A Review of the 6 Best Dog Harnesses for Hiking

When you are planning a hiking trip, you want to make sure you have the right gear so that you can concentrate on the beauty around you. What if you decide to take your faithful companion?

Just like humans, dogs need the right gear for you to have the best experience and why not choose one of the best dog harnesses for hiking?

We know how overwhelming the process of finding the right harness can be. There are so many harnesses with so many features that it can be very confusing.

That’s why we are saving you from all the trouble by doing the research ourselves and recommending you the best dog harnesses for hiking available in the market based on reviews, quality, and comfort.

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BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness

BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness No Pull Adjustable Pet Reflective Oxford Soft Vest for Large Dogs Easy Control Harness (XL, Black)

 out of stock
Amazon.com

Our first recommendation for the best dogs harnesses for hiking, is the BABYLTRL harness.

It is suitable for medium and giant breeds, such as laborador retrievers, golden retrievers, St. Bernards and Great Danes. However, this is not a harness that is good for dogs that are super strong pullers.

The simplistic shape, adjustable straps and quick snap buckle make it easy to put on and take off and make training, hiking, climbing, outdoor adventure, and normal walks simpler and more enjoyable for both of you.

YouTube video

In order to help you control your dog, this harness comes with a powerful D-ring leash attachment point and a simple grab hold which makes it one of the best dog harnesses for hiking.

Why We Like It:

  • It is very easy to wear.
  • It comes up with quick snap buckles.
  • The harness evenly distributes pulling and choking pressures which makes it secure.

What We Don’t Like:

  • Not good for tiny dogs
  • Not good for dogs that are strong pullers

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Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness

Auroth Tactical Dog Harness for Large Dogs No Pull Adjustable Pet Harness Reflective K9 Working Training Easy Control Pet Vest Military Service Dog Harnesses Black XL

$26.99  in stock
Amazon.com
as of December 18, 2024 8:24 am

The next on our list of the best dog harnesses for hiking is the Auroth dog training harness.

This heavy duty 900D Nylon vest with extra stitching for additional durability and two extra strong strips of fabric so that you can attach gear, like a water dish or water bottle, to your dog. So that lightens your load while exploring.

Also, it has two leash attachment rings to choose from for different activities. Additionally, Every pressure load point is well padded to cover the skin of your dog, while the breathable air mesh makes your dog cooler in high heat.

Also, the harness is easy to put on and take off and has reflective edging to make it visible when light is shown on it in dark conditions. With so many satisfied customers it is easy to see why it is one of the best dog harnesses for hiking.

Why We Like It:

  • The material of this harness is very durable
  • It offers a sturdy grip
  • Two attachment rings gives options for different activities

What We Don’t Like:

  • It is not suitable for small (under 18 lbs) dogs
  • Pulls over head and many dogs do not like this
  • Not true MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) formation strips.

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ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness

ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness ,Medium Size, 2X Metal Buckle,Working Dog MOLLE Vest with Handle,No Pulling Front Leash Clip,Hook and Loop Panel

$35.99
$30.59
 in stock
2 used from $30.28
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of December 18, 2024 8:24 am

The ICEFANG is one of the best dog harnesses for hiking for very energetic dogs.

One of the best features about this harness is that the buckles have had a 1000 lb load test on the shoulder position which the most load bearing point when the dog is pulling.

This is especially handy when the dog is a super strong puller and has extra power from an adrenaline rush such as greeting another dog or chasing a critter.

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There are three 1″ strips of sewn on in the MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) formation so that your dog can carry its own gear.

Also, it has two leash attachment rings to choose from for different activities. Additionally, it has a super strong handle to control your dog quickly or to even assist with helping them into and out of vehicles.

Why We Like It:

  • Strong and durable
  • Versatile for different activities
  • Easily adjustable

What We Don’t Like:

  • Earlier version had a few durability issues
  • Too large for toy breed dogs

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Ruffwear Harness

RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness, Reflective and Padded Harness for Training and Everyday, Hibiscus Pink, Medium

$49.95  in stock
2 new from $49.93
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of December 18, 2024 8:24 am

Ruffwear Harness is one of the best dog harnesses for hiking because it is designed for active and hard-working dogs. Both lightweight and sturdy, it also comes with 4 points of adjustment to find the perfect fit for your dog.

Also, it has foam-padded fabric which makes it comfortable for long wear. Like the other harnesses, it has two attachment points for your leash and a new, strengthened webbing loop on the chest to control leash-pulling dogs. This makes it versatile for various activities.

Why We Like It:

  • It has an ID holder so that your dog doesn’t have to wear a collar AND the harness
  • It comes up with reflective trim
  • It has a solid handle for improved visibility with a light connection

What We Don’t Like:

  • Too bulky for small or delicate breeds
  • Some have found that the neck adjustment has no way to be adjusted and won’t fit over dog’s head
  • Some dogs slip out easily

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Rabbitgoo Tactical Dog Harness

rabbitgoo Tactical Dog Harness for Large Dogs, Military Dog Harness with Handle, No-Pull Service Dog Vest with Molle & Loop Panels, Adjustable Dog Vest Harness for Training Hunting Walking, Tan, L

$33.99  in stock
Amazon.com
as of December 18, 2024 8:24 am

Another one of the best dog harnesses for hiking is Rabbitgoo.

It is a multi-functional harness featuring MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) formation strips to allow you to attach packs, supplies, and tools for your canine to carry.

Made with military standard materials makes this harness strong and durable. So not only is is one of the best dog harnesses for hiking, it has a wide range of uses including: personal service, law enforcement and hunting.

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This harness does have hook and loop panels and numerous Velcro linking points to show patches, stickers, name tags, etc. and two metal leash attachment points for various activities.

In addition, it is well padded in every pressure point to protect your dog’s skin, while the breathable air mesh keeps your dog ventilated and comfortable.

Why We Like It:

  • Quality material
  • Comfortable design
  • It comes with a MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment) attachment system.

What We Don’t Like:

  • Only for medium to large dogs
  • Some owners have had difficulty adjusting for size
  • The largest majority of owners have had a great experience, but some owners dissatisfied with quality

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Noxgear Harness

Noxgear LightHound - Multicolor LED Illuminated, Reflective Dog Harness (Medium)

$59.95  in stock
Amazon.com
as of December 18, 2024 8:24 am

Lastly, we have a Noxgear harness that is considered one of the best dog harnesses for hiking. It is an engaging and functional option for any dog owner. A fun feature of this harness it that it comes with multicolored LED fiber optics.

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The variants available are eye-catching and flashy which helps with visibility in dark conditions. The newly re-designed harness with extra leash attaches makes it simpler to lock-in.

When you’re done, the belt is quickly unhooked too. Using it, you don’t need to sacrifice comfort for protection as this harness is durable and adjustable.

Why We Like It:

  • The lighting option is good for low light activities like hiking, walking or early morning running
  • Rechargeable so no need for batteries
  • Easy to put on and remove
  • Lightweight

What We Don’t Like:

  • Some users don’t like the quality of the harness
  • Doesn’t have 2nd buckle for neck so some dog’s may not like it slipping over their head
  • Large and cumbersome light box at back of neck

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What Makes for the Best Dog Harnesses for Hiking?

Now coming to our next segment which focuses on how to decide the best dog harnesses for hiking. It can be tricky and overwhelming when you’re not aware of it. But here in this section, we are going to point out some factors which are worth considering before buying a harness.

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  • Weight-bearing Handles – Weight-bearing handles are good if you’re planning for hiking. As it offers a boost to your dog.
  • Snug Fit – Always prefer the harness that fits your dog’s body. A dog harness that is too short will be heavy and will bite into the body of your dog which will certainly cause pain. It would also make it harder for them to breathe, and your best friend passing out on the hiking trail away from any support is the last thing you want.
  • Freedom of Movement – Always keep in mind that the good harness offers freedom. However, most of us use a harness for dogs who are more energetic and strong but the good harness offers freedom of movement to dogs.
  • Bright Colors – When choosing the harness always go with bright colors like red or orange as it is easy to recognize.
  • Comfort – Hiking is no joke so always prefer the harness that is comfortable with your dog skin. By all means, avoid harnesses that cause discomfort and pain to your dogs.

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Types of Harness

It is important to decide what kind of harness you’re looking for before making any purchase. A harness can be back-attaching or front-attaching.

For bigger dogs, front-attaching harnesses are efficient when they lead from the front. The problem with some dogs is that this can trip them.

A back-attaching harness does not allow the walker to have as much leverage which can lead to more acute pulling behavior when the dog does not feel the required training direction.

For small breeds, back-attaching harnesses are preferred as they are more friction sensitive, and front-attaching harnesses may be uncomfortable for them.

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What is the Best Harness for a Dog that Pulls?

It can be annoying having a dog that pulls on the lead during walks. A no-pull harness will help to combat this tendency and render hikes more fun. That is why we created this list of the best dog harnesses for hiking.

A no-pull harness operates by applying friction along the shoulders and chest of a dog if you are not comfortable with it. The dog’s body is guided back toward you until the pulling begins. This not only gives you more leverage but also enhances respectful leash walking.

Auroth Tactical Dog Training Harness is one of the best Dog Harnesses for Hiking available in the market. This inexpensive harness covers all the necessities and also has few added characteristics. You can find loops around the chest and spine, much as in any of the better no-pull harnesses.

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This not only allows greater flexibility and helps minimize dragging, but it also makes it easy to put on and remove the harness as appropriate. Users say that it is quick to place the harness on.

The harness offers 2 metal leash attachments which ensure maximum safety. Most dog owners look for a no-pull harness that comes with a grip on the back and this harness provides this facility.

Is it better to Walk a Dog with a Harness or Collar?

Many of us prefer to go with a collar while walking a dog. But collars are uncomfortable and cause trouble if a dog pulls in training. Not just this, collars sometimes may cause choking problems too.

Unlike collars, a harness is a good fit for dogs that tends to pull. The very first benefit is it offers comfort. Another benefit harnesses have over collars is that, particularly for fragile dogs, they mitigate the chances of a neck injury. For breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs that are vulnerable to breathing issues or tracheal failure, they often cause less restriction.

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A harness is definitely the safest option if your dog has some trouble breathing. When so much pressure is applied to the throat, collars may also cause the eyeballs of some breeds to sag from their sockets.

If your dogs have hair then choose a harness accordingly. The reason for saying that is that hairs might get caught up in a harness.

You might want hike with your dog but not have them on a leash. If so, then you will want to train them to return to you. One of the longest range instruments for training is a good dog whistle.

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The Bottom Line

There you have it! This is our take on the 6 Best Dog Harnesses for Hiking. Hiking is a great way to get connected with nature and with your dog on another level. But it is important to make sure that you’re choosing the right gear for your dog as well. Because hiking is supposed to be fun for both of you.

While choosing any harness make sure that it not only suits your dog’s comfort but also offers safety. Make sure that you weigh the chest of your dog, invest in a leash that can last and hold your dog traveling the distance, and understand the hiking conditions in order to find the best dog harnesses for hiking for your dog.

So what are you waiting for? Go and pick the best dog harnesses for hiking.

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