Choosing a Dog Harness - Best Ones and How to Use

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Choosing a dog harness doesn’t have to be overwhelming. First, we’ll show you how to decide what you need and then recommend the best ones for each category. Check the links to our recommendations below and subscribe!
-----RECOMMENDED HARNESSES-----
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Softtouch SENSE-ation
Amazon: geni.us/h1tO9
PetSafe Easy Walk
Amazon: geni.us/ZSmL4f
Chewy: prf.hn/l/K31q5kw
Kong Comfort Control Grip
Amazon: amzn.to/2c9Spg5
Four Paws Comfort Control
Amazon: geni.us/sk9bAH
Chewy: prf.hn/l/7BdDjG1
Simply Wag Dog Body
Amazon: amzn.to/2c4q3ki
Ruffwear Front Range
Amazon: geni.us/pLoQ6b
Kurgo Go-Tech Adventure
Amazon: geni.us/l8kY
Chewy: prf.hn/l/7QqGb12
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About this video:
In this video, Ian Stone from Simpawtico Dog Training shows you how to choose a harness for your dog. We review the dog harness types for all needs: no pull, for athletics, and for small breeds. With reviews and recommendations, you can feel confident in using a harness correctly.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in the post above are “affiliate links.” If you click the link and purchase the item, Simpawtico Dog Training, LLC will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, we only recommend products or services we use personally that we believe will add value to our viewers. Your price is the same whether you use the affiliate link or not.

[@tmaxim2651]

As a groomer in training- When using a harness in particular you should also be prepared to check your dog's coat for knots more regularly. Dogs that wear harnesses often come in with knots on their chest and armpit area because of how the hair becomes rubbed and tangled when the dog is walking. If your dog has long fur I recommend checking your dog after each walk (this is a good idea anyway) particularly in the harness area. Also when brushing your dog (which should preferably be every day, second day or third day, depending on the type and length of hair) make sure to not just brush the face, back, legs and tail. Brush under and around the ears, under the paws, between the front and back legs, and in the collar/harness area. It makes it easier for the dog groomers, helps keep an eye out for ticks and flees and is far more comfortable for the dog. If the dog doesn't like it, just work on training the dog to like it with treats, patience and praise. Don't reward them in any way for negative behaviour, don't push them too long at once and make it fun and enjoyable. You could also have the fur groomed short.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Good advice. One of my close friends is a professional groomer and I'm absolutely certain she'd agree with you on every point.

[@krisb5695]

I have 2 yorkie/mini schnauzer mixes and one of them is fine with a collar on their coats are just slightly different and my younger one gets knots from his collar so I keep him shaved

[@micamonfasani9965]

Yaass! I have a Golden Retriever and I don't use the "body arnes" anymore because it makes knots in her chest

[@jamiami3804]

Po

[@reginajohnson7496]

The harness I got for my shepherd/husky was a front one. The trainer at petco suggested it because she was a crazy strong puller when we walked. It ended up cutting her armpit area because she still pulled with it on. I realized I needed to really focus on loose leash walking with treats rather than just using the harness to teach her. That is working for her right now and I am using her dog food as her treats which was so helpful. Thanks for that tip!! Got videos are awesome and they make me laugh!! Please keep it up

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Awesome! Good job. And thank you, I definitely will! ;)

[@johnstilwell3466]

That's awesome. A good harness is important but so is the training!

[@Rite1010.]

I use a front harness as well. I found one way to prevent chafing was to Put duct tape on the armpit areas of the harness. Another way is to cut a seatbelt pad in half and wrap each half under the armpit areas.

[@Giganfan2k1]

Regina Johnson you might want try to harness the dog's desire to pull. If you live in the city there is several dog pulling options where you can coexercise, or get the dog to do most of the work. I live in a lot of hills. I am training my pit mix to be my hill assist. I get more milage out of biking. She loves to work, it makes a high enegry dog easier to manage and it brings us both closer. Hope everything is working out. :)

[@diegoortiz5241]

Regina Johnson “!

[@BoltBandicoot]

I don't own a dog or even a pet for that matter, but I still found this very interesting and informative.

[@Pollygosh1]

I have used the easy walk harness since my Great Dane was a puppy. I love it. She walks loose leash right by my side and if she does start to get ahead of me or a bunny catches her attention, all it takes is a gentle pull on the leash by me to bring her back by my side. She's 160 pounds and if she decided to go, there is no way I could stop her. I highly recommend the easy walk harness.

[@sepidehkhalilian2877]

Videos are incredible, it is great to see the level of intellect that goes into this. Answers my every question... even the ones I did not know I had.

[@reesemorgan2259]

*A body harness cured my (small) dog of Inverted Sneezing.* She always had a collar - I'm late to this harness game. I did research and learnt that the consensus is that for small dogs, like mine, body harnesses ( with the hook thingy on the dog's back ) are the best. Yes, they can be a bit fiddly to snap on or off - I'm always feeling for long hair getting trapped in the locking mechanism - but I'm absolutely thrilled that she's 100% less anxious on walks. No, I'm not flogging them, but just in case anyone is reading whose dog experiences this distressing phenomenon - the body harness (with the hook for the lead on the dog's back) has worked wonders for me. Never going back to collars.

[@sonyaphillips2186]

After working in a kennel and walking other people's pulling dogs all day, I completely agree that Softtouch Sense-ation harness is the best for dogs that pull. Saves your arms from injury and makes teaching dog to walk on a loose leash SO much faster and easier.

[@27daysie]

keep up the subtitles, nice for people who don't perfectly understand English!

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Awesome! Will do! ;)

[@eliduncan7715]

Francis but your speak English

[@wilmab4120]

@@eliduncan7715 Just because he can write English well, it doesn't mean he is good at understanding it when spoken.

[@jodyharrison6186]

Yes BUT I would also like to add that the music you chose for this vid was just a little too loud and drowned out the speaker at times. Other than the that the info was awesome.

[@carolmorris404]

Francis would you please demonstrate how to fit each harness. I received a 2 day old pup who was succling on a dead dam. There were also 2 emancipated grey hounds on the farm. The dam was a Rhodesian Ridge back. I had lost my Jack Russell a couple of months beforehand and was still grieving, but then I realised by rescued long hair min pin was lonely. The vetenarian hospital approached me to foster him because they knew I love my dogs and would not object to getting up every 2 hours to give him his puppy formula and I had another dog to nurture him socially. Well Max has only had one walk in his life and I ended up with a dislocated shoulder. I have bought a number of harnesses but can not place them on him to stop his brutal strength and speed. PLEASE what do you suggest and how (go slow) I am almost 60 in demonstrating how to put it on him. My little one walks obediently on a lead attached to her collar.

[@alexwyman8380]

I love the ruffwears. We take our pups boating regularly and when its a stretch they can easily swim on it makes them super easy to pull back into the boat. They also make a great pfd for when they're in more rough water or out for longer trips

[@jennasaurusrex5296]

Our corgi is great without a harness on her daily walks but we do use harnesses for different types of activities that require more control and safety. Like we use the black Kurgo Truefit for our corgi in the car along with booster seat. It's not the easiest thing in the world to snap on but I trust that if there's an accident she will be safe and secure. We also use a harness on our corgi when we go camping/hiking and for when we are exploring a highly populated metropolitan area. She has an Arcadia Trail harness for camping (for safety overall, though I've been eyeing the Fenrir Oden harness for when it lands in the US) and the Buddy Belt for when we're walking downtown somewhere. The buddy belt is a GREAT option for small sized breeds that can already loose leash walk.

[@theblackdahlia88]

We bought 2 body harnesses for my mix, he ended up breaking 1 and chewing through the other after he learned how to pull it off. We ended up getting a tactical halter harness, which works perfectly. It's easy to put on with just 2 snaps and it covers his entire chest with a hook in the back of a seat belt. It's simple and effective.

[@Carolyn9120]

We have used a back hook harness and our pup pulled BAD. We just purchased and used the Easy Walk harness.....OMG!!!! Awesome

[@lauryn4648]

My dogs are both large, strong and love to pull, so I was recommended a harness by some person or another. The first harness we got was an Easy-Walk, and it works quite well. We got quite a small size, though, and our pup outgrew it and was in need of an upgrade. We got one of the Top Paw dual harnesses which are great. We can alternate between the hooks on walks depending on where we are. My other dog uses one too, though we only do it on the back setting for him. He doesn't pull often, but we can't use just his collar as he has tracheitis and any potential situation of him trying to lunge at a rabbit (he does have a prey drive) or something else is too risky. Just my experience with harnesses!

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Thanks for sharing!

[@rachellebardin8604]

I recently started working at a doggy daycare and boarding kennel, have never used a harness for any of my dogs, and had NO IDEA how many different types of harnesses there are. Each time I bring a dog up to meet its owner I have the harness on wrong. Super embarrassing and am trying to educate myself on how to do properly. The learning curve has been....sink or swim. It's time sensitive to get the dog and bring them up o their owner. Each dog jumps on you and all around while I'm trying to figure out which end is up for the harness, and the other dogs in the yards do not help; at all. Your video was helpful.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Hi Rachelle! Glad to help! No doubt, there are a ton out there. You're gonna be ok!

[@charliehall8295]

i highly recommended a julius K9 IDC harness as you can buy a lot of chest straps that distribute pressure, including one that has a front D ring on it. And it's super easy to put on and off with one buckle. My dog uses the belt IDC harness but im soon getting a new red one as it matches her collar.

[@jerrydearman4679]

The big disadvantage of these harnesses is that the dog can back out of them. Ours was useless in this respect.

[@dariarylkova5720]

Strange to hear that the Freedom harness is complicated. It's much better than the easy-walk cause it is actually dual purpose. You can attach a leash at the front, or on the back or both for extra control (i.e in a crowded area). Theres no requirement to use two leashes or their dual leash. Also the velvet is great for sensitive skin & the back attachment is perfect for dogs like huskies who can wriggle out of harnesses. That along with the ruffwear are my favorite for large dogs. Freedom harness is lighter & better for the summer though. Most importantly you dont need a no-pull as well as a "regular" harness.

[@janiceerickson1083]

I have tried several different harnesses for my pup, who is now 5 month old & still pulls like crazy on our walks. Today, 10/28/21, I used a gentle lead for the 1st time and what a difference!! No pulling and he walked right next to me. My question is, does a gentle lead circumvent the dog from actually learning not to pull? Thanks so much!

[@VicSinclair2000]

Harnesses are awesome. A dog I used to walk had a tumor in it's neck removed and was putting on weight during the recovery period, wouldn't play or run around at all unless it was on a walk. He would have had to forgo any activity if they hadn't figured out which harness to get.

[@juliewarrington5582]

I really like the Ruffwear harness you mentioned in the video! I purchased a number of harnesses over the last two years (length of time I've had my dog) and was never fully satisfied with any of them until I tried the Ruffwear harness. It fits my Rat Terrier mix like none of the others. Works very well with the Walky Dog and my bike. Attaching the lead to front of the harness keeps her where I want her. If I get another Ruffwear harness it will be for color choice. LOL

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Hi Julie! I was really happy with mine too. Glad it worked out for you! ;)

[@padoodle81]

I use the freedom no pull. I like the soft covering on the straps and the replacement warranty if the dogs chew it. I don't often use two leashes with it but instead go with the front clip only.

[@Dollysbreyer1829]

For our three large dogs (2 labs and a large goldendoodle) we use a Wonder Walker body harness that also has a front clip.We use the back when traveling and when we are on a run.We use the front for regular walking trips.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Great!

[@ashleya8532]

I love how thorough you are; going through the pros and cons of each one, the whys, etc. Great for people who are and are not new to the idea alike! :) I definitely love your videos. :)

[@lscruggs5304]

When you realized you blind bought the 2nd recommended front harness, score! Love watching your videos and all the knowledge you are sharing.

[@kristenprecious4748]

Hi I have an English Bulldog and I prefer a harness. Since he runs like a little pig sometimes I find the harness easy to grab; I can also help lift him in and out of places. My personal favorite is the Ruffwear, its soft, and I can use the front or back hooks . Thanks for the video, I found it helpful & informative.

[@thedawghouse4674]

I dont do harnesses for my big dogs, but for my Boston Terriers do get harnesses!

[@abigailkerr3354]

I'd love to see some more harness reccs for larger dogs. Thinking of teaching my 100lb Bernese to drive but I want to make sure he's comfy and supported.

[@jeffw5195]

A good vest is, key and can make all the difference for a completeer life. I have an Ifang gen 1 tactical harness (it may be a different model but I know it is Ifang). It has a breathable liner on anything touching my dog (except the borderline that seams to stay nice and straight or slightly curl out away from her). The harness/vest has a back and chest panel that are connected with 2 chest and 2 shoulder buckles. At all 4 buckles the mesh lined panels overlapp quite a bit (but not too much). The stitching is really nice and there are a lot of stitches on this harness/vest holding it together very well. There is some molly webbing that I have pouches affixed to (1 small pouch on the left and 1 on the right). Hook and loop down the entire back, on the sides and a flag size one the chest. The extra material for the buckles adjustment was well thought out and is properley able to be stowed. A really durable handle on the back that keeps its from well is placed nicely. The attachment rings on the chest and near the handle are heavy duty and attached nicely (when not in use they lay flat nicely and with ease). All of the material is heavy duty and the metal hardware is rated higher. I do not remember the specks on everything but remember when researching, the buckles were rated higher than the rest of the harness/vest (ofcourse). The material and assembly was rated for climbing. It is not a rescue harness/vest (like the ones that have 4 chest/belly buckles [a 3/4 harness] instead of 2), but is able to lift my dog to safty if needed. I really like this harness/vest because I can attach a lead to it how I need to. (Sometimes I just attach the lead to a collar, that is built even better.) I put this harness/vest on with the collar right over the every day collar without a problem. If she will be wearing it all day, than all I have to do is weave the leather everyday collar in the molly webbing but I don't think I really need to because it seems not to bother her. She is a King/German shepherd mix, making her a big girl. I ended up with her for free and noticed she wanted a job, always wanting to help me. (I met her as a puppy next door that was bought for a lot of money but never messed with by the owner. She literally ate the siding off his house. I feed her daily, gave her treats/toys. She got big quick and started jumping my fence to walk me from my house to my jeep, than returned to her yard on her own (reverse when I came home). Once she was my dog I started really training her. One day she started acting really weird to me (especially when I felt funny) sounds strange but I went to my va repeatedly and one of the things I told my doctor was my dog needed me checked out. My medical went down hill quickly, multiple back surgerys (tumor in my spinal cord inoperable) along with many other issues. Found because of her. She kept up being herself and now has been my service dog for about 2 years (Mobility, balance, counter balance) the vest helps her pull, walk, stand up, sit down get off the floor, in/out, around... live better.

[@ThePdxster]

I looked it up and it's actually ICEFANG. Looks like really well made stuff. I ended up ordering the GN8 model which is more like some others in the video only appears to be better materials and lots of adjustments. I ordered from their website and then found it on Amazon for a few bucks cheaper..oh well. Thanks Jeff for the tip, we shall see if it looks as good in person and if it holds up!

[@nicholehines3852]

We got our rescue dog one from Kmart. I can’t remember the brand but looks like the pet safe one. Whenever she has it on it seems to calm her and she looks at us for her next instruction. As soon as it’s off she’s off and racing around. She’s an English staffy. I’m not sure why the harness calms her but it she seems to know it’s working time. I love your videos keep them up!

[@sm0kebaby]

We use the PetSafe Easy Walk harness with our heeler mix. It definitely does discourage him from pulling but he also has patches on his shoulders where his fur had been worn away from where the leash rubs sometimes. Hopefully we’re able to graduate him to just a collar with more training and focus.

[@AliceA333]

Very helpful! I want my new dog to have the easiest possible transition, she's been through a lot so having this knowledge can only help 🙂

[@avacadoeventing]

Pet Attire Ribbon Designer Wrap Harness - I use it for my seven year old, one foot tall dog, and I love it! Comes in lots of fun colors, very sturdy. It's a body harness.

[@kimhall50]

I use a body harness to keep my dogs' leashes from tangling in their legs. I also think dogs in a harness have more freedom of movement to communicate with other dogs making them less prone to leash aggression

[@heathenwolf8903]

I have the Sporn Stop-Pulling Harness. (The one without the collar attachments). It works great, he does not pull, (think he only pulled once, first time we tried it). It's also lightning fast on & off, you first place the harness straps over the head, then you loop the the leg loops then adjust the cord lock. It's pretty much on after the leg thing, just have to adjust the cord for a comfortable fit.

[@Atmoras]

I use the K9 harness, the one with the single band across the front, has a handle on the back. I use this because my dog is often in a car but also when exploring she sometimes gets stuck in lakes or rivers and forgets where to get out so the handle is good for me to lift her - she is a border collie - on the smaller end of the medium dog scale.

[@joanlevis7857]

Thanks for the advice. Your video helped me pick out a front hook harness. It has a back hook to convert to a body harness when she is fully trained to stop pulling.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Happy to help! ;)

[@sailorvbunny]

Thank you for your helpful, educational, and easy to understand videos! I've been watching your videos for a while to prepare for a dog joining my family and this has made me feel more responsible and prepared! : )

[@theloudown]

Your videos are not only helpful, but also really nicely produced. Thank you!

[@xKayKay10]

My dog is very strong if he does decide to pull so I like the durability of the Julius K9 harness. It’s easy to pull him sideways if he needs it however most of the time he does not. The Julius K9 is a great harness for us as he is in the car a lot so it holds him in securely. It’s also very good at night when he is off the lead as it is reflective and has glow-in-the-dark patches. The handle is also a great feature as he is very strong and sometimes needs to be held close (for example, if he spots another dog - this is something we are working on) but this harness makes him very easy to control. I would highly recommend it.

[@poppiesandredwoods]

I’ve had pitties, goldens, and a Great Dane. And were horrible walkers at first. I prefer for training to use a body harness and head harness combo for walking training but that’s mainly because big dogs can still pretty easily over power a front securing harness.

[@reynamahant8319]

I have a Turkish Kangal. I’ve tried a few different harnesses. With back hook and ones with front and back hooks. None work with my pup. He does pull and more so when strangers…human & non human comes close. He’s really protective/guarding pup. So I’m trying a gentle leader and might end up getting the hem springer prong collar. I wouldn’t really recommend harnesses with very strong, powerful dogs. That’s just my opinion based on my experience with my Kangal.

[@martinrosanna]

I purchased a back hook harness and my pup pulls A LOT!!! My vet asked me "May I ask why you have a harness on Kylo Ren?" And I responded "Um, because I don't know any better... I don't know" hahah! She recommended the Gentle Leader. This is like a miracle, and he doesn't pull anymore. This video is super useful because I am looking for a front clip harness. I'll be looking into your recs!!!

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

HAHA that's why I make these videos. Good luck and let me know what you get!

[@kaitlyne1870]

I like the body harnesses with a front hook option so you only have to buy one harness for all uses.

[@Loveoldies50]

I like the Hurrta harnesses. They're easy to put on and off, even over a coat. They're reflective, and they have a handle for grabbing the dog

[@haydensaunders9404]

For the problems he mentioned with not being able to use a front clip harness, I recommend using "y" front like the Kong comfort control grip and the petsafe surefit. for front clip you can clip to the front center ring, and for tie out or car, clip to the back ring! It works just like the ""hybrid"" harnesses he mentioned without the price!

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

That's a good point. I'm actually working with a dog that wears the Kong harness all of the time and that's exactly what I've done with him.

[@zezyiox]

Quality content! Succinct and clear with nice visuals, all that you need in informative videos. Keep it up! Subbed.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Thanks! Welcome aboard!

[@Ristikettu]

Have to recommend Rukka harness with front and bodyclip, durable and has a lot of places to adjust the size, good for growing puppies!

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Cool! Thanks for the heads up on that one. 👍

[@juliem1542]

I use a Ruffwear Front Range on my dog. I selected it because we do a lot of hiking. I also like the reflective piping on it. I have thought about upgrading to the Ruffwear Flagline, but I haven't yet because it does not come in orange.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

We love the Front Range too. All four of our current dogs have one.

[@diana828100]

I recently rescued a 15mos old rat terrier with the wrong harness - I got a kurgo tru-fit and bc of his long body and the ability to use a front hook and crash tested I feel for my budget and his activity level it works well and fits is adjustable and lifetime warranty ... he is a puller so front hook for walking is a must. but I also believe that he will grow and change and this harness will be great for a good long while cos the construction is great the attachments are NOT PLASTIC and Kurgo is a local brand for me here in NE MA. go Rocky boy in your Kurgo Tru-fit Harness for walking and the car. thanks for your video bc my friend recommended the first one but since Rocky is 18 lbs and super jumpy and I hate to switch him in and out bc of different activites I believe we made the right choice for him (not the Kurgo Harness you showed btw - the Tru-Fit is for walking and vehicles and crash tested to 75 LBS at 30 mph) ty! Diana and Rocky Boy

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Thanks for sharing!

[@cheebifred]

I got a similar harness to the ruffwear one, it's made by a company called true love (I think they might actually manufacture for other companies but also produce their own stuff) this one has an actual d-ring attatched to the front as opposed to the but it nylon on the ruffwear, it also has a little elasticated mesh bitto tuck the d-ring into when your not using it, it's also great for stopping dog tags getting caught on bushes etc. my favourite things about the harness though? you can get it in high bus yellow or orange and they are about half the price of a ruffwear one coming in at around £15

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Awesome! Great info. Thanks I'll check that one out. ;)

[@cheebifred]

I have only seen them for sale online though

[@joshprice4855]

My dog is a bit of a puller so I feel much better walking her on a harness. I really need to work with her on loose lease walking but for now at least I know she isn't hurting her throat when she does get into the fey mood to try and drag me around

[@augustmutt4078]

I've had an easy walk for only one day and it's been helping us so much already! I totally suggest it.

[@augustmutt4078]

We use the JuliusK9 IDC Powerharness for dog agility. It's a sort of body harness but it's tactical grade and has a backing that you can attach saddle bags or put velcro patches on. It's really nice!

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Oh yeah I've seen that Julius K9 one. It's pretty awesome!

[@shadowwolf3627]

I use the petsafe easy walk harness for walks and the ruffwear front range harness for car rides or bikejoring. Both work excellent.

[@nicocombs4990]

Please stop using harnesses they really stunt your dogs training growth

[@shadowwolf3627]

@@nicocombs4990 who says I'm not training my dog to heel on a classic collar and leash? I am thank you very much! I only used the easy walk harness so I didn't have my arm ripped out of socket and have stress levels through the roof just to go on a simple walk! Please don't jump to conclusions.

[@johnclhugyugihjbvgbkj9729]

Interesting and thought-out. Science aspect was a good surprise.

[@juliamarkovitz9600]

Really happy I found your KZbin videos! Amazing!

[@gioflores96]

Strange... never thought about it but I bought a harness for my Alaskan Malamute and he never pulled although being bred for that and instinctively should’ve pulled. He walked flawlessly with it since the first time I introduced it to him as a puppy.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

You won the doggie lottery!

[@grannygrumbles4119]

My pup is a tiny chiweenie and hevhad no choice but to start with a ferret harness. We are just about to move from a kitty harness to a real dog one. This was helpful, thank you.

[@augustooliveira2214]

Hi guy , i have a english bulldog, now a train my bad english linguage and train my dog !Good work, i from Brazil, Bahia, Salvador! you are wellcome one day here!

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Hi Augusto! Glad to have you on board, and cheers from a fellow bulldog owner! :D

[@emiliemaltais1309]

I don't understand why so much people suggest harness for pulling dogs. I didn't really think of it when we got our lab/husky mix rescue and bought one after the petstore clerk told me it would be the best option. WORST MOVE EVER and a dangerous one. The dog went into work mode and could use all her strenght to drag me, her husky side coming out as soon as she have a harness on . We now use it for hiking and it is the best. Would like to try the one who can be attached from the front thought, pulling is less an issue now but would like to see that completely resolve.

[@kaisdogtoytreatreviews5330]

This is so helpful! There are so many harnesses to choose from.

[@cideon]

Thanks for this video! The PetSafe Easy Walk Harness helped so much with my 4 month old Great Dane's walking manners! I still have to work on keeping her to my left half the time because she prefers to be between me and the curb. But she otherwise would pull to the point of choking herself (I'd try to stand still or go back each time) when we'd head home after a walk, and it wasn't a detriment to her. With the front hook of the PetSafe, she learned fairly well with one day that she really wasn't making progress if she tried to pull me.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Awesome! Good job! Keep at it, and you'll sew up those loose ends in no time. ;)

[@jacquiporter9238]

I really like the freedom harness. Hooks in back and in front. It is also a reasonable price and holds up well.

[@breannakeel2274]

I find the simplest thing to do (though not the simplest to put on) is to use the front ring on a simple h-harness and use treats. Put your leash on the front ring of the harness and start walking,when he pulls give a tug/jerk or turn in a circle or turn the other way and call his/her name. Turn back the way you were going or you can keep going the same way your walking,up to you,when they stay by your side say good boy/girl and give them a treat. When you do it for the first time I would say about a step or two before you give them a treat depending on whether they are a puppy or an adult. As you in increase how many steps you take ( same thing as above,depending on how old the dog is depends on how many steps you take. I would say if they are a puppy maybe one step each time and if they are a adult or getting close to an adult two to three steps depending on how good they are doing with it) slowly way of the treats and just say good boy/girl. Repeat the same steps above if needed as you go along with just saying good boy/girl. As you get good with that you can way off saying good boy/girl if you would like. After your done with waying off of that then you can way off the harness and just go to a flat buckle collar. If your dog goes a step back from training and starts his ways again then you went to fast and ether have to take a step back or start over. Sorry this was so long,but I just wanted to be helpful. :)

[@rosemaryangiolino3835]

You make everything look so easy I have a biting out of control lab puppy I don’t even know where to begin explain how to stop a vicious puppy

[@elainewilkin739]

After three days using an Ezydog harness, back clip, recommended by a pet store and assured fitted well my Bedlington terrier has sores behind each front leg. gutted as it was not cheap. Think I had better go back to whippet collar, though he does pull and makes himself cough. Thought I had found the answer!

[@chriscosby2459]

Interesting, I did not know about the front attachment harness benefits until I watched this video.

[@kat1984]

The Kong Comfort Control harness is my favorite harness for my Boston Terrier. The handle is great when we're around small children (she loves to lick and jump) or when she's getting ready to snap at a dog she was pretending to be friendly with

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

That is a good harness. I used one for years on my Boston Terrier.

[@avocadocasualty]

I find it incredibly difficult to fit my chesty doberman into a harness. Most places offer the triangle style harness anymore, and that just does not work for a deep chested breeds.

[@silverkiss37]

The Petsafe 3-In-1 harness is very nice too, and I would have kept it as my #1 if it weren't for the fact that the front strap always moves to one side or the other of my girl's big chest bone, throwing the whole harness a bit to the side (but not much and maybe I just didn't adjust it properly?). Either way, I just got the Ruffwear front range harness and I wish I would have bought it years ago. The fit is wonderful and it's obvious this sucker is gonna stay where it should! I don't prefer an over the head harness, but I have a Labrador in a Cavalier's body, so a no pull, sturdy trail harness is a must. Highly recommended.

[@jenniferredfern3930]

I have german pinschers and it is a challenge finding a proper fitting harness for this body type. The pinscher has a deep narrow chest similar to a whippet or greyhound. I use a ComfortFlex harness for scentwork/nosework. It does not impede the dog's movement in search areas. I have tried several other brands of harnesses for walking - currently I am using the Kurgo Journey. I like this also for balance training as it has a handle to help steady my dogs on a peanut or donut. However it does not work well with the front clip as I cannot fit it properly around the neck area...

[@lawrencejames1984]

Watched a view of this guy’s videos before. Really good channel. Very informative, authentic and well presented.

[@pelsnese234]

Had two H harness from Hurtta but got shavings on the inside of the legs on my dog that does not pull. Now we switched to a Trixie Y harness that can be opened and adjusted on both sides and i am in love

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Haven't ever tried Trixie before. I'll give them a look! Thanks for the input!

[@kcsilverwing4263]

I use the Gooby Comfort harness for my little dog and love it. It is a v neck style so it never touches the trachea.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Great recommendation!

[@chmtnwmn58]

I've never used a harness. I've had the best doggies. I now have a rescue who's had a horrible life until now & she's great on the leash (with a collar) but she is skiddish and tries to run away when she gets spooked. SO I've been considering a harness for her - I worry about tugging to hard around her neck! However I'm worried about most of them rubbing at the top of her shoulders? Rubbing on the belly when walking? Is that a thing? Am I just being too fretful? This video was very informative and I appreciate it very much because I don't know what to even look for LOL - so thanks so much. Wish me luck!

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Good luck!

[@nkpscho]

Amazing and well detailed video. Thanks for your content

[@karenkleckner131]

Very very helpful. Thanks for the basics.

[@LiveLikeAlex]

I’m pregnant and pulled something walking my neighbors huge German Shepard dog. I can’t walk her anymore because she’s a huge puller. My dog doesn’t pull much, only when he sees a squirrel or is excited during the beginning of a walk he is strong though so I’m looking into a no pull harness. I hope it helps, I love taking long walks with my boy.

[@anndaley4001]

Hello I am almost 80, a 5ft female about 100lbs who is attempting to take my son's 1 year old Malinoise for walks. She pulls, she jumps, she jerks and I am scared witless. A neck collar is useless, Halti's both types, have been no better. The back attachment harness makes me feel I should be sledge driving so I have ordered the under the neck type Keep your fingers crossed for me. By the way, the same dog is up for her Kennel Club Silver Medal Training award and has an excellent chance of gaining her Gold and we do love her

[@Knutahh]

I use a Julius K9 harness for my dog. It's a back clip harness, but it's very quick to put on :)

[@ricardocontreras9011]

we have English Bulldogs and we love the Kong Padded Harnesses for them, thanks for your video

[@wolfheartspirit97]

I recommend the kurgo journey my it works Great for my husky. He’s 80IBs and moves in it with ease. Can be used in the car, everyday wear, Ive gone though rocky paths on hikes and the clips are steel so they won’t break off.

[@luciusmaximus1169]

Some harnesses are ok, I had a halti harness which had a front and back clip, i used the front clip for walking my 74 pound labrador (34kg) and used the back clip when letting him run in a field with a 10ft leash for recall. The only downside to this harness was it didnt fit properly and would slide down his chest, i tried tightening it but it didnt work. I also have an ezydog harness which does nothing to stop him pulling but i use more in the car and recall training now. i currently have him on a slip-lead but am looking for a no pull harness as he tends to put a lot of pressure on his neck. I also tried the halti head collar but it rubbed on his face and made it sore, so quickly stopped using it.

[@sasobeck0192]

how do you not have more subscribers all your videos are helpful keep up the great work

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Thank you thank you!

[@karlafettkether9113]

Nice Video, we have a 1.5 yr old german shepherd and a 3 year old boxer/lab/rotwieller mix. can now choose a harness for each of them that will work the best more confidently

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Great! Glad to help!

[@thefanmyj]

Awesome videos! I'm bringing home a 12-week old Havanese in March and am looking for a good harness. I like the hybrid Ruffwear harness. Question: how do I use this harness with a standard car seatbelt? Thanks!

[@no_peace]

we have a front range harness for our giant pit mix. it's the only front-hook that sort of fits and doesn't cut her armpits up. I really like it. we got two sizes of easy walk and they both fit in one direction but not the other. huge waste of money.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Yeah, some body types just can't do those harnesses. The front-range is pretty awesome. Glad it's working better for you!

[@no_peace]

it's great! and just to clarify, I didn't mean the easy walk isn't a good product! just that it isn't as simple to fit as I thought it would be, and then I waffled over altering one of them to fit, until it was too late to return either one 👎

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

No I totally get you. I think they're pretty good too, but they just aren't for everybody.

[@LisaGallegos]

Your editing skills are on pointttttt #goals

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Thank you so much!!

[@leonardspetstop]

Great video! Thank you so much Ian! I was looking for some added opinions on a couple of the harnesses and you mentioned them, so perfect! :D

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Great! Happy to help!

[@maskchan5269]

I heavily recommend Julius k9 harnesses they're very well made and durable. They're a bit on the pricy side in terms of a harness, roughly £26-46 depending on size, sometimes colour (depending on how high demand is) and where you get it, I suggest buying it online as I did as I found it is much cheaper online with higher colour selection. I've found chain pet stores charging much higher than it would be online for the same size of harness and even then they order it from the same place so typically they look for profit. I mean would you rather pay £48 or £30 for the same item?

[@robinsmith628]

Ian, my favorite name, named my son Ian, he named his son Ian! Anyway, I like the Poypet No choke no pull training harness. Any thoughts on this one? I have really learned from your videos. Especially the one about bite inhibition. I have a black lab, 7 mos now. Thank you.

[@chrissyplanteater2892]

I had a soft harness on puppy and he had a. Little hiss fit and nearly got it off 😩 I now have a Jules which is ok for car but still pulls and it moves sideways so I stick to collar and figure eight slip lead for pulling xx

[@cmstrauss514]

I enjoy your videos and appreciate your advice. I would like a harness for my dog who actually walks quite well, not a big puller, however if we encounter another dog or situation , I feel more comfortable having something to grab onto. While he doesn’t pull, that goes out the window if a bunch of dogs are around. I don’t want him choking himself even though he doesn’t seem to care. BUT... he hates harnesses. I have tried a tactical vest where it doesn’t go over the head as well as harnesses that go over the head. I swear, you would think someone beat him with a harness as a puppy. I know that’s not the case, but that is how he acts. I have tried the whole desensitizing thing and making a positive experience out of it, it doesn’t matter. He goes right back to hating it. He has zero problems with a collar though. Any tips/advice?! Please and thank you!!

[@nichole_maxinebrown9127]

My oldest dog doesn't do well with front, rear, or dual clip harnesses. I literally bought a julius one just cuz then in a split second I can use the handle & startle him to keep him close so he doesn't do anything to a trigger that makes him lose it. My youngest is lower to the ground, but she's just a hulk. So the best harness is a dual clip so far, with a leash that has two clips, but it's like one leash. Yet on occasion it doesn't even help I. Ending her pulling.

[@tylercat6]

FYI, the simply wag dog body harness is currently unavailable. when I search the web, i get something that looks similar, called "puppia soft vest harness" Unsure about durability. I have a small 5lb papillon. I am concerned about durability, as a safety I don't want something that may fail when I really need it. She's almost 2yrs is doing good with training but will sometimes still "launch" forward if she gets something in her sights that she wants to chase. 1. I don't want her to mistakenly injure herself, 2. I don't want the harness to come apart resulting in her getting loose. She's a little sensitive about things being put over her beautifully large papillon ears, so I tend to look for something she can step into and out of. Thoughts? Ideas? Much thanks for all you do!!

[@lm3729]

Hello, I don’t have have my dog yet. But have been loving all the information that I’m learning about dogs. I’m very appreciative of the information you are putting out there. It is making me feel much more confident about bringing in a little life in my life. Though I had a question about collars. How loose/tight should it be? What am I looking for in terms of distance and finger space? Is there a recommended texture/fabric over another? such as nylon, polyester, leather etc? My new dog is not born yet (due next month) but I’m getting everything ready now. Don’t have any collars, as that is the one thing I’m not sure about. I may have gone overboard on the harnesses, as I got 3 so far. Any advise would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Not to sound like I'm making a pitch, but if you join our mailing list, you can get a copy of our Buyer's Guide which answers all of your questions (and more). Take a look, here: www.simpawtico-training.com/dog-owners-basic-gear-buyers-guide/

[@jennanana]

Easy Walk Harness - but I struggle with the fit. I've landed on the Gentle Leader but would like to phase his off of this once he is older.

[@kateajurors8640]

I Love Her Go Brands but they're not really available in a lot of colors or one of their products will be available in more colors. I like to try to match and try to keep color specific to my dogs that have their specific collars harnesses Etc. Kirko does have a lifetime warranty. I love their harness with the bags because everything is adjustable on it

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Hi Katea. I think you mean Kurgo brand?

[@padoodle81]

I like the freedom no pull harness, I just ditched the double leash.

[@jodellgabriel3573]

I have a new rescue and was told to get a harness. I have never used one before. This video gives me some direction. I appreciate that. My dog is a Lhasa Apso (mixed maybe) who has been through a lot of changes since his original people surrendered him. He is aggressive so even though he pulls, a front hook isn't going to work. Also can't measure him as many sites suggest or adjust the harness. Any tips on that?

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Hi Jodell. Do you mean he's aggressive to where he won't let you measure him or adjust the harness?

[@seagermaryann1657]

my Boston, Clancy has grown out of his puppy harness....great info...and I am stuupid with 2 maybe 3 "u"s. On our trips to vets I didn't think about securing the pups in. I want to purchase your book but can't remember where I saw it posted? like I said two "U"s. Sorry about Bobo...Olive is sooo cute! Thank you for helping me. All your videos really help.

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

I'm not sure which book you mean...? The Buyer's Guide? That's here: www.simpawtico-training.com/download/1624/ Also if you're signed up on the mailing list (to get the buyer's guide) I send out any new big training guides I make out to the whole list. Is that what you were asking about?

[@seagermaryann1657]

I think so? Basic info and training ideas? I didn't know how much I was going to love my puppies...thanks for having great, practical, kind information!

[@seagermaryann1657]

Ok down loaded guide and will sign up for mailing list.....can I bother you with a question about my Boston? When I give my dogs a treat (doesn't matter if it is a string bean, blueberry or bisquit), Clancy will take his, look at Bella's...drop it and tryn to take hers. She is smaller so she will scoot under a chair and he will mope and stare at her under the chair the whole time even if I try to give it to him again. Then Bella will come out, take his treat and eat it, too. I did let it go a few times thinking he would realize if he wanted his treat he would have to eat it at the same time or take it to his crate...ha! no deal. If I pick it out and try later...same deal AND he looks soooo dejected...is it a Boston thing, or my puppy's quirk...I feel so bad for hem. Sorry I won't keep pestering you but will keep watching your awesome videos! Many thanks

[@hendrikjbboss9973]

A question. I've never used any kind of harness ever before, only collars and in the case of eg. Rottweilers a choke chain. 😳 I've learned a lot since these years but is not familiar with harnesses. The last dog 🐕 that I had was taught to walk to heel (which I most certainly taught in an incorrect way most likely). We are now again getting an Irish terrier puppy and I want to do the right thing. Thus collar or harness with the attach point underneath the throat?

[@SimpawticoDogTraining]

Usually we train dogs to walk/heel on their collar, but because that process takes a good deal of time we do the training in neutral environments to start and then use the front-hook harness as a stand in so we can take them out in the world without messing up the collar work. Eventually we transition the collar work into the real world and then reserve harnesses for sport and athletic activities.