best dog harness for large dogs

Best Dog Harness for Large Dogs — Buyers Guide, Review, and Comparison

From a boisterous Boxer to a rambunctious Rottweiler, large dogs have bags of energy and plenty of strength. You want to be able to control them in a way that will be safe and comfortable for them, but allow you the capabilities to enjoy as much quality time with your furry friend as possible. The best dog harness for large dogs gives you the green-light for both

Top Pick

The WINSEE dog harness is designed with a focus on strength and durability for the largest and heaviest of dogs. You have maximum control without compromising on your dog's comfort or yours.

• Lightweight and durable.

• Back and chest leash attachment.

• Reinforced lease attachments.

• One of the top rated dog harnesses.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

Large Dog Harness Reviews 

PRODUCTFEATURES

WINSEE Dog Harness No Pull
Leash hooks: Back / Chest
Adjustable straps: Chest / Neck
Largest size: XL (neck 21-33 inches / chest 24-49 inches)
Reflective features: Reflective straps

  • Includes matching collar.
  • Reinforced handle.
  • 14 colors and patterns.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

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Rabbitgoo Dog Harness
Leash hooks: Back / Chest
Adjustable straps: Neck / Chest
Largest size: XL (neck 22-30.7 inches / chest 21.3-38.2 inches)
Reflective features: Reflective stitching

  • Machine washable.
  • Padded design.
  • Durable Oxford nylon

Product Rating: 4.6/5

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BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness
Leash hooks: Back / Chest
Adjustable straps: Chest / Neck
Largest size: XL (neck 23-35 inches / chest 32-42 inches)
Reflective features: Reflective straps

  • Lockable snap fastenings.
  • Soft padded material.
  • Breathable lining.

Product Rating: 4.4/5

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Bolux Dog Harness
Leash hooks: Back
Adjustable straps: Chest
Largest size: XXL (neck 25.5-30 inches / chest 29.5-40.5 inches)
Reflective features: Reflective straps and fluorescent trim.

  • Adjustable chest straps.
  • Stainless steel D-ring.
  • Space for light to be attached — for night walks


Product Rating: 4.3/5

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PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness
Leash hooks: Back / Chest
Adjustable straps: Neck / Chest
Largest size: XL (neck 22-33 inches / chest 28-39 inches)
Reflective features: Reflective material

  • Four ways adjustable straps.
  • Padded for extra comfort.
  • Lightweight and durable.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

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Best Large Dog Harnesses Buying Guide

Large dogs love to exercise! 

A 6-pound Yorkshire Terrier is generally more than content with a walk to the local store and a 10-minute dash around in the house with his chew toy, whereas an 80-pound Alsatian needs to run!

That said, if your canine friend hasn’t yet learned that the streets are a dangerous place — they cannot go off exploring without a sense of location, and listening to your commands. This makes it very difficult to let them run free and get the exercise they need.

So the dilemma is, how do you effectively train your dog but also maintain the level of exercise that they need safely and securely?

A harness is a suitable way to do this. Most experts seem to agree that a good dog harness is a safer way to train and walk your pooch. 

If a dog becomes excited or tugs and pulls, a harness prevents any serious injuries — due to the dog’s weight being evenly distributed around their chests. However, with a collar, in extreme cases, a sharp tug could cause them severe damage to their windpipe.

With back leash hooks, you can be sure that your dog is comfortable and has a sense of freedom but you still have control. You can let them join you on your morning run or bike ride — enjoying more adventures together.

So, what should you be looking for when buying a harness for a large dog:

  • Durability and strength of leash clips and fastenings.
  • Rugged and strong material and design.
  • Reflective material for walking in low-light conditions.
  • Front leash clips (no-pull for training purposes).
  • Water-repellent or resistant.

Why Should You Use a Harness for Large Dog?

A harness is designed to spread the power and weight of the dog over a larger area, as opposed to isolating their strength at the neck as it would with a collar. This reduces injuries and potential windpipe strains and damage.

Most larger dog harnesses also include a handle attached to the back of the harness. These have their advantages, in that, it makes it easier for you:

  • To grab your dog in the case of potential hazards or danger.
  • When you need to calm them in difficult situations.
  • If they’re older or injured and need assistance in and out of cars.

Sizing Your Harness 

All breeds are different and just like people — all dogs are different. Whether you have a 100-pound pure muscle Rottweiler or an 80-pound loyal German Shepherd, you want them to be comfortable and safe.

When it comes to choosing one of the best large dog harnesses for your beloved pet, make sure you take their personal measurements and don’t follow breed recommendations.

To attain the optimal fit, manufacturers typically provide instructions regarding how or where to measure. And, many harnesses feature adjustable straps — allowing you to customize the fit as much as possible to your dog’s shape.

However, the general rule of thumb for fitting a harness is to measure the girth of the thickest part of your dog's chest (normally just behind the front legs), and the circumference of their neck at the point that a collar would sit. 

The most comfortable dog harness shouldn’t be tight, but it should fit closely to the body. The same rule applies as with a collar — two fingers should fit between the harness and your dog's body for the ideal fit.

No Pull Dog Harness — What Does It Mean?

When manufacturers state that their product is ‘no-pull,’ this typically means that they have a front leash hook. 

Realistically though, of course, nothing can stop your dog from pulling, if they’re excitable, young or haven’t had the correct training.

The benefits of a front leash hook for training are however proven. 

If you can imagine the leash is attached to the center of the dog's chest. If they aren’t pulling then the leash is slack and they can walk normally. 

If however, they start to pull, the harness will slide to one side and make your dog turn part way towards you. Hence, preventing them from pulling away and discouraging them to continue to do this.

In short, their intended action has the opposite effect, instead of turning away from you, they turn towards you — over time, they will understand that pulling won’t get them closer to that passing Poodle. 

A no pull dog harness for large dogs used consistently with strong commands will gradually help you create good behavior and habits for your dog.

How To Choose the Best Large Dog Harness

There are so many dog harnesses available on the market today — all with slightly different features — how do you choose a good dog harness?

To help you find the ideal dog harness for you and your dog, I’ve broken down some of the main characteristics you should look for:

Leash Clips and Fastenings

If your 70-pound Labrador becomes the Incredible Hulk when they see a cat passing by — you know that you need to be confident that the leash is secure. 

Leash attachments should be strong — not only in the metal and material it’s made with — but also in the way it has been attached to the harness.

Training Aid

When using a harness as a training aid, specific features can help. 

Front leash positioning is the strongest option to assist with training. This discourages pulling and tugging, by forcing your dog to turn towards you when they pull.

Material Quality

The sun isn’t always shining, but your dog doesn’t care — they need exercise. 

Water repellent, durable and hard-wearing material is essential for longevity and to contain your powerful pooch. It will permit you to exercise in all weather while maintaining the quality of the harness.

The best harness for large dogs should be made from robust and durable material that can withstand some playtime with furry friends at the park or a roll in wet grass.

Strong D-rings, leash hooks and fixtures are a must. If your dog tugs or pulls you need to feel confident that the harness isn’t going to break — you don’t want your pet to be running wild in a doggie-danger zone.

Reflective Materials

You’ve had a busy day, and the sun has set but your overgrown pup still wants to head out and hit the park. Reflective material, panels or stitching are a must for nightwalkers — your dog is easier to spot and identify on lower light walks, especially in built-up areas with lots of traffic.

The Best Large Dog Harness Reviews — Our Top Picks

With so many harnesses available on the market place right now, you could spend days searching for the most suitable one for your four-legged friend. However, I’m pretty sure that you would rather be spending your time fussing over your furbaby.

So, based on customer feedback, industry opinion and my own knowledge and research — these are the best large dog harnesses that I’ve found for you.

WINSEE Large Dog Harness No Pull

Best Choice for Large Dogs


The Winsee dog harness is made from high-density and durable 1680D Oxford material, with a breathable mesh lining. This waterproof material is designed to handle the rough and tumble of the most energetic dogs, in all weather conditions.

To put the harness on, simply slip it over your dog’s head and then snap the clips into the chest straps on the side. All straps are adjustable, which allows you to find the most comfortable fit possible.

Once you have the fit you desire, the chest straps include a locking feature — permitting extra security for the most robust of dogs.

The front positioning leash D-clip makes the Winsee large dog harness, no pull — discouraging that bad habit and helping your dog to walk by your side.

However, if you want a more energetic activity for you and your best friend, the back D-ring lets you jog, hike, run and keep them next to you with a feeling of freedom for you both.

PRODUCT RATING: 4.6/5

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With a sturdy handle on the back — it’s easy to grab your dog in case of an emergency, help lift them into a car, or even use it to secure them with a seat belt when traveling.

In addition, the reflective stitching on the harness increases you and your dog’s visibility to traffic. It also comes with a matching collar, which is adjustable and reflective — keeping your dog safe and the top of the canine fashions at the doggie park.

This extra large dog harness from Winsee has reinforced wider and thicker straps — making it ideal for the stronger and heavier breeds and dogs.

PROS:

  • Padded chest plate.
  • High-density 1680D Oxford material — extra durability.
  • Includes a nylon dog collar.
  • Reflective material.
  • Front and back D-ring for leash attachment.
  • Adjustable neck and chest straps.
  • Breathable mesh design.
  • Quick-snap buckles and safety locks.

PROS:

  • Some may find size matching difficult. 

Rabbitgoo No Pull Dog Harness

Best Dual Leash Position Harness


The Rabbitgoo is fitted with two metal leash rings, one on the chest and a second on the back. The chest leash position is a handy addition as it discourages your dog to pull and tug, ideal for training. The back leash position is for those calmer dogs you want to keep close to you or when you want to take your furry friend on an adventure — whether it be hiking, jogging or running. 

Made with highly durable premium quality waterproof oxford material combined with breathable mesh — it keeps your dog cool even on the hottest of days.

The Rabbitgoo large dog harness features an easy to grab handle on the back of the harness — removing the need to scramble for the collar when you require instant control.

With four adjustable straps, two at the chest and two for the neck, you can create the perfect fit for your furry friend — maximizing their comfort.

And, as it’s an over-the-head design with two side quick-release snap buckles — trying to get your dog out of the harness after your adventures should be a fuss-free affair.

PRODUCT RATING: 4.6/5

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PROS:

  • All-weather durable oxford material.
  • Reflective strips.
  • Back handle.
  • Breathable padded air mesh.
  • Two leash attachments.
  • Four adjustable straps.
  • Machine washable.

PROS:

  • Back handle comfort could be better.

BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness

Best Large Dog Harness for the Money 


The Babyltrl large dog harness is packed with features, it's also reasonably priced, which could appeal to the budget-conscious dog-lover.

Designed specifically for larger, heavy dogs and made from hard-wearing oxford material with a breathable padded inner mesh lining — you have a durable and strong harness for your dog with maximum comfort.

With adjustable neck and chest straps enabling the perfect fit for your canine companion — it allows for season changes, where coats may be thicker or your dog may be a little heavier.

The Babyltrl big dog harness is an over-the-head design with two side snap buckles on the chest straps, both fitted with locks — so, no matter how boisterous your dog is, they shouldn’t slip out of their harness.

With two D-rings for leash attachments. The chest positioning assists with discouraging your dog to pull and the back is for fun — when you want your dog to have a sense of freedom. 

Also, situated on the back of the harness is a sturdy handle — for the times when you need to keep your dog close quickly.

PRODUCT RATING: 4.4/5

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This handle is also handy for car safety as it can be used to pass a seat belt through when traveling.

Furthermore, with the reflective straps, you can be safe in the knowledge that on night walks, traffic will be able to see your canine companion from a reasonable distance — keeping both you and your dog safe.

PROS:

  • Two strong metal D-ring leash attachments.
  • Fast-drying, breathable fabric.
  • Easy snap buckles with locks.
  • Padded chest plate.
  • Handle on the back.
  • Reflectable straps.
  • One of the best large dog harnesses with a low price point.

PROS:

  • Limited color and pattern options.
  • Adjustable straps tend to loosen over time.

Bolux Dog Harness

Best For Activities


For those dogs (and dog-lovers) who like to be on-the-go, Bolux has added some special features to this harness for those late-night outings. With fluorescent trim, fully reflective straps and even a space for a flashlight or beacon — you will always be able to see your canine companion even when the light isn’t the best — it’s ideal for camping or hiking, day or night.

With adjustable chest straps, the Bolux dog Harness can be almost custom fit to your dog’s dimensions — giving them maximum comfort and allowing flexibility if your pet has overindulged on the treats.

As a training aid, the manufacturer states that the design of the front chest strap deters your dog from pulling — by applying pressure across their chest. So, you can teach them to walk in time with you. 

We’ve all been in that situation — when your beloved pet is reluctant to head home. You try to get hold of their collar to hook them up to the leash, but they’re just too quick for you. The Bolux large dog harness has a handle located on the back of the harness. This makes catching your tail-wagger a headache-free affair.

PRODUCT RATING: 4.3/5

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And, with a wide range of colors and patterns, it’s easy to match your dog's character and personality. However, if you want to personalize things further, there are velcro panels on the side that allow you to attach name patches or information like ‘dog in training’ as needed.

PROS:

  • Chest straps are adjustable.
  • Space for personalized velcro patches.
  • Reflective straps with fluorescent trim.
  • Grab handle on back.
  • Waterproof, durable material.
  • Bespoke space for beacon light (sold separately).

PROS:

  • No secondary safeguard for the snap buckle. 
  • Inclusion of a front D-ring or leash attachment would be an improvement.

PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness

Best Adjustable Dog Harness for Large Dogs


If you see yourself as a perfectionist who likes to fine-tune everything, the PoyPet harness may catch your eye. Fitted with four adjustable straps, you can tweak it to your pooch’s exact requirements. What’s more, the chest strap also has a two-way stretch — offering maximum comfort and maneuverability.

And, there will be times when your dog sees you reaching for the leash and starts bounding around in excitement for walkies. 

PoyPet has considered this scenario when designing their no pull dog harness. Instead of the standard over-the-head and two snap buckles at the chest, it features three — two on the belly and one that’s lockable for extra security.

So, while your excitable pet is showing their appreciation, with lots of slobbery kisses — simply pass the strap around their neck and snap, give them a little hug as you wrap the chest straps around — and clip those in. You should be ready to go, with no wrestling required!

For dull days and dusk walks, the PoyPet no pull large dog harness is also fully reflective — keeping your pet and you safe and seen on the streets. And, for those times when you need to react quickly, there is a padded handle on the back of the harness.

PRODUCT RATING: 4.5/5

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PROS:

  • Easy to put on — neck snap buckle and chest buckles.
  • Adjustable neck and chest straps.
  • Chest strap with two way stretch.
  • Neoprene padded grab handle on back.
  • Reflective material.
  • Neck buckle lock for additional security.
  • Two leash attachment points — back and chest.

PROS:

  • Durability could be better.

Conclusion 

The best harness for large dogs should be durable and versatile. It needs to be strong enough to withstand the muscle power of a robust Rottweiler, and adjustable enough to fit comfortably over the coat of a Siberian Husky. 

Harnesses are a safer and more comfortable solution for training and everyday escapades with your pet — reducing the potential for injuries than with a standard collar and leash. 

With back leash attachments and handles providing your furry friend the feeling of freedom but keeping the control with you — it’s ideal if you lead an active lifestyle and want to share these moments with your pooch.

In summary, the best dog harness for large dog can improve your best friend’s behavior — help prevent injuries when training — and increase the diversity of adventures you can share together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Harnesses Good for Big Dogs?

With larger dogs, you may find that using the traditional collar and leash, their excitement means that they’re walking you as opposed to you walking them!

Aside from the effect, this has on your beloved pet — wheezing, and possible strains, sores and windpipe injuries. Your arms, neck and shoulders at the end of a walk feel like you’ve just spent the past hour doing chin-ups at the gym.

With a harness, the weight is more evenly distributed on your dog's frame. Hence, it lessens the strain on their body — in turn, making it easier for you to control them and works well as a training aid.

Will a Harness Stop a Dog From Pulling?

A harness alone won’t stop your dog from pulling but no-pull large dog harnesses can discourage and reduce pulling and tugging. Along with consistent training and commands by you, they can offer a lot more control and are generally more effective than a collar and leash.

Do Harnesses Encourage Pulling?

A harness with a back-clip leash position may trigger your dog’s opposition reflex — encouraging pulling. Plus, it could also reduce the degree of control you have over your pooch. 

Why Are Harnesses Bad for Dogs?

Like everything, there is always a downside. Some experts indicate that wearing a harness for a long period of time causes a dog to shift its weight to its hind legs — which can affect a pooch’s posture. 

It’s suggested that a harness should only be used when training, walking, hiking or other outside activities with your dog. When at home the harness should be removed to allow them the freedom of movement to relax. 

Should Dogs Wear Harnesses All the Time?

A harness should be used only for outdoor activities when you require control over your dog. It should not be kept on for extended periods. With long-haired breeds, it can cause sores and matting of the fur, if kept on for too long.