Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Harness That Actually Fits
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If you have ever had your dog wiggle out of a harness mid-walk, you know how stressful and risky a poor fit can be. The right fit protects your dog’s neck and shoulders, reduces pulling, and keeps pressure evenly distributed across the chest. Sizing charts vary by brand, so a “large” in one harness may fit like a “medium” in another. Around here, Bo and Piper wear harnesses daily. Bo has a broader chest and benefits from a more adjustable design, while Piper does best with padded straps that do not chafe on longer walks.
Different Harness Types
Step-in Harness
Dog steps into two leg openings, and the buckle closes on the back.
Good for dogs who dislike gear pulled over the head.
No-Pull or Front-Clip Harness
Front chest D-ring redirects pulling and helps with loose-leash training
Good for strong pullers and new leash learners.
Vest or Padded Harness
More surface area and cushioning for comfort.
Helpful for small breeds and dogs with sensitive skin.
Adventure or Escape-Resistant Harness
Extra belly strap or high adjustability to reduce backing-out.
Great for hiking, camping, or dogs who have slipped basic designs.
How to Measure Your Dog
Use a soft tape measure and record three numbers:
Chest girth
Measure around the widest part of the ribcage behind the front legs. This is the most important measurement for harness sizing.
Neck circumference
Measure where a flat collar would sit. Some harnesses do not need this, but it helps with comfort.
Weight
Use a recent weight to confirm you are in the intended size range. Brands often pair chest girth with a weight range.
Fit Checkpoints
You should be able to slide two fingers between the strap and your dog’s body.
The chest plate should sit flat on the sternum, not pressing into the throat.
Adjust both left and right sides evenly so the D-ring sits centered.
Recheck fit after the first walk and after a bath or groom. Coat thickness can change fit.
Bo tip: Bo’s chest measures near the top of many “large” charts. We size up when he is between sizes so the straps sit flat without pinching.
Piper tip: Piper’s coat is fluffy. We recheck her straps after grooming since her girth can change by a full inch.
Mistakes to Avoid
Eyeballing size
Guessing from “small, medium, large” leads to slippage or chafing. Measure chest girth and match the chart.
Ignoring adjustment range
If the shortest or longest setting is required to make the harness fit, pick a different size. You want room to fine-tune.
Straps on the soft tissue of the neck
A front strap that rides high can press into the throat when your dog pulls. Lower it to the chest plate, then retighten the belly strap.
Assuming all brands size the same
Do not carry over the size from your last harness to a new brand. Recheck girth and the new sizing chart.
Skipping the movement test
Ask your dog to sit, stand, and trot for a few steps. Watch for rubbing behind the elbows or shifting hardware.
Not rechecking after coat or weight changes
Seasonal shedding, grooming, or a few pounds up or down can change fit. Recheck monthly.
The right harness can make all the difference in how safe and enjoyable your walks are. By measuring carefully, matching the harness type to your dog’s needs, and avoiding common mistakes, you set both you and your pup up for success. Whether you’re strolling through the neighborhood, tackling training, or heading out for weekend hikes, there’s a style designed to support your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Bo loves his no-pull harness for busy sidewalks, while Piper feels most comfortable in her lightweight mesh vest for long walks on warm days. Just like them, your dog’s perfect fit will come down to lifestyle, activity, and body shape. With a little research and the right gear, every walk can be safer, easier, and a whole lot more fun.
