Selecting the perfect harness for your puppy boils down to one golden rule: it’s got to fit your pup just right. Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, which means there isn’t a one-size-fits-all harness out there.
Most of the time, a Y-shaped harness with adjustable straps all around is your best bet to suit the unique build of your furry friend.
For the little ones, consider a harness that fully opens up, so you don’t have to fuss with pulling it over their head. Really, it’s about choosing the harness that’s designed well for your puppy’s comfort and safety, not just going for a certain brand because it’s popular.
And a heads-up about online harness reviews – take them with a grain of salt. The internet’s awash with recommendations for harnesses that might not be up to snuff, coming from good-hearted folks who might not spot a poorly designed harness.
Our Puppy Harness Recommendation
To help you get started, we recommend this harness that checks all our boxes at a reasonable price point:
PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness
✅ Easy to Use: Quick release snap buckles at the neck and chest for simple on and off, without the struggle of pulling it over the dog’s head.
✅ No Pull & No Choke: Designed with 2 metal leash attachments – front D-ring stops pulling and is great for training, back D-ring for casual walks. Evenly distributes pressure to prevent choking.
✅ Safe & Comfortable: Reflective straps for nighttime visibility and safety. A sturdy padded handle for quick control. Mesh lining for breathability, ensuring comfort all day.
✅ Adjustable Fit: Four adjustable straps for a customised fit. Soft, comfortable, and does not rub or irritate your dog’s skin.
Are Harnesses Good for Puppies?
Harnesses are good for puppies that aren’t fully trained to walk on a loose leash yet.
When you bring a new puppy home, it’s important that you teach them to walk on a loose leash as quickly as possible. It’s much easier to teach a new behaviour to a puppy than it is to modify a learned behaviour in an adult dog.
When it comes to harnesses for puppies, you’ll find that your pup will probably outgrow their harness quickly. Depending on the breed, they might even outgrow their harnesses multiple times.
So if cost is an important factor for you, take this into your considerations.
At What Age Should a Puppy Wear a Harness?
You can get your puppy used to wearing a harness at any time.
In fact, a harness is often a requirement for puppy socialisation classes, or their first group training classes.
Be gentle when you first get your puppy used to their harness, you don’t want them to associate it with something bad.
Is a Harness or a Collar Better for a Puppy?
A harness is better for a puppy while they’re not fully leash trained, to avoid unpleasant pressure and potential damage to their sensitive throat area.
Once your puppy is trained to walk on a loose leash, you can use both a harness or a collar, depending on what’s more suitable for the occasion.
