Taking your fur baby for a walk is not just a necessity, it is a bonding time for you and your pooch. But if you have a dog that likes to pull on his leash or run ahead of you, then you know it is not always a fun time for you both. In fact, if you are using the wrong kind of collar, it can be dangerous for your pup.
That is why we decided to do a review on the best dog harness for large dogs on the market. After reviewing over 30 dog harnesses for large dogs, we found that “Julius-K9 Innova Dog Comfort (IDC) Powerharness” is the best harness for large dogs because it has the best overall combination of safety, security, durability, and comfort.
Because all dogs are unique, you may be looking for a particular product that fits best for your lifestyle & your dog walking habits. That is why we prepared a short list of the top dog harnesses for large dogs that address different needs. They come in all sizes, styles, and materials.
In our review section below, we chose a list of the top 10 dog harnesses for large dogs choices to help you find the furfect one for you and your fur baby’s needs. But first, we are going to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of dog harnesses vs. collars, the right harness for your pup, and the rules of thumb to find the pawfect choice for the best dog harness for large dogs for your fur buddy.
The Benefits & Drawbacks Of Using a Dog Harness
As we mentioned above, having the wrong kind of collar on your fur buddy can be dangerous for his health. A collar puts a lot of pressure on your dog’s spine and neck, especially large and giant breeds. Even the best-behaved pups can get excited when he sees a squirrel and tries to go after it.
A dog harness can be a lifesaver for your pooch though. If you can get your dog to wear it, that is. Some just do not take well to harnesses or it is just too much trouble to get it to fit them. Let’s look at some of the benefits and drawbacks of using a dog harness for your large dog.
Benefits
- The harness takes more of the pressure off your fur baby’s spine and neck, which is impawtant for those pups that pull on their leash.
- With the right training, a harness can help encourage your dog to enjoy loose leash walks.
- A dog harness could be the pawfect solution for aggressive pups or those who react to certain situations.
- You can use dog harnesses on any breed and age, from puppies to seniors..
- This is a wonderful solution for those fur babies that have neurological and other conditions that can be aggravated by a collar.
- These can be used for traveling in the car, service dogs, and playing sports with your fur buddy.
- There are also special harnesses for military and service dogs.
Drawbacks
- It can be difficult to get a harness to fit right on some large dogs.
- Some pooches have more trouble adapting to a harness rather than a collar.
- Harnesses are typically more expensive than a standard collar.
- Without the right training, your pup can still pull on a harness.
- The wrong fit or style can lead to skin irritation, discomfort, chafing, and pain leading to a negative association with it.
Choosing The Right Dog Harness That Fits Your Large Dog Best
You will find that there are 3 common types of large dog harnesses. These include those that clip on your dog’s back, those that clip on the front, and those that can do both. The location of the clip or leash attachment is essential to how it works for your fur baby and you.
Also, each of these types of harnesses have a few other varieties that can also affect the function and fit of your pup’s harness. These differences can be anything from looks to how they affect your dog’s range of motion as he walks.
Basic Dog Harness
The basic dog harness is typically the least expensive and does not come with a lot of extra features. However, it does what it is supposed to do. These usually have a single looping strap over your pup’s back that loops around the chest. It is usually easy to attach and properly reduces the pressure on the neck and spine.
These can include a leash attachment on the front or the back and will work well for large dogs of all ages and breeds of fur babies. You should not have any trouble hooking your dog up and you will notice the reduced pressure on his spine compared to a collar.
Moderate Coverage Dog Harness
A dog harness that has moderate coverage is one that provides all of the features the basic harness has but it has a few extra features. They may be minor differences that do not affect your dog at all such as attractiveness, but the harness will still do the job it is supposed to and is usually better for reactive dogs.
For example, these moderate coverage harnesses have a higher quality of construction, several adjustment points for a better-customized fit, and they offer both front and back leash attachment. In addition, with the better fit, there is less chance of chafing, your pup has a better range of motion, and it is better for reactive dogs.
Full Support Dog Harness
A full support dog harness is the best you can get with high-quality construction, best functionality, and has the most adjustable points for a better fit to prevent chafing. These also have several spots to attach the leash for better flexibility for you. These are usually made for special dog sports as well.
Why “No Pull” Dog Harness For Large Dogs is a Myth
There is no such thing as a No-Pull dog harness for large dogs. Even the ones that claim to have that magic ability. A dog harness is just a tool that helps you train your fur buddy how to walk in comfort so you can both enjoy your walk times.
Some of the harnesses that say they are “no pull” have a strap around the dog’s nose and put pressure on the neck when he pulls. It makes your dog uncomfortable by pulling or yanking his head sideways.
This type of “positive punishment” is supposed to stop the behavior but does not do that at all. In fact, it makes your pooch believe that walks are just uncomfortable and he will not want to go anymore. Adding pain to your pup’s walk is not the key.
Dogs will not learn to pull less, they will actually resist more and try to get away from the pain by any means possible. To teach your dog not to pull, you have to train him with a dog harness that does not cause any pain.
If you have a dog, large dog or small, and he wants to chase a squirrel, say hi to the neighborhood cat, or just go for a run, a harness will not prevent that. You have to be the one to prevent this from happening by training him to walk on a loose leash.
8 Rules Of Thumb When Buying a Harness For Large Dogs
Ready to shop for your fur buddy’s harness? Shopping for a harness for large dogs can be difficult if you do not know what you are looking for. There are certain things that you need to look for and consider when looking for the best harness for your large pup.
First of all, you need to make sure the size is right and make sure it is secure and has the flexibility to move around. The attachment points are also important for your dog’s comfort level and they should be comfortable and well made. Being visible at night is also a good idea and the ease of cleaning and warranty are features to look into as well.
- Proper Sizing: You have to make sure you get a harness that fits properly because that makes all the difference in how well it works for both you and your pupster.
There are 2 things to remember: Measuring accurately and adjusting the harness for the best fit.
Measuring your pooch is easy. All you need is a soft tape measure and a pencil.
First, measure the width around the base of the neck right above the chest and shoulders. Then, measure the girth around the widest part of the chest behind your pup’s armpits.
Other designs may need for you to get the measurements of the length of your dog and the length of his front legs. The body length is measured from the shoulders to the base of the tail (not the tip). Leg length includes the inside of his leg from his ribs to his wrist.
After you get the harness closest to your dog’s measurements, make sure you adjust it to get the best fit. Each strap should fit loose enough to fit 2 fingers between it and your pooch’s body, but no more than 2. Not adjusting the harness properly will increase the chance of skin irritation and decrease comfort.
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: Making sure the harness is secure is the next step. If it is too loose, your fur baby can get loose by slipping out, which can lead to deadly consequences. Your dog also has to be able to move properly when you have the leash attached.
- Attachment Points: Every walking harness has a place to attach your fur buddy’s leash. It is typically on the top between his shoulders or right behind them. Although this leash position is fine for many dogs, those who pull may need the attachment in front. These usually sit in the middle of his chest, preventing him from pulling.
- Padding & Comfort: Most of the basic large dog harnesses do not have padding, the higher quality ones do. They usually have padding near his chest as well as all along with the straps. The padding spreads the tension all over the harness to prevent skin chafing and hair-pulling.
- Visibility at Night: Another feature that the moderate and full-service dog harnesses may offer is reflective material or stitching. This is impawtant for you and your pup when walking after dark because motorists and other walkers can see you better. But this is not a big deal because you can always buy reflective stickers.
- Hardware, Material & Durability: Having a large dog means you need to make sure the material and hardware are strong and durable. For a little dog, it is not that big of a deal, but a 160-pound mastiff will need extra-strong D-rings and buckles as well as double stitching and other strength features.
- Ease of Cleaning: Almost all dog harnesses should be easy to clean. The best ones are machine washable to get the extra dirt and grime out of the material. Check this before purchasing your pooch’s harness.
- Warranty: Another thing almost all harnesses have is a 30-day warranty. Try to find one with a longer warranty because the longer the warranty, the more they believe in their product.
Our 2024 Review For 10 Dog Harness For Large Dogs
After reviewing more than 30 dog harnesses for large dogs using the criteria mentioned above, we chose 10 that we think are the best large dogs. This should help you narrow down your choices easier to keep your pup safer when you go for a walk.
Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness Nylon Reflective (full support harness)
- Sizing: 11.5 inches to 54.5 inches chest
- Material: Anti-allergenic synthetic OEKO-TEX material
- Padding & Comfort: Extra padding and breathable material
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: Many sizes, each with a variety of adjustable positions
- Attachment Points: Front and back
- Visibility at Night: Yes
- High-Quality Hardware: Strong hardware stands up to abuse and freezing temps
- Durability: Extremely durable
- Machine Washable: No
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: Our Favorite Harness for Large Dogs
With 9 sizes and 25 colors to “chews” from, the Julius-K9 Innova Dog Comfort (IDC) Powerharness is our favorite. This company is the inventor of the interchangeable hook and loop patches and adjustable chest strap and is made in Europe from high-quality German materials. The reflective chest strap is breathable too so your big dog does not get overheated.
In addition, the extra strong and durable hardware stands up to years of use, even in freezing temperatures. The adjustable steel ring and handle positions mean you can customize this harness to fit your dog pawfectly. In fact, this is the one that is recommended by vets and dog handlers for rescue and hunting dogs. The material is also water-resistant and has padding to keep your pooch comfy throughout even the longest hunt, hike, or walk.
What We Like:
- So many sizes fits up to 54.5 inches and 198 pounds
- Incredibly strong and durable hardware for big ruff dogs
- Reflective chest strap
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is very comfortable and does not go around his neck at all
What We Don’t like:
- It is not machine washable
Puppia SOFT HARNESS
- Sizing: 7.5 to 21 inches neck and 9 to 41 inches chest
- Material: Polyester
- Padding & Comfort: Extra padding in the neck
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: 2 points of adjustment
- Attachment Points: Back only
- Visibility at Night: No
- High-Quality Hardware: Metal D-ring
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: affordable
The Puppia Soft Harness is the least expensive dog harness on our list with most sizes and colors under $15. The neck has extra padding to prevent chafing and the entire thing is made of soft polyester, which is breathable, light, and machine washable. No need for handwashing.
The adjustable chest belt and quick-release buckle make it a breeze to fit your pooch furfectly too. It is available in 6 sizes and 15 colors so you have tons of choices and they are all adorable as well as sturdy. At such a great price, you can get more than one color.
What We Like:
- It is very affordable so you can get several
- There are many colors and sizes to choose from
- It is machine washable
What Dogs Love about it?
- The neck is padded for extra comfort
What We Don’t like:
- It only has the back leash attachment
Rabbitgoo Dog Harness (full support harness)
- Sizing: 14 inches to 30 inches neck and 16 inches to 40 inches chest
- Material: Polyester and nylon
- Padding & Comfort: Soft breathable cushions
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: 4 points of adjustment
- Attachment Points: Front and back
- Visibility at Night: Yes
- High-Quality Hardware: 2 metal leash rings
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: No
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: night walks (visibility at night)
Walking your dog after dark is so much safer with this Rabbitgoo Dog Harness with its extra-bright and reflective strips and stitching. Drivers can spot you and your pooch from far away at night so you do not have to worry about any accidents even if he gets away from you. But the strong rings and sturdy handle should prevent that from happening.
It is also weatherproof so sun, rain, or snow will never be a problem and you can rest assured that it will last for many years with its triple stitching and durable construction. This attractive dog harness will look fantastic on your big pooch and he will be comfy with the padded air mesh and breathable webbing too.
What We Like:
- Nighttime walks are safe as can be with the reflective strips all over
- Extra bright reflective strips and stitching
- Metal front leash attachment to discourage pulling
What Dogs Love about it?
- The padded air cushion is comfy
What We Don’t like:
- It is not machine washable
EXPAWLORER Big Soft Reflective Dog Harness
- Sizing: 20 to 46 inches chest
- Material: Nylon
- Padding & Comfort: Thick padding
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: 3 points of adjustment
- Attachment Points: On back
- Visibility at Night: Yes
- High-Quality Hardware: Welded D-rings
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: No
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: Easy control handle
The Expawlorer Big Dog Harness has a special rubber handle on top for you to get good control of your pooch when needed. It is made much stronger than the typical handle made of fabric or plastic and will last longer. The material is waterproof and UV resistant as well as fast drying.
The wide reflective strip will make sure your pup is visible at night so you do not have to worry about that. It is available in black, blue, purple, or red and comes in 3 sizes for large to extra large breeds. This harness is also more comfortable than some with its special design and padding.
What We Like:
- Special rubber grip handle makes controlling your big dog easier
- The handle is much more durable than others
- It is waterproof and UV resistant as well as breathable and fast drying
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is very comfortable to wear
What We Don’t like:
- It only has a back attachment
- It is not machine washable
Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness (full support harness)
- Sizing: 13 inches to 42 inches chest
- Material: Synthetic polyester
- Padding & Comfort: Foam padding on the chest and belly
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: Comes in several sizes with adjustments
- Attachment Points: Front and back
- Visibility at Night: Yes
- High-Quality Hardware: Solid hardware and reinforced webbing
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: Pull-on closure
Fitting your pooch into this Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness is easy with its pull-on closure. The synthetic polyester will not stretch out, making it last longer. There are 4 adjustment points for a better fit customized to your pooch and it has 2 leash attachment points at the back and chest.
The foam padding will protect your fur baby from chafing and irritation as well as making it comfy enough to wear all day. Also, there is a special ID pocket to store your dog’s ID tags. The lightweight construction is pawfect for long hikes, the reflective trip makes him easy to see at night, and the aluminum V-ring is strong enough to keep your fur baby safely locked in.
What We Like:
- Easy to pull on and snap for faster attachment
- 4 adjustment points for a custom fit
- It has solid hardware and reinforced webbing for security
What Dogs Love about it?
- The soft padding and lightweight style is comfortable enough to wear all-day
What We Don’t like:
- Not machine washable
Kurgo Journey Air Dog Harness (full support harness)
- Sizing: 9 inches to 35 inches neck 12 to 44 inches chest
- Material: Ripstop nylon and polyester
- Padding & Comfort: Breathable fabric with padding in chest
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: 4-point adjustment
- Attachment Points: Front and back
- Visibility at Night: Yes
- High-Quality Hardware: Yes, aluminum back attachment
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: No
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: Quick release
Your big fur buddy will be walking in style as well as comfort with this Kurgo Journey Air Dog Harness. The breathable fabric is light and airy so he can barely tell he is wearing anything at all. The padding at the chest makes it even more comfortable and it will not chafe or irritate his skin and it has reinforced mesh to keep the air circulation there too.
The quick-release buckles help you get him in and out of his harness easily in just a second. The lightweight aluminum hardware is solid as well as less bulky for comfort. This harness is ideal for running, hiking, or just a day at the park and it is rugged enough to stand up to large and active dogs.
What We Like:
- Easy quick-release buckles make removal fast and simple
- No aggravated dog waiting for you to unhook him so he can go play
- The rugged style is great for big strong dogs
What Dogs Love about it?
- The padding is comfortable enough to wear all-day
What We Don’t like:
- It is not machine washable
PetSafe 3 in 1 Reflective Dog Harness (basic harness)
- Sizing: 9 to 38 inches neck and 13 to 43 inches chest
- Material: Nylon
- Padding & Comfort: Lightweight and padded straps
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: 5 adjustment points
- Attachment Points: Front and back (can be used simultaneously with 2-point control leash
- Visibility at Night: Yes
- High-Quality Hardware: Aluminum
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: No
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: 2-point control harness
This PetSafe 3-in-1 Dog Harness gives you the adaptability to use one harness in 3 different situations. Whether you are just walking around the block, hiking through the rugged territory, or riding in the car, this harness does it all. With the back attachment, you can take a casual walk with your pooch. Or, if you have a puller, use the front attachment.
With the 2-point control leash, you will be able to use both attachments at the same time for complete control and safety. Also, it has a seatbelt attachment to keep your pup safe on the way to the park or beach. The top handle gives you an added degree of safety when you need to control your dog quickly too. This is truly a unique harness.
What We Like:
- 2-point control lets you use one leash attached to both the front and back clips at once
- The seatbelt attachment is great for safe trips
- It has a top handle to control your pup quickly
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is so light and minimal, he cannot tell he is wearing it
What We Don’t like:
- It is not machine washable
Blue-9 Buckle-Neck Balance Harness, Fully Customizable Fit
- Sizing: 13.5 to 43.5 inches chest
- Material: Synthetic polyester
- Padding & Comfort: Very light but no padding
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: 6-points of adjustment
- Attachment Points: Front and back
- Visibility at Night: No
- High-Quality Hardware: Solid steel D-rings
- Durability: Very durable
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: Machine washable
One of the only machine-washable harnesses on the list, this Blue-9 Buckle Neck Balance harness is the pawfect one for your big buddy. Hand washing is okay but only machine washing can get things really clean. Also, this harness is so light, he will not even know he has it on.
It comes in 5 sizes and 8 colors so there is plenty to choose from and every one of them is made with high-quality materials in the USA so you know it is made well. The buckle neck lets you attach it like a collar, which is great for pups that do not having a harness pulled over their neck. Lastly, this harness is made to withstand the elements so it lasts for years.
What We Like:
- Machine washing is impawtant for a deep cleaning
- You don’t have to spend so much time handwashing it
- It has 6 adjustment points for a custom fit
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is light as a feather
What We Don’t like:
- It does not have reflective strips or stitching
Mighty Paw Sport Harness
- Sizing: 11.5 to 21.5 inches neck and 16.5 to 48 inches chest
- Material: Durable neoprene
- Padding & Comfort: Sponge padding
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: 4 points of adjustment
- Attachment Points: Front and back
- Visibility at Night: Yes
- High-Quality Hardware: Solid steel clips
- Durability: Extremely durable
- Machine Washable: No
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: Neoprene material
The Mighty Paw Sport Harness is made with neoprene, which makes it stand out from the rest. It is a synthetic rubber material that is safe, strong, and breathable for maximum comfort and security. The padding and mesh lining is supportive without restricting your fur baby’s natural movements.
Neoprene is also waterproof and UV resistant so you do not have to worry about it getting wet or too much sun. Also, it is available in 5 sizes so it fits just about any pup. The front and back clips help eliminate pulling and can be used as an attachment for car safety as well.
What We Like:
- Special material is extra strong to last for years
- The soft and breathable neoprene is also waterproof
- Very durable clips and buckles for security
What Dogs Love about it?
- The soft padding is comfortable
What We Don’t like:
- It is not machine washable
OneTigris Store Tactical Dog Harness Vest with Handle
- Sizing: 14 to 29 inches neck and 20 to 40 inches chest
- Material: Nylon
- Padding & Comfort: Breathable mesh and padded chest
- Secure Fit & Flexibility: 4 points of adjustment
- Attachment Points: Front and back
- Visibility at Night: No
- High-Quality Hardware: Military strength D-rings
- Durability: Extremely durable
- Machine Washable: No
- Warranty: One year
- Best for: Bungee design
OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness Vest is made with military-grade materials and a bungee design on the back for the perfect fit. The bungee cord is made of tactical materials as well. The 1000D nylon is super strong and it has 4 quick-release buckles to get it on and off in seconds.
In addition, there are 2 spots for ID badges, reflective strips, and other velcro patches on the side to make it extra visible. With the strong handle on the back, you can restrain your pup easily when needed. It is available in black, brown, green, gray, and camo in 4 different sizes so you have plenty to choose from.
What We Like:
- The unique bungee cord on the back lets you get a secure fit without making it too tight
- The stretchable bungee cord gives your pooch the freedom of movement
- It is made of 1000D nylon for extreme durability
What Dogs Love about it?
- The bungee cord fit is very comfy
What We Don’t like:
- It is not machine washable
The Final Woof
The Julius-K9 Innova Dog Comfort (IDC) Powerharness may not be the right one for every big dog but it is our favorite dog harness on the list. After evaluating more than 30 dog harnesses, we chose this one as the best dog harness for large dogs because of its many features and safety points.
This Julius-K9 Innova Dog Comfort (IDC) Powerharness has 25 colors to pick from and 9 different sizes making it the one with the most choices, which is great for people with more than one large dog. It also has unique interchangeable hook and loop patches that have been patented by the company.
In addition, the durable German hardware stands up to years of use, even in freezing temperatures. The adjustable steel ring and handle positions allow you to customize this harness to fit your dog pawfectly too. In fact, this is the one that is recommended by vets and dog handlers for rescue and hunting dogs.
