Dog harnesses UK: 5 compared on price, lead clips and fit

What dog harness is best to stop pulling?

A dog harness reduces the strain of pulling but does not teach your dog to stop. Dogs Trustsays “equipment alone won't stop your dog from pulling on their lead” and suggests “a Y-shaped, fixed harness” that supports the dog's weight. It adds that a front and a back attachment point with a double-ended lead can give extra support. Of the five here, the Ruffwear Front Range has both clips and the PerfectFit has a Y-shaped front.

Makers' no-pull claims differ in kind. Ruffwear says its front clip helps “redirect dogs that pull”, PerfectFit that its Y-front spreads force across the chest, and Julius-K9 that its harness puts the force on the chest rather than the neck. Company of Animals says its separate Halti No Pull Harness has a “stop-pull lifting feature” that activates when the dog pulls.

Are no-pull harnesses kind?

Dogs Trust is direct about this: “Be wary of equipment offering quick fixes, like ‘no pull’ products. They often cause pain or discomfort and lead to more problems, like developing fears.” The RSPCAsays “all training should be reward based”. If you use a harness that tightens or lifts when your dog pulls, watch your dog's body language and pair it with loose-lead training. Dogs Trust also notes that changes in behaviour are often influenced by physical health, and that sudden pain can make a dog switch between pulling and stopping, so ask your vet to rule out pain.

How should a dog harness fit?

Dogs Trustgives three checks: you can fit a finger comfortably between the straps and your dog's body, the harness does not move position as your dog moves, and your dog cannot slip out of it. It advises avoiding harnesses that “cross directly in front of the shoulders”, because they prevent natural movement. Clip-on designs such as the PerfectFit, or a step-in like the Ancol Viva, can suit dogs who dislike things going over their head. Introduce any harness gradually with treats before you use it on walks.

Harness or collar?

Both. Dogs Trust says harnesses absorb much of a pulling dog's weight, so there is less risk of injury, but your dog still needs a collar with an up-to-date ID tag when out of the house, which is a legal requirement. A flat collar should leave room for two flat fingers. Our puppy first-year checklist and first-time dog owner guide cover what else to buy.

For the car, a walking harness is not a car restraint: see our dog car travel comparison. For dogs that roam, see GPS dog trackers. More kit is in the dog accessories hub, including washable dog beds. If walking seems painful for your dog, see our dog health hub and contact your vet.