When asked to write an article on "chew proof" dog harnesses I almost declined. After all, saying chew proof harness is like saying wet water isn't it?
A properly fitted harness would be next to impossible for a dog to chew on even if it were made of steak!
So instead of focusing too much on the chew proof aspect, i'll look at durability, fit, clip placement, and other relevant issues to select what I believe to be the top dog harnesses on the market today for golden retrievers.
Harnesses may be a great option for your dog, especially if your dog pulls when you take them out for walks or runs. Unlike collars, harnesses take the strain off your dog's neck.
A harness can help distribute pressure and strain across the chest or back instead of only the neck like a regular collar does.
In this article, we will be going over the following to help you find the best harness for your gold retriever:
- Clip Placement on Harnesses
- Different Harness Styles
- Things To Consider When Buying A Harness
- Best Harness For Golden Retrievers
Clip Placement On Harnesses
The first step is to understand the difference between a front clip and black clip harness. The majority of harnesses on the market have back clips. The three most common clip placements are back, front, and dual (or both). Let's look at each.
Back Clip Harness
Back clip harness has a D ring attachment on a dog's back. It's currently the most common clip placement. The back clip harness makes it easy to attach and remove the leash and keeps the leash from tangling your dogs feet.
Front Clip Harness
The front clip harness is a harness with a D ring attached to the dog's chest. These are less common but are a popular choice for large dogs and dogs that like to pull. The front clip position makes it difficult for your dog to pull forward. When a dog pulls, the harness will redirect them sideways.
Dual Clip Harness
The front clip harness is a harness with a D ring attached to the dog's chest. These are less common but are a popular choice for large dogs and dogs that like to pull. The front clip position makes it difficult for your dog to pull forward. When a dog pulls, the harness will redirect them sideways.
Different Harness Styles
After figuring out where you want your clip we will go over the different styles of harnesses based on how you put them on.
Roman Style harness
These are the most common harness available. The harness attaches around the dog's chest and have a collar like part around the neck. These harnesses will fit a wide variety of dogs. These harnesses almost always have the clip on the back.
Step in Harness
As the name states these harnesses work by having your dog step in with the buckle or snap connecting on top. The leash attachment is on the top (back). This focuses any pulling to the chest area instead of the neck.
No pull harness
No pull harness allows you to control pulling. The D ring is on the dog's chest and the loop buckles around your dog's chest.
Flexi Harness
Gaining in popularity the flexi harness usually has a mesh or poly blend fabric on the dog's chest. It goes over the dog's head and helps distribute any pulling force to the dog's chest.
Things to consider when buying a harness
Comfort and safety
An uncomfortable harness can lead to all kinds of issues including safety issues for you dog. Make sure whatever harness you purchase not only fits well but does not rub or pinch any area of your pup before using outdoors or in public.
Fit
Make sure that your harness fits well. Harnesses that are too tight will cause chafing and discomfort. Harnesses that are too large can allow your dog to slip out. Be sure to find a harness with enough adjust-ability to customize to your dog.
Durable
A harness should be made of durable materials and have good stitching. When your dog pulls you want to know for sure they are secure, you have control, and your harness is not going to fail.
Easy to clean
A golden retriever's hair can quickly cover any surface. Look for a harness that doesn't retain too much hair and is easy to wash. Though machine washable is ideal, a lot of harnesses require hand washing.
Best harness for golden retrievers
With a ring on the back and the front this is the go to harness that will give you options. It is made for extended wear and for all day adventures. This harness can be adjusted at four points, to ensure the perfect fit for your dog.
Pros
Cons
A European brand, the Julius K9 is a service dog style harness similar to what you might see on professional firefighting dogs and police dogs. They are made of high quality German materials and are made to last.
Pros
Cons
The Rabbitgoo is the best buy option on this list. One of the most affordable harnesses, this harness gives you the option of both the front and back clip. It also has reflective material for low light safety.
Pros
Cons
Easy to wear with unique and sturdy hardware. This harness is padded for a comfy fit. Also it is easy to put on and take off.
Pros
Cons
Created by a veterinary behaviorist, the Easy Walk Harness is a great harness for dogs who like to pull. It allows the owner to control light to moderate pulling. It is easy to put on and is a lightweight harness.
Pros
Cons
Comment down below and let us know which harness you like best!
