15 Best Harnesses for Small Dogs: Top Picks for Comfort & Control

Dec 9, 2024

15 Best Harness for Small Dogs: Comfort, Safety, & Control

When choosing the best harness for small dogs, it’s crucial to consider comfort, control, and durability. A good small dog harness can reduce dog pulls, prevent ill-fitting harnesses, and make leash training easier for both you and your dog.

A good harness has features like a front clip harness, wide straps, and reflective stitching that make it easier to control your dog while walking every day and keep their body safe and comfortable.

Let us look at the best choices that meet these requirements.

1. Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness

Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness

The Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness is a padded harness that can be used for both everyday walks and trips outside. For better control, it has two places to attach a leash: an aluminum V-ring on the back for short walks and reinforced webbing on the chest to stop pulling.

This lightweight, long-lasting harness is very comfortable to wear because it has foam-padded strips across the chest and belly that spread the weight evenly. The reflective trim makes it easier to see in low light, which makes it a great choice for walks during the day or at night.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Two leash attachment points (back and chest), foam-padded chest and belly, reflective trim for visibility, ID pocket for secure tag storage, four adjustment points for a perfect fit.
  • Ideal for: Active dogs of all breeds and sizes, particularly those who need extra control during walks or training.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5 stars from 8,088 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Comfortable for extended wear, provides full control with no-pull functionality, easy to adjust, reflective for safety, and convenient ID pocket.

2. Rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness

Rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness

With its no-pull design, the Rabbitgoo Dog Harness gives small dogs comfort and control. It has two leash clips so you can walk it in different ways, reflective strips so you can see at night, and soft padding with mesh that lets air flow through. It has a top handle for extra control on walks or adventures and can be adjusted to fit securely.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: No-pull design, front and back leash clips, soft padding, reflective strips, breathable mesh, adjustable straps, top control handle.
  • Ideal for: Small dogs such as Havanese, Corgi, Pug, Puggle, and Terriers.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5 stars from 177,659 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: No-pull design for better control, secure fit with adjustable straps, breathable and comfortable for all-day wear, extra control with top handle, reflective strips for safety during night walks.

3. Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness

Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness

The All-Weather Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness is a mesh harness for small and medium-sized dogs that lets air flow through it. It keeps your pet comfortable on walks in any weather because it is made of soft, light, and quick-drying materials. The reflective bands on the harness make it easier to see on walks in low light, and the triple security system (hook and loop fastener, sturdy buckle, and double D-rings) makes sure your pet is safe.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Soft and breathable air mesh, reflective bands for visibility, hook & loop fastener, sturdy buckle, double D-rings for extra security.
  • Ideal for: Small and medium dogs, including breeds like Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, and Beagles. Suitable for daily walks, training, and casual outings.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5 stars from 58,637 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Comfortable for all-day wear, enhances visibility in low light, triple security ensures your pet’s safety, easy to use with a simple step-in design.

4. PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness

PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness

The Martingale loop in the PetSafe Easy Walk No-Pull Dog Harness stops your dog from pulling gently by putting pressure on its shoulders. The front-clip design gives you more control, and the material is light and airy so you don’t feel suffocated. The color-coded straps make it easy to put on, which encourages walks that are fun and stress-free.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Patented Martingale loop design, front leash attachment, lightweight and breathable, color-coded belly strap for easy fitting, quick-snap shoulder straps.
  • Ideal for: Dogs of all breeds, especially those who pull on walks.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5 stars from 40,354 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Helps stop pulling, comfortable fit, no pressure on the neck, easy to fit, trusted by trainers worldwide.

5. PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness

PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness

The PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness gives you more control and comfort because it stops your dog from pulling when you attach a front lead to it. The soft, breathable mesh padding spreads the pressure out evenly, which keeps you from choking.

Reflective strips make it easier to see at night, and a padded handle makes it easier to control. With quick-snap buckles and adjustable straps, it’s easy to get a good fit.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Dual metal leash attachment points, breathable mesh with soft padding, reflective stitching, four adjustable straps, padded handle for extra control.
  • Ideal for: Small to large dogs, ideal for walks, hikes, and daily use.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5 stars from 44,276 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Prevents choking, reduces pulling, reflective for night walks, easy to put on and adjust, offers extra control with the padded handle.

6. Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness

Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness

The Kurgo Tru-Fit No Pull Dog Harness has five adjustable points and quick-release buckles that make it easy to put on and take off. This padded, light harness has a D-ring in the front for no-pull training and a leash ring on the back for normal walks or jogs. It comes with a 10-inch dog seatbelt tether to help keep your dog safe while riding in the car and keep you from being distracted.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Front D-ring for no-pull training, rear leash ring for walking or jogging, 5 adjustable points, quick-release plastic buckles, padded chest for comfort, includes 10” dog seatbelt tether.
  • Ideal for: Small dogs, everyday walking, jogging, and car travel.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐(4.3/5 stars from 8,861 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Easy on and off, prevents pulling, enhances safety during car rides, adjustable for a custom fit, lightweight and comfortable.

7. Chai’s Choice Dog Harness Vest

Chai's Choice Dog Harness Vest

With a secure, no-choke fit that doesn’t limit movement, the Chai’s Choice Dog Harness Vest keeps your dog safe and comfortable. The soft padding gives you control while you walk or work out, and the reflective stripes make you more visible at night. The long-lasting materials make it perfect for active dogs and exciting trips, so you can count on it to last.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Soft padded design, no-choke, reflective stripes for visibility, 2 strong D-rings for leash attachment, durable Oxford material, lightweight Duraflex buckle, easy adjustability.
  • Ideal for: Dogs of all sizes, particularly for training, outdoor adventures, and daily walks.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5 stars from 6,430 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Comfortable fit, increased safety with reflective strips, durable materials, no-pull design, versatile for training and walking.

8. PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness

PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness

The PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness fits securely and comfortably, and it keeps dogs from pulling too much. Two metal D-rings let you attach the leash to the front or back. Reflective material makes it easier to see at night, and a soft handle makes it easier to control. The harness is easy to put on and take off thanks to its three quick-release buckles.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: 3 quick-release buckles, front and back metal D-rings for leash attachment, reflective material for visibility, soft padded cushion, breathable air mesh.
  • Ideal for: All dog breeds, particularly those with pulling tendencies, and those who enjoy outdoor activities.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5 stars from 24,124 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Reduces pulling, easy to put on and take off, breathable and comfortable for dogs, reflective material for night safety, enhanced control with the back handle.

9. Gooby – Escape Free Easy Fit Harness

Gooby - Escape Free Easy Fit Harness

Small dogs that like to get out of regular harnesses will love the Gooby Escape Free Easy Fit Harness. Its no-pull design cuts down on back space, making it impossible to escape. The lightweight neoprene and fake suede make them comfortable, and the step-in style makes them easy to put on and take off. It’s easy to clean and will last a long time because it can be washed in a machine.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Escape-free design, step-in style for easy use, lightweight neoprene and faux suede construction, machine washable, POM plastic leash ring.
  • Ideal for: Small dogs (up to 35 lbs), especially those who tend to escape traditional harnesses or pull on walks.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.4/5 stars from 8,773 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Secure and escape-proof fit, easy to put on and take off, comfortable for all-day wear, machine washable for convenience, durable and lightweight.

10. Matilor Dog Harness Step-in

Matilor Dog Harness Step-in

Small to medium-sized dogs can feel safe and comfortable in the Matilor Dog Harness Step-in Vest. It keeps pets cool on walks because it’s made of air mesh that lets air flow through. The step-in design makes it easy to use, and the safety lock buckle keeps it from coming off. Comes with a leash for a complete outdoor adventure set.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Breathable air mesh, step-in design, double D-rings for leash attachment, safety lock buckle.
  • Ideal for: Small to medium dogs, puppies, and cats.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5 stars from 14,232 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Easy to use, breathable and lightweight for comfort, secure safety lock, machine washable for convenience, includes both harness and leash.

11. EcoBark Rapid

EcoBark Rapid

The EcoBark Rapid Fastener Dog Harness is made to make sure that your small dog is safe and comfortable on every walk. This lightweight, fully adjustable harness is made of breathable Trinity Air Mesh and fits dogs as small as 5 to 6 pounds securely and won’t let them escape.

For extra comfort, they have double padding. The step-in design makes them easy to put on and take off, and the hook and loop fastener makes them safer. There are many colors and sizes of the harness, so you can find the right one for your pet’s style and size.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Trinity Air Mesh material, double padding for comfort, hook and loop fastener, step-in design.
  • Ideal for: Small to medium dogs, including breeds like Chihuahuas, Maltese, and Yorkies.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5 stars from 9,855 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Lightweight and breathable for comfort, escape-proof with a snug fit, easy to use with a step-in design, available in multiple colors and sizes.

12. EzyDog Premium Chest Plate Custom Fit

EzyDog Premium Chest Plate Custom Fit

The EzyDog Premium Chest Plate Dog Harness is designed for both comfort and control, making it ideal for active dogs and training. Its ergonomic EVA foam chest plate provides a custom fit, while the padded design offers unmatched comfort for your dog.

The reflective stitching ensures increased visibility for nighttime walks, and the welded stainless steel D-ring adds strength and durability. This harness also includes a car restraint attachment to ensure your dog’s safety during car rides.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: EVA foam padded chest plate, reflective stitching, welded stainless steel D-ring, quick-clip buckle for easy on/off.
  • Ideal for: Small to medium dogs, active dogs, and training purposes.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.4/5 stars from 1,445 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Custom ergonomic fit, no-pull design, high visibility, rust-proof attachment, includes car restraint.

13. EXPAWLORER Soft Mesh Dog Harness and Leash Set

EXPAWLORER Soft Mesh Dog Harness and Leash Set

The EXPAWLORER Soft Mesh Dog Harness is a comfortable way to take your dog outside that won’t choke them. This vest-style harness is made for small dogs and puppies. It has a cute checkered pattern and a pink lace trim that makes it look stylish. It is made of soft, breathable polyester mesh, so it is comfortable and doesn’t put stress on the neck.

This makes walks more fun for both the owner and the pet. The harness comes with a matching leash, so the set is complete.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Breathable polyester mesh, cute checkered design, adjustable chest girth, leash included.
  • Ideal for: Small dogs and puppies, especially girl dogs.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.4/5 stars from 1,937 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: No-choke design, lightweight, breathable fabric, stylish appearance, includes a matching leash.

14. MIDOG No-Pull Pet Harness

MIDOG No-Pull Pet Harness

As a high-quality, adjustable vest-style harness, the MIDOG Dog Harness is made to keep your dog comfortable while giving you full control. This no-pull harness has front and back leash attachments so it can be used in a variety of ways. It’s perfect for small, medium, and large dogs.

It has reflective straps that make it easier to see at night and a strong handle that gives you more control while walking or working out. With materials that are soft and airy, it will keep your dog comfortable all year.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: Front and back leash attachments, adjustable straps, reflective straps, easy control handle, breathable mesh.
  • Ideal for: All breed sizes, especially those who pull on walks or need extra control.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2/5 stars from 122 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: No-pull design, breathable and padded for comfort, reflective for safety, durable and adjustable fit.

15. HALTI No Pull Harness

HALTI No Pull Harness

The HALTI No Pull Harness has a no-pull lifting action and front control steering to stop your dog from pulling on the leash. It is a comfortable and humane way to train your dog to walk on a leash, and it works great for small dogs. The chest panel of the harness is reflective, which makes it easier to see on walks at night.

Why it’s a Great Choice

  • Features: No-pull lifting action, front control steering, reflective chest panel, padded chest and leg straps, adjustable fit.
  • Ideal for: Small breed dogs, particularly those who pull on the leash.
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.1/5 stars from 12,432 reviews).
  • Top Benefits: Easy to use, humane design, improves leash training, reflective for safety.

How to Choose the Best Harness for Small Dogs

Dachshund dog in a harness

When selecting a harness for your small dog, it’s crucial to find one that fits well to avoid an ill-fitting harness that can cause discomfort or even harm.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Harness for Small Dogs

Look for straps that can be adjusted, a vest-style harness that spreads pressure evenly, and a hook-and-loop closure that makes it easy to make changes.

The right harness should support your dog’s chest and head while still letting them move freely. Think about how active your dog is and whether you want a harness made for active dogs.

  • Adjustable straps for a custom fit
  • Vest style harness for even pressure distribution
  • Hook and loop fastener for easy adjustments
  • Proper fit to avoid an ill-fitting harness
  • Supports your dog’s head and chest comfortably

Benefits of No-Pull and Front Clip Harnesses for Small Dogs

No-pull or front clip harnesses are ideal for small dogs, especially if they have a tendency to pull on the leash. A front clip harness helps redirect your dog’s attention, making walks with dog walkers more manageable. Unlike other harnesses, a front clip harness offers better control and discourages pulling.

  • No-pull harnesses to discourage leash pulling
  • Front clip harnesses offer more control
  • Perfect for active dogs with high energy
  • Ruffwear Front Range Harness: ideal for comfort and versatility
  • Allows leash attachment without putting pressure on your dog’s head or neck

Final Thoughts

Selecting the best harness for small dogs is crucial for comfort and control. A properly fitted small dog harness prevents strain on your dog’s neck and body, ensuring safety and comfort. Whether it’s a no pull harness or a vest style harness, look for features like more adjustment points, a secure chest plate, and reflective stitching for added visibility.

With the right harness, you can enjoy daily walks and help stop pulling, all while using positive reinforcement for proper leash training.

FAQs

What is the best type of harness for a small dog?

The best harness for small dogs is comfortable and secure, like a front clip harness or no pull harness. These harnesses are perfect for proper leash training and promoting loose leash walking.

Should small dogs wear harnesses?

Yes, a small dog harness is better than a collar, as it reduces pressure on the dog’s neck and promotes comfort and safety.

Why do dog trainers not use harnesses?

Some dog trainers avoid harnesses, but a front clip harness or no pull harness can aid in proper leash training and reduce dog pulls.

Do harnesses stop dogs from pulling?

A no pull harness or front clip harness can help reduce dog pulls, especially when combined with positive reinforcement and proper leash attached training.

How do you know if a harness is too tight for your dog?

An ill fitting harness can cause discomfort. Ensure there is space to fit two fingers between the harness and the dog’s body to prevent too much pressure.

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