Best Harness for Dogs That Pull: A Guide to Better Walking Behaviours

Walking a dog that pulls can be frustrating. It’s tough on your hands and arms - not to mention the dog feels frustrated and uncomfortable as they yank and pull at the end of the leash. However, with the right harness, you can regain control so a walk becomes a joy for both you and your furry companion!

A no-pull harness is designed to reduce pulling by giving you better control without causing discomfort for your dog. If you're looking for the best harness for dogs that pull, you're in the right place.

Below, we’ll explore everything you need to know about a no-pull dog harness and what makes them so special.  Plus, we’ll break down the best no-pull harnesses for both large and small dogs.

What is a No-Pull Dog Harness?

A no-pull dog harness is designed to aid in training good walking behaviour by properly distributing force across their chest and shoulders.

There are a variety of styles to choose from, but the common feature in all no pull dog harnesses is that the chest piece or strap should be durable and padded to support your dog's weight if they pull.

Many of the best no pull harnesses for dogs have both a front and a back clip. The front clip is often preferred for dogs that lunge or pull up onto their back legs to lean their full weight into pulling. The two-point method can also be used, which involves attaching a specialized leash or couple to both the front and back clips. 

The placement feature of the clip helps redirect your dog’s movement, making it harder for them to pull forward. Instead, the front attachment gently guides them back toward you. Not to mention, most of the no-pull harnesses are gently padded and designed for your furry friend’s ultimate comfort. 

Why Use a No-Pull Dog Harness?

Walking your dog should be enjoyable, not a constant struggle. But if your dog pulls on the leash, walks can become frustrating. Every walk and outing should not become a power struggle between you and your dog leaving you both wondering exactly who is walking who. 

A no-pull harness can change the dynamics of the dog walk. It helps make walks easier and more comfortable for both you and your dog by helping you keep better control of your dog while you train away unwanted pulling behaviours and replace them with safer loose leash walking skills.

How Does a No-Pull Harness Work?

Despite its name, no pull harnesses don't have the power to magically stop your dog from pulling instantly. Instead, they're a tool for helping you teach better walking skills and manners. Unlike traditional harnesses that don't provide support or control, a no pull harness is going to support your dog's weight comfortably across their chest with a large or padded chest plate or strap. 

This alone can make walking safer and take some of the pulling power away from your dog. When followed up by the appropriate verbal commands and walking routines, your dog can learn to let you lead the walk and not the other way around.

Another helpful feature is the front clip. Whether you are using a single point of contact on the harness or two points, using the front clip can be extremely helpful in giving your dog a better and more easily understood direction when walking.

When your dog pulls, the front clip on the harness turns them to the side. This interrupts their forward motion. Dogs are smart, so over time, your dog learns that pulling gets them nowhere. 

Ultimately, the no-pull harness encourages better behaviour without causing discomfort. It’s an effective, humane training tool that benefits both you and your doggo. 

Benefits of No-Pull Harnesses

Still on the fence about whether a no-pull dog harness is the right choice for your furry friend?  Let’s take a look at the benefits. 

Better Control

No-pull harnesses give you better control over your dog. The front clip helps steer them in the right direction, making it easier to manage strong, energetic dogs. Even large dogs that pull can be safely guided with a no-pull harness.

Comfortable for Your Dog

One of the best things about a no-pull harness is that it's designed with your dog’s comfort in mind. They’re padded and adjustable, ensuring a snug fit without causing pain or chafing. This makes walks more enjoyable for your dog and less worrisome for you. 

Reduces Pulling

One of the biggest benefits is that no-pull harnesses actively discourage pulling - just as the name suggests no-pull. Your dog will quickly learn that pulling doesn't get them where they want to go. This helps improve their leash manners over time and you can both enjoy walks together. 

Safer Walks

When you walk your dog, safety is your number one priority. A no-pull harness can prevent your dog from lunging or pulling toward distractions. This makes walks safer for both you and your dog, reducing the risk of accidents.

Picking the Best No-Pull Harness

A no-pull harness can transform your walks with your dog. It offers better control, improves behaviour, and makes walks more enjoyable for both of you. Whether you have a large or small dog, there’s a harness that will meet your needs. 

Choose the right one today and experience the difference!  Below, we will take a hard look at our top five choices for the best no-pull dog harnesses on the market. 

1. Ruffwear Front Range Harness

The Ruffwear Front Range Harness is one of the best harnesses for dogs that pull whether you have a small pup or a big dog. It’s durable, comfortable, and perfect for both small and large dogs. 

The no-pull harness features two leash attachment points: one on the chest and one on the back. This gives you flexibility, especially for dogs that need extra guidance. 

Plus, it’s padded for extra comfort during long walks.

Why we love it:

• • Adjustable fit for a range of sizes.
  • Comfortable padding for extended wear.
  • Dual leash attachments for added control.

2. Canada Pooch Complete Control Harness

The Canada Pooch Complete Control Harness is another fantastic choice. It’s perfect for dogs that tend to pull on walks. This harness has an impressively tough front D-ring leash attachment, which helps redirect your dog when they pull. It’s sturdy and designed with comfort in mind. Whether you have a small or large dog, this harness offers the best of both worlds.

Why we love it:

• • Front D-ring to reduce pulling.
  • Strong and durable materials.
  • Fits snugly, making it ideal for active dogs.

3. Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness

Are you seeking extra durability? The Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness is a great option. 

Known for its strength and durability, it’s the best harness for large dogs that pull. It offers excellent control, and its heavy-duty design is ideal for strong pullers. 

The Julius-K9 harness is also very comfortable, with adjustable straps and a breathable lining.

Why we love it:

• • Heavy-duty design for strong dogs.
  • Adjustable for a perfect fit.
  • Breathable lining for comfort.

4. RC Pets Tempo No Pull Harness

The RC Pets Tempo No Pull Harness is perfect for those who want a simple yet effective no-pull harness. It’s designed to fit dogs of all sizes. With its front-clip design, it helps redirect pulling behaviour, making walks more enjoyable. 

This no-pull harness is an excellent choice for both small and large dogs that pull.

Why we love it:

• • Front-clip design to reduce pulling.
  • Adjustable for a snug fit.
  • Lightweight and comfortable for everyday use.

5. Hurtta Venture No-Pull Harness

The Hurtta Venture No-Pull Harness is one of the best no-pull dog harnesses in Canada. It’s designed for comfort and control, making it ideal for long walks and active dogs. 

The front attachment discourages pulling, while the padded chest plate ensures your dog stays comfortable. This harness works well for both small and large dogs.

Why we love it:

• • Padded chest plate for comfort.
  • Front attachment to discourage pulling.
  • Suitable for both small and large dogs.

Tips for Choosing the Best No-Pull Dog Harness

When choosing the best harness for your dog, it’s important to consider the following: 

1. Size: Make sure to measure your dog and choose a harness that fits comfortably. A good fit ensures control without causing discomfort.
2. Attachment Points: Front-clip harnesses are great for reducing pulling, while back-clip harnesses are better for more relaxed walks. Some harnesses, like the Ruffwear Front Range, offer both options because some dogs do graduate from being pullers to learning NOT to pull.
3. Comfort: Look for padded straps and breathable materials, especially if your dog pulls a lot. Comfort is key for long walks. You want your furry friend to feel comfortable and happy so you can both enjoy the outing together.
4. Durability: If you have a strong puller, you’ll need a durable harness that can handle the force. In our opinion, the Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness is a great option for this.

Wrapping Up the Best No-Pull Dog Harness Choices

Finding the best no-pull dog harness is essential for enjoyable walks with your furry friend. Whether you’re looking for the best harness for large dogs that pull or the best harness for small dogs that pull, one of these five options will surely meet your needs.

With the above no-pull harnesses offered by Homes Alive Pets, walking your dog becomes less of a tug-of-war and more of a bonding/fun experience.

Remember, the right harness can make all the difference in the world during your walk. Try one today and enjoy stress-free walks with your furry friend!

Best No-Pull Dog Harness FAQs

Why does my dog still pull with a no-pull harness?

Teaching good walking manners takes time and practice, and while a no-pull harness can be a helpful tool to reduce pulling and train appropriate behaviours, it's not a magic button that instantly stops pulling.

Do no-pull harnesses really work?

They can be an effective training tool for most dogs when used properly and alongside an appropriate training routine. Make sure your harness is well fitted and comfortable to ensure it's effectiveness.

Can no-pull harnesses be bad for dogs?

When used incorrectly or in the absence of any other effort to train good behaviours, a no-pull harness can be not only ineffective but also dangerous. The style of harness can affect your dogs gait, and lead to discomfort or even injury.