Small dogs are cute and amazing but still delicate and thus require the best care to guarantee their safety. Because small dogs are delicate their chances of getting injured due to straining especially when being held on a leash using a collar are high. That’s why veterinary personnel and trainers alike advise small dog owners to instead use a harness instead of collars.
Using a harness helps to reduce the strain on a dog’s neck because it disperses the pressure over a wider area of the body. Again using a harness ensures that the leash is perfectly held in place securely. Remember, it is so easy for a small dog to slip out of a collar than it would if it was fastened to a harness. Using a harness on your small dog indeed has got several benefits compared to using a collar.
We have talked about the benefits of using a harness instead of a collar to walk your dog and that’s why more and more dog owners are taking up their use. Did you also know that it has become fashionable to walk your dog on a harness than a collar? Yes, even if you took a walk down a street, you will find that many dog owners these days use harnesses instead of collars.
In this guide of the best harness for small dogs, we are going to cover various topics about the things to consider when buying a harness for your small dog. We understand that finding the right collar for your puppy might be a little challenging for you for obvious reasons. We know that there so many types of dog harness for small dogs available out there in pet shops. This can add to your confusion about finding the right one for your small dog.
Top 5 Harness For Small Dogs
[ninja_tables id=”1599″]
1. Rabbitgoo Dog Harness
[su_button url=”https://amzn.to/38dGo2C” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#ef672d” color=”#ffffff” size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”round” icon=”icon: external-link”]Check Price on Amazon[/su_button]
Rabbitgoo Dog vest harness is a perfect product for your dogs at an acceptable price range. This product can be accessed easily by everyone. A dog harness can be easily fitted in your pet’s body and will be also looking good.
This one mainly keeps your pet safer, and it also makes you easy for taking him for a walk or run. Also, this vest comes with different sizes- Small, medium, large and extra-large based on neck and chest size. Make sure that you take the perfect size based on your pet’s size.
[su_tabs style=”default” active=”1″ vertical=”no” mobile=”stack” class=””][/su_tab] [su_tab title=”Specifications” disabled=”no” class=””]
- Weights can be adjusted.
- It can be used for more than 10 different breeds.
- Can be washed
- The metal strip is used for a rear connection point
[/su_tab] [/su_tabs]
[su_table][su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#00bf08″ radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: check-circle” icon_color=”#0cc33e”]
- Easily adjustable with the machine-washable cover being provided
- Anti-Skid leg pads with metal frames
- Can fit for different vehicles
- 2 Metal Leash Rings for safer dog walks
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#bf000a” radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#bf000a”]
- Weak stretching at the backside when compared to the front
- Slightly expensive when compared to other products
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column][/su_row][/su_table]
2. Voyager Step-in Dog Harness
[su_button url=”https://amzn.to/2IasNhL” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#ef672d” color=”#ffffff” size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”round” icon=”icon: external-link”]Check Price on Amazon[/su_button]
This vest is made with weather mesh all over. It has all the features as Rabbitgoo Dog Harness have and still it is cheaper than it. It also consists of two reflective bands which will keep your pet’s visibility clear during early morning and late evenings.
This vest also has three safety features that will keep your pet in a safe position while walking or running. It consists of a buckle and Double-D rings which will be safer. Non-irritating material is used in this harness which will always keep your pet comfortable.
[su_tabs style=”default” active=”1″ vertical=”no” mobile=”stack” class=””][/su_tab] [su_tab title=”Specifications” disabled=”no” class=””]
- Fully weather meshed material.
- Consists of reflective bands on both sides.
- Consists of a buckle and Double D-RIngs.
- Also consists of three safety features
[/su_tab] [/su_tabs]
[su_table][su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#00bf08″ radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: check-circle” icon_color=”#0cc33e”]
- Cheap in cost when compared to other products.
- It can be easily used as it will have different sizes.
- Washable.
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#bf000a” radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#bf000a”]
- None
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column][/su_row][/su_table]
3. Ruffwear No-pull Dog harness
[su_button url=”https://amzn.to/2uHM9Yx” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#ef672d” color=”#ffffff” size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”round” icon=”icon: external-link”]Check Price on Amazon[/su_button]
Ruffwear dog harness is similar to many other dog vest products in the market but it has some little more features which are not there in regular vests. This product is slightly expensive but the money which we keep for this product is worthy.
This product is made for extended wear. It also consists of shoulder pads paired with two belts. It is also available for a customizable fit and easy to see day and night. It is a foam-padded construction with 4 adjustable points around it. This product also consists of an ID pocket which is used to store other things.
[su_tabs style=”default” active=”1″ vertical=”no” mobile=”stack” class=””][/su_tab] [su_tab title=”Specifications” disabled=”no” class=””]
- Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 13.6 x 0.1 inches
- Material: Debris-Liner.
- Product weight: 5.3 Ounces.
- Extended wear material
- Consists of 4 adjustable points
[/su_tab] [/su_tabs]
[su_table][su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#00bf08″ radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: check-circle” icon_color=”#0cc33e”]
- Easy to use during day and night
- Constructed using form pads
- Consists of trunk hugger strap
- Use tactile cues for usage
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#bf000a” radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#bf000a”]
- Expensive- can use other vests when compared
- Warranty is not guaranteed
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column][/su_row][/su_table]
4. Baby LTRL Big Dog Harness
[su_button url=”https://amzn.to/2PBrRas” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#ef672d” color=”#ffffff” size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”round” icon=”icon: external-link”]Check Price on Amazon[/su_button]
This vest is a different one when compared to other vests. Still, this vest has similar features compared to a voyager dog harness. This vest consists of two sturdy metal D-Rings on front/back, the front one for discouraging pulling and back for relaxed walking.
This vest can be easily adjustable near the neck and also reflectable in the dark. It also makes breathing easy for pets and makes the padding comfortable. This one also consists of a sturdy handle with which we can control and assist our dog more conveniently.
[su_tabs style=”default” active=”1″ vertical=”no” mobile=”stack” class=””][/su_tab] [su_tab title=”Specifications” disabled=”no” class=””]
- Product weight: 5.6 ounces.
- It comes with a long period of warranty.
- Product material: oxford
[/su_tab] [/su_tabs]
[su_table][su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#00bf08″ radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: check-circle” icon_color=”#0cc33e”]
- Best fitting
- Consists of a Sturdy Handle
- Easy to wear and comfortable
- Reflective with extra security
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#bf000a” radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#bf000a”]
- Can be wrecked as straps are elastic
- The vest is bulky compared to other vests
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column][/su_row][/su_table]
5. Bolux Dog Harness
[su_button url=”https://amzn.to/2PyVRDF” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#ef672d” color=”#ffffff” size=”5″ center=”yes” radius=”round” icon=”icon: external-link”]Check Price on Amazon[/su_button]
The Bolux Dog Harness is surely one of the best products. It comes with a Reflective, breathable adjusting vest along with a handle for special care. It is much more comfortable due to the PU-Nylon material.
This product also consists of an extra option for keeping mobile phones. It also got enough mesh which makes the breathing of dogs easy and simple. It is also lightweight, durable and even waterproof.
[su_tabs style=”default” active=”1″ vertical=”no” mobile=”stack” class=””][/su_tab] [su_tab title=”Specifications” disabled=”no” class=””]
- Product Dimensions: 15.8 x 11.8 x 0.4 inches.
- Product Weight: 3.52 ounces.
- Product material: PU-Nylon.
[/su_tab] [/su_tabs]
[su_table][su_row][su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#00bf08″ radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: check-circle” icon_color=”#0cc33e”]
- Durable & Reflective
- Waterproof and easy to wash
- Consists of a handle for easy usage
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column] [su_column size=”1/2″ center=”no” class=””] [su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#bf000a” radius=”4″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#bf000a”]
- Extremely hazardous.
- Manual is not provided along with the product.
[/su_list][/su_box] [/su_column][/su_row][/su_table]
Harness For Small Dogs Buying Guide
The dog species has got so many breeds, some small and some big and fiery. As a dog owner, you probably have been told about the importance of walking your dog regularly to give it sufficient exercise. Walking a dog on a road requires that you keep it on a leash that you will hold at all times. There are two types of methods that a leash attaches to the dog and these are through a collar or a harness. In this article, we are going to talk about the harness because of it our subject today. So what are you to look for when buying the best dog harness for a small dog?
Will it connect properly?
You will have to narrow down to your dog’s harness choice by knowing where exactly you plan to have the leash connected to the harness. It is important for you to bear in mind that there are usually two main types; the front clip and the back clip. The one that you are going to choose depends on your dog!
The front-clip harness will give you more control over your dog’s behavior. However, the front clip type of dog harness can easily tangle underneath the dog’s front legs. This means that it may not be ideal for highly aggressive dogs.
The back-clip harnesses are considered comfortable and so easy to put on the dog, they also protect the dog’s neck well. They will however not provide you better control over the dog’s forward trajectory.
Check out for the measurement
You need to look at the thickness of the harness whether it is a back-clip or side-clip. It is even advisable for you to measure your dog and determine the right thickness and size depending on his age and breed. Looking out for fit is important because young dogs can quickly outgrow a harness that they just recently fit into well.
Is padding important?
Yes, and this is particularly beneficial for dog breeds that have short hair. A padded harness helps to avoid rubbing and skin irritation thus ensuring comfort. A well-padded harness also enhances flair to make the dog look stylish in it!
Look at the design and materials it is made of
When buying a harness for your small dog, it would make sense for you to at least asses how well it will fit your dog. You can, for instance, adjust the harness when you have it on the dog and then observe how the dog behaves. If it is one that makes your dog feels uncomfortable, you would want to replace it and get another one. You should also look at the material that has been used to make the harness, if the material seems cheap, don’t buy it.
A harness with reflective material or not?
Well, the decision to buy for your small dog a harness with reflective material is your choice. It depends on whether you prefer to go out with your dog for a walk late in the evening or too early in the morning. If this is the case, then a harness with a reflective material comes in handy to ensure that your dog is visible to traffic.
Look out a harness that will offer a perfect match for your leash
You may have a leash that you prefer to use on your dog when going out for walks. When choosing a harness, just ensure that you choose one that will work well with the leash that you prefer using on your small dog. It may also be important for you to reassess the length of the leash you have and the control you will get when attached to the harness.
Are you looking for a harness that works with multiple leashes?
If you own multiple dogs and prefer walking them all at one go, you may need a harness that works better with a split leash. A spilled leash is a kind of leash that is designed to be attached to more than one harness. A split leash helps to make it easy for you to be able to walk multiple dogs effortlessly.
What are the various styles of dog harnesses?
There are four main styles of dog harnesses available in the markets. They are all designed to offer the dog maximum freedom of movement but also ensuring the safety of the dog.
Step-in – the step-in type of dog harness is so easy to fit as the dog only needs to step into it. You then fasten it and adjust the straps to offer the dog a proper and comfortable fit. With step-in type of dog harness, you won’t have to adjust it again after getting the dog into it. If you need to change anything, you can easily just remove it from the dog.
Over-head – Just as the name suggests, the over-head harness is placed just above the dog’s head, and then adjusted to fit the dog properly. They usually feature more padding than the step-in type of dog harnesses. The best part with this type of harness is that once you fit it on the dog, there won’t be any need for you to adjust it again.
Padded strap – this style of dog harness features buckles on the sides and the upper back and this is what makes it highly adjustable. They are particularly handy for dog owners with very small dog breeds. When going for a padded strap style of dog harness, choose one that is made of nylon webbing material because they are usually durable, lightweight, weather-resistant and so easy to clean. The padded strap style of dog harnesses made of leather may look stylish when new but will lose their fit and shape after long-duration use.
Wraps or vests – The vest or wrap style of dog harnesses are just so popular with small dog owners. Vests and wraps usually come in a wide range of colors and designs and also offer a perfect fit for those tiny dog breeds.
A vest or a wrap is usually designed in some sort of a vest that the dog wears. They feature a place that a leash can be attached to using a D-ring or fabric connector commonly located on the upper back part of the vest. They are normally fastened via nylon straps or a Velcro and most of them have a quick-release safety buckle.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a wise idea to leave a harness on the dog?
There is no problem leaving a harness on your dog. However, it is usually advisable to have them removed from puppies or dogs if they are going to be left unattended for extended periods. If your dog chews things around, you would also consider removing the harness from it.
Is it a good idea to fasten a harness on a puppy?
Yes, in fact, a harness is even safer on a puppy than a collar as it distributes pressure and thus reduces the likelihood of injury.
Is a harness so expensive?
Not really. There are different types of harnesses and the price is usually dependent on the quality of material used for manufacture. A harness will certainly cost more than a collar.