Best harnesses for small dogs, revealed

Why is a dog harness important? Well, experts agree that dog harnesses are better than collars in terms of both safety and comfort. They can help to reduce pulling and give pet parents added control over their pups, plus they are much better for our furry friends’ necks. This is extra important for small dogs, who can be prone to neck and thyroid injuries.

However, if you’re on the hunt for a small dog harness, you’ll find it’s not as simple as just clicking “add to basket”. Standard-sized harnesses are often easy to wriggle out of and the designs can be uncomfortable for our smaller four-legged friends. But don’t let that deter you! We’ve ‘harnessed’ the power of some helpful doggies to find the best harness for small dogs (and some other great choices in various shapes and sizes). But before we dig in, there are some things you need to think about first. 

Choosing the best small dog harness

Are you looking for a heavy-duty harness that will keep your dog comfortable all day long, or do you need one that your nervous pup doesn’t mind getting its paws into?

While a harness for small dogs might not need to be as strong as for, say, a Great Dane, it’s still important to get one that is made from durable materials so you don’t find yourself scrambling through bushes on the hunt for your Fido. And it’s not just sturdiness you need to be looking for, a comfortable harness will have a soft inner lining to protect your dog’s skin from chafing and breathable mesh on the outer layer to keep your pooch comfortable in various weather conditions.

Once you’ve decided whether you want to secure your pooch with velcro or a buckle and if they’re in need of some snazzy light reflectors, it’s time to measure up your pup.

How to measure your dog for a harness

Measuring your pooch correctly is essential for their safety and comfort while wearing a dog harness, so don’t skip past this section!

1. Measure your dog’s chest by wrapping the tape measure around the broadest part of the chest, usually just behind the armpits.
2. To find your dog’s neck measurement, wrap the tape around the part just below where it would wear a collar and just above where the shoulders begin. 
3. It’s also a good idea to weigh your pooch, as this gives an idea of their size.
4. When choosing your harness, go for one that’s two inches bigger than your dog’s chest measurement. 
5. If your furry friend is between two sizes, always go for the bigger size - most dog harnesses have adjustable straps you can easily tighten. 
6. Before you head out for a walk, make sure your four-legged friend is comfortable wearing their snazzy new harness. It should be possible to slide one or two fingers between the harness and your pooch, and your furry friend should walk as normal.

We recommend consulting the sizing chart for each individual dog harness as some may run smaller or bigger than the standard. It’s also useful to read through reviews, as you may find another pet parent commenting on how the harness fits a two-pound poodle pup just like yours! 

Now, fasten your seatbelts (and your dog’s harness), and let’s take a look at the best small dog harnesses. 

Best overall small dog harness - Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness 

As the number one choice for dog trainers, vets, search and rescue teams, and working dog organisations, it’s only natural that the Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness gets our vote for the best harness for small dogs.

This is the perfect harness for professionals and pet parents - you’ll be ready to go in seconds, whether that’s for a midnight potty dash or a day-long hike in the countryside. Providing “scientifically proven comfort” this harness distributes the power to the chest rather than the neck, resulting in a comfortable, stress-free walk, and getting your pooch to wait or slow down is easier, safer, and much more pleasant for everyone involved.

The outer layer of the harness is made from durable, water-resistant material, while the lining is antiallergenic and skin-friendly. The reflective stitching keeps your pooch safe at night, and a handle on the top of the harness can be used for carrying your pup or strapped down when not in use.

Runner up for best overall small dog harness - Puppia Soft Harness 

Another firm favourite, the Puppia Soft Harness is highly rated by pet parents and recommended by vets worldwide. This harness is made specifically for small to medium breeds - it is lightweight so it won’t make your little one topple over, and the resizable chest belt allows room for growing pups to fill out.

Made from good-quality, chew-proof materials, the outer mesh layer is breathable and the soft fabric lining on the inside provides comfort and prevents chafing. It’s also machine washable, so no need to worry if you’ve got a low-down-to-the-ground hound who comes home with half the park on its tum. This harness is easy to put on and pressure is alleviated from the neck area, keeping your pooch safe and comfortable. 

Best extra small dog harness - Bee Kind Harness

From a collection of luxury small dog accessories designed by a small dog parent herself, the Bee Kind Harness comes in sizes small, extra small, and extra extra small (measuring 8-12 inches around the neck and 11-15 inches around the chest).

This cute small dog harness keeps your tiny pup looking stylish and comfortable at the same time, with neck and chest straps that can be adjusted to fit. Made from neoprene which is waterproof and easy to clean, the harness has a durable metal D-ring to safely fasten your dog leash to. Be warned - compliments on this unique harness will follow your pooch every step of the way!

Runner up for best extra small dog harness - Li'l Pals Step-in Dog Harness for Puppies and Toy Breeds

Keep your little four-legged companion safe and comfortable with the adorable Li’l Pals Dog Harness, specifically designed for smaller pups. Whether you’re training a young pup or you’ve got a tiny teacup pooch, this harness means stress-free outings with the little one by your side (maybe even to heel!).

The velcro fastening is quick to close so fussy pups won’t be kept waiting too long, and you don’t have to worry about them wriggling out of their harness either. The stretchy leg and neck holes keep your furry friend comfortable, and the breathable mesh material keeps them both looking and feeling cool.

Best no-pull harness for small dogs - Eagloo Dog Harness Small

Tired of having a tug-of-war with your pooch every time you go for a walk? The leash attachment point at the front of this harness can be used to discourage pulling and train your Fido to heel. For casual walks, the clip on the back of the harness can be used to distribute pressure across the dog’s chest rather than its neck, protecting your pup from uncomfortable neck strain.

For moments when the excitement can’t be contained (when your pooch gets a whiff of a squirrel or another furry friend) the handle on the back of the harness can be used to keep a secure hold on your four-legged friend. Two quick-release buckles make this harness easy to get in and out of, and four adjustment points make sure the harness is wriggle-proof and snug. Thick sturdy straps and durable Oxford fabric mean your harness is built to last, and the cushion padding and softmesh help to protect your dog’s skin and keep them comfortable while out and about.

Runner up best no-pull harness for small dogs - Gooby Comfort X Dog Harness

Lightweight enough for toy breeds, this harness is specifically made for small dogs who are more prone to neck injuries than their bigger friends (the largest size fits dogs up to 30 pounds). The straps of the harness sit far away from the dog’s neck, and the X shape minimises the impact of pulling on your dog’s neck, preventing it from choking or causing damage to its throat and trachea. 

Best step-in harness for small dogs - Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness 

Does your pup need a bit of coaxing to get into its dog harness? If it’s a traumatic experience for you and your pooch, chances are you need a step-in dog harness. This fuss-free design means you’re ready to go within seconds - just step your doggy’s legs in and clip the buckle.

Able to contain even the best escape artists, the ergonomic design fits the shape of your pooch’s body securely without moving around or causing any chafing. With three layers of security - velcro, a buckle, and double D-rings, your pup won’t be wriggling out of this one in a hurry!

Runner up best step-in harness for small dogs - Snazzi Dog Vest Harness 

If it’s a battle to get a harness over your doggy’s head (especially if they are nervous or just too excited for walkies), small dogs weighing between 5 and 12 pounds can easily step into this cute little handmade vest. This harness is designed to be choke-free and comfortable, without any nasty thin straps that dig into your little friend’s body.

Customers comment on the calming effect this harness has on anxious pups, so even your pet sitter can relax when out and about, knowing your four-legged friend is safe and comfortable in their snazzy harness!

Best harness for adventurous small dogs - RUFFWEAR Web Master Multi-Use Dog Harness

This heavy duty harness is made for adventurous doggies who love hiking, trail running, and even climbing. Avalanche rescue dog programs and service dog handlers recommend this harness for working pooches, and it’s also great for keeping amputee doggies and nervous pups safe.

The fit can be customised with adjustable straps around the shoulders, chest and belly to keep your pooch safe and secure so that even the best Houdini doggies can’t escape. The handle can be used for extra control, whether you need to comfort a spooked pup or lift them over tricky terrain. Robust woven straps are inspired by mountaineering technology and the perforated foam allows for easy movement while being fully breathable. Think of it as body armour for your best bud!

Runner up best harness for adventurous small dogs - The Comfort Walk Pro Harness

This everyday harness is designed in Copenhagen to be durable and comfortable no matter how long your pooch is out for. Four slider adjustments allow you to adapt the harness according to your pup’s size, and the grab handle can be used for extra control.

The leash attachment point on the chest is ideal for training while the D-ring on the back of the harness is best for daily walks. The ID-tag attachment point and reflective trim give your four-legged friend extra security, especially when out on late-night expeditions in search of a spot to do their business. 

Dog harness training tips

Dog walks should be fun, relaxing and stress-free - but if you’ve got a four-legged friend who constantly pulls on the leash, chances are your walkies are none of the above! If you need some dog harness training tips to go along with that shiny new kit, look no further.