Dog harnesses have loops that go around a dog’s torso and the widest part of their neck. In addition to keeping dogs secure, a harness applies less pressure to their neck, compared to a dog collar. Using a harness can be helpful for senior dogs and puppies that are still growing, as well as brachycephalic dogs with a broad head and neck.
Even if your dog doesn’t fit into one of these categories, there are several reasons to consider purchasing a dog harness. But with so many options available, you might wonder how to choose the best dog harness. Read on to learn more about the different types of dog harnesses, how to properly fit a harness, and tips for keeping them clean.
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting but comes with a ton of decisions – from food choices to potty training methods. One question that often trips up new pet parents is whether to use a harness or collar for their furry friend. If you’ve been wondering “are harnesses good for puppies?” – you’re not alone! As someone who’s helped many first-time puppy owners navigate this decision, I’m here to give you the straight facts.
Why Harnesses Are Generally Better for Puppies
Let’s cut to the chase – yes harnesses are typically excellent for puppies for several important reasons
- Safety first: Harnesses distribute pressure across your puppy’s body instead of concentrating it on their delicate neck and throat
- Better control: They give you more control during walks, especially with energetic or large-breed puppies
- Escape prevention: A properly fitted harness is much harder for puppies to slip out of (and trust me, those little escape artists will try!)
- Reduced injury risk: They minimize strain on developing joints, neck, and trachea
Dr. Kong, a veterinary expert explains “Puppies grow fast, so it’s important to choose a harness that can be easily adjusted as they grow.” She recommends looking for harnesses with multiple adjustment points to ensure a secure fit throughout your puppy’s growth stages.
Harness vs. Collar: The Great Debate
While harnesses offer many advantages, collars do have their place Let’s break down the pros and cons of each
Collar Advantages
- Easy to put on/take off (great for midnight potty breaks!)
- Simple place for ID tags
- Generally less expensive than harnesses
- Lightweight for small breeds
- Available in countless styles
Collar Disadvantages
- Can put harmful pressure on puppy’s throat and neck
- Easier for puppies to slip out of
- May cause coughing or gagging when pulled
- Not ideal for breeds with respiratory issues or short snouts
Harness Advantages
- Distributes pressure evenly across puppy’s body
- Provides better control during walks
- Much harder for puppies to escape from
- Reduces risk of neck/trachea injuries
- Ideal for brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, etc.)
Harness Disadvantages
- Usually more expensive than collars
- Can be trickier to put on a wiggly puppy
- May be harder to find the right size for very small puppies
- Some designs can restrict shoulder movement
Types of Puppy Harnesses
Not all harnesses are created equal! Here are the main types to consider:
Y-Shaped Harnesses
These are widely recommended by trainers for puppies. The Y-shape provides maximum shoulder mobility and proper body alignment. Back-clip Y-harnesses are particularly good for growing puppies because they don’t restrict movement.
H-Style Harnesses
These cut across a dog’s chest and can be good options if properly fitted. However, it’s critical that the chest strap is positioned well above your puppy’s shoulders to avoid restricting movement.
Front-Clip Harnesses
While popular for no-pull training in adult dogs, many experts discourage using front-clip harnesses for puppies under 1 year old. According to professional dog trainers, they can potentially cause misalignment of your puppy’s neck, shoulders, and spine.
Step-In Harnesses
These can be easier to put on some puppies – just have them step into the harness before securing it. They’re often good for smaller breeds.
Our Top Harness Picks for Different Puppy Needs
Based on expert reviews and personal experience, here are some standout harness options for different situations:
Best All-Around: PetSafe Easy Walk No-Pull Dog Harness
This front-hook style harness helps correct pulling while being lightweight and adjustable as your puppy grows.
Best for Training: Copatchy Reflective Mesh Dog Harness
Made from breathable mesh with an attached handle for extra control, this harness features a comfy design that discourages pulling.
Best for Small Breeds: Voyager Mesh Dog Harness
This slip-on harness is made from soft, padded mesh that won’t chafe against your tiny puppy’s skin.
Best for Hot Weather: AIITLE Step-In Dog Harness
If you live somewhere warm, this breathable mesh harness keeps puppies comfortable during summer walks.
Best for Adventure Pups: Ruffwear Hi & Light Everyday Harness
For active puppies who’ll eventually hit the trails with you, this lightweight but durable harness grows with them.
Finding the Perfect Fit
The best harness in the world won’t help if it doesn’t fit properly! Here’s how to ensure your puppy’s harness fits correctly:
- Measure your puppy before purchasing (chest girth and neck size)
- Check for adjustability – puppies grow FAST
- Ensure proper spacing – you should be able to fit 1-2 finger widths between the harness and your puppy’s body
- Watch for chafing after walks, especially under the legs
- Reassess frequently as your puppy grows
Remember that an improperly fitted harness can cause discomfort or even injuries, so take the time to get it right!
Training Tips for Harness Success
Getting your puppy comfortable with a harness might take some patience. Here’s how to make it a positive experience:
- Introduce gradually – let your puppy sniff and investigate the harness before putting it on
- Use treats and praise to create positive associations
- Keep early harness sessions short and gradually increase duration
- Check for signs of discomfort like scratching, biting at the harness, or refusing to move
- Practice proper leash techniques – aim for a J-shape (or smile shape) in the leash to ensure no pressure is exerted on your puppy
Remember that puppies often throw what one trainer calls “a temper tantrum” when first introduced to harnesses or collars. This is normal! It’s something totally new to them, and their natural instinct is to pull away due to the “opposition reflex.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When harness training your puppy, watch out for these common errors:
- Allowing pulling habits to develop – nip this in the bud early!
- Using retractable leashes – these can cause injuries and encourage pulling
- Inconsistent training – be patient and stick with it
- Punishing your puppy – focus on positive reinforcement instead
- Getting the wrong size – measure, don’t guess!
- Leaving the harness on 24/7 – remove it when not in use to prevent skin irritation
When Collars Might Be Better
While harnesses are generally recommended for puppies, there are a few situations where collars might be appropriate:
- For very well-behaved puppies who don’t pull
- For extremely tiny puppies who might be overwhelmed by even the smallest harness
- For quick potty breaks when a harness would take too long to put on
- For identification purposes only (with no leash attached)
If you do use a collar, opt for a flat buckle collar rather than ones with quick-release clasps, which don’t stay secure as well.
The Bottom Line: Harnesses Win for Most Puppies
After reviewing all the expert opinions and research, I strongly believe harnesses are the safer, more comfortable option for most puppies. They provide better control, reduce injury risk, and prevent escapes – all things that matter when you’re training a young dog.
That said, the best choice ultimately depends on your individual puppy’s needs, breed characteristics, and training goals. Some puppy parents even use both – a harness for walks and a collar for ID tags.
Whatever you choose, prioritize your puppy’s comfort and safety, and don’t be afraid to try different options until you find what works best for your furry friend.
FAQs About Puppy Harnesses
Q: At what age can puppies start wearing harnesses?
A: Puppies can start wearing properly fitted harnesses as soon as you bring them home, typically around 8 weeks old.
Q: How long can puppies wear harnesses?
A: Harnesses should only be worn during walks and training sessions, not continuously. Remove the harness when at home.
Q: Can puppies sleep in harnesses?
A: No, puppies should never sleep in harnesses as this can cause discomfort and skin irritation.
Q: How often should I replace my puppy’s harness?
A: Plan to replace your puppy’s harness every few months during their first year as they grow rapidly.
Q: Should I use a harness and collar together?
A: Some pet parents use both – a harness for walking and a collar for ID tags. Just make sure to attach the leash to only one to avoid confusing your puppy.
Remember, the most important thing is finding what works best for your unique puppy and your training goals. A well-fitted harness is generally the safest bet for most puppies, but what matters most is that both you and your puppy are comfortable and happy during your walks together!
Front and Back-Clip Dog Harnesses
There are pluses and minuses to where a harness clips, Dr. Attas says. Front-clip harnesses are helpful if your dog tends to pull. As the dog moves forward, the harness pulls them back to the person holding the leash. But, if your dog already has the harness on, it may be harder to attach the leash in front because the clip is under their chest.
She recommends back-clip harnesses for well-trained dogs. When the harness is on, the clip is close to the middle of a dog’s shoulder blades. One advantage of back-clip harnesses is that you can easily clip the leash on and go.
A third type is a dual-clip harness, which has two clips, one underneath and one on top. “These are nice when you’re teaching your dog to use a harness,” adds Dr. Attas. You can start by clipping the leash to the front for better control of your dog. As they improve with regular walks, you can switch to using the rear clip.
The no-pull harness is a variation of the front-clip harness. But instead of having a clip, the no-pull harness has a D-shaped ring at the front. “When the dog starts to pull, the D ring will constrict the harness a little bit and stop the dog from pulling,” explains Dr. Attas. “These harnesses are helpful for dogs that are larger than the person walking them, a person wheeling a stroller, or someone with a mobility issue.”
Types of Dog Harnesses
Harnesses come in various styles, materials, and closure types, each with advantages and disadvantages. Below we get into these features to help you decide on the best dog harness.
There are different materials to choose from to maximize comfort and durability, including the following:
- Nylon harnesses are inexpensive, durable, and lightweight. The downside is that this material isn’t breathable and may trap heat and water.
- Leather is attractive, durable, and long-lasting. However, it can be expensive and needs regular maintenance to avoid drying and cracking.
- Mesh harnesses tend to be breathable and lightweight, which can help keep your dog cool. But, they’re less durable and have less padding, which can result in chafing or rubbing against your dog’s skin.
- Neoprene harnesses are a good option for dogs who enjoy swimming. They’re padded for comfort and can be soaked in water to cool your dog in warm weather. The downside is that this material isn’t breathable and may trap heat and moisture.