It’s a well-known fact that dogs need to stay active to stay healthy. That’s something they have in common with humans. Generally, experts recommend at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise for dogs, depending on their breed. That’s also why most pet-parents love taking their dogs on runs with them. But, to make sure your daily run with your pet stays safe and secure, you need a good quality dog harness for running.
However, picking the best dog harness for running requires careful consideration. You have to keep in mind the harness’s flexibility, its strength, and several other factors while purchasing one. But, before you get too anxious about what the process involves, give this article a read. Not only have we compiled a comprehensive list of the best harnesses for running dogs, but we’ve also scoured the internet for the 411 on dog harnesses.
What Type of Dog Harness is Needed for Running
One of the most asked questions among pet parents is – what is the best dog harness for running? Dog owners often find themselves confused between buying a collar or harness for their pets’ daily exercise dose. A collar is an irreplaceable accessory for a canine, for reasons such as safety and identification. However, choosing between a collar or a harness should revolve around your doggo’s comfort.
For instance, collars (with leashes) are unsuitable for small breed dogs. This is due to a greater likelihood of a neck injury. Small breed dogs are also susceptible to conditions like hypothyroidism due to collars. Pulling on the collar (via a leash) can cause pressure on the neck, where the thyroid gland is located.
However, a dog harness can help spread out the force of the pull. This not only keeps your canine comfortable, but it can also help prevent injuries. A durable harness will give you greater control over your pup’s behavior when you’re out in public. And, a dog running harness with pockets or other extra features can also give you the added advantage of convenience.
What to Look for in Running Dog Harnesses?
When looking to get your hands on the best running dog harness on the market, here’s what you should watch out for.
Strength
If you plan on taking your canine on runs with you, then you’re going to need a durable harness. One of the best ways to land a perfect fit is to look for reputable brands that offer top-notch quality.
A good-quality harness will include better construction materials and workmanship. Not to mention, it’ll last you more than just a few months and would withstand the constant wear and tear of regular use.
Certain aspects of a harness require careful handling, such as the ring where you attach the leash. Even the stitching of the harness matters because it can add to the product’s structural integrity. You may want to avoid harnesses with velcro bands or any other quick release feature if you want a harness specifically for running. There are also quite a few options available for dogs that have a habit of chewing on the collar or harness.
Flexibility
Adjustability is another feature that you don’t want to compromise on. Whether you furball happens to be a sleek Greyhound, a vivacious Chihuahua, or a well-built shepherd, you’ll want a harness that adjusts to its body size.
Thankfully, there are many possibilities when it comes to flexibility. For instance, harnesses with adjustable straps can make your life easier. You can buy an adjustable harness for a growing pup and save yourself from worrying about finding a replacement every few months.
Nonetheless, it is best to depend on precise measurements and size charts. A harness needs to have a snug fit that’s not too tight or loose. You’ll need to know the size of your canine’s ribcage to start with, along with its neck measurements. However, keep in mind that for certain breeds such as the English Bulldog, it’s best to take your dog to the pet store for an accurate fit.
Strong Leash Clip
As far as leash fastenings are concerned, harnesses are generally available in three specifications: front-end clip, back-clip, or front and back clip. With a front-end clip harness, the leash is attached to the front, around the dog’s neck. There are multiple advantages to front-end clips, such as greater control over your canine’s behavior and movement. And with a leash that attaches at the front, there are fewer chances that pulling on the harness will result in discomfort.
However, this type of leash clip may not be suitable for dogs with short legs because the leash may end up entangling their legs. A back-clip harness offers you the choice of attaching a leash to a ring near the canine’s back. With back-clips, there are no dangers of the leash interfering with your dog’s movement. Additionally, these clips work much better than most types of collars. A back-clip, however, is more suitable for small to medium-sized dogs.
A front and back (or dual) clip have attachment points at the neck and back, and is more often used by dog trainers. Regardless of the attachment options, a leash clip needs to be sturdy. Pay special attention to the strength of the leash attachment point. Remember, the best dog running lease depends on a combination of durability, control, and comfort for your doggo. And, for those of you who like running without the hassle of handling a leash, make sure to look at the hands-free dog running harness options available.
Outdoor Safety Features
Your safety and that of your pet are of paramount importance. Most people prefer running early morning or as the dusk sets in, and that’s fine. But, the lighting at those times is less than perfect, and that’s why you need to take precautions.
Add to the protection a harness offers, by buying one that has additional safety features, such as reflective stitching or strips. These reflective straps will work the same way as the straps on your running gear. Reflective straps allow other occupants on the road, be it, motorists, cyclists, or other joggers to see your position clearly. They’ll help make your running experience with your pooch a safe and painless experience.
Is it Better to Leash or Harness Your Dog for Running?
We’re sure almost every dog parent’s Google search history contains the phrase – best collar or harness for running with the dog. But, to begin, let’s clear one thing out first – both collars and harnesses have a leash attachment. They’re kind of difficult to operate without one. The real confusion that bothers most dog owners exists between choosing a collar or a harness. As far as your pet’s safety and comfort go, harnesses have an advantage over collars for several reasons.
First off, if your pet is a puppy or a small-sized dog, then making them wear collars can be harmful. Collars fasten around the neck, and no matter how snug the fit, controlling your dog’s movement will require you to use pressure. When you pull on the leash, the collar bites into your pet’s neck and exerts strain on its back and neck. Collars don’t offer much control when it comes to large breeds, as well. Additionally, they can cause strain on your arms and back in the effort of trying to rein in your pet.
Conversely, a harness is safe for both you and your pet. It offers you greater supervision concerning your canine’s movement and discourages your dog from pulling away.
Best Dog Harness for Running
Remember that comprehensive list of harnesses we promised? Well, here it is.
This list includes some of the best options you’ll find available, and there’s something in it for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
1. Kurgo Tru-Fit Harness with Seatbelt
The Kurgo harness can be used in and out of your car, and that makes it truly remarkable. The product is crash test certified at a facility that deals with pet safety restraint systems. Apart from that, it’s safe for dogs up to 75 lbs to use.
And, that’s not all it offers. The harness is available in sizes ranging from extra-small to extra-large. This means you won’t have to worry about missing out – no matter your canine’s breed. It also includes a padded chest plate, metal nesting buckles, and a detachable belt that you can use to secure your pet to the seatbelt.
With five adjustable points and a lifetime warranty, the Kurgo Tru-Fit harness takes the top spot in our list of best harnesses with ease.
2. PetSafe Deluxe Easy Walk Harness
Making its way to number two on our list of best dog harness for running is the PetSafe Deluxe harness. Not only is PetSafe is a reputable and trustworthy brand with more than 15 years of experience in pet products, but this gear includes the company’s own patented loop that helps minimize your dog’s pulling movements.
The product is available in four different sizes and comes with neoprene padding for extra doggy comfort. Additionally, the quick-snap straps on the shoulder and belly allow you to place the harness on your pet with ease. And the Easy Walk belt comes in four vibrant colors for fashion-forward pets and owners.
The best part about this product is that you have the option of ordering replacements or resizing. So even if you buy the wrong size or your pet somehow manages to damage the product, you don’t have to stress about it. Oh, and did we mention this harness includes reflective strips for added security – talk about a complete package.
3. Petsafe SureFit Harness
PetSafe is such a brilliant brand that we couldn’t help but add another one of their products to our compilation. The SureFit harness is designed to help keep your furry friend on its best behavior in public spaces.
Aside from that, the product is highly flexible thanks to five separate adjusting spots. And, two quick-snap buckles make the buckle super user-friendly when it comes to putting it on or taking it off.
Available in several sizes and two different colors, the PetSafe SureFit dog harness is sure to fit all your canine’s needs.
4. OneTigris Tactical Front Clip Harness
If you’re on the lookout for a super-durable tactical dog harness for running, and that too for a medium to large-sized canine companion – look no further than the OneTigris front-clip harness.
It is made from 1000D nylon, mesh padding, and renowned UTX Duraflex buckles. What all this means is that the OneTigris harness is extremely durable, sturdy, and long-lasting.
While tactical gear is meant for military or police dogs, you can utilize this harness for hinting or hiking trips without any problems. The hook and loop panels on this product are ideal for attaching ID badges and light-weight pouches to carry your gear. You can also benefit from the ideal arrangement of two metal D-rings, placed at the front and back of the harness. The back-clip is perfect for daily activities such as walks.
5. PetSafe 3-in-1 Reflective Dog Harness
The PetSafe 3-in-1 dog harness is perfect for pet parents looking for comfort, adjustability, and most importantly safety. Thanks to its brilliant design and engineering, you can use this harness as a front-clip leash to train your dog, a back-clip option for all your daily activities, and as a restrainer for car travel. Also, you needn’t worry about your pet’s protection during any late-night walking adventures, thanks to its reflective nylon stitching.
The product also includes neoprene-lined strap padding to keep your canine comfortable and safe from chafing due to prolonged use. Apart from all that, it also offers five adjustable points to guarantee a reliable fit on almost any doggo.
However, remember to use the car safety restraint only on the backseat, as this harness has not been crash-tested.
6. HDP Big Dog No-Pull Harness
The ultimate in dog harnesses, this 100% polyester harness with extra padding and the fast click buckles is perfect for your furry companions, especially for the hard pullers who love to walk ahead and discover.
The bonus handle provides you with a safety feature so that you can keep your pets close in unexpected situations. Moreover, the no-choke design of the HDB Big Dog No Pull Harness comes with a D-ring that allows freedom of movement for your dogs and gives you more control.
And, if that isn’t enough, the wide chest of the harness distributes the weight along the dog’s chest and shoulders, making it a relaxing walking experience for your fluffball and you. The HDB dog harness is available in a variety of sizes, so you know that your pet isn’t feeling too confined.
7. Chai’s Choice Reflective Dog Harness
Whoever said that your dog can’t look ubercool while taking a leisurely walk with you? Well, Chai Choice Dog Harness for running guarantees the safety of your pet with its exclusive design and makes them look pretty fly strutting it down the street too.
The 3M reflective material allows better visibility even after sundown. The nylon exterior has reflective piping interwoven throughout the harness, making this glow-in-the-dark harness ideal for nighttime strolls.
Also, the ingenious design takes the pressure away from your pet’s neck and disperses it around the chest and belly. Furthermore, the lightweight padding makes the overall harness experience for the pet, both safe and entertaining. It’s available in nine brilliant color choices, various sizes with adjustable straps, and an O ring on the harness makes it easy to strap a seat belt around your pet while driving. So, you can be sure your pet is secure wearing a safety harness and setting fashion trends too.
8. Puppia Black Trim Harness
With a super soft air-mesh padding and superior design made from polyester, the Puppia Trim Harness is effective and safe for your furry companion. The adjustable chest belt with the quick release buckle makes strapping on the harness a breeze for the pet parent.
It’s a lightweight harness engineered to provide maximum comfort, no choking danger, and optimal durability. And, to make it even more convenient for you, the Puppia harness has a D ring for leash attachment as well.
It’s a very affordable harness, available in different stylish colors, designed to last and provide ultimate security.
9. Copatchy No Pull Adjustable Dog Harness
Nothing happens to provide quite as much comfort and security for your pup as the Copatchy Adjustable Dog Harness. With multiple colors, your dog can look uber fine while taking a stroll with you.
But, the Copatchy harness is more than a fashion statement for your fluffy companion. The reflective 100% polyester material can keep your pet lit, quite literally, when taking nighttime walks. The easy clips at the chest and neck make it quick work for you to get the harness on your naughty canine. Also, the light breathable mesh padding offers cooling comfort in the summers and keeps your pet safe from getting hurt.
It’s perfect for both small-sized and medium-sized dogs as it’s adjustable. And, since we know that the smaller pups cannot take a lot of pressure, the sponge-filled material is designed to reduce stress. Moreover, the convenient pull back handle makes it possible for you to keep your canine close to you in unexpected situations. Thus, it’s paw-fectly apt for your hairy companion for jogging, running, hiking, or just a simple walk.
10. Frisco Small-Breed Soft Harness
Gracing the final spot in our list is the Frisco Soft Harness – a faultless option for small breed dogs.
This incredibly user-friendly product is made from a malleable and breathable mesh fabric to ensure your delicate doggo’s safety and comfort. This adorably pink harness is as functional as it is beautiful. With a fast-release buckle, two D-rings, and an adjustable fastener – the Soft Harness doesn’t leave much to chance.
Available in several sizes, four attractive colors, and four reflective bands, Frisco’s Harness can look after your dog’s needs in style.
We’ve reached the end of our quest for the best harness for running with a dog, and let us tell you how enjoyable it was for us. We know our readers depend on us to provide them with accurate information so that they can make informed decisions.
Because of that, we’ve done our best to bring all the relevant low-down available on dog harnesses for joggers. Now, we can only hope that we’ve helped answer most of your queries and that our top-ten harness compilation contains the solution to your canine walking worries. Till next time, furr-well.