Using a harness gives you more control over your dog while increasing their comfort and reducing the strain put on their neck during walks. When you use a properly fitted harness it can drastically improve your training and walking experience with your dog.
There is, however, a vast range of dog harnesses available, with a variety of styles and types to consider. The reviews and buyers guide below will help you narrow down the options so you can find the best dog harness for your needs.
Here are the best dog harnesses in Australia:
1. EzyDog Convert Dog Harness (Top Pick)
The EzyDog Convert Harness is a versatile, sturdy option that looks smart. It comes in 7 different sizes and is easy to put onto your dog with a simple buckle that clips together under your dog’s chest.
For extra safety and peace of mind, there is reflective piping so your pup can be easily seen in low lighting situations. The harness also features a magnetic traffic handle at the top for situations where you need extra control.
This design does not pull against your dog’s throat and the load distribution makes sure it is safe and comfortable at all times. Built to last, these dog harnesses are super strong and perfect for outdoor use. There are also velcro and side rings for attaching accessories.
What We Like:
- Reflective detailing
- Sturdy and long lasting
- Easy to put on and take off
What We Don’t Like:
- The material can sometimes be quite stiff when it first arrives making it difficult to adjust
2. Kazoo Active Nylon Reflective Dog Harness (Best Value)
This Kazoo harness is a stylish, colourful option ideal for taking your dog on walks. This strong harness is designed to give you more control, it is quick and easy to put on and does not interfere with your dog’s collar.
This walking harness ensures no pressure is put around your dog’s neck if they pull and the shape contours with your dog to provide a firm, comfortable fit. You can attach a lead to the 2 nickel-plated D-rings that come together over your dogs upper back; this is a sturdy, reliable system that spreads any weight or pulling pressure across the chest strap.
The chest plate is lightweight and breathable and the exterior is covered in a tough nylon material to make sure it is durable. The inside of the straps is padded soft neoprene so it is comfortable and the straps are adjustable so you can size it to suit your dog.
What We Like:
- Low cost
- Padded and comfortable
- Easy to put on and take off with an easily accessible clip
- Great for small dogs
What We Don’t Like:
- Light colours show dirt very easily
3. Puppia Soft Dog Harness
The Puppia harnesses are made from soft, breathable polyester mesh that is comfortable for your dog.
These harnesses are available in over 15 colours, all of which look great, so you can choose your favourite colour or a design that matches your dog’s collar. There are also multiple size options available, and the size guide helps you pick the best fitting product for your dog’s breed and size.
The is an over-head harness and there is an adjustable strap that goes behind the front legs. The harness is designed to keep the weight away from your dog’s neck to reduce the risk of choking and respiratory issues.
What We Like:
- Lots of colour options
- Breathable mesh material
- Comfortable
What We Don’t Like:
- Some users may find it is difficult to find the right size due to the unadjustable neck loop
4. Rabbitgoo Front Range Dog Harness
The Front Range Harness from Rabbitgoo is a no-pull design with a front clip that helps you have better control of your dog when walking. It makes sure any pulling pressure is distributed across the front and back of the body and not the neck of your dog.
The straps of this harness are reflective for enhanced visibility and safety. The material is durable and weather-proof so is perfect for outdoor adventures. The padding is high-quality, soft and breathable so it can fit snugly and still be comfortable.
There are two leash attachment points on this harness; one is on the front of the chest and the other is on the back. There is also a handle on the back to keep your dog close and controlled when needed.
What We Like:
- Great for day and night use
- Helps stop pulling
- Secure fit
What We Don’t Like:
- Slightly more expensive than other options
5. Rabbitgoo Tactical Dog Harness
This Tactical Harness from Rabbitgoo is a high-quality, versatile and incredibly practical harness ideal for service dogs and pets. This is perfect for dog training, hiking and working.
This is a safe and comfortable harness made from durable material and sturdy metal hardware. This dogs harness is created with 2 individual pieces and is escape-proof and fully adjustable. There is a top-mounted handle that gives you quick and close control when needed.
There are multiple velcro strips and hook and loop panels as well as two rows on either side that can be used to carry pouches and essentials. These harnesses look professional and are fully functional.
What We Like:
- Perfect for working dogs and training
- Value for money
- Sturdy construction
What We Don’t Like:
- Bulky, particularly for small dog breeds
6. Kurgo Dog Harness
The Kurgo Harness is a great option for everyday use. It is lightweight, has five adjustment points and 2 quick-release buckles.
This harness has a front D-ring perfect for no-pull training and a back ring for regular walking. The set includes a dog seatbelt for ensuring safe car travel.
This harness is versatile and will keep your beloved pet safe, comfortable and controlled during any trip. The harness comes in a range of sizes and colours and the adjustment points allow you to customize the fit.
What We Like:
- Great for day to day use
- Includes pet seatbelt
- Fully adjustable
What We Don’t Like:
- The car harness strap is quite short
7. True Love Nylon Reflective Padded Dog Harness
The True Love Nylon harness is ergonomically designed to contour to your dog’s shape to provide a comfortable fit. It is a good harness choice for long walks and car trips as it is lightweight and breathable.
This harness contains reflective material to ensure your dog can be seen when walking at night. There is soft sponge padding on the chest and back for added comfort which is particularly good for extended wear during longer walks. The adjustable straps make sure you can get a good fit and there are 5 sizing options to choose from.
There are a couple of clip points which means you can attach the lead either toward the front or the back of the harness depending on what is easier, more comfortable or better suited to the situation.
What We Like:
- Reflective for increased visibility
- Adjustable straps for proper sizing
- Breathable material
What We Don’t Like:
- Hand washable
8. 2 Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Dog Harness
This no-pull harness from 2 Hounds Design is a great option for training purposes as it gives you control while remaining comfortable and flexible for your dog.
The harness features a martingale loop that will discourage pulling by tightening. There are two clips that allow you to use a double-ended leash if preferred. The harness is lined with soft velvet to ensure it doesn’t rub and cause sores.
This harness can withstand day to day use and also comes with a chew warranty meaning the manufacturer will replace up to 2 chewed straps. This is a great harness for dogs of all ages and abilities.
What We Like:
- Ideal for dog training
- Martingale loop leash attachment allows dog to walk in a straight line
- Discourages pulling
- Comes with chew warranty
What We Don’t Like:
- May not be the best option for inexperienced owners
- No chest plate
Dog Harness Buyer’s Guide
There are a few important factors to consider when looking for the right dog harness. The best harness is versatile, durable and easy to put on and take off of your dog.
Use
There are many different reasons you may be looking at buying a harness. Some of the key reasons include:
- Training purposes
- To reduce pulling
- To increase control
- Safety (reduced risk of escape and less pressure on the dog’s throat)
Style
- Vest design – easy to put on and off, comfortable for your dog but not the best option for training.
- Webbed – similar to a vest but with webbing straps, this is a good option if your dog does not pull when out walking.
- No-Pull – usually offer front/ back clips and are designed to absorb the tug of pulling while training your dog not to pull.
- Tightening – these tend to be used by experienced owners or trainers, they tighten to reduce pulling but this can result in discomfort if used incorrectly.
When choosing the style also consider whether the harness is over-head or step-in. Step-ins tend to be easier to put on but are less secure while over-heads are a great overall option.
Safety and Durability
The harness should be made of quality material and be able to withstand day to day use. For safety and comfort it should be adjustable and if you will be walking at night consider getting an option with reflective features for increased visibility.
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Fit
The harness you select should have adjustable straps to ensure the fit is just right. Many manufacturers have size charts that help to give generalisations of the best choice for small dogs and the best choice for large dogs.
Also, keep in mind that a harness that’s perfect for a Border Collie or German Shepherd may not fit a Pug or a Chihuahua. As such, manufacturers will sometimes list breeds as examples or they will give measurements that you can compare.
Here’s a guide that can help you measure your dog for a harness.
Dog Harness for Car Travel
When you think about car safety this should include being on the road with your dog. Restraining them inside the car means they are less likely to cause an accident and can also help reduce the chance of injury in a crash. If you are likely to take your pooch on car rides, consider whether your harness is compatible with car safety equipment.
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Additional Features
Dog harnesses are incorporating more and more features designed to make your life easier as a dog owner. Keep an eye out for the features below and consider whether they would be of benefit to you:
- Back handle
- Pull harness
- Types of leash attachments
- ID Tag or ID Pocket
- Weather proof materials
Dog Harness FAQs
Yes, generally harnesses are a better option than dog collars as they provide you with more control over your dog. They also discourage pulling while simultaneously ensuring the safety of your dog by spreading the weight of any pulling across their chest area rather than against their neck and windpipe, which can occur even with a flat collar.
