Choosing the right harness for your dog

8 hours ago
2 min read

Two black dogs lying on grass in a park, one in a blue harness, under text How to choose the right harness for your dog…

This Cocker Spaniel weighs 12kg and is wearing a Non-Stop Line Harness 5.0 in size 4.

There are lots of reasons you may use a harness with your dog:

- Hiking.

You may not want perfect loose lead walking on a hike, but not want to give your dog off lead freedom. A harness with a hands-free lead comes in handy!

- Canicross/Pulling sports.

A harness is essential, allowing the dog to pull comfortably when running.

- Medical conditions that require harness rather than collar.

Some medical conditions mean it isn't safe for a dog to wear a collar, and a harness is much safer fopr the individual.

- Attaching in the car.

Attaching a dog to a seatbelt by their collar is very dangerous. A harness is a much better choice.

- Body shape that means a collar isn’t safe

Some dogs have necks that are bigger than their heads, meaning a collar would slip straight off. A harness is necessary for walking.

So, how do you choose the correct one? Not all harnesses are equal ❌ Some harnesses could do more damage than good, and it is essential that your dog is comfortable to avoid behaviour issues or discomfort.

Here’s my 5 top tips for choosing the right harness for your dog…

1. No front leg restriction

The harness should NOT have a bar across the front or hinder the front leg movement at all. Front legs should have full range of motion when wearing the harness. See how the harness in this picture (Non-Stop Line Harness 5.0) allows freedom of the front limbs to move fully.

2. Correctly fitting

If the harness is either too big or too small it will affect your dog’s walking style and can cause both physical and behavioural issues due to discomfort. Check out the size guide for tyhe harness you're buying rather than taking a guess.

Two black dogs in harnesses sit on a woodland trail of bluebells; overlay text says Correctly fitted. Not too big or small.

3. Appropriate for the job

Using a Canicross harness for a daily walk and a daily harness for Canicross means you won’t get the most from your dog, make sure you’re matching the equipment to the job. In this photo, both dogs are wearing Non-Stop Freemotion harnesses.

4. Comfort is key

Rubbing or chafing will cause discomfort. Check that the harness isn’t rubbing underarms and that the material is comfortable for your dog. This is the Non-Stop Rush Harness.

Black dog in a harness sits on grass by a picnic table under blue sky, with text: Comfortable to wear. No rubbing or chafing.

5. Security

Too many dogs slip out of their harnesses and cause accidents - check that your dog can’t get out of the harness easily if spooked to ensure their safety.