Understanding The Different Types of Dog Harnesses
As dog owners, we can all agree that dog harnesses are a great alternative for more comfortable and happier walks. But how do you know which one to choose?
Considering the different styles, functions, and sizing guides, the options may seem endless. You have to ensure you’ve picked the right size, for the right function, and that’s before we get into the varying materials and designs.
Even so, the overwhelming selection process shouldn’t prevent you from harnessing the benefits of a good dog harness.
So, we are here to help you make sense of the different options. We’ll break down the common types you should know about, their functions, and when they’re most suitable. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to pick the perfect harness for your one-of-a-kind pooch.
How many types of dog harnesses are there?
Dog harnesses ideally differ depending on the design and function. Let’s start with the three main types of harnesses you should be familiar with, which are:
1. Back clip harness
This is the most common type of dog harness you’ll come across. The D-ring or leash attachment point is positioned on the back part of the harness, typically at the center of your dog’s back or just below its shoulders.
Back clip dog harnesses work well with long and short leashes and are perfect for slow, calm, decompression walks. They are also simple to use and the best type of dog harness, when you want to give your dog more control during walks.
2. Front clip harness
Unlike a back clip harness, this harness has a leash attachment at the front, typically on your dog’s chest or close to it. This switches the leverage point to give you better control during your walks.
These types of harnesses are ideal for training purposes, especially leash training. But avoid using long leashes with front clip harnesses, since they can easily get tangled up with your pup’s legs.
3. Dual clip harness
A fusion of a back and front clip harness, a dual clip dog harness provides you with the best of both worlds. It has D-rings attached at the front and back of the harness, giving you more versatility.
Use the front clip to help you guide movement and discourage pulling, or easily switch to the back clip to give your pooch more freedom. You can even use both attachments for added control, especially during training.
Did you know all our Spark Paws harnesses feature a dual clip design? That’s right! We want to ensure you get the most use out of each dog harness. Check out our collection here for the available options.
A few more common types of dog harnesses that differ, based on their style and how you put them on your dog’s body, include:
1. Y-harness vs. H-harness
The main difference between an H-harness and a Y-harness is their designs. These dog harnesses are named after the shape that appears at the front when you put the harness on your dog’s body. A Y-harness looks like the letter Y strapped across your dog’s chest, while an H-harness looks like the letter H.
The Y-harness has a vertical strap that passes between your dog’s front legs, while the H-harness only has a horizontal strap that passes over your dog’s shoulders. Based on the difference, Y-harnesses will give your dog better mobility with the front legs, without constricting the shoulders. However, if the space between your dog’s legs is narrower, an H-harness would be a better choice.
2. Step-in harness vs. over-the-head harness
These dog harnesses differ based on how they’re designed to be put on. As the name suggests, for an over-the-head dog harness, you need to slip it over your dog's head - as you would with a collar - and fasten it around the body. For a step-in dog harness, you would have to direct your dog to step into it with the front legs and slide it up its legs to fasten it around the body.
A step-in harness is the simplest to put on, especially if your dog doesn’t like stuff put over their head. But, unfortunately, they are also the easiest to get out of. That’s why over-the-head dog harnesses offer more security in that regard. You just have to take time to condition your dog to get used to putting it on.
3. Strap dog harness vs. vest dog harness
A strap dog harness is made of lightweight straps, and often from materials like nylon. They’re great for large short-haired dogs since they offer better control, especially for strong pullers. Vest dog harnesses, on the other hand, offer more chest coverage and are often made of thicker padding. While both are great choices, vest harnesses are an ideal choice if you’re looking for extra comfort, especially for smaller pups or long-haired dogs.
Our Spark Paws Ultra Soft Active Wear dog harness is a great example of this. The vest is made of soft, lightweight athletic fabric, with extra padding around the torso area for extra comfort. The adjustable straps allow you to easily find the perfect fit for your pooch without squishing any sensitive areas. Plus, the Y-shaped dual clip harness design gives your pup better mobility and more control options.
4. No-pull dog harness
A no-pull harness is designed specifically to discourage pulling and lends a special hand in making leash training much easier. It works by redirecting your dog’s attention to the side each time it pulls, giving you better movement control during walks.
Plus, the tension from the pull is spread across your dog’s body, making it more comfortable for your dog, and putting less strain on your arms. So an overall more enjoyable walk for everyone.
A no-pull harness can come in many designs and styles, although it most commonly functions as a front clip harness. But an ideal choice would be going for one with dual clips.
In fact, our Spark Paws Comfort Control No-Pull dog harness goes the extra mile, by offering three D-rings - one at the front and two at the back. So you still enjoy the control of the no-pull advantage of a front clip harness but can easily switch it to a back clip harness for versatility.
The Best Types of Dog Harnesses for Different Dogs and Situations.
To better understand which type of dog harness to use on a particular dog or in a particular situation, we’ve broken it down based on the following categories:
Your dog’s behavior
Some dogs are overly active and aggressive and enjoy pulling on the leash during walks to explore virtually anything that moves. If your dog pulls, then the best harness to get is a front clip dog harness to better guide their movement. But dual clip harnesses are an even better harness choice for large dogs or heavy pullers. They offer extra control when you pair it with a double-ended leash.
However, if your dog is a little Houdini, that somehow wiggles its way out of a harness, then you need something with extra security. The best escape-proof harness in this case is an over-the-head, dual clip, Y-harness. Look for ones that have added adjustable features like an extra belly strap or adjustment points. That way you can get the perfect snug fit, that your pup won’t be able to wiggle out of.
Your dog’s breed
Larger dogs are more powerful walkers who require more strength to reign them in. So a front clip strap harness is an ideal choice for them. But ensure the straps are wide enough to evenly distribute the tension when your dog pulls on the leash. It should also be made of tough material that can resist wear and tear. Premium quality woven nylon should be okay.
For shorter/smaller dogs or puppies, however, they need a gentler touch. The ideal harness shouldn’t be burdensome and should prioritize comfort. That’s why we would recommend a dual or back clip vest harness like our Spark Paws ultra-soft active wear.
Side note: Such harnesses are also a great choice for long-haired dogs or if your dog is prone to chafing. The thick padded lining of the vest, not only avoids painful rubbing against your dog’s skin but also prevents its fur from getting matted.
Your Preferred Activities
If you plan on using the harness for normal walks, then regular back clip harnesses will work just fine, for a calm, trained dog that doesn’t pull. No-pull, dual, or front clip harnesses would be ideal if you’re using the harness for training, especially for aggressive or adventurous dogs prone to pulling behavior.
But if you like engaging in fast-paced outdoor activities and adventures like hiking, a dual-clip Y-harness would be the best choice. It evenly distributes the pull force throughout the harness and elevates the pressure from your dog’s neck. Plus you can switch between the front and back leash attachments depending on how much control you need.
For puppies in training, however, look for simple harnesses, since they will likely transition from them quickly. Alternatively, you can go for a highly adjustable, dual-clip puppy harness that your fur baby can grow with.
How to Pick the Right Harness for Your Dog.
Aside from your dog’s breed, size, and behavior, here are a few other tips and considerations when shopping around for the perfect harness:
Always have the right measurements.
Fitting is everything when it comes to a comfortable harness. You want it to fit securely around your dog without being too snug to irritate. Depending on the brand, the sizing might vary. Each brand has its own size guidelines, which you should always refer to before completing the purchase. But you’re one step closer to getting the right fit if you have your dog’s accurate measurements.
Pick the right material.
Dog harnesses come in varying materials and designs, so it will depend on your dog’s allergies and your personal preference. But ideally, a harness should be light and flexible enough to allow your dog normal movement, without weighing them down. Nylon is among the best-recommended materials because it’s light, durable, and easy to clean.
Think about leash compatibility.
If you are not buying a set, it is important to ensure that the leash you already have will work with the new harness. Keep in mind that front-clip harnesses work best with shorter leashes while longer leashes are ideal for back-clip harnesses.
Get the Best Harness That Makes Every Walk a Breeze!
As we’re sure you’ve now realized, the right dog harness isn’t just about style. It’s about prioritizing control, and your dog’s needs and comfort. The right harness can make your daily walks a breeze. Lucky for you, you don’t have to look far to find it.
Spark Paws harnesses check all the boxes. Our Comfort Control No-pull dog harness is made of durable nylon, ideal for managing even the most energetic larger dogs without compromising on comfort. Our Ultra-soft Active Wear harness, on the other hand, is built to maximize comfort and for relaxing leisure walks, especially for your small pups.
But why stop at just getting a dog harness? Upgrade your walk with your special pooch by getting the complete set. Shop our walking collection today for a stylish and functional walking experience!