5‌ ‌Types‌ ‌Of‌ ‌Puppy‌ ‌Harness‌ ‌in‌ ‌2021‌ ‌

Whether you just got a new pup or want to begin training your pooch, a puppy harness is a vital accessory. It can help you minimize issues with pulling and disobedience. However, it’s crucial to pick a harness suitable for your pet. The product you need could vary depending on the results you expect. Check out the top five harness types we reviewed below. The information will help you pick the perfect accessory for your pooch!

1. Back-Clip Harness

The self-explanatory name reveals the clip’s position. Back-clip harness is the most common type used in 2021. You’ll find various clips, so users can pick the best dog harness for pulling.

In basic units, two straps are on the back. However, you can go for puppy harnesses with spacious chest pads. These are better to ensure not the entire weight is on the throat. Soft padding is imperative so your pet doesn't end up with scratches. The design can vary, and you'll even find a harness acting as a vest. You'll often see small dog owners using that product. 

The advantage of a back-clip harness is the leash’s position. It’s natural to be in the back since it features a minimum risk of tangling and optimal weight distribution. You can use these harnesses for everyday walking, but also running. The experts recommend them for breeds with short legs and a flat face. The first due to tangling, and the latter because they tend to have gentle throats and occasional breathing issues. The downside is some other units offer better direction control and jumping prevention. 

Advantages

• Minimal risk of tangling
• Optimal weight distribution
• Soft padding ensures no risk of scratching

Drawbacks

• It’s tricky to prevent jumps

2. Front-Clip Puppy Harness

These offer a complete opposite to back-clip harnesses. With the clip in the front, it’s essential to have a D or O-ring at the dog’s chest. It ensures optimal control and adequate comfort.

The biggest pro of these harnesses is the sense of control. If the pet’s still learning best behavior, this option is helpful. Any pulling requires gentle leash tugging. The dog will switch the direction immediately and turn toward you. However, try not to use much force since some harnesses don’t have soft padding.

A front-clip harness is a temporary training accessory. If used too often, it can compromise normal shoulder movement and gait. The moment it delivers the expected results switch to another type. 

Any unit with a front clip can be a large dog harness. It's also the best choice for Pitbulls and puppies with great strength and restless behavior. However, tangling might be a problem for short breeds.

Advantages

• Excellent training accessory
• It provides high control
• Suitable for strong and large dogs

Drawbacks

• Not for long-term use

3. Dual-Clip Harness

These products come with attachments on both sides. You’ll find D or O-rings in the back and front sections. The dual option will increase the price, but it comes with a major benefit. You get both harnesses to use as pleased.

Are you planning to train your dog? The front clip is the right move. Are you heading for a walk? A back clip harness should be enough. It’s even possible to use both attachments simultaneously. Depending on the manufacturer, you might even see three or more attachments. Whichever type you choose, the experts advise sticking to Puppia Harness and other reliable brands.

As for dual-clip units, they are versatile. You can use them for different breeds. They give you optimal control and secure adequate comfort for the dog. A small downside might be that you need to carry the attachments to switch them on the go. That's why acquiring a dog backpack harness – the one with a backpack can be convenient.

Advantages

• Extremely versatile
• Suitable for walks and training
• A balance between comfort and control

Drawbacks

• A higher price tag compared to other types

4. Pulling Harness

The experts advise caution when using these for puppies. The reason is simple – the manufacturers design these units for pulling. An adult dog uses a pulling harness for sledding, canicross, and similar activities. The only reason why a puppy would use them is to get used to those activities.

If your pet is active and pulling is in its blood, this harness can be a wise pick. Malamutes and Huskies pull sleds in the snow. You can use this harness on a puppy, but be careful and start with lower weights. They feature optimal weight distribution, but you want the pet’s neck to grow strong first. It might be smart to consult a veterinarian before using this harness

Advantages

• Suitable for pulling activities
• Even weight distribution
• Very durable 

Drawbacks

• A vet should approve its use
• Not for everyday use

5. Tactical Harness

Do you plan on taking your dog on a fishing trip? Would you like to get them used to outdoor activities? A tactical vest can be a suitable puppy harness for your requirements. 

These are outdoor units. Manufacturers used light and durable fabric to create them. The aesthetics are vital, so make sure to pick a suitable design. You can connect pouches and patches to webs and strips. It implies the dog can carry some light items when you head outside. However, avoid excessive load – some food and water bowl are sufficient. The harnesses come with weather resistance and are suitable for winter.

Advantages

• Excellent weather resistance
• Available in different designs
• Suitable for outdoor use

Drawbacks

• The dog might be hot in the summer months

How to Choose a Harness for Your Dog

Check out the factors to analyze when selecting a harness for your pooch:

• How will you use it? – older dogs might require help navigating around, so a walking harness is sufficient. A front-clip puppy harness is a better fit for pooches in training. You can even consider units with GPS functions
• Fabric type – most manufacturers use nylon and similar synthetic materials. The critical thing is that the harness is durable. 
• Padding – thanks to the padding, the pooch will feel comfortable wearing the harness. It won’t scratch its skin or cause irritability.
• Fitting for your pooch – most harnesses come with adjustable sizes. However, make sure they are adequate for your dog’s size and height.
• Aesthetics – finally, don’t hesitate to identify a unit with colors and patterns you appreciate. 

Final Thoughts

Owners should pick a puppy harness based on their requirements. A back-clip unit might be sufficient for walks, but demanding training sessions require a front-clip product. You can find collars with a fantastic design and advanced functions like GPS tracking. 

A harness is an all-around unit with adequate weight distribution and comfort for your pooch. At the same time, it’s the perfect way to achieve the desired training results. Don’t hesitate to acquire the harness right now to secure optimal conditions for your puppy’s development!