Dog Harnesses

With a step-in harness, your dog steps in with the front paws and you fasten it on the back, so nothing passes over the head: a good fit for dogs that dislike that. An over-the-head harness slips on like a vest and fastens around the chest. Each product page says how it goes on.

Measure around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs, with a soft tape, then match it to the size chart on the product page. Some charts also ask for the neck. Adjustable harnesses fine-tune from there.

A harness spreads the pull of the leash across the chest instead of the neck, which many owners prefer for dogs that pull. A collar is lighter for everyday wear and carries ID tags. Many dogs wear both: a collar for tags and a harness for the walk.