Best Harness For Small Dogs in 2024 for Better Dog Control

Even when you have time, taking the dog with you everywhere you go can be tough. The reason is that it may be hard to control the dog. For example, driving around the city with your barking dog can be pretty risky. The loud noise may distract you, hence causing you to get in an accident.

Amid all these challenges, I just might have the right solution for your troubles. This article is about how using a small dog harness may change your experience. A harness is meant to protect your dog and make it feel comfortable while giving you control of the pet’s movement outdoors.

Best Overall
Preview
WAUDOG Waterproof Dog Harness - Adjustable Dog Harness...
Advantage
Innovative Material
Available on Prime
Amazon Prime
My Review
-
Preview
WAUDOG Re-Cotton Dog Harness Eco-Friendly Dog Harness...
Advantage
Suitable For All Dogs
Available on Prime
Amazon Prime
My Review
-
Preview
PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness, No Choke Front Lead Dog...
Advantage
It has anti-pull buckles.
Available on Prime
Amazon Prime
My Review
Preview
rabbitgoo Dog Harness, No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash...
Advantage
It has a reflector for spotting your dog easily in the crowd.
Available on Prime
Amazon Prime
My Review
Preview
Ruffwear, Front Range Dog Harness, Reflective and...
Advantage
It has an ID tag pocket.
Available on Prime
-
My Review

5 Best Harness for Small Dogs Reviewed

There are five products that I have found to be good harnesses for small dogs. Each of these harnesses is unique in its way. To help you learn more about them, I will review them separately. For more clarity, I will also specify the pros and cons of each.

1. Polypet Small Dog Harness Vest with Three Buckles – My Top Pick

Polypet is a major brand that is known for manufacturing high-quality pet products. The organization has a technical unit whose main role is designing and producing products that match customer needs. Therefore, with Polypet products, you are assured that both yours and your dog’s needs are met.

First, it is a no-pull harness. The item has three buckles with one on the neck and two on the chest. These enable you to dress your dog without stress as you would with an ordinary harness. You have to place it in position and fasten the buckles instead of slipping it through the head, which would be stressful for both you and the dog.

If you are walking the dog, you may attach a leash between the buckles. Therefore, even if your dog gets distracted and looks back as you walk, it will be hard to choke the animal. That is the kind of protection for your dog you can expect from this product.
The dog harness vest for small dog is meshed on the inside and has pads that make it comfortable for walking and running. The meshed fabric allows for the free flow of air; hence it prevents too much sweating. It also prevents pulling, hence enabling the dog to run without choking.

The handle is also padded, hence making it comfortable for you to control the movement of the dog. It is also made of elastic material that allows it to stretch out comfortably. The elasticity feature allows the dog to move freely with no pressure on its joints or any other body part.

The harness is lightweight; hence it does not feel heavy on the pet. It weighs only 4.8 ounces that a small dog can hold and run or walk comfortably in without feeling too heavy.

Positives
  • It is very light, hence comfortable
  • It has anti-pull buckles
  • It is padded, hence comfy and flexible;
  • It has a variety of sizes
Negatives
  • The no-pull may be too comfortable, hence letting the dog pull even more as it walks or runs

Related post:

2. Rabbitgoo Dog Harness – Best Seller Small Dog Harness Vests

You have to agree with me that Rabbitgoo is very thoughtful about its harness that has a variety of colors and sizes. It is great when you have all these sizes and color options at your disposal. You only need to select your favorite color and choose the right size for your dog.

The harness comes with a reflector stitch that enables you to spot your dog at a distance. It also acts as a safety device when walking with your dog near a road. Besides, if you select a harness with a bright color such as orange or pink, you are going to spot the dog from far. Therefore, you cannot lose your dog when walking in the park.

The inner material of the harness is padded. The pads protect the skin of the dog while offering comfort. It also has an air mesh that allows for easy breathing; hence the dog can walk or run without experiencing a lot of heat.

Rabbitgoo has buckles that hold the harness onto the dog when fastened. The buckles hold the handle tight, and this is good, especially with a dog that has matured and does not pull quite often. You can comfortably grip the handle and control the movement of your pet. However, the handle does not have padding. Hence this may be a bother to some people.

Positives
  • It weighs 6.4 ounces only, which is comfortable for most small dogs
  • It has a reflector for spotting your dog easily in the crowd
  • It has two leash attachments
  • It is affordable
Negatives
  • It does not have pads on the inside. Therefore, it may not be comfortable to hold for a long time

3. Ruffwear – Premium Option Best Dog Harness for Small Dogs

Ruffwear is another premium quality harness that is worth trying. When you touch it, you can feel the high quality of the fabric. It is compact, hence durable whether you use it on a very small or medium-sized dog.

It is unique as it has two leash attachments. One is on the back, and it is efficient for dogs that do not pull while the front one works fine with dogs that are fond of pulling. You can use it to bring the dog back on track.

You can adjust the harness at four major points. Again, it offers flexibility based on how you want to control your dog. It is unique as it has a pocket for an ID. With the ID in the pocket, you may let your pet lose without fear.

Positives
  • It has a reflective trim for better visibility
  • It has an ID tag pocket
  • It is light and compact It is long-lasting
Negatives
  • It may feel a little heavy for puppies, hence tempting them to slip

4. Copatchy – Best Value Reflective Adjustable Small Dog Harness

If you have a brown or white dog, you want a harness that will be easy to spot. A black harness like this Copatchy would be perfect for easy identification of the dog. The harness weighs around 3.84 ounces. Hence, it is very light and does not feel heavy on the dog. If you are running together, it will not tire your dog easily.

Like any other high-quality small dog harness, it has a handle that gives you enough control of the pet. When teaching the dog how to walk or play outside, you can hold on to the handle and use it to direct movements of the pet. Besides, it is easy to put on. You have to place the harness around your dog and then fasten the buckles. Thus, if your dog is troublesome when it comes to wearing a harness through the neck, this will not be an issue for you.

Positives
  • The small dog harness is lightweight
  • It does not pull; hence it does not choke the dog
  • It does not need to be slipped through the neck
  • The manufacturer has made different sizes of the harness
Negatives
  • It does not have a chest plate; hence it may rotate when in use

5. Kurgo Small Dog Harness – For Small, Medium and Large Dogs

If you are a big fan of simplicity, Kurgo is the harness that is best for you. It can fit dogs with neck sizes 10 to 12 inches and 16 to 22 inches size chests. However, you have to be sure of the right size for your dog’s neck and chest before making an order. Kurgo has a dog harness size chart that you may use to select the right fitting harness.

On the front part, it has a D-ring that you may use as a leash attachment. Therefore, with the leash attachment, you get full control of the dog’s movement. It is easy to bring the dog back on track when the pet is distracted as you walk.

Where else will you get a lifetime warranty on a harness? Kurgo has made it stress-free for their customers. Note that the warranty is for manufacturing defects. Therefore, once you get the leash, you have to take good care of it so that it can last long.

Positives
  • It has five points of adjustment; hence it is flexible
  • It has a leash attachment
  • It is made of durable nylon webbing that also allows for breathing
Negatives
  • It weighs 6.4 ounces, which may be a little heavy

What Is the Best Harness for a Small Dog? – The Ultimate Buying Guide

small dog in harness

Initially, dog collars were very practical because of their ease of usage. People also loved them because of their ability to attach the dog tracker, license, and rabies tags. However, owners have realized that collars do not provide as much safety for dogs as they would achieve while using a harness.

Moreover, a harness feels comfortable on your dog. But how do you know which is the best small dog harness? Below is a list of factors to consider.

    • Understanding Your Dog’s Characteristics

You should buy a harness that accommodates your dog’s traits. Among the attributes to consider include; the size of your dog, level of activity, and the training level.

    • Back-clip harness

It is a modified form of Y-strap with an attachment ring at the dog’s back. Therefore, the harness reduces the pressure you apply on your dog’s chest, which minimizes its chances of being choked.

It is best suited for small calm dogs, particularly those with fragile chests. It is also suitable for those trained dogs that can calm themselves when commanded.

    • Front clip harness

It shares the same design as that of a back-clip harness. The only difference is the position of the leash attachment ring. For this one, it is at the dog’s front near its chest. I find it to be a better choice when guiding your dog through new territories.

Based on this description, the harness matches the needs of people with larger dogs. When used for smaller dogs, it is only suitable when training them.

    • Dual clip harness

It is the back and front clip harnesses combined. The goal of dual clip harness is to minimize the weaknesses faced when using each harness individually. However, its high price makes most people shy away. But trainers use them when training small dogs. You can also use it when introducing pets to new surroundings.

    • Step-in harness

The step-in harness is simple and affordable. It has two light horizontal straps that have a demarcating thicker strap in the middle. Therefore, when laid down, it will have two holes that the dog can step in with its front legs.

Use this harness if your dog is calm and obedient. It comes in all sizes, including one for the small dogs.

    • Car harness

I feel compelled to discuss this harness here because of the challenges that dog owners face when traveling with their pets . Many people find it hard to restrain their dogs when driving. The small dog car harness provides a more comfortable travel option. It is built like your normal chest harness, but it has an additional loop that you hook to your car’s seat belt.

I recommend it to owners that don’t want to leave their dogs behind. Car harnesses are made in both big and small sizes.

How to Measure Your Dog’s Harness Size

small dog in harness

A major advantage of using collars is that minimum effort is required in fitting them to a dog’s neck. However, finding the right size of harness is more complex. It involves taking the right measurements as opposed to making approximations. Follow the steps below to take accurate measurements.

  • Chest

Start by wrapping a tape measure around the dog’s chest. While doing it, maintain the dog in a standing position and shift the tape measure to the backside. Remember to create some breathing space.

  • Neck

Your objective here is to determine how your dog measures around its neck. Therefore wrap the measuring tape around the dog’s neck to establish its size. Remember to create some extra room to prevent choking.

  • Weight

Weight is a critical element when determining the correct size of your dog’s harnesses. A bulkier dog will only fit in a larger sized harness. Use a weighing scale to ascertain your dog’s exact weight accurately. If you do not own a weighing scale, you can access one at the vet’s clinic.

Counter check that you have recorded all the correct measurements obtained. You will use them while shopping for a harness. Use a sizing chart if you want to be accurate.

Pressing Queries on a Small Dog Harness

small dog in harness

Looking after a dog may seem to be simple. However, in reality, there are many activities involved in caring for the pet. Without the right guidance, you may get it all wrong. Luckily, there are online platforms where experts like me can help you get it right. Below are answers to some of the questions you may have about harnesses.

How to Put on a Small Dog Harness

Putting on a step-in harness is different from over the head harness. Below are the steps for putting on each.

  • Step-in harness

It is very easy to put on. Your dog does not have to be entirely calm when putting on a step-in harness.

  1. Calm the dog to avoid distractions when putting on the harness.
  2. Check harness straps to establish the left and right loop.
  3. Based on the established positions, unstrap the harness and place it on a flat surface while ensuring it is not tangled.
  4. For those harnesses with a vest, make sure the exterior side faces down.
  5. Put on the harness from the back while ensuring that the front legs are standing above the right loops.
  6. While the dog is in that position, pull up the dog harness vest. Fasten it by buckling the respective fasteners.
  • Over the Head Harness

Getting this harness on a dog is like helping a child to wear their sweater. The easiness of the process will be determined by how calm they are.

  1. Start by ensuring that your dog is very calm
  2. Check the head’s position, as shown on the harness labels.
  3. Insert the loop onto the dog’s neck.
  4. Get the dog’s front leg into the dedicated loop.
  5. Position the straps into their right place
  6. Fasten the harness buckles together in their right position.

Do Small Dogs Need Harnesses?

Yes, they do. Unlike a collar, dog harness for small dogs is safer and more comfortable. Make sure that you pick a smaller sized harness that fits perfectly on your small dog.

How Do You Fit a Small Dog Harness?

After putting a harness on your small dog, the next step is fitting it correctly. Ensure that it is not loose. First, ensure you have the right size for your extra small dog harness and then follow these steps to fit properly:

  1. Wrap the straps on the dog.
  2. Leave some space between the adjustment point and the dog.
  3. Perform checks to be sure the straps are lying flat on the dog’s body with none twisting.

Getting the Best Harness for Small Dog

A harness is good for controlling your small dog. It is both safe and comfortable. It ensures that you enjoy time with your dog without fearing that he or she may stray away.

Each harness is unique, as seen in the reviews above. Thus, you must be specific about what you want to achieve so that you can select the right one. Do you want a harness for running or walking? Once you answer this question, you may be able to choose the best small dog harness for your pet.

If you are planning to travel, the car harness will ensure that your small dog is safe in the car. It will prevent the dog from making movements and noises that may distract you. Have you tried any of the above harnesses? What do you love about your harness, and would you recommend it to someone else?

Britta Thygesen

Britta Thygesen

A passionate dog owner and a full-time certified dog trainer. Aspires to make DogCareHacks a go-to place for all the doggo info. Shares personal experience and professional knowledge.

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

Leave a reply

Dog Care Hacks
Logo