Owning a dog is a joyful experience, but ensuring their safety and comfort is a top priority. One essential item for any dog owner is a reliable harness. Whether you’re looking for better control during walks, additional safety measures, or a more comfortable alternative to collars, finding the right harness can make a big difference. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best dog harness options available in the UK and what factors to consider when choosing one.
Why Choose a Dog Harness Over a Collar?
A dog harness distributes pressure more evenly across your dog’s body compared to a collar, which puts all the force on their neck. This makes harnesses an excellent option for dogs prone to pulling or with respiratory issues. Plus, it reduces the risk of choking or injury.
Types of Dog Harnesses
Before you can select the best harness for your dog, it’s important to understand the different types available:
Back-Clip Harness: This is the most common type, where the leash attaches to a ring on the dog’s back. It’s ideal for well-behaved dogs that don’t pull during walks.
Front-Clip Harness: With the leash attachment on the front of the chest, this harness provides better control and discourages pulling. It’s great for training.
Dual-Clip Harness: A versatile option that allows you to attach the leash to either the back or front, providing the benefits of both styles.
Step-In Harness: Simple and easy to use, this harness is perfect for dogs that don’t like things going over their heads.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Harness
When looking for the best dog harness in the UK, it’s not just about style—comfort, fit, and safety play crucial roles. Here are a few key points to consider:
Size and Fit
One of the most important aspects of a harness is ensuring it fits your dog properly. A harness that’s too tight can cause discomfort, while one that’s too loose may allow your dog to slip out. Most brands offer a sizing guide to help you choose the right fit based on your dog’s breed, weight, and measurements.
Material and Durability
Dog harnesses come in various materials, such as nylon, leather, and mesh. For everyday use, nylon is popular due to its durability and affordability. If your dog is an outdoor adventurer, look for waterproof or easy-to-clean materials. Comfort is also key, so padded straps are a big plus.
Ease of Use
Your dog’s harness should be easy to put on and take off. Step-in harnesses are popular for this reason, as they simply wrap around the dog’s body and secure with a few fasteners. Adjustable straps are another useful feature, allowing you to fine-tune the fit.
Safety Features
If you often walk your dog at night or in low-light conditions, consider a harness with reflective strips. Many high-quality harnesses also come with a built-in handle, allowing you to lift your dog or control them in tricky situations.
Control and Training
For dogs that tend to pull on the leash, a front-clip or no-pull harness can provide better control, making walks less stressful for both of you. The front-clip design helps to gently steer your dog back towards you, reducing their tendency to pull forward.
Top Dog Harness Brands in the UK
The UK market offers a wide range of harnesses, but some brands stand out due to their quality, comfort, and design. Let’s take a closer look at the top options:
Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness
Known for its robust design, the Julius-K9 harness is a favorite among dog owners. It features a sturdy handle on the back for extra control and reflective edges for nighttime visibility. The powerharness is also highly adjustable, ensuring a comfortable fit for dogs of all sizes.
Ruffwear Front Range Harness
Ruffwear is another leading brand, particularly popular for outdoor adventurers. This harness is lightweight, padded, and offers two leash attachment points (front and back). It’s perfect for dogs that love exploring nature trails or urban streets alike.
Halti No-Pull Harness
As the name suggests, the Halti No-Pull harness is designed to discourage pulling. It has a front leash attachment, which redirects your dog’s movement when they try to pull ahead. This harness also includes padded chest panels for added comfort.
PetSafe Easy Walk Harness
If you’re training a dog that pulls on the leash, the PetSafe Easy Walk harness is a great choice. It features a front leash attachment and a patented Martingale loop to gently correct pulling behavior without discomfort. It’s lightweight and designed for daily use.
How to Properly Fit a Dog Harness
Now that you’ve picked out the perfect harness, it’s essential to ensure it fits correctly. Follow these simple steps to get the right fit:
Measure your dog’s chest and neck: Use a soft measuring tape to measure the widest part of their chest and around their neck.
Check the sizing guide: Different brands have different sizing charts. Make sure to compare your dog’s measurements to the harness’s size recommendations.
Adjust the straps: Once the harness is on, adjust the straps so it sits snugly but comfortably. You should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body.
Check for chafing: After a few walks, inspect your dog for any signs of chafing or discomfort. If the harness rubs in certain areas, it may need further adjustment.
When to Replace Your Dog’s Harness
Like any dog accessory, harnesses wear out over time. Signs that it’s time for a new one include:
- Fraying or worn straps
- Broken buckles or rings
- Loss of shape or padding
- A harness that no longer fits your dog properly
Conclusion
Choosing the best dog harness in the UK is an essential part of caring for your pet. With various styles and brands available, it’s important to consider your dog’s size, behavior, and your own preferences. Whether you need better control, comfort, or durability, there’s a harness out there to fit your needs.
FAQs
What is the best harness for dogs that pull?
The Halti No-Pull harness or a front-clip harness can provide better control and discourage pulling behavior.
How do I know if a harness fits my dog?
A properly fitting harness should allow two fingers to fit between the straps and your dog’s body without being too tight.
Are harnesses better than collars for dogs?
Harnesses distribute pressure evenly, reducing the risk of choking and injury, making them better for dogs that pull or have respiratory issues.
Can dogs wear a harness all day?
It’s not recommended to leave a harness on all day, as it can cause discomfort or chafing over time.
How do I clean a dog harness?
Most harnesses can be hand-washed or machine-washed on a gentle cycle. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific care recommendations.
