If you are a dog owner, you know how important it is to have a good harness and leash for your furry friend. A harness and leash not only provide safety and control, but also comfort and style. In this blog post, we will review some of the best dog harnesses and stylish leashes available on the market, and how they can meet your needs and preferences.
First, let’s talk about the different types of harnesses and leashes. There are two main categories: front-clip and back-clip.
A front-clip harness has a ring on the chest area where you attach the leash, while a back-clip harness has a ring on the back. A front-clip harness is more suitable for dogs that tend to pull or need more guidance, as it gives you more control over their direction and speed. A back-clip harness is more comfortable for dogs that are well-behaved and don’t pull, as it doesn’t put pressure on their neck or chest. However, some dogs may find it easier to escape from a back-clip harness than a front-clip one.
Different Types of leashes:
A leash is a strap that connects the harness to your hand. There are different types of leashes, such as standard, retractable, adjustable, slip, martingale, and bungee.
- A standard leash is a fixed-length leash that is usually 4 to 6 feet long. It is simple and reliable, but it may not offer enough flexibility for different situations.
- A retractable leash is a leash that can extend and retract with a button. It allows you to adjust the length of the leash according to your needs and preferences. However, it can also pose some risks, such as tangling, snapping, or injuring yourself or your dog if not used properly.
- An adjustable leash is a leash that has multiple loops or clips that allow you to change the length of the leash. It is versatile and convenient, but it may also be bulky or complicated to use.
- A slip leash is a leash that has a loop that goes around the dog’s neck and tightens when the dog pulls. It is easy to put on and take off, but it can also choke or hurt the dog if not used correctly.
- A martingale leash is a leash that has a loop that goes around the dog’s neck and another loop that attaches to the leash. It tightens when the dog pulls, but not as much as a slip leash. It is more humane and effective than a slip leash, but it can still cause discomfort or injury if not used properly.
- A bungee leash is a leash that has an elastic section that absorbs the shock of sudden movements or pulls. It reduces the strain on your arm and your dog’s neck, but it can also make it harder to control your dog or cause accidents if the elastic snaps.
best options available on the market:
Now that you know the different types of harnesses and leashes, let’s look at some of the best options available on the market.
1. Ruffwear Front Range Harness:
One of the best front-clip harnesses is the Ruffwear Front Range Harness. It is made of durable nylon and padded with foam for comfort. It has four points of adjustment for a custom fit, and two leash attachment points: one on the chest and one on the back.
Benefits of the Ruffwear Front Range Harness
– The harness has four points of adjustment, which means you can customize the fit to your dog’s body shape and size. This helps prevent chafing, rubbing and slipping, and ensures that your dog is comfortable and secure.
– The harness has two leash attachment points: one on the back for everyday walks, and one on the chest for more control and training. The chest attachment point can help reduce pulling and encourage your dog to walk beside you, while the back attachment point can give your dog more freedom and mobility.
– The harness has a padded chest and belly panel, which provides extra comfort and protection for your dog’s sensitive areas. The padding also distributes the pressure evenly across your dog’s body, which can prevent injuries and discomfort.
– The harness has reflective trim, which enhances your dog’s visibility in low-light conditions. This can help keep your dog safe and seen by other people and vehicles, especially at night or in foggy weather.
– The harness has an ID pocket, which allows you to store your dog’s tags or other small items. This can help reduce the noise of jingling tags, and also make it easier to identify your dog in case of an emergency or a lost situation.
Drawbacks of the Ruffwear Front Range Harness
– The harness can be tricky to put on and take off, especially if your dog is not used to wearing a harness or is not cooperative. You have to slip the harness over your dog’s head, then buckle it around the chest and belly. Some dogs might find this process stressful or uncomfortable, and might try to wriggle out of the harness or bite it.
– The harness can be too bulky or warm for some dogs, especially in hot weather or for dogs with thick fur. The harness covers a large area of your dog’s body, which can trap heat and make your dog sweat or overheat. Some dogs might also find the harness too restrictive or heavy, and might prefer a lighter or simpler option.
– The harness can be expensive compared to other harnesses on the market. The Ruffwear Front Range Harness costs around $40, which is more than double the price of some other popular harnesses. While the quality and features of the harness might justify the cost, some owners might find it too pricey or not worth the investment.
2. Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness:
One of the best back-clip harnesses is the Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness. It is made of high-quality nylon and padded with fleece for comfort. It has five points of adjustment for a custom fit, and two leash attachment points: one on the back and one on the chest. It also has a carabiner that can be used to secure your dog in the car with a seat belt.
Benefits of the Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness
– The harness is made of high-quality nylon webbing that is strong and resistant to wear and tear. The hardware is also sturdy and rust-proof, ensuring a long-lasting product.
– The harness has five adjustment points that allow you to customize the fit for your dog’s size and shape. The chest pad is padded and contoured to reduce strain on the neck and spine, while the back pad distributes the pressure evenly across the chest and back.
– The harness has a front D-ring and a back D-ring that can be used for different purposes. The front D-ring can be used to attach a leash for training or walking, as it gives you more control over your dog’s direction and prevents pulling. The back D-ring can be used to attach a seat belt tether for car travel, as it secures your dog in place and reduces the risk of injury in case of an accident.
– The harness comes with a 10-inch seat belt tether that can be easily attached to the back D-ring and any car seat belt system. This feature makes the harness ideal for road trips or everyday errands with your dog, as you don’t need to buy a separate car harness or adapter.
– The harness is available in four sizes (extra-small, small, medium, and large) and four colors (black, red, blue, and khaki). You can choose the size and color that best suits your dog’s personality and style.
Drawbacks of the Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness
– The harness can be tricky to put on and take off, especially if your dog is not used to wearing one. You need to slip the harness over your dog’s head, then buckle it around the chest and belly. Some dogs might find this process stressful or uncomfortable, so you might need to train them to associate the harness with positive rewards.
– The harness can be too bulky or heavy for some dogs, especially small or short-haired ones. The chest pad and the back pad can add extra weight and warmth to your dog’s body, which might cause overheating or chafing in hot weather or during vigorous exercise.
– The harness can be too loose or tight for some dogs, even after adjusting the straps. Some dogs might have a body shape that does not fit well with the harness design, such as a deep chest or a narrow waist. A loose harness can cause rubbing or slipping, while a tight harness can cause restriction or discomfort.
– The harness can interfere with some dog accessories, such as collars, tags, or bandanas. The chest pad can cover up your dog’s collar or tag, making it hard to identify them if they get lost or separated from you. The back pad can also cover up your dog’s bandana or other decorative items, reducing their visibility or flair.
3. Max and Neo Double Handle Dog Leash
One of the best standard leashes is the Max and Neo Double Handle Dog Leash. It is made of heavy-duty nylon and has two padded handles: one at the end of the leash and one near the clip. The double handle design gives you more control over your dog when needed, such as in crowded areas or when crossing the street. The Max and Neo Double Handle Dog Leash also has a reflective stitching for visibility and a D-ring for accessories.
Benefits of the Max and Neo Double Handle Dog Leash:
– The double handle design gives you more flexibility and safety when walking your dog. You can use the longer handle for casual walks or when you want to give your dog some freedom to explore, and the shorter handle for more control or when you need to keep your dog close to you in crowded or dangerous areas.
– The handles are padded with soft neoprene material that prevents chafing and blisters on your hands. They are also comfortable to hold and easy to grip, even when wet or sweaty.
– The leash is made of durable nylon webbing that can withstand chewing, pulling, and tugging. It also has reflective stitching that makes it visible in low-light conditions.
– The leash comes with a D-ring near the collar handle that you can use to attach accessories like poop bags, keys, or a flashlight. It also has a heavy-duty metal clip that securely attaches to your dog’s collar or harness.
– The leash is available in different colors and sizes to suit your preference and your dog’s size. You can also choose between a 4-foot or a 6-foot length depending on how much space you want to give your dog.
– The leash is affordable and comes with a lifetime warranty. Plus, for every leash sold, the company donates one to a dog rescue or shelter.
Drawbacks of the Max and Neo Double Handle Dog Leash:
– The double handle design might not be suitable for everyone. Some people might find it cumbersome or confusing to switch between the two handles, especially if they are used to a single handle leash. Some people might also prefer a retractable leash that allows them to adjust the length more easily.
– The leash might not be compatible with some collars or harnesses. Some users have reported that the metal clip is too large or too stiff to fit their dog’s collar or harness, or that it gets tangled or twisted easily.
– The leash might not be strong enough for some dogs. Some users have complained that the leash snapped or broke after their dog pulled too hard or chewed on it. Some users have also said that the leash is too thin or too light for their large or powerful dogs.
4.Flexi Neon Retractable Tape Leash
One of the best retractable leashes is the Flexi Neon Retractable Tape Leash. It is made of sturdy plastic and has a neon-colored tape that can extend up to 16 feet. The neon color makes it easy to see in low-light conditions, and the tape design prevents tangling and snagging. The Flexi Neon Retractable Tape Leash also has a brake button that lets you lock or release the tape with one hand.
Benefits of the Flexi Neon Retractable Tape Leash
– The leash has a neon-colored tape that reflects light and makes your dog more visible to drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. This can prevent accidents and keep your dog safe at night or in foggy weather.
– The leash has a retractable mechanism that allows you to adjust the length of the leash according to the situation. You can let your dog explore and sniff around with a longer leash, or keep them close and under control with a shorter leash. You can also lock the leash at any length with a simple button.
– The leash has a comfortable handle that fits your hand and prevents slipping. The handle also has a brake button that lets you stop your dog from pulling or running away. The brake button is easy to use and responsive, so you can react quickly to any situation.
– The leash is durable and made of high-quality materials. The tape is strong and resistant to wear and tear, and the mechanism is smooth and reliable. The leash can withstand up to 110 lbs of pull force, so it can handle large and energetic dogs.
Drawbacks of the Flexi Neon Retractable Tape Leash
– The leash can be dangerous if not used properly. If you let your dog run too far or too fast, they might get tangled with other dogs, people, or objects. You might also lose control of your dog if the mechanism fails or the tape breaks. You should always be careful and attentive when using a retractable leash, and follow the instructions and safety tips provided by the manufacturer.
– The leash can be expensive compared to other leashes. Depending on the size and model, the Flexi Neon Retractable Tape Leash can cost between $20 and $40. This might be too much for some people who are looking for a simple and affordable leash for their dog.
– The leash can be heavy and bulky compared to other leashes. The handle and the mechanism add weight and size to the leash, which might make it uncomfortable or inconvenient to carry around. You might also have trouble storing the leash in your bag or pocket when not in use.
5. Blueberry Pet Multi-colored Stripe Dog Leash
One of the best adjustable leashes is the Blueberry Pet Multi-colored Stripe Dog Leash. It is made of soft polyester and has three loops that allow you to change the length of the leash from 3 to 5 feet. The multi-colored stripe design adds some flair and fun to your walks, and the metal clip is durable and secure.
Benefits of the Blueberry Pet Multi-colored Stripe Dog Leash:
– The leash is strong and sturdy, able to withstand pulling and chewing from your dog. It has a metal clip that attaches securely to your dog’s collar or harness.
– The leash is comfortable to hold, with a padded handle that prevents hand fatigue and chafing. It also has a loop near the clip that allows you to shorten the leash when needed.
– The leash is attractive and fashionable, with a bright and colorful design that stands out from other leashes. It comes in different sizes and widths to suit different breeds and preferences.
– The leash is easy to clean, as it is machine washable and quick-drying. It does not fade or shrink after washing.
Drawbacks of the Blueberry Pet Multi-colored Stripe Dog Leash:
– The leash is not adjustable, so you have to choose the right length and width for your dog. If the leash is too long or too short, it might cause tripping or tangling issues.
– The leash is not reflective, so it might not be very visible in low-light conditions. If you walk your dog at night or in dark areas, you might want to add some reflective tape or accessories to the leash.
– The leash is not chew-proof, so if your dog likes to bite or gnaw on the leash, it might damage or fray the fabric. You might want to train your dog to stop this behavior or use a different type of leash.
6. Mendota Products Slip Lead
One of the best slip leashes is the Mendota Products Slip Lead. It is made of braided polypropylene and has a leather stop that prevents the loop from tightening too much.
Benefits:
– It is simple and convenient to use. You don’t need to attach a separate collar or harness to your dog, just slip the loop over their head and you are ready to go. This is especially handy for dogs that don’t like wearing collars or for situations where you need to quickly control your dog.
– It is versatile and adaptable. You can use the leash for different purposes, such as walking, training, hunting or agility. You can also adjust the length of the leash by wrapping it around your hand or shoulder, or by making a knot in the rope.
– It is durable and reliable. The leash is made of high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear. The rope is strong enough to hold large and powerful dogs, and the leather stopper prevents the loop from slipping off.
Drawbacks:
– It can cause injury or discomfort to your dog if used incorrectly. The loop can tighten around your dog’s neck if they pull or if you jerk the leash, which can cause choking, gagging or damage to the trachea. You should always monitor your dog’s breathing and make sure the loop is not too tight or too loose.
– It can be difficult to control your dog if they are not well-trained or well-behaved. The leash does not have a buckle or clip that you can use to release your dog quickly if needed. If your dog is aggressive, reactive or prone to bolting, you might have trouble restraining them with this leash.
– It can get tangled or snagged on objects or other dogs. The rope is flexible and long, which means it can easily wrap around your dog’s legs, your legs, trees, fences or other dogs. This can cause tripping, falling or injury to you or your dog.
7. PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar and Leash
One of the best martingale leashes is the PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar and Leash. It is made of nylon and has a headcollar that goes around the dog’s nose and neck. It applies gentle pressure on the nose and neck when the dog pulls, which discourages pulling and gives you more control.
Benefits of the PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar and Leash
The main benefit of the PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar and Leash is that it can help you train your dog to walk politely on the leash, without pulling, jumping, or dragging you along. The headcollar works by applying gentle pressure to your dog’s nose and neck, which redirects their attention to you. This way, you can communicate with your dog more effectively, and teach them to follow your cues.
Another benefit of the PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar and Leash is that it can reduce or eliminate unwanted behaviors such as barking, lunging, or nipping. The headcollar prevents your dog from opening their mouth wide enough to bark or bite, which can discourage them from doing so. The headcollar also helps you keep your dog’s head up and away from other dogs or people, which can prevent them from reacting aggressively or fearfully.
The PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar and Leash is also comfortable and safe for your dog to wear. The headcollar is made of soft nylon straps that are adjustable to fit your dog’s size and shape. The headcollar does not restrict your dog’s breathing, eating, drinking, or panting. The leash is also designed to prevent choking or injury to your dog’s neck. The leash has a quick-release snap that allows you to detach it from the headcollar easily.
Drawbacks of the PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar and Leash
The main drawback of the PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar and Leash is that some dogs may not like wearing it at first. Some dogs may try to paw at it, rub it off, or resist putting it on. This is normal and expected, as most dogs are not used to having something on their nose. However, with proper training and positive reinforcement, most dogs can learn to accept and enjoy wearing the headcollar.
Another drawback of the PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar and Leash is that it may not work for all dogs or situations. Some dogs may have medical conditions or physical features that make the headcollar unsuitable for them. For example, dogs with short noses, such as pugs or bulldogs, may have difficulty breathing with the headcollar on. Dogs with neck injuries or sensitive skin may also find the headcollar uncomfortable or painful. Additionally, some dogs may need more than just a headcollar to address their behavioral issues. For example, dogs with severe anxiety or aggression may need professional help from a veterinarian or a trainer.
8. Tuff Mutt Hands Free Dog Leash
One of the best bungee leashes is the Tuff Mutt Hands Free Dog Leash. It is made of weather-resistant nylon and has a bungee section that stretches from 4 to 5 feet. It also has a waist belt that lets you attach the leash to your waist and free your hands. The waist belt has a sliding clip that lets you adjust the position of your dog, and a zippered pouch for your phone, keys, or treats.
Benefits of Tuff Mutt Hands Free Dog Leash
– It gives you more freedom and comfort. You don’t have to hold a leash in your hand, which can cause strain or injury to your arm, shoulder, or back. You can also use your hands for other things, like holding a water bottle, a phone, or a snack.
– It reduces pulling and tugging. The leash has a bungee cord that absorbs the shock of sudden movements, making it easier for you to maintain your balance and speed. The leash also has a sliding clip that allows your dog to move from side to side without tangling or tripping you.
– It improves safety and visibility. The leash has reflective stitching and a bright color that make you and your dog more visible in low-light conditions. The belt also has a D-ring where you can attach a safety light or a poop bag holder.
– It is adjustable and versatile. The leash can be adjusted from 4 to 5 feet, depending on your preference and your dog’s size. The belt can fit waists from 26 to 48 inches, and has a quick-release buckle for easy on and off. You can also detach the leash from the belt and use it as a regular leash, or attach another leash to the belt if you have two dogs.
Drawbacks of Tuff Mutt Hands Free Dog Leash
– It may not work well for very small or very large dogs. Some customers have reported that the leash is too long or too short for their dogs, making it hard to control them or keep them close. Some have also said that the bungee cord is too strong or too weak for their dogs, causing them to bounce back or drag behind.
– It may not be suitable for very active or aggressive dogs. Some customers have complained that the leash does not have enough control or stability for their dogs, especially when they encounter other dogs, animals, or distractions. Some have also said that the leash can get twisted or tangled around their legs or their dog’s legs, causing accidents or injuries.
– It may not be comfortable or durable enough for some users. Some customers have reported that the belt is too bulky, stiff, or scratchy for their liking, or that it slides up or down their waist. Some have also said that the leash is not very sturdy or well-made, and that it breaks or wears out easily.
As you can see, there are many options for harnesses and leashes that can suit your needs and preferences. Whether you want more control, comfort, or style, there is a harness and leash for you and your dog. We hope this blog post has helped you find the best dog harnesses and stylish leashes for your furry friend.
