Most dogs need exercise requiring their owners to walk them once or twice daily. For exercising, most owners wonder which is better, a collar or harness. Harnesses offer better control and are especially useful for training puppies who are prone to get tangled in a leash and collar.
What are the best four harnesses for small dogs? A harness is an option for walking almost any dog, but especially for smaller dogs. Harnesses work to prevent tangling and give better control. They are easier on the owner’s arms and back, can prevent injury to small dogs, and discourage pulling.
Owners of small dogs need to make sure that they do not cause neck and back injuries while walking them. A harness is better than a collar for preventing this. Harnesses can also help with small dogs that are good at wriggling out of their collar and escaping. But, it is crucial to make sure the harness is correctly fitted to the dog. If you choose to use a harness, consider also having a collar to hold the dog tag.
Harness | Best Used For |
Ruffwear All-Day Adventure Harness | All-day use, Longer hikes, trail walking |
Gooby Comfort X Step-in Harness | Small brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog |
PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness | Dogs prone to pulling behaviors while on the leash |
Comfort Fit Harness | Escape artist dogs to keep them securely fashioned. |
Using a Harness
Harnesses have become more popular as owners discovered the advantages they offer. They can be used with all ages and sizes of dogs. They give the walker more control over the dog as it is learning the leash. By re-distributing the pull of the leash, they prevent neck and back injury in toy and small breeds. This also means less restriction for dogs prone to respiratory problems, such as Pugs and Bulldogs.
Harnesses can be front or back attaching. Front attached harnesses are used for larger dogs or those prone to pulling behaviors. Back attaching harnesses are recommended for smaller breeds because they are more sensitive to pressure. Because of this, the front attaching harnesses may be painful to them.
It is important to remember that using a harness will not fix all problems. Dogs that are prone to pulling and jumping will not stop just because of switching from a collar to a harness. It may be necessary to research and use effective training methods for walking. Remember, all dogs should have ID tags whenever being walked in case they escape.
RUFFWEAR Front Range All-Day Adventure Harness
The RuffWear front range harness offers a great blend of comfort, durability, and reliability. It has extra padding along the chest and stomach to help protect the dog even on longer walks and hikes. It has two separate leash attachment points with reinforced webbing. Small dogs can be pullers also. The harness has one in front to prevent pulling. The other is a typical back attachment.
The RuffWear harness is ideal for all dog breeds with convenient XXS or XS size options. It has four adjustment points so that it can be made to fit varied dog dimensions comfortably and snugly. This harness is built with excellent quality. It is built to last and can be used daily. There is a quick access pocket for storing ID tags ensuring the dog always has ID.
This harness is an excellent all-day harness that can work well with small dogs. It is the best all-purpose, adventure type harness.
Gooby Comfort X Step-in Harness
The Gooby Comfort X Step-in Harness is specially designed for small brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds, such as a pug or Chin. The patented design was developed to eliminate stress on the dog’s neck. The X frame distributes the force evenly across the chest prevent any force/stress on the trachea. This allows the dog to breathe more easily on walks.
The harness comes in a small size that fits chests measuring 12.5 to 15 inches. It has four points of adjustment to ensure a snug, but comfortable fit. This decreases the chance of an escape artist. Soft mesh and suede trimming keep the dog comfortable and cool. The step-in style is easy and fast to get on and off the dog.
In addition, this harness sits low enough on a dog’s chest so that dogs who are affected by certain digestive conditions, such as MegaEsophogus, will be less likely to regurgitate their meals.
PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness
The PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness is one of the best no-pull harnesses for small dogs. This small dog harness is soft, ergonomic, looks great, and comes with a no-pull front clip. It has breathable material that dries fast. It can be slipped on and off with a snap of a buckle. All of this makes it a great value.
The harness has two adjustment buckles and one Quick-snap buckle that allows for three adjustments. The quick-snap buckle allows for ease when putting the harness on and off. The buckle opens at the neckline allowing the front clip harness to wrap around the dog without pulling on the dog’s head. Just snap it closed and go. It also prevents having to adjust the other buckles every time.
The harness has two sturdy metal leash attachment points that have reinforced webbing. The front clip is for discouraging pulling. It evenly distributes pressure to prevent choking. The dual elastic construction makes it more stretchable for comfort and to absorb jerks and strains, without risk of the dog getting hurt. The padded handle helps with comfortable and control with difficult dogs.
Comfort Fit Metric USA Small Harness
The Comfort Fit Metric USA Small Harness Is the best small dog harness for those that are escape artists. Some small dogs are like magicians magically getting out of almost any harness. Having a tiny dog that can escape its harness is very stressful. The Comfort Fit was specifically designed to prevent escape. It works by wrapping itself around the dog.
The Comfort Fit Harness comes four sizes, with the smallest one being small enough for a Yorkie. The Velcro closures on top allow it to be adjusted for proper fit with a buckle. It has padding and cushioning to help decrease stress on the neck and back. The company is so sure of its product it offers a lifetime guarantee.
The Takeaway
Finding the right harness can make walking the dog and taking them on adventures much more enjoyable. A harness works better than a collar to prevent the small dog from being hurt. Choosing the best harness for a specific dog depends on the needs of that dog. Pick a harness that suits your dog’s needs and size, but that you like and can use easily.
To prevent pulling makes sure the harness evenly distributes pressure and has a front clip. For flat-faced dogs, a harness that protects their breathing and trachea is vital to make sure nothing impairs their breathing. Remember that dogs still need to have ID when walking with their harnesses, so if he harness does not have a pocket, a collar may need to worn with ID.
Finally, make sure and measure the dog prior to ordering a harness. Some brands will recommend sizes based on breed, but the most accurate way to get the correct fit is to measure. It can never hurt to re-measure if it has been more than a few weeks since the last time.
And after the harness arrives, put it on your pooch and go walking!