Small dogs may not have the strength of a Labrador or German Shepherd, but that does not mean they cannot pull surprisingly hard on a walk.
Whether your dog is eager to investigate every interesting smell, excited to greet another dog or simply determined to reach the park as quickly as possible, pulling can make walks uncomfortable for both of you.
A well-fitting dog harness can help distribute pressure across your dog’s body rather than concentrating it around their neck. However, not every harness will suit every small dog, so it is important to consider the fit, materials, adjustability and your dog’s individual shape.
Is a Harness Better Than a Collar for a Small Dog That Pulls?
A collar is useful for carrying your dog’s identification tag, but when a dog pulls against the lead, the pressure is placed around the neck.
A harness spreads that pressure across a wider area of the body. This can make it a more comfortable option for everyday walks, particularly for small dogs, puppies and dogs with delicate necks.
A harness does not automatically stop pulling, though. It should be used alongside patient, reward-based lead training to help your dog learn how to walk without constantly pulling ahead.
What Type of Harness Is Best for a Small Dog?
When choosing a harness for a small dog, look for one that is:
Lightweight
A small dog should not be weighed down by heavy fabric, thick straps or oversized buckles. The harness should feel secure without being bulky.
Padded
Soft padding can help prevent the harness from rubbing against the chest and body, particularly during longer walks.
Breathable
Breathable fabric helps keep your dog comfortable during warmer weather or more energetic walks.
Adjustable
Small dogs come in many different shapes. Some have narrow necks and deeper chests, while others are short and compact.
An adjustable neck and chest make it easier to create a secure fit for your particular dog rather than relying on weight or breed alone.
Secure
The harness should remain in place when your dog walks, turns or pulls. It should not twist around the body or leave large gaps through which your dog could reverse or wriggle.
Can a Dog Choke While Wearing a Harness?
A properly fitted harness should sit across the chest rather than directly against the throat.
If the harness rides upwards when your dog pulls, presses into the base of the neck or causes coughing, it may be the wrong size, shape or adjustment for your dog.
Check that the neck opening is not too loose and that the chest strap is adjusted securely. You should normally be able to slide two fingers comfortably underneath the harness without leaving enough space for your dog to escape.
Does a Harness Encourage a Dog to Pull?
Wearing a harness does not teach a dog to pull, but it also does not teach them to stop.
Some dogs discover that they can lean their body weight into a harness, particularly when they are excited. This is why the harness should be treated as comfortable walking equipment rather than a complete solution to pulling.
Training your dog to walk on a loose lead requires consistency. Reward them when they walk beside you or when the lead becomes slack. If they pull ahead, stop or calmly change direction rather than allowing pulling to take them towards what they want.
Short, regular training sessions are often easier for a dog to understand than trying to correct the behaviour during one long walk.
How Should a Small Dog Harness Fit?
A good fit is especially important for small breeds because even a small sizing difference can affect where the harness sits.
Once the harness is fitted, check that:
- it sits below the throat rather than pressing against it
- the straps do not rub behind the front legs
- you can comfortably fit two fingers beneath the straps
- it does not rotate around the body
- your dog can move their shoulders and front legs freely
- your dog cannot reverse out of it
Always measure your dog before ordering instead of selecting a size based only on their breed.
Two dogs of the same breed and weight can still have very different chest and neck measurements.
What If My Small Dog Is Between Harness Sizes?
Use the actual neck and chest measurements shown in the size guide.
If your dog falls between sizes, consider which measurement is closest and how much adjustment is available. The chest measurement is particularly important because this is where much of the harness support comes from.
Do not deliberately buy a much larger harness for a growing puppy. An oversized harness can move around, rub or make it easier for the puppy to escape. It is safer to use a harness that fits properly now and replace it when your puppy outgrows it.
Are Step-In Harnesses or Over-the-Head Harnesses Better?
This largely depends on your dog.
Some dogs dislike having a harness placed over their head, while others are uncomfortable having their legs lifted into a step-in design.
An adjustable over-the-head harness can provide a secure fit while allowing the chest strap to open at the side. Introduce it gradually, using treats and praise so that your dog begins to associate the harness with something positive.
Never chase your dog around the room with the harness. Place it nearby, allow them to investigate it and reward calm behaviour before gently putting it on.
Choosing a Comfortable Harness for Everyday Walks
The best harness for your small dog is one that fits their body properly, feels comfortable and allows them to move naturally.
Look for breathable padding, adjustable straps and secure fastenings. Check the fit regularly, especially if your dog is still growing, has recently gained or lost weight or has had a haircut that changes how the harness sits.
At Pipkin and Bella, our adjustable dog harnesses are designed with a padded outer layer, breathable airmesh and adjustable neck and chest straps. They are available in sizes from XXS to L, with plenty of colourful designs to make everyday walks a little more interesting.
Browse our adjustable dog harnesses and measure your dog using our size guide before choosing their new walking outfit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best harness for a small dog that pulls?
Look for a lightweight, padded and adjustable harness that sits across the chest rather than pressing against the throat. A comfortable harness can make pulling safer to manage, but loose-lead training is still needed.
Will a harness stop my small dog from pulling?
A standard harness will not automatically stop pulling. It provides a comfortable and secure way to attach the lead while you teach your dog to walk calmly.
Is a harness safer than a collar for a pulling dog?
A harness spreads pressure across the dog’s body rather than placing it entirely around the neck. It may therefore be a more comfortable choice for a dog that frequently pulls.
How tight should a small dog harness be?
The harness should be snug but not restrictive. You should normally be able to fit two fingers underneath the straps, and it should not rotate or gape when your dog moves.
Why does my dog cough when wearing a harness?
The harness may be sitting too high or pressing against the throat. Remove it, check the sizing and adjust the neck and chest straps before using it again. Persistent coughing should be discussed with your vet.
Can a puppy wear a dog harness?
Yes, provided the harness fits correctly and is lightweight enough for the puppy. Check the fit frequently because puppies can grow quickly.
Should my dog wear both a collar and a harness?
Many owners use a collar for identification tags and attach the walking lead to the harness. Avoid attaching a seat belt or walking lead to a collar where sudden pressure could be placed on the neck.
Can a small dog escape from a harness?
A loose or poorly shaped harness may allow a dog to reverse out of it. Check that the neck and chest are adjusted securely and test the fit indoors before heading outside.
