Dog Lifting Harness for Rear Legs

For an easy way to support your dog, the Pet Friendz dog lift harness functions as a sling.

$14.95

Buy on Amazon

When you need a quick or simple solution, our budget pick is the Pet Friendz Dog Lifting Harness for Rear Legs. Not considered a walking harness, this dog lift harness is similar to a DIY dog lift harness – creating a sling that’s placed under the dog’s midsection, like using a large towel. Since it’s not a walking harness, this option does not feature a leash attachment, straps, or buckles. It is, however, ideal for short-term needs like recovering from surgery.

Available in two sizes, the Pet Friendz sling harness features a cushioned lifting pad with long handles. The padding is softly lined, and the holding straps are adjustable in length to fit your height and reach. The sling harness is intended to support mostly your dog’s hind legs but can be used with a second sling to support the whole body.

3. Best Full-Body – Doggie Stylz Multi-Functional Full-Body Lifting Dog Harness Vest

Best Full-Body Dog Lift Harness

Doggie Stylz Multi-Functional Full-Body Lifting Dog Harness Vest

The Doggie Stylz full-body harness features a front and rear harness that connect together with buckled straps.

$47.99

Buy on Amazon

Our veterinarian advisor chose the Doggie Stylz Multi-Functional Full-Body Lifting Dog Harness Vest as the best full-body dog lift harness due to its versatility and coverage area. This full-body lift system can be used as a front harness only, rear harness only, or combined to make a full-body dog lift harness. The front harness and rear lift harness connect together via adjustable buckle straps, while the front and back handle help spread out pressure when lifting your dog.

Available in four sizes, the Doggie Stylz full-body harness features a padded chest piece that connects adjustable straps for the front of the harness. The rear lift harness has a padded underbelly strap to support the hind legs. With multiple points of adjustment throughout the full-body lift system, you can customize the fit to your dog. The harness features a top leash attachment so this dog lift harness can be used on walks.

4. Best Rear Lift – Walkabout Back End Harness

Best Dog Rear Lift Harness

Walkabout Back End Harness

The Walkabout rear lift harness for dogs is made from soft neoprene to provide top comfort for your dog’s back legs.

Buy on Amazon

If your dog only needs help with his hind end, a good dog lift harness for back legs offers full hind end support by gently lifting the hips to aid your dog in putting weight on the back legs. Our vet chose the Walkabout Back End Harness as the best dog rear lift harness, which features soft cushioned leg straps to safely, effectively, and comfortably hoist and support your dog’s hind quarters. Made with soft neoprene and extra padding for comfort, this dog rear lift harness is okay for extended wear but not for overnight.

Easy to put on and take off, the Walkabout rear lift harness features both Velcro and buckle closures to give your dog a snug fit. This rear lift harness is available in seven sizes and allows both males and females to urinate freely. The harness is, however, machine washable for when it needs to be cleaned. The long handles are also adjustable so you can match them to your preferred holding height.

5. Best for Large Dogs – Coodeo Dog Lift Harness

Best Large Dog Lift Harness

Coodeo Dog Lift Harness

The Coodeo lift harness offers multiple support points and covers a large portion of the body to help lift larger dogs.

$37.98

Buy on Amazon

When you need to help your large dog get around, you need a dog lift harness that can support a lot of weight. Our vet chose the Coodeo Dog Lift Harness as the best large dog lift harness because it supports the majority of the body at one time. This lifting harness is available in six sizes all the way up to extra and extra large for dogs weighing over 111 pounds. The handles are detachable, adjustable in length, and can be attached to a few different points on the harness, depending on what type of support your dog needs.

The Coodeo lift harness is made from a soft polyester material that’s breathable and comfortable for your dog. It’s okay for extended wear, but not recommended for overnight use. This body lift harness allows both females and males to urinate freely, but the harness is also hand-washable for when it needs cleaning. This harness also makes a good small dog lift harness, especially for long-bodied dogs like Corgis.

Additional Sources & Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit the best escape-proof dog harnesses, check out our series of posts:

• The best dog lift harness
• The best no-pull dog harness
• The best harnesses for huskies
• The best front clip dog harnesses
• The best puppy harnesses
• The best dog car harnesses
• The best step-in dog harness
• The Best Service Dog Harness

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

And our breed-specific harness guides:

• The best harness for German Shepherds
• The best Husky Harness
• The best Dachshund harness
• The best Chihuahua harness

The wrong harness, however, can cause all sorts of issues for you and your dog:

• A front-clip harness that doesn’t fit properly can allow your dog to escape and run away, run into the street, etc.
• Cheaply-made harnesses can be destroyed either by aggressive pullers or aggressive chewers.
• The wrong harness can make your dog extremely uncomfortable, or even injure your dog.

To help you avoid these pitfalls, we asked our veterinary advisor Dr. Jamie Whittenburg to review all of the leading front-clip harnesses on the market and share her top picks with our readers.

The Best Front-Clip Dog Harness

Dr. Whittenburg chose the JUXZH Soft Front Dog Harness as the top overall choice because of its comfort, durability, and adjustability (probably the top three concerns of most harness owners!).

Our Vet’s Top Pick

JUXZH Soft Front Dog Harness

Easily adjustable with multiple leash attachments and easy to come on and off.

$25.99

Buy on Amazon

While this is Dr. Whittenburg’s top pick, we also asked her to share tips for choosing the right front-clip harness, which owners should avoid front-clip harnesses for their dogs, as well as her top choice in harnesses for multiple specific use cases.

The 5 Best Front Clip Harnesses

• Best Overall – Truelove Soft Front Dog Harness
• Best Budget – PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness
• Best for Pulling – WINSEE Dog Harness
• Best Padded – Rabbitgoo Dog Harness
• Best Lightweight – PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness

Front-Clip Harnesses Compared

Below Dr. Whittenburg’s top picks. Compare the ratings and key features of each of the harnesses to decide which one is the best front clip harness for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Front Clip Harness

• Guiding Your Dog – Strictly speaking, most dog harnesses will have a front clip. The front clip is a good way to guide your dog and work on training them to follow your lead without having the impact on their neck and trachea that a collar can. Owners who are looking for that effect should get a front clip harness.
• Harness vs. Collar –  The biggest question in whether a front clip harness is the right choice for your dog is really whether you prefer a harness or a collar. There are varying schools of thought among trainers and veterinarians on collars vs. harnesses.
• You have a puller. Large, strong dogs can benefit from using a harness because they may be inclined to choke themselves or hurt their necks with a collar. Along the same lines, a small dog that’s a puller may be weaker in the neck area and pose risks with a collar that way.

Who Should Not Buy a Front Clip Harness

• Collar vs. Harness – The flip side is that many trainers feel that a collar is a better training tool for things like walking your dog. Dogs pulling aggressively on harnesses can also cause physical issues for dogs in similar ways to collars (just not around the neck). If you do opt for a collar and you’re not sure how tight the collar should be be sure to use our dog collar size chart to select the right-sized collar.

If you’re still on the fence in terms of whether to choose a harness, a collar, or a combination for your puppy below is a video overview from certified dog trainer, coach, and author Saro Boghozian:

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

And, if you are looking for a harness, below are some additional tips for making the right call from our vet advisor Dr. Whittenburg.

“It is always important to look for quality materials as well as ease of use. Clips that allow for easy on and off is important, as well as the ability to easily adjust the harness. Reflective material or stitching can be a good idea if you plan to walk your dog in the late evenings or early mornings. It is a good idea to consult other dog owners, and your veterinarian, and to read product reviews before purchasing.”

How Much Does a Front Clip Harness Cost?

Between $15 and $50

Front clip harnesses cost roughly $15 to $50, but most tend to run closer to the $15-30 range, depending on the style of harness, the size harness you’re buying, what material they’re made from, and what other functions the harness may feature.

Budget-friendly harnesses are a less-frills option that is typically still effective. A more expensive dog harness option often features tougher materials, pouches for storage, additional points of adjustment for a more customized fit, or maybe outfitted with a grab handle and extra leash attachments.

What to Watch For: How to Avoid Buying the Wrong Harness

I’ve spent hours analyzing and testing harnesses and reading reviews of various harnesses, and the three most common issues customers (myself included) tend to run into are:

• Fit – Harnesses can be tricky to get on and off of a dog, and finding one that fits your pup (then adjusting it accordingly) can be a major pain point for harness purchasers (fitting a collar to your dog’s neck is, by and large, a lot more straight forward). You can read more about how to select the right-sized harness for your dog in Dr. Jennifer Masucci’s post on the topic.
• Comfort – Many people complain that their dog’s chaff (literally and figuratively) at the wrong harness, so keep padding and fit in mind here.
• Quality – As with anything a top complaint is that the wrong harness may fray, or the leash attachments pull off easily.

You’ll see all of this in some of the cons and complaints for the harnesses reviewed below.

An important thing you’ll learn if you read reviews of any harness: the perfect harness for one pet parent is sometimes a terrible fit (literally and figuratively) for another dog.

Make sure you look carefully at the pros and cons of these models and pick the harness that’s the best fit for your dog.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

“When researching front clip dog harnesses, you first must determine your needs. Harnesses are good for dogs with collapsing trachea issues or neck injuries as they do not pull on the neck. However, even with a front clip, some dogs will pull in a harness. If you are planning to run with your dog, a lightweight, slimmer-fitting harness may be the best option. Other dogs may enjoy the comfort of a padded harness.” – Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM.

The Best Front Clip Harness Reviews

1. Best Overall – Truelove Soft Front Dog Harness

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Juxsh Soft Front Dog Harness

Easily adjustable with multiple leash attachments and easy to come on and off.

$25.99

Buy on Amazon

The Truelove Soft Front Dog Harness is our top pick overall if you’re looking for a front clip harness.

The harness doesn’t feel overly heavy or thick but does have a nice mesh lining on the inside of the harness as well as an aluminum alloy v ring and stainless steel o ring – an advantage over plastic leash attachments which can break or be ripped off more easily.

Overall the harness gets strong reviews:

But some of the negative reviewers mention specific issues with the harness, including:

• Fit – Multiple customers complained it was tough to get on their pup, was an awkward fit because the material was stiff, and one complained it chaffed the dog
• Durability – Multiple customers complained the harness broke (snapping when the dog ran on a lead in one instance) or the harness frayed after limited use.

All in all, if you’re looking for a harness with a front clip this will be a great fit for most dogs.

2. Best Budget – PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

Best Budget

PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness

The PoyPet no-pull dog harness is available in five sizes and is easy to put on.

$15.99

Buy on Amazon

The PoyPet No-Pull Dog Harness is our best budget pick.

It has 5 sizes and 26 (!) colors to choose from, and ranges from ~$15-$22 depending on the size and color you pick which is a very low-end range in terms of price.

Some fast facts:

• 5 sizes and many colors to pick from
• 4 adjustment points to ensure a good fit
• Lightweight
• Easy on/off buckles
• 2 leash attachments including on the front of the chest for no-pull training
• Reflective
• Stretchable straps and padded for comfort
• Top handle for extra control

Overall the harness gets solid reviews despite the lower price:

The negative reviews tend to center around a few core issues:

• The harness not fitting quite right, particularly for very large or very small dogs
• Not holding up after a few months to a year of use (particularly issues with the buckles)
• The “no pull” mechanism of the harness is easy for some dogs to circumvent

Here is a hands-on review of the harness:

As well as the PoyPet sizing chart (although do note some customers claimed to have issues with sizing even when following the size chart):

This is a great option for budget-conscious customers looking for a front clip harness.

3. Best for Pulling – WINSEE Dog Harness

Best for Pulling

WINSEE Dog Harness

The WINSEE Dog Harness is lined for comfort with padding and breathable mesh, and a D ring in the front of the harness to help deal with pulling.

$26.95

Buy on Amazon

The best harness for pulling is the WINSEE Dog Harness. It features a D-ring in the front of the harness to discourage pulling, as well as comfortable padding and breathable mesh and comes with a nylon collar as well.

This harness looks and feels a lot sturdier and more substantial than some of the other harnesses listed, and is in fact designed for larger (medium to large) dogs.

Complaints from customers who had issues with the harness included:

• Issues with the fit of the harness
• Issues with durability (the harness fraying after a few uses)
• The harness being too heavy (it is designed for larger dogs, so if your dog is smaller or large but thin or frail you may want to consider a different harness)

Here is an overview of the harness and how to put it on:

If you’re looking for a harness for a puller this is a strong, heavy option that may be a fit – particularly for larger dogs.

4. Best Padded – Rabbitgoo Dog Harness

Best Padded

Rabbitgoo Dog Harness

The Rabitgoo Dog Harness has multiple leash attachments including on the front of the chest which is perfect for no-pull dog training.

$21.98

Buy on Amazon

The best-padded front clip harness is the Rabbitgoo Dog Harness. The harness features multiple leash attachments as well as a top handle for extra control.

Some fast facts:

• 4 sizes
• 4 adjustment points to ensure a good fit
• 2 leash attachments including on the front of the chest for no-pull training
• Top handle for extra control
• Top and bottom panels padded for comfort
• Many colors to pick from
• Lightweight
• Easy on/off buckles
• Reflective

The Rabitgoo harness has relatively strong ratings for the price:

Customers who had issues with the harness had two common complaints:

• Durability – the harness wore quickly with the use
• Fit – multiple customers complained that their dog could wriggle out of the harness

Rabitgoo offers multiple videos to show you how to wear the harness:

As well as how to adjust the harness:

And here is a hands-on video review of the rabitgoo:

Personally, I’ve had a great experience with this harness for my 90-pound puppy. It’s an attractive harness with great padding and helpful attachments for training. It’s also reasonably priced, and while some customers have issues I and many others love it.

5. Best Lightweight – PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness

Best Lightweight

PetSafe 3 in 1 Dog Harness

PetSafe 3 in 1 Dog Harness has 5 sizes, 5 points of adjustment, and an excellent sizing guide making it a great adjustable harness option.

$29.95

Buy on Amazon

When a lightweight harness is your top priority, the best option is the PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness. It offers 5 sizes, 5 points of adjustment (more than most harnesses), and a helpful sizing guide so that you can pick the appropriate harness and adjust it accordingly for the life of its use. And of course: it’s incredibly light.

Some fast facts:

• Comes in x-small, small, medium, and large sizes. X-small fits dogs with a neck circumference of 9-14” and a girth of 13-19”
• 5 points of adjustment for a perfect fit
• Lightweight
• Excellent sizing guide available online
• Has a front leash attachment for no-pull training, as well as a standard leash attachment point on the back. Can use 2 point leash for hard-to-train puppies
• Has a handle on the back for extra control or to use as a seat belt attachment for safety in the car.
• Reflective
• Softly padded for comfort

The PetSafe harness is a much more lightweight harness that has relatively thin straps rather than material covering the dog’s chest. The straps have ample padding but obviously, the PetSafe harness won’t feel as robust as some of the other harnesses. That said the lightweight approach makes it much easier to get on and off and to adjust, which is a pain point for many of the other harnesses listed here and for harnesses in general.

The PetSafe harness has decent reviews for the price (but not as strong as other harnesses listed here):

Customers who had bad experiences with the harness mainly pointed to the harness fraying or wearing after limited use, and multiple customers with larger stronger dogs who were “runners” complained that the harness broke when their dog ran or pulled aggressively.

PetSafe offers a video overview of how to use the harness:

As well as how to fit it:

All in all, if you need a lightweight harness with a high rate of adjustability PetSafe is a good option.

Additional Sources & Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit the best escape-proof dog harnesses, check out our series of posts:

• The best step-in dog harness
• The best dog lift harness
• The best no-pull dog harness
• The best harnesses for huskies
• The best puppy harnesses
• The best dog car harnesses
• The Best Service Dog Harness

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

And our breed-specific harness guides:

• The best harness for German Shepherds
• The best Husky Harness
• The best Dachshund harness
• The best Chihuahua harness

Our vet advisor, Dr. Danielle Morosco chose the HPZ Pet Rover Premium Heavy Duty Pet Stroller Travel Carriage as the top pick because you get a lot in one dog stroller – durability, strength, space, comfort, storage, and more. This dog stroller holds dogs up to 75 pounds and allows easy entry and exit to and from the pet cabin.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

HPZ Pet Rover Premium Heavy Duty Pet Stroller Travel Carriage

The HPZ dog stroller holds up to 75 pounds and works on all terrains.

$256.86

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Morosco’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best dog stroller for your pup, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best strollers for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Dog Strollers

1. Best Overall – HPZ Pet Rover Premium Heavy Duty Pet Stroller Travel Carriage
2. Best Budget – BestPet 3 Wheels Pet Stroller
3. Best for Large Dogs – Pet Gear NO-Zip Pet Stroller with Dual Entry
4. Best Double – Ibiyaya Double Pet Strollers for Dogs and Cats
5. Best All-Terrain – Petique All-Terrain Jogger-Blazin’ Berry Pet Stroller

Dog Strollers Compared

Here are the top choices from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and key features of each model.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Dog Stroller

• Your dog is elderly and slowing down. As our dogs get older, they may not be able to walk as far or move as fast as they used to. But they still need adequate time outside to enjoy the fresh air. If your pooch is growing on in the years, consider a dog stroller to help enhance your older dog’s life.
• Your dog is recovering from surgery or an injury. Maybe your pooch has had surgery or is scheduled to. Perhaps he tweaked his knee or leg playing too hard or is arthritic. A dog stroller allows your injured or ailing dog to see the outdoors in a safe manner.
• Your dog has little legs and can’t walk far. Tiny dogs that weigh less than 10 pounds usually are unable to walk long distances. Their tiny little legs work faster than yours in a short distance. Dog strollers help the little guys enjoy the out-of-doors more frequently.
• You would like to bring your dog with you but it’s a long distance or rough terrain to walk. Many dogs can walk miles with us, but sometimes the terrain isn’t appropriate for their paws. Or maybe you can walk a lot further than they can. Even the most in-shape dog may need a ride back to your home.
• You need a travel crate. Dogs are not meant to travel inside a dog stroller inside your vehicle, but if you need a convenient way to safely transport your dogs – such as around a park, dog show, or agility event – then a dog stroller just might be the way to go.
• You are unable to walk far or are injured yourself. Though your dog needs adequate exercise, a dog stroller is also an option for folks who are physically unable to walk long distances or are injured themselves. A dog stroller gives you and your dog the chance to spend casual time together outside without the fear of you getting dragged by your pulling pooch or further injured by quick movements.

Dog strollers help both humans and canines. Other pet accessories that help enhance the health of our furry friends include ramps, stairs, crates, and gates. Whether your pooch is getting up in there for years or temporarily needs help accessing the couch, bed, or nearby tree, mobility aids help our dogs enjoy longer, higher-quality lives.

Who Should Not Buy a Dog Stroller

• Your dog is young, active, and healthy. More than likely you would never need a dog stroller if your pooch is young and active, and healthy to boot. It still might come in handy, though, should she injure herself at any point.
• You have a very large dog. The largest dog strollers support up to 150 pounds, but some large dogs are either too long or too tall to fit comfortably in the pet cabin. If you can’t find a dog stroller spacious and supportive enough to safely fit your pooch, do not get one.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

As a veterinarian, I often get asked how to choose a good dog stroller. Here are some tips and best practices to consider when purchasing a dog stroller. Be sure to do adequate research on the product you’re considering purchasing, look for key features, and ask your friends, family, or veterinarian if they have any recommendations on strollers for dogs.

1. Look for dog strollers that are appropriate for your needs and the size of your dog – Different strollers serve different purposes. Some feature an adjustable handlebar, which helps customize the stroller to your height. There are single- and double-cabin pet strollers, as well as regular and jogging strollers. Jogging strollers typically have more features specific to the act of jogging than those meant only for leisurely walks or vet visits. Know the appropriate amount of space for your dog to comfortably lie down inside the pet cabin. Compare that measurement to the interior measurements given for each stroller. Measure your dog when he’s sitting as well, and look for a pet cabin that is at least 4 inches taller than your pup sitting. Also, consider the most common way your dog likes to relax and be sure the pet cabin allows for those dimensions.
2. Choose a dog stroller with safety features – Look for a dog stroller that has front or rear brakes, as well as wheel locks. Other safety features include interior tethers, multiple entries, and reflectors.
3. Consider dog strollers with durable mesh windows – Dog strollers should have adequate mesh coverings to provide sufficient airflow and ventilation for your pooch. Mesh windows in the front, back, and top are optimal. This is especially important in warmer weather.
4. Avoid plastic tires – Choose a dog stroller that has air-, foam-, or gel-filled tires. These types of tires fair better on uneven terrains, such as gravel, dirt, or cracked pavement.
5. Look for a dog stroller that’s easy to handle and store – When assembled and fully open, a dog stroller is not very small. Strollers are sometimes large and clunky, but many fold easily with just one hand and store out of the way in tight spots. Consider getting a dog stroller you can handle easily and either store in a closet or your car.

How Much Do They Cost?

$75 to $250

Dog strollers range in price anywhere from $30 to upward of $500, but the average price for a dog stroller is around $75 to $250. More elaborate dog strollers, often featuring a removable pet cabin or an additional carrying crate, can go for hundreds to thousands of dollars. They usually come with more features and are quite durable. Less expensive dog strollers have fewer features and are usually made with lesser-quality materials.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pets Digest

Using what I’ve learned in the veterinary profession and from personal experience, I selected the top five dog strollers based on several factors, such as reliability, durability, safety, and other useful features, like the tires, material used, and storage options. It’s important to research the type of dog stroller you want and needs to use to ensure you and your dog are happy and safe. – Dr. Danielle Morosco

The Best Dog Stroller Reviews

1. Best Overall – HPZ Pet Rover Premium Heavy Duty Pet Stroller Travel Carriage

Our Vet’s Top Pick

HPZ Pet Rover Premium Heavy Duty Pet Stroller Travel Carriage

The HPZ dog stroller holds up to 75 pounds and works on all terrains..

$256.86

Buy on Amazon

The HPZ Pet Rover Premium Heavy Duty Pet Stroller Travel Carriage offers a range of features, making it the top choice for best dog strollers. Holding up to 75 pounds, this dog stroller features a zipperless entry. The rubber tires are considered pump- and flat-free, and are filled with foam, which helps absorb vibrations and shock. Good for all-terrain, the stroller has front and rear brakes, and a 360-degree front-wheel swivel that also locks in place.

Available in multiple colors, such as midnight blue, blue, and red, the HPZ dog stroller has an oval steel frame, which creates a durable and strong stroller that is resistant to bending. The stroller’s pet cabin converts from 13 inches to 30 inches long, and is 16 inches wide, 40 inches high, and weighs 23 pounds. Due to the one-hand folding capability, reversible, cushioned handle bar, and convertible pet compartment, the dog stroller is easy to use and becomes compact for storing.

The HPZ stroller features a weather-resistant canopy that can be situated at three different angles. The pet cabin is surrounded by wide, mesh windows for proper ventilation and airflow. This unit features an under-carriage storage area, three storage pockets, two washable interior pads, two inside pet safety tethers, a cup holder, and a stepping board or food tray.

2. Best Budget – BestPet 3 Wheels Pet Stroller

Best Budget

BestPet 3 Wheels Pet Stroller

A budget-friendly dog stroller option is the BestPet 3 Wheels Pet Stroller, which is lightweight and made for small dogs..

$26.97

Buy on Amazon

For a budget-friendly dog stroller, our vet advisor chose the BestPet 3 Wheels Pet Stroller for small dogs. Available in multiple colors, this dog stroller is lightweight, weighing only 11 pounds, and measures about 30 inches by 17 inches by 38 inches. The unit features a large under-carriage storage area so you can conveniently cart around your dog’s things. The dog stroller collapses, folding for simple storage.

The BestPet pet stroller is waterproof with a breathable mesh front cover. There’s also a window on top of the canopy so you can see your pet inside the cabin area. The interior features a removable liner for easy cleaning, and the unit contains a cup holder for your drink to help you stay hydrated. The BestPet dog stroller features rear brakes and the front double-wheel swivels 360 degrees. The company offers a 3-month warranty.

3. Best for Large Dogs – Pet Gear NO-Zip Pet Stroller with Dual Entry

Best for Large Dogs

Pet Gear NO-Zip Pet Stroller with Dual Entry

The Pet Gear Pet Stroller suits larger dogs with an easy step-in and step-out dual entry and exit.

$414.94

Buy on Amazon

Larger dogs up to 150 pounds would do well with the Pet Gear NO-Zip Pet Stroller with Dual Entry, according to our vet, Dr. Danielle Morosco. This unit features two ways for your big dog to get in and out, eliminating the need for lifting him up or down from the stroller. It also reduces potential risk for your elderly or injured pooch from turning around inside the cabin just to get out. The front of the dog stroller opens upward, and the rear of the stroller opens outward like a door. Easier for you, the stroller has a push-button, zipperless entry and an adjustable handle that allows you to maneuver the bar to fit your height.

Available in multiple colors, the Pet Gear NO-Zip Pet Stroller measures 22 inches wide, 32 inches deep, and 23 inches high. It weighs roughly 26 pounds but folds easily for storage. The stroller is equipped with rear brakes, swivel wheels, and two interior safety tethers. To keep with proper ventilation and airflow, the dog stroller is also outfitted with mesh windows, including a top viewing window so you can see your pet inside the cabin. The stroller also has a tray and cup holder for your convenience.

4. Best Double – Ibiyaya Double Pet Strollers for Dogs and Cats

Best Double

Ibiyaya Double Pet Strollers for Dogs and Cats

The Ibiyaya Double Pet Stroller gives you the opportunity to take multiple dogs or cats with you using two separate pet seats.

Buy on Amazon

When you need or want to bring along multiple pets at once, consider a double-pet stroller. The Ibiyaya Double Pet Strollers for Dogs and Cats was ranked by our vet advisor as the best double dog stroller because there’s an upper and lower pet cabin area to accommodate multiple dogs or dogs who prefer to remain separated and have their own space. The upper pet cabin supports up to 13 pounds, while the lower pet cabin supports up to 33 pounds.

For multiple entries or exits, the Ibiyaya dog stroller features a top, front, and rear window opening, equipped with breathable mesh for adequate airflow. The stroller’s canopy is outfitted with a roll-up curtain that covers the front window for more privacy. The stroller is 19 inches wide, and the top cabin is 9 inches high while the bottom cabin is just under 12 inches high. Each pet cabin comes with two interior safety tethers.

This dog stroller has wheels that swivel 360 degrees and the back tires are equipped with a locking system. Weighing under 15 pounds and measuring 39 inches tall, the Ibiyaya Double Dog Stroller folds into a more compact unit using just one hand. The dog stroller features rear brakes, a rear pocket for extra pet accessory storage, padded lining for comfort, and a tray with dual cup holders for your convenience.

5. Best All-Terrain – Petique All-Terrain Jogger-Blazin’ Berry Pet Stroller

Best All-Terrain

Petique All Terrain Jogger-Blazin’ Berry Pet Stroller

Sturdier than the average dog stroller, the Petique All Terrain Jogger Pet Stroller features large bike wheels and a dual-wheel braking system.

$359.95

Buy on Amazon

Dr. Danielle Morosco chose the Petique All Terrain Jogger-Blazin’ Berry Pet Stroller as the best all-terrain dog stroller thanks to the large bike tires. Helpful in absorbing shock from uneven terrain, this dog stroller can also attach to your bicycle for a pup ride-along. The front tire is detachable so you can hook it up to your bike. Supporting dogs up to 60 pounds, this dog stroller features one front bike wheel and two large back bike wheels, complete with a dual-wheel braking system.

The Petique dog stroller’s cushioned handlebar is adjustable to your choice of angled positions so you can find your preferred handle height. The unit is available in two colors, folds flat for easy storage, and is outfitted with two large storage pockets, a removable and washable fabric interior, and mesh window openings. The dog stroller also has a rear viewing window, allowing you to peer inside the pet cabin and multiple entries or exits for your pooch’s convenience. For night safety, the stroller is accented with reflectors.

Weighing just under 25 pounds, the Petique All Terrain Pet Stroller measures 30 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 35 inches high. The pet cabin measures 16 inches by 24 inches and has three adjustable safety tethers.

One thing that’s very quickly evident as you look into different types of harnesses is that not every dog harness is good for every kind of breed. Getting a harness that’s wrong for your dog (but may be right for another breed) can lead to major issues like serious health concerns, your dog slipping out of the harness, or the harness needing to be replaced shortly after you buy it.

For that reason, we’re creating a series of breed-specific dog harness guides like our guide to choosing the best Husky harness.

For this guide, we asked our veterinary advisor, Dr. Danielle Morosco, to recommend the best harness for a German Shepherd.

Our pick for the best German Shepherd harness is the ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness

A 1,000-pound load-tested buckle, tough stitching, and tough materials.

$27.37

Buy on Amazon

In addition to getting her pick for the best harness overall, we also asked her to choose some alternative options in case you want to solve some specific problems for your personal GS.

The 5 Best German Shepherd Harnesses

• Best Overall – The Tactical Harness by ICEFANG
• Best Budget – The SlowTon No Pull Dog Harness
• Best Heavy Duty – The Auroth Tactical Dog Harness
• Best No Pull – BUMBIN Tactical Dog Harness
• Best for Miniature & Puppies – The PHOEPET Upgraded No Pull Dog Harness

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know everything you need to know to find the perfect harness for your German Shepherd.

Harnesses Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy These Harnesses

• People with German Shepherds – If you’re the pet parent of a German Shepherd, you need a sturdy harness. They are very powerful dogs and generally tend to be large when full grown, so you’ll want to have complete control over your dog during walks.
• Folks who want to take their dog on hikes – The hiking trails of America are full of natural dangers like wild animals, poisonous plants, steep cliffs, and issues navigating. The harnesses on this list offer a safe way to take your German Shepherd into the wilderness.
• Families with similar dogs – While these are the best harnesses for German Shepherds, they’re not breed specific. If you have multiple dogs or have a friend with a breed that’s a similar size and strength to German Shepherds who are interested in a harness these may be good options.

Who Should Not Buy a Husky Harness

• People with small dogs – While we do have an option on the list for German Shepherd puppies and Miniature German Shepherds, most of these options are designed for larger, stronger dogs. If you have a smaller / slight dog, you’ll likely want to look at different harness options.
• People who prefer collars – While many pup parents swear by harnesses, others strongly prefer collars. The right choice for you will depend on your dog’s behavior and which option they find more comfortable.

If you haven’t made a final call on harnesses versus collars, we recommend checking out this video on the subject from veterinarian Dr. Gary Richter:

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

What to look for and what to avoid in choosing a harness for your German Shepherd:

• When looking for a harness for any dog, it is important to keep your dog’s size and energy level in mind. This will impact whether a no-pull harness is a priority, and how sturdy you need the harness materials to need to be.
• You also need to look for harnesses that have strong, durable material and attachment hooks and MOLLE material if wanting to carry gear.
• If looking for a heavy-duty harness, avoid harnesses that do not have buckles. Some harnesses only have Velcro as an attachment style which can be a problem for large, strong breeds like German Shepherds so keep that in mind.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $18 and $35

For the German Shepherd harnesses recommended here, you can expect to pay between $18 and $35. At the lower end of this price range, you’ll find smaller harnesses and/or harnesses with less expensive materials. Higher-end harnesses will tend to be more comfortable, durable, and stylish.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

I’ve evaluated these harnesses based on my professional experience as a veterinarian combined with product feature considerations. The quality of each harness was determined by considering the materials, hardware, adjustability, and overall design. German Shepherds can be escape artists, so it’s essential that their harnesses are made from quality materials and can be adjusted for a precise fit! – Dr. Morosco

The Best German Shepherd Harness Reviews

1. Best Overall – ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness

Our Vet’s Top Pick

ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness

A 1,000-pound load-tested buckle, tough stitching and tough materials.

$27.37

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This tactical dog harness by ICEFANG is perfect for holding all of your essential gear while out on patrol. Made from lightweight aluminum and tough stitching, it can handle anything you and your dog might encounter. The Molle system allows you to attach additional pouches and gear as needed, while the two straps make it easy to put on and take off.

There are a number of video reviews of the harness if you want to see it in action and get some different perspectives. Here is one:

Here is another:

And a third:

2. Best Budget – The SlowTon No Pull Dog Harness

Best Budget

SlowTon No Pull Dog Harness, Heavy Duty No Choke Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips and Easy Control Vertical Handle, Adjustable Soft Padded Dog Vest for Small, Medium and Large Dogs(Black,Large)

A sturdy, inexpensive harness with a range of features.

$22.99

Buy on Amazon

The SlowTon No Pull Dog Harness is an ergonomic, comfortable, and secure way to control your dog while walking. The harness features a unique patented design that helps prevent your dog from pulling. This harness is made of 100% polyester, scratch-resistant Oxford mesh fabric and soft sponge which makes it lightweight and breathable. It has 4 adjustable straps and 2 quick snap buckles allowing for easier on and off. The double locking buckles are designed to strengthen the security of the harness by preventing dogs from backing out of them or slipping out when tugging against them

3. Best Heavy Duty – The Auroth Tactical Dog Harness

Best Heavy Duty

Auroth Tactical Dog Harness

Highly durable, Molle sewn harness built for large, strong dogs.

$24.99

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The Auroth Tactical Dog Harness is perfect for those who love the great outdoors. This harness is made with 900D Nylon and sturdy stitching for extra durability. It has 4 fully adjustable straps to ensure a comfortable, customized fit for your dog. The Molle Sewn on both sides of the harness allows your dog to carry gear, making it the perfect accessory for your next hike or camping trip.

If you want to see the harness in action and get another perspective, here is a video review:

As well as an unboxing of the product:

And Auroth has put out videos of their own including a video overview:

And a fit guide:

4. Best No Pull – BUMBIN Tactical Dog Harness

Best No Pull

BUMBIN Tactical Dog Harness

Several attachments to help with a variety of pulling issues for your pup.

$16.98

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BUMBIN Tactical Dog Harness is a well-made and comfortable harness for your dog. Made of high quality nylon and metal, it can be used for daily walking or training in the field. The padded chest plate provides extra comfort to your dog while wearing this harness. The leash attachment points are reinforced with heavy duty metal rings, which will not break off easily like other plastic rings do. It also has hook & loop panels on both sides of the harness so you can freely choose patches or badges to show your dog’s personality!

5. Best for Miniature & Puppies – The PHOEPET Upgraded No Pull Dog Harness

Best Small

PHOEPET Upgraded No Pull Dog Harness

A small but sturdy harness well-suited for strong-but-small miniature or puppy German Shepherds.

$47.95

Buy on Amazon

The PHOEPET Upgraded No Pull Dog Harness is a brand-new dog harness from PHOEPET. It is an upgraded version of the original. The upgraded version features multiple strong buckles with high-quality Oxford material and breathable mesh to ensure your pet’s comfort. Our dog harnesses are fully adjustable, easy to put on/off, and fit for dogs between 7-12 pounds (3-5 kg) or chest girth 17″-28″ (43cm

Additional Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit the best escape-proof dog harnesses, check out our series of posts:

• The best dog lift harness
• The best no-pull dog harness
• The best harnesses for huskies
• The best front clip dog harnesses
• The best puppy harnesses
• The best dog car harnesses
• The best step-in dog harness
• The Best Service Dog Harness
• The best Dachshund harness
• The best Chihuahua harness

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

Having a dog who won’t sit still and wants to move from seat to seat (at any size) can be a danger to the driver, everyone in the car, and the dog itself.

A dog harness can be a great solution to this problem, but choosing the right one can be difficult. Obviously, the stakes are higher for a dog car harness than some other purchases as you want the harness to be appropriately tested, durable, and to be comfortable for your dog.

For that reason, we asked our veterinary advisor Dr. Jamie Whittenburg (who created our free course on raising a healthy puppy, some of the insights from which you can also find in our free new puppy checklist) to review each of the top dog cars harnesses on the market.

Dr. Whittenburg chose the VavoPaw Dog Vehicle Safety Vest Harness as the best overall choice due to the durability of the materials, the security of the clasps and attachments, and the versatility of the fit with different types of vehicles.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

VavoPaw Dog Vehicle Safety Vest Harness, Adjustable Soft Padded Mesh Car Seat Belt Leash Harness with Travel Strap and Carabiner for Most Cars, Size Extra Large, Black

Wide chest strap, secure harness, easy on and off, with good durability and attachment options.

$23.99

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Whittenburg’s top pick, in this article she’ll also share her tips for choosing the right car harness, which dogs shouldn’t use a car harness, and make her recommendation for the best models for a variety of purposes.

The 5 Best Dog Car Harnesses

1. Best Overall – VavoPaw Dog Vehicle Safety Vest Harness
2. Best Budget – Lukovee Dog Safety Vest Harness
3. Best for Small Dogs – the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Safety Harness for Cars
4. Best for Large Dogs – Kurgo Car Harness for Dogs
5. Best for Escape Artists – Mighty Paw Car Dog Harness

Regardless of your dog’s specific needs, you’ll leave this post with all the information you’ll need to make an informed decision about where your pup and car harnesses are concerned.

Car Harnesses Compared

Below are Dr. Whittenburg’s top picks. Compare the ratings and key features of each of the harnesses to decide which one is the best car harness for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Dog Car Harness

• Owners of Well-Behaved Dogs – Car harnesses are good for keeping well-behaved dogs fastened into their seats
• Owners of Small Dogs – As you’ll see in this post there are harnesses that will be a good fit for smaller dogs.
• Owners of Large Dogs – Similarly harnesses can also fit large dogs, provided they’re well-behaved and unlikely to have issues with being strapped into a harness.

Who Should Not Buy a Dog Car Harness

• Owners of Anxious Fidgety Dogs – Dogs that will be anxious and do not want to be tied down in the car (particularly larger, stronger dogs) may have issues with a car harness.
• Owners Who Prefer Other Options – Alternatives to a car harness include bringing your dog in a crate or carrier, car barriers, and car guards. If any of these would be a better fit for your pup, you obviously shouldn’t buy a car harness.

While a bit dated, this video is a very good overview of some of the hazards you’ll want to consider regarding dog car harnesses:

And, if you are looking for a car harness, below are some additional tips for making the right call from our vet advisor Dr. Whittenburg.

“Car dog harnesses should be made out of high-quality, durable materials. The fabric should be soft and breathable for your dog’s comfort. Depending on your car, you will want to ensure that the harness has the attachment sites that will work. A harness with multiple adjustment points may be the best choice for oddly shaped dogs to ensure a good fit.”

How Much Does a Dog Car Harness Cost?

Between $15 and $35

Dog car harnesses cost roughly $15 to $35, but most tend to run closer to the $20-30 range, depending on the style of harness, the size harness you’re buying, and what material they’re made from.

Budget-friendly harnesses are a less-frills option that is typically still effective. A more expensive dog harness option often features tougher materials, additional points of adjustment for a more customized fit, or may have extra attachment options.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

“Safety and security are the most important features we looked for in a car dog harness. It is also important to ensure comfort and a good fit so in reviewing and testing these harnesses that are the focus. This is an important decision, so I’d also encourage you to speak to your veterinarian, and other dog owners, and read the product reviews here for guidance.” – Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM.

The Best Dog Car Harness Reviews

1. Best Overall – VavoPaw Dog Vehicle Safety Vest Harness

Our Vet’s Top Pick

VavoPaw Dog Vehicle Safety Vest Harness, Adjustable Soft Padded Mesh Car Seat Belt Leash Harness with Travel Strap and Carabiner for Most Cars, Size Extra Large, Black

Wide chest strap, secure harness, easy on and off, with good durability and attachment options.

$23.99

Buy on Amazon

The VavoPaw Dog Vehicle Safety Vest Harness is our top pick overall if you’re looking for a dog car harness.

The harness looks and feels very sturdy, has a thick strap, and a number of adjustments with easy implementation to make sure your dog is safe and comfortable.

Overall the harness gets relatively strong reviews (though not as good as the Might Paw harness mentioned shortly):

The negative reviewers mention specific issues with the harness, including:

• Fit – Multiple owners of large dogs complained that the vest runs small and the typical sizing for their dog didn’t fit.
• Plastic Clasp – The harness does not offer any crash test certifications, and multiple users complained the clasp broke.
• Large Dogs – Generally feedback was negative from owners of larger dogs, so our recommendation of the Kurgo for larger dogs (below) may be a better fit if you have a big dog.

All in all if you’re looking for a car harness for your dog this will be a great fit for most dogs.

2. Best Budget – Lukovee Dog Safety Vest Harness

Best Budget

Lukovee Dog Safety Vest Harness with Seatbelt, Dog Car Harness Seat Belt Adjustable Pet Harnesses Double Breathable Mesh Fabric with Car Vehicle Connector Strap for Dog (Large, Blue)

Elastic safety seat belt with a quick-release buckle and a harness that fits the dog’s body to protect the neck.

$15.99

Buy on Amazon

The Lukovee Dog Safety Vest Harness is our best budget pick.

It feels relatively lightweight but does have some padding and breathable mesh. The buckles are very easy to unfasten and adjustable and relatively easy to fasten to the seat and adjust.

Overall the harness gets strong reviews (only the Might Paw reviews are better) despite the lower price:

The negative reviews tend to center around a few core issues:

• Dogs (particularly smaller dogs) slipping out of the harness
• The harness breaking (particularly with the attachment breaking)

All in all, this is a great option for budget-conscious customers looking for a car harness.

3. Best for Small Dogs – PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Safety Harness for Cars

Best for Small Dogs

PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Safety Harness for Cars – Dog Car Harness Includes Seat Belt Tether – Keeps Pets Restrained – Breathable Mesh, Adjustable Straps – Dog Travel Accessories for Car – Small

Crash test certified harness with a tailored fit, padding, and breathable mesh for small dogs.

$22.99

Buy on Amazon

The best car harness for small dogs is the PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Safety Harness for Cars.

This harness is crash tested and looks and feels a lot sturdier and more substantial than some of the other harnesses listed, with a strong-feeling clasp and thick padding for the harness itself.

Ratings for the PetSafe harness are the lowest of those listed here with poor scores for stretch and easy to use particularly:

Complaints from customers who had issues with the harness included:

• Issues with the fit of the harness (both being difficult to fit, and the harness chafing or injuring the dog when in an accident)
• Issues with durability (the harness breaking down after use)
• While this model was crash tested a previous version of the same harness from the same harness did fail an independent crash test

PetSafe offers an overview video on how to install the harness which also lets you see it in action:

If you’re looking for a car harness for a smaller dog this is the best option.

4. Best for Large Dogs – Kurgo Car Harness for Dogs

Best for Large Dogs

Kurgo Car Harness for Dogs

The Kurgo car harness has been crash tested for safety, tested for dogs up to 75 pounds, and has a dog tether as well as 5 adjustment points for a comfortable fit.

$39.95

Buy on Amazon

The best car harness for large dogs is the Kurgo Car Harness for Dogs.

This is a substantial feeling harness that seems sturdy as you pick it up with multiple metal attachments and thick padding that feels a bit heavier than some of the other models as you pick it up.

The Kurgo harness is similar to the other harnesses in ratings (lower than the Mighty Paw but higher than the PetSafe harness):

Customers who had issues with the harness had two common complaints:

• Durability – The harness wore relatively quickly with the use
• Fit – Multiple customers complained that they had issues with unusually shaped dogs having a difficult time finding a fit

Kurgo has an overview video that lets you see the harness on a dog in action:

All in all, for larger dogs this is a great option for a car harness.

5. Best for Escape Artists – Mighty Paw Car Dog Harness

Best for Escape Artists

Mighty Paw Car Dog Harness, Vehicle Safety Harness with Adjustable Straps and Soft Padding, Doubles as a Standard Harness with a No Pull Front Leash Attachment

The best-rated of our top harnesses, the Might Paw harness is lightweight and has an easy over-the-head application.

$25.99

Buy on Amazon

The Mighty Paw Car Dog Harness is our top pick for “escape artists.”

It is much smaller and lighter-feeling than some of the other options as you pick it up. It has metal hardware and some additional straps with a design unique to this list to keep wigglers fastened in as you drive.

The Mighty Paw harness has the best reviews of all of our top harnesses:

Customers who had bad experiences with the harness mainly pointed to the harness being difficult to fit their dog, or that the harness frayed easily.

Might Paw has a series of helpful videos you can check out both to see the harness in action as well as to find out how to measure your dog for the right-sized harness.

A video overview is here:

A video overview of how to latch the harness and seat belt:

As well as this overview on how to measure your dog to get the right fit:

All in all, if you are looking for a highly-rated car harness for your escape-prone pup this is your best bet.

Additional Sources & Resources

For more on dog harnesses, including everything from how to measure your dog for a harness and how a dog harness should fit the best escape-proof dog harnesses, check out our series of posts:

• The best step-in dog harness
• The best dog lift harness
• The best no-pull dog harness
• The best harnesses for huskies
• The Best Puppy Harnesses
• The Best Front Clip Harness
• The Best Service Dog Harness

And our individual harness reviews:

• The Ruffwear Webmaster Dog Harness review
• The Icefang Tactical Dog Harness review
• The Gooby Dog Harness (escape free sport) review
• The Ruffwear front-range dog harness review
• The Rabbitgoo Escape Proof Dog Harness review

And our breed-specific harness guides:

• The best harness for German Shepherds
• The best Husky Harness
• The best Dachshund harness
• The best Chihuahua harness

• Sizing for your dog’s comfort (and so they don’t slip out of the collar), particularly if they’re a puppy that may grow.
• Durability to make sure the dog doesn’t escape the collar and to make sure you’re not purchasing a new one
• Price since you’re probably spending plenty on things like dog treadmills or high-fiber dog food or whatever

And even more – lots to consider!

For that reason, we tested and asked our veterinary advisor Dr. Jennifer Coates to review the top dog collars on the market.

Dr. Coates chose the Made to ROAM Premium Dog Collar as the best overall dog collar.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Made to ROAM Premium Dog Collar – Adjustable Heavy Duty Nylon Collar with Quick-Release Metal Buckle (Florida Seaside, Size 3)

Made to ROAM Premium Dog Collar is a double-layered adjustable collar.

Buy on Amazon

While this was Dr. Coates’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best dog collar for your pup, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best collar for a variety of specific use cases.

The 5 Best Dog Collars

1. Best Overall – ROAM Premium Dog Collar
2. Best Budget – Joytale Reflective Dog Collar
3. Most Comfortable – Black Rhino
4. Best Body Collar – RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness
5. Best Tracking Collar – Fi Smart Dog Collar

Dog Collars Compared

Below are Dr. Coates’s top picks. Compare the ratings and key features of each of the collars to decide which one is the best collar for your dog.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Dog Collar?

• If you’re training a dog and believe that a collar is the best tool for teaching a dog to follow your lead on walks, a dog collar will be a fit for you and your dog.
• If your dog will have issues with a harness (which can be hard on the back and chest, or for some dogs can be difficult to fit and/or to get onto the dog) then a collar is a good fit for your dog

Who Should Not Buy One?

• The major concerns about collars are typically that they’re tough on a dog’s neck and trachea – if you have concerns here and have a dog who is a puller, a dog harness may be a better bet (we have a series of guides on choosing the right harness for your pup as well).

If you’re not sure about whether a collar or harness is right for your dog, this is a great video from veterinarian Dr. Gary Richter:

And, if you are settled on a collar for your dog, below are some additional tips for making the right call from our vet advisor Dr. Coates.

“Collars are essential dog gear, but the right one depends on a dog’s lifestyle and personal needs. All collars should be fitted correctly for comfort and so that a dog can’t easily slip it off.

Attachments for an identification tag and leash (ideally separate) are standard. Plastic buckles will work for many dogs, but metal buckles are sturdier and last longer.

Some dogs need a body collar or harness in addition to a collar when they’re out for walks, hikes, etc. They are especially helpful for dogs who have a tendency to pull or might need some help getting over obstacles since pressure is distributed around the dog’s body rather than across the neck.

Purchasing a dog tracking collar is a good idea if your dog is an escape artist or you let your dog roam off-leash. GPS collars work at much greater distances than do those that rely on a Bluetooth signal.

Talk to friends and family who have purchased dog collars to learn what types have worked well for them. Your veterinarian or dog trainer can also point to any features that might be ideal based on your dog’s specific needs. Closely read product descriptions to avoid unpleasant surprises. Looking at customer reviews posted on trusted sources can give you an idea of how satisfied pet parents are with their purchase.”

Additionally two other resources you may find helpful: Dr. Coates also developed a great dog collar size chart for us and veterinary advisor Dr. Jennifer Masucci provided an in-depth answer to the question how tight should a dog collar be?

We also created a breed-specific dog collar guide for Poodles if you have a Poodle at home.

How Much Does a Dog Collar Cost?

Between $9 and $150

Dog collars cost roughly $9 to $150, but most tend to run closer to the $15-25 range, depending on the style and the size collar you’re buying, and what material they’re made from. Obviously whether the collar is a GPS / smart collar makes the biggest impact on price, with those collars being at the top of this range (and standard collars falling more in the 10-30 dollar range).

Budget-friendly collars are typically a less-frills option that are still effective but may not be as durable or have some of the specific features you’re looking.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

At Pet News Daily we test the products we recommend, and we have a licensed veterinarian hand pick every product we recommend. Here’s a note from Dr. Coates, the vet who chose the list for this post, on her process for selecting the best products:

“Comfort and security are the most important features to look for in a dog collar. When we test products we look for comfort and security, even in selecting the best budget options. If you have questions beyond what’s covered in this post, I suggest speaking to your veterinarian, other dog owners, and reading the product reviews for guidance.” – Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM.

The Best Dog Collar Reviews

1. Best Overall – Made to ROAM Premium Dog Collar

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Made to ROAM Premium Dog Collar

A heavy duty double wrapped nylon collar with metal buckles.

Buy on Amazon

The Made to ROAM Premium Dog Collar is the best overall dog collar according to Dr. Coates.

This is by far the thickest and sturdiest-feeling collar on the list. The fact that it has double straps and metal buckles makes it feel very sturdy.

Overall the collar gets very strong reviews (tied for the best among the collars listed here):

We’ve analyzed reviews from many dog products and the reviews for the top dog collars overall are among the best we’ve come across.

The negative reviewers centered around two issues:

• Most negative reviewers complained that the collar comes unclipped or pops open
• Some complained about the weight and size of the collar

That said many customers are very happy with the quality of materials and the collar as a whole, and we’d recommend this collar even more highly than the standard reviews.

2. Best Budget – Joytale Reflective Dog Collar

Best Budget

Joytale Reflective Dog Collar

A breathable, light reflective collar.

$8.99

Buy on Amazon

The Joytale Reflective Dog Collar is our best budget pick.

The collar feels very light and the colors available are very bright when you see the collar in person. While the collar feels light it still has some padding and doesn’t feel flimsy when you pick it up.

Here’s a quick video overview of how to use the collar that will let you see it on a dog:

Overall despite the low price the collar gets very strong ratings (tied for the best of those mentioned in this post):

The negative reviews tend to center around two core issues:

• Most common complaints were around the collar not fitting
• Some complaints were around the durability of the collar and issues with the collar being chewed by a dog and the clasp not working

That said these are the most common complaints about collars we’ve seen after reviewing tons of negative customer reviews. All in all this is a good option for budget-conscious customers looking for a dog collar.

3. Best for Comfort – Black Rhino

Best for Comfort

Black Rhino

Neoprene padded collar with reflective stitching.

$21.99

Buy on Amazon