The Best Dog Harness To Stop Pulling [2022]

A dog that pulls on its leash can be a nightmare when you are on a walk or running with it. It is even worse when the dog pulling is one of the large breeds which is known for its strength and weight. You end up tripping and falling if the dog is too strong, or having sore arms because of the efforts to pull it backward. The situation is corrected by adopting the use of the best dog harness to stop pulling for dogs that pull.

Training your dog to stop pulling is usually the best course of action for the long-term. However, in the short run you want something to help you today and now. That leaves only one choice, a dog harness to stop pulling. It is good to note that most of the type, using the best no pull dog harness will eventually be like training your dog.

Remember that a dog pulling on its leash is bad behavior, and usually a sign that the dog is overly eager and cannot be easily controlled. This is a lack of discipline. As a dog owner, you want to enjoy the walks with your dog but if they keep pulling you forward they make the experience quite annoying.

To stop your dog from taking you through this terrible experience, you need to get the best dog harness to stop pulling that will discourage your dog from pulling. Most dog owners have reported a no-pull harness as a very efficient method of training your dog too. You might end up not needing to take your dog to any trainer, saving you a lot of costs in fees.

TYPES OF DOG HARNESSES

1. BACK ATTACHMENT HARNESS

This features the attachment of the leash at the back of the dog. This dog harness is usually fitted right behind the dog’s shoulder blades with the leash coming right off the back of the dog.

As you can imagine, this is harness heaven for a dog that likes pulling. Since the leash is attached from the dog’s back, the dog can easily pull forward. It is hell for any dog owner who has a dog that loves pulling.

Ever heard of sled dogs? These dogs were used to transport goods in the Arctic areas. They were fitted with back attachment harnesses to enable them to pull the cart. Bottom line: do not buy a back attachment harness for a dog that likes pulling.

The back attachment has its good uses. It is suitable for:

• Dogs that have suffered trauma or undergone an operation around the neck area and need pressure taken away from there.
• Running with your dog because you will probably be doing close to the same speed.

2. FRONT ATTACHMENT HARNESS

This harness has the attachment for the leash right at the front of your dog sitting in the middle of their chest. This is the best dog harness to stop pulling because it discourages your dog from pulling forward.

Here is how: With the leash attached at the front of the dog, if the dog attempts to pull forward, the harness creates a tug that turns the dog towards you instead. The dog is not expecting this to happen. It was expecting to go forward but instead, it is turned to face you.

After doing this a couple of times, your dog soon learns that the only way it can keep moving forward is by following your lead and not pulling. The dog eventually stops pulling and your problem is solved henceforth.

This front attachment harness is suitable for:

• Dogs that like pulling because they get discouraged from doing that.
• Walking your dog. Not jogging or running. Just walking.

The reason why it is not suitable for running with your dog is that since the leash is attached at the front, if it pulls forward and is pushed to face back at you, the straps could become tangled around its neck and that is dangerous for your dog.

3. HEAD HARNESS / HEAD COLLAR

The head harness is more of a collar than a harness but also offers a great no-pull harness solution. It is fitted around a dog’s head with the attachment for the leash right below the dog’s chin.

It is a good no pull dog harness because when a dog attempts to pull forward, the harness turns them around to face you. Again, it works just like the front attachment harness. By doing this it prevents the dog from moving forward. The dog eventually learns that pulling forward is a bad idea and decides to stop. This solves the problem.

Your dog might need a bit of getting used to the head harness because of how it is fitted on his head. It does feel weird initially, and how it works might need some time for the dog to get used to before you decide to go out for a long walk.

Now that you know all the three types of dog harnesses and understand how they work, it is time to look at other considerations for selecting the best dog harness to stop pulling for your dog.

BEST DOG HARNESS TO STOP PULLING

1. The PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness

The PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness is designed to discourage pulling by putting the stress across the dog’s shoulders, instead of against their throat. It has a two-point adjustment that allows you to get a snug fit each time. It’s easy to put on as it is to take off. It is made of soft and strong nylon. This is among the best dog harness for training.

Pros

• It is available in multiple sizes to fit a variety of breeds.
• Comes in a variety of colors.
• Discourages dogs from pulling on the leash, making walking stress-free for you and your dog.
• It contains some quick-snap buckles on the shoulder and belly straps for easy on and off.
• The belly strap is in a complementary color, which makes it easy to tell which strap is for over the shoulders and which one goes under the stomach area.
• It has a Martingale loop at the chest which prevents twisting.
• Has 4 adjustment points provide maximum comfort and a reliable fit.
• It is appropriate for training dogs to walk nicely on a leash.
• There’s no choking or gagging because the chest strap rests across the dog’s chest instead of putting pressure on the throat.

Cons

• The plastic clasps start to get loose after prolonged use.
• This harness does not stay in place when adjusted and therefore needs constant adjusting. The PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness loosens it’s tightness as the dogs pull.
• It has only a front hook for the leash
• It is not recommended for heavy pullers

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2. Rabbitgoo Dog Harness No-Pull

A no pull dog harness is considered one of the easiest and safest way to prevent a dog from pulling. This is an over-the-head harness which slips over the dog’s head and is secured with buckles on both sides of the dog’s chest. The Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness has adjustable slide straps at 4 different adjustment points to create a perfect fit for your dog.

There are also two metal leash attachments. One is the standard attachment on the back of the harness between the dog’s shoulder blades. The other metal leash is in the middle of the chest. This is the attachment you use when training your dog not to pull. Additionally, contains a top handle also known as a traffic handle used for additional control and grip. It is made of durable nylon oxford. This no-pull comes highly recommended for some breeds that are medium to large dogs. These are such as the Labrador, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Husky, Alaska, Akita, etc.

Pros

• It is easy to use. This is a hassle-free overhead harness that is simple to put on and take off with the two easy to release buckles.
• It contains heavy-duty padding made from the soft, cushion, breathable material to protect your dog’s skin ensuring it is safe and comfortable.
• It has super-bright reflective strips that ensure safety during walks both during the day and also at night.
• Being a no pull, hence no choking.
• Has 4 adjustable straps that allow you to create a perfect fit for your dog. You should just slide the adjuster and pull or push the straps through it to tighten or loosen the harness.
• Lightweight and therefore easy to clean
• Ensures you have better control with 2 metal leash attachments. The front ring helps in redirecting your dog’s forward motion when they pull suddenly, which helps to discourage pulling. The D-Ring at the back is recommended for daily walks, hiking, and jogging.
• Available in different colors
• The 2 fast-release buckles ensure that your dog is secure. The 2 side buckles make sure that the harness can safely stay on your dog’s body without slipping off.

Cons

• It is not made for large dogs
• No quick release or button to get this harness off of your dog quickly and easily if need be.

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OTHER GREAT NO PULL DOG HARNESSES

3. Mighty Paw Padded Sports Dog Harness

This Mighty Paw Padded Sports dog harness features a dual-clip attachment, where you get the unique option to attach the leash to the front or back of the harness, depending on what best suits your activity. The front attachment offers a no-pull advantage for walking and hiking, while the back attachment is good for running. This is among the best harness for pulling that was made for dog lovers by dog lovers.

Pros

• This premium quality, weather-proof dog harness reduces the strain on your dog’s neck during walks.
• Dual-clip attachment option which allows you to attach the leash to either the front or back of the harness.
• It is very comfortable and its non-restrictive design allows a natural shoulder movement while your dog is running and walking.
• Has adjustable straps around the stomach area for a perfect fit and quick-release buckles for hassle-free use.
• Has a padded handle on the back of the harness that allows one to get more control when necessary especially in crowded environments.

Cons

• It is not suitable for all dog sizes.
• Not all straps are adjustable. There is no adjustability around the neck
• Not effective for heavy pulling dogs since the clip is secure in the heavy-duty fabric, but the fabric is attached to a thinner much less durable fabric.
• It has limited colors

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4. Eagloo Dog Harness No Pull

The Eagloo dog harness is made in a no-pull design and has excellent control. It contains two zinc-alloy rings that are on the dog’s back and chest. This is very helpful because when your dog pulls, you can attach the chest ring to ensure better control and make better memories with your dog. Alternatively, you can make use of the back ring since it does not put stress on the dog’s neck  and it is better when used in pulling dogs. The no-pull harness is built to evenly distribute pressure safely around your dog’s chest rather than the neck, hence preventing choking. With the thoughtful design of this harness, it will not rub your dog’s sensitive skin, especially in the armpit area. Highly recommended for the large and medium dogs. Some include the German Shepherd, Bulldog, Labrador, Husky, Boxer, Golden Retriever, Border Collie, American Pit Bull, and Terrier. Suitable for casual walking.

Pros

• It has a no-pull design and better control because of the 2 zinc-alloy rings on the dog’s chest and back.
• Is safe and more comfortable for both the dog and the handler. Has a nylon webbing with reflective material to ensure visibility when night running. There is also a sturdy handle on the back for a looping seat belt to secure your dog while riding in your car.
• Has a handy hаndlе. It helps in mаnаging dіffісult situations ѕuсh аѕ another dog is bоthеring you оr when guiding your dog into a car.
• It is easy to wear and also adjust. This harness has fully adjustable straps at neck & chest with 4 adjusters.
• Does not need constant adjusting. Once you customize a nice fit for your dog, slip it over the head, connect the quick-release fasteners, and off you go.
• It is a reflective & breathable harness. The reflective straps ensure your dog’s safe while out walking. Additionally, there is a soft breathable mesh lining with a soft sponge padding plate of puppy harness that prevents injuries, giving extra comfort and protection.

Cons

• Rubs on some dogs underarm
• The front ring is made of plastic
• There is no strap control, they dangle.
• It is a bit difficult to adjust sizing
• The size does not last long. The straps loosen after some time

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5. BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness

The Babyltrl Big Dog Harness is among the best dog harness to stop pulling. It is perfect for medium to large breeds such as Golden Retriever, Labrador, and the German Shepherd

The grip handle is larger than for other dog harness handles and offers more comfort. This provides more control and easy assistance for added control of your pet. The harness also comes with a sturdy D-ring leash attachment point.

The soft nylon oxford material offers a long-term softness while the reflective straps keep your dog safe while out for runs or walks. Any pulling pressure is evenly distributed to the body to prevent pulling and choking.

They are the best for outdoor adventures, daily walking, training, hiking, and hunting because of their simple design and quick snap buckle which makes it easy to put on and off.

Pros

• Discourages pulling
• It has a handle for control and quick grabbing if you need to assist your dog.
• Front and back ring for attaching a leash
• Adjustable neck and chest girth
• Easy to wear
• Reflectable in the dark
• Breathable and Comfortable Padding
• Cool locking feature on both snaps to guarantee the security
• Extra-large chest size
• A great choice for medium to large dogs
• Pulling and choking pressure is evenly distributed
• Has quick snap buckles

Cons

• The length of the strap that goes from the harness to the top of the car seat headrest is not all that adjustable.
• Not suitable for smaller dogs

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THE BEST NO PULL HEAD COLLAR

6. PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar, No-Pull Dog Collar

The Petsafe Gentle Leader Headcollar is designed in a way that puts pressure on the back of the neck instead of the throat. When your dog pulls or jumps the head collar gently moves his head and body back towards you. This places the focus of your dog on the back allowing you to lead the walk. Another use is to train your dog to heel. Often, most dogs quickly adjust to the Gentle Leader Headcollar and learn to stop the unwanted leash behavior.

Pros

• It is recommended by Vets and trainers and was created by a veterinary behaviorist over 30 years ago.
• Can be used to train dogs to heel
• The comfortable padded nose loop which is adjustable and the quick to snap neck-strap makes the fitting quick and easy.
• Affordable pricing compared to other good quality harnesses.
• There are plenty of options for colors for the whole pack
• This headcollar allows dogs to open their mouth to bark and also feed.
• It is a safe solution for pulling. Immediately reduces or eliminates most if not all pulling during walks.
• This headcollar puts the pressure on the back of the neck instead of on the dog’s throat, which helps to prevent choking and coughing

Cons

• For dogs with short snouts, and it seems to restrict them from opening their mouth as much as they want.

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CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE BEST DOG HARNESS TO STOP PULLING

1. SIZE OF THE DOG

The dog harness you get will depend on the size of your dog. There are no pull dog harnesses for large and small dogs. It is important to measure the size of your dog before getting the harness.

We are recommending that you buy a dog harness that is slightly bigger. You don’t want your dog to be uncomfortable because the harness is too tight. Aside from causing discomfort, a tight harness may also cause dog irritation.

2. PURPOSE OF THE BEST DOG HARNESS TO STOP PULLING

Before getting a dog harness to understand why you are buying it. This will help you make a decision on the best dog harness for that particular purpose. For instance, if you want to run with your dog you would not buy a front attachment or head harness. But you would buy a back attachment harness.

If the purpose is to walk your dog, you would get a front attachment or head harness and avoid the back attachment harness for reasons discussed earlier in this guide.

Additionally, if you want to walk your dog at night or in the early morning, you would look for the best no pull dog harness with reflective fabric or material. The high visibility helps your dog to be seen by oncoming road traffic.

3. POINTS OF ATTACHMENT

When shopping for a dog harness, avoid buying one that has only one point of attachment. The most preferred is two points of attachment.

For instance, it might happen that one day you need to use the no pull dog harness to go for a jog with your dog. This means that you need to shift the attachment of the leash from the chest to the back. A good dog harness to stop pulling should enable you to shift the leash from the attachment at the chest to the attachment at the back using that same harness. This helps you to turn your front attachment harness into a back attachment harness for running or jogging with your dog.

Additionally, some dog harnesses come with a car seat belt connector as a separate attachment point to enable you to take your dog for a drive. There are harnesses that even come with four attachment points. Ensure to get a no pull dog harness that has more than one attachment point.

4. PADDING

For dogs that have short hair, it is fair to get them a well-padded harness to avoid irritation and uncomfortable rubbing on their skin. Aesthetically, padded harnesses look much better too.

5. NUMBER OF DOGS

Most dog owners tend to buy a separate dog harness for each dog. However, there are people who prefer to plan for their purchase with consideration of the number of dogs in question.

If you have two dogs, you might prefer to buy a no pull dog harness with the attachment point on the right, and another harness with the attachment point on the left. You would then use a Y-shaped leash to attach to both harnesses. This allows you to walk two dogs at the same time using one leash but two harnesses.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) ON DOG HARNESSES

1. ARE HARNESSES MORE COMFORTABLE THAN COLLARS FOR DOGS?

Yes. Harnesses are generally way more comfortable for walking your dog than collars and leashes. But often, owners remove them when they are not out walking.

It is not necessary to use collars to control your dog, but also, it’s not that safe for the dog to have a lot of pressure against the throat. A harness is a better tool in most situations. Collars are often kept on dogs during the day. This allows you to keep a dog tag on your dog for identification purposes. It’s better to take both the collars and harnesses off at night for safety when possible.

Most people use both, but use the harness itself for attaching a lead. This allows better control and comfort of your dog. If your dog is a big puller, the harnesses are very essential as a collar can cause throat injuries.

2. WILL THESE HARNESSES STOP MY DOG FROM PULLING?

Harnesses are specifically designed to distribute the weight of the dog evenly over the harness to help in reducing friction, pulling, and rubbing. The feeling of security while wearing a soft and cozy harness can mean the dog walks more calmly and in balance. This is often enough to prevent the dog from pulling as there are not any more choking sensations on the throat or sharp edges rubbing against its skin.

3. CAN DOG HARNESSES HANDLE POWERFUL, LARGE BREEDS?

Yes. As a matter of fact, the no-pull dog harnesses are more effective at controlling large breeds than both the collar and the leash.  A dog that tries to pull on the harness doesn’t choke. Instead, when the leash goes slack, the dog’s own strength lifts it up from the abdomen, and hence the dog’s front legs no longer get traction.

4. CAN DOGS ESCAPE HARNESSES?

Yes, they can, but it is hard for a dog that is dressed in the right size of harness and being supervised to escape. Furthermore, other harnesses are designed in such a way that a dog can chew through the portions on the chest. However, not all harnesses are easily chewable or in a good position for a dog to gnaw on them.

5. SHOULD I CONSIDER MY DOG’S BREED WHEN CHOOSING BETWEEN A HARNESS VS. COLLAR?

Yes. Dog breeds with short noses like the French bulldogs, pugs, and Boston terriers have sensitive airways and are prone to respiratory problems. Using a collar or a leash can result in the collapse of the trachea for these breeds, and therefore it’s best to avoid collars. Embrace more harnesses, and they are a safer choice.

6. HOW DO YOU STOP A DOG FROM PULLING ON A HARNESS?

When choosing a harness, it is important to have the natural reflex of the dog in mind. There are certain harnesses, for example, those used for sledding or pulling sports that will clip on the dog’s back, apply pressure on the dog’s chest, which in turn encourages them to pull against the pressure. For this reason, it is crucial to find a no-pull harness that will comfortably clip on the dog’s chest.

7. WHY DO DOGS PULL ON LEASHES?

One of the main reasons why dogs pull on the leash is because they know that is how they get to move forward. Every time your dog pulls, taking a step with them gives them a clear understanding that pulling works. This is why teaching your dog to walk lose will take a great deal of time and patience.

8. DO DOGS GROW OUT OF PULLING?

Dogs may pull on the lead because of several different reasons, including the usual that we always reward them for doing it. This can start from the dog’s first walk. It is unfortunate that it is something that is so rewarding to them. It is not something that they can easily grow out of.

9. DOES PULLING ON THE LEASH HURT THE DOG?

Yes. When the dog pulls on its leash, it may restrict blood flow to several parts of its body, including eyes and years. When it continuously happens on a regular basis, it might cause swelling, which in turn might lead to damages of organs and appendages.

10. IS A HARNESS OR COLLAR BETTER FOR DOGS THAT PULL?

Harnesses are considered a better option for dogs that pull because they give better control, especially on crowds and busy streets. It also comes in handy if you have a strong or very large dog. However, you need to be careful because very small dogs are prone to injury from pulling on the leash.