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10 Best Dog Harnesses for Puppies of All Sizes

They're perfect for training hard-pulling puppies.

By Sophia Caraballo and Jamie Ballard
best harnesses for puppies
MightyPics//Getty Images

If you've recently welcomed a furry friend into your family, congratulations! Whether you've owned dogs your whole life or this is your first puppy, there's a lot to think about. No two puppies are exactly alike are exactly alike, and part of the fun of being a dog owner is learning about your pup's personality. If you're finding that your puppy is tugging on their leash, then using a harness to leash-train them might be a good idea. We've got all the info you need to choose the best puppy harness right here.

These dog harnesses come recommended by experts and reviewers. Many of them are adjustable, which is ideal for puppies, since they might be a different size by next week. (They really do grow up so fast!). Like anything else, training your puppy to walk on a leash without pulling can take some time, but these harnesses can help you get there. Using homemade treats as a reward probably won't hurt, either.

  • No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips

    best overall dog harness for puppies

    rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips

    $17 at Amazon
    Read more
  • No Pull Dog Harnesses for Small Dogs

    best adjustable dog harness for high-energy puppies

    PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harnesses for Small Dogs

    Read more
  • No-Pull Dog Harness

    best dog harness that grows with your pup

    Copatchy No-Pull Dog Harness

    Read more
  • Universal Harness with Leash Set

    most secure dog harness

    GAUTERF Universal Harness with Leash Set

    Read more
  • No-Pull Reflective, Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle

    best durable dog harness with padding

    Copatchy No-Pull Reflective, Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle

    Read more



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Many of these dog harnesses for puppies also have features to keep your dog safe, like reflective strips to keep them visible even at night, and handles to give you quick control. Here's everything to know about buying the best dog harnesses for your puppy. For more to keep your pup happy and healthy, check out our guides to , , and .

best overall dog harness for puppies

rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips

Amazon’s Choice
No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips
best overall dog harness for puppies

rabbitgoo No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips

$17 at Amazon
Credit: RabbitGoo
Pros
  • Machine-washable
  • Comes in a variety of colors
  • More than 100,000 5-star ratings on Amazon
  • Weatherproof material makes it a great all-season pick
Cons
  • Might not be the best choice for especially strong puppies

Certified dog trainer and veterinary technician Julie Burgess says this is the harness she uses with her own dogs, and she notes the company makes sizes designed for puppies. "It's adjustable, reflective, quick release, has breathable mesh, and is made with ultra-durable and weather-proof material for all seasons," she notes.

best adjustable dog harness for high-energy puppies

PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harnesses for Small Dogs

Amazon’s Choice
No Pull Dog Harnesses for Small Dogs
best adjustable dog harness for high-energy puppies

PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harnesses for Small Dogs

Credit: Phoepet
Pros
  • Adjustable fit thanks to four straps and three buckles
  • Has a handle to give you more control
Cons
  • Some reviewers had trouble adjusting for the best fit

Rachel Salant, animal behavioral specialist at Veterinarians.org, and recommends this harness. "It's easy on and off, does not have to go over their head, has thick straps to distribute pressure if they do pull or get excited, and I have not had problems with rubbing with proper fit," she shared.

best dog harness that grows with your pup

Copatchy No-Pull Dog Harness

No-Pull Dog Harness
best dog harness that grows with your pup

Copatchy No-Pull Dog Harness

Credit: Copatchy
Pros
  • Comes in sizes XS through XL
  • Adjustable straps help ensure a good fit
  • Has two leash rings (one on the front and one on the back)
Cons
  • Harness goes over the head, which some dogs dislike

This harness is specifically designed to grow with your pup thanks to its four adjustable straps. It's also made to help train and control hard pulling dogs.

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most secure dog harness

GAUTERF Universal Harness with Leash Set

Universal Harness with Leash Set
most secure dog harness

GAUTERF Universal Harness with Leash Set

Credit: GAUTERF
Pros
  • Comes in a wide variety of colors
  • Step-in design
Cons
  • Some reviewers say it was too small for their dog

This harness is designed with reflective stripes to make walking at night easier. You can even use it on smaller animals, like cats, bunnies, and ferrets.

best durable dog harness with padding

Copatchy No-Pull Reflective, Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle

No-Pull Reflective, Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle
best durable dog harness with padding

Copatchy No-Pull Reflective, Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle

Credit: Copatchy
Pros
  • Grows with your dog
  • Strap handle is easy to grab if your dog is a jumper
  • Several reviewers mention good customer service
Cons
  • A few reviews complain about weak buckles

With over 3,000 reviews and 4.4 stars on Amazon, this harness can fit any dog breed — from Terriers and Labradors to Pit Bulls and German Shepherds.

best dog harness for walking

Best Pet Supplies, Inc. Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness

On Sale
Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness
best dog harness for walking

Best Pet Supplies, Inc. Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness

Now 25% Off
Credit: Best Pet Supplies, Inc.
Pros
  • More than 50,000 5-star ratings on Amazon
  • Extra secure
  • Many reviewers say it fits their dog perfectly
Cons
  • Sizing doesn't directly correspond to dog's breed or weight, so you need to measure your pup before ordering

You don't have to worry about your pup slipping out of this harness. It's made with a strong velcro closure and heavy duty metal rings so you can walk them with confidence.

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Best Padded Dog Harness for Puppies

PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness with Two Leash Attachments

No Pull Dog Harness with Two Leash Attachments
Best Padded Dog Harness for Puppies

PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness with Two Leash Attachments

Credit: PoyPet
Pros
  • Four adjustable straps
  • Two leash connection points
  • Made with lightweight mesh
  • Good for training dog not to pull
Cons
  • Adjusting for the right fit can be challenging at first

This PoyPet pick has four adjustable straps that'll make the harness grow with your puppy. And unlike most heavy-duty harnesses, this one is light and compact.

Cutest Dog Harness for Puppies

PUPTECK Soft Mesh Dog Harness

Amazon’s Choice
Soft Mesh Dog Harness
Cutest Dog Harness for Puppies

PUPTECK Soft Mesh Dog Harness

Now 19% Off
Credit: Pupteck
Pros
  • Comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors
  • Comes with a matching leash
Cons
  • Not the best choice for large dogs that pull

This fashionable dog harness is machine-washable in case your pup decides to take a dip in a puddle or mud.

Best Dog Harness for Large Puppies

JUXZH Soft Front Dog Harness

On Sale
Soft Front Dog Harness
Best Dog Harness for Large Puppies

JUXZH Soft Front Dog Harness

Now 20% Off
Credit: JUXZH
Pros
  • Secure fit and multiple connection points keep your dog safe, even if they're high-energy
  • Reviews say this fit their large puppies perfectly
Cons
  • Some reviewers with smaller dogs say this didn't fit well

This dog harness has more than 8,000 5-star ratings on Amazon, with one reviewer writing: " I've been a dog trainer and multiple dog owner for a long time; finally this harness makes my job easier... I love the bright reflective color, the two sturdy leash clips (I use the one on top), and the handle on top to redirect the dog in a pinch. I've paid twice as much for a lesser quality harness. This is a keeper."

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Best Dog Harness for Car Rides and Walks

Kurgo Tru-Fit Enhanced Strength Dog Harness

Tru-Fit Enhanced Strength Dog Harness
Best Dog Harness for Car Rides and Walks

Kurgo Tru-Fit Enhanced Strength Dog Harness

Credit: Kurgo
Pros
  • Five different adjustment points ensures the perfect fit
  • Comes with seat belt tether so you can keep them stationary in the car
Cons
  • Goes on over the head, which some dogs dislike

One reviewer on Amazon wrote about this harness's durability and how it grows with your pup, saying: "Our German Shepherd puppy was 11 weeks and 18-20 lbs when I purchased it so I went with the medium. [...] The harness is well made and there hasn't been any fraying of the fabric... Fast forward one week and she is now 25 lbs and it fits even better."

What to look for when shopping for a puppy harness

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✔️ Material: Burgess says you should pay attention to the material your puppy's harness is made with. "Ideally cotton because it's breathable, comfortable to wear in any season, and the most enjoyable for your puppy," she notes.

✔️ Sizing: This is one of the most important aspects of a dog harness. "The harness should be snug but not tight when it is on. To check for correct sizing, there should be minimal space between your hand and your puppy," says Burgess. Additionally, many harnesses have measurement guides available in the product description so you can measure your pup and ensure you're getting the one with the best fit.

✔️ Clasp: Burgess also says you need to ensure the closure is sturdy to keep your puppy safe. You definitely don't want it popping open if your dog gets excited.

✔️ Handle: Many dog harnesses will have a handle on the back. This is so you have easy access to quickly grab your puppy if they try to jump on anyone or lunge at something.

✔️ Reflective strips: Burgess also says this is a "must in low-light conditions for safety reasons." If you walk your dog early in the morning or in the evenings, this can help keep them visible and safe.

FAQ

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How do I put on a puppy harness? It depends! "Some harnesses require the dog to put his head through a small loop, others require both legs to step into small loops," says Salant. "Start by having the puppy wear it for a short amount of time under complete supervision to ensure the dog is not stressed by the experience of wearing it, and to make sure the dog does not get entangled while wearing it. You also want to make sure it is not causing chafing."

How do I choose the right size dog harness? Many of the dog harnesses included here have measurement guides in their product descriptions, which should allow you to see which one will fit your dog. "The most important thing you can do is properly measure your dog and get a harness for the measurements. Don’t just get a harness because it looks cute," says Salant.

Is it better to walk a puppy on a collar or a harness? This will depend on your dog, but many owners prefer harnesses over collars because collars can put pressure on a dog's neck, especially if your dog tugs. They also give you a little more control, which can be important if you're leash-training a puppy.

Headshot of Sophia Caraballo
Sophia Caraballo
Freelance Assistant Editor

Sophia is currently an assistant editor at Womans Day.com with experience in writing everything from fashion and beauty to health, fitness, and wellness. 

Headshot of Jamie Ballard
Contributing Writer

Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter.

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