Best Dog Harnesses for Hiking: 9 Picks and Essential Tips

This guide will help you make the most informed decision when choosing the best harness to suit your and your dog’s outdoor adventure requirements.

Best Dog Harnesses for Hiking

Before you hit the trails with your furry friend, take a look at our top picks for the best dog harnesses for hiking.

These harnesses provide comfort, security, and durability for all of your outdoor adventures together.

1. Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness

This harness is made with all-weather mesh, providing your pet breathable comfort in all seasons.

There are three safety features – hook and loop fastener, buckle, and double-D rings – provide ample security. With easy step-in instructions, you can get your pup ready for a walk in no time.

2. Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack

This backpack is designed with the dog’s comfort in mind, featuring a lightweight yet sturdy construction and ergonomic padded spine support that contours to your pet’s back for optimum weight distribution.

One of the key features of this dog harness is its ample storage space, with two side pockets that can accommodate all your dog’s essentials, such as food, treats, toys, first-aid supplies, and travel bowls.

3. OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness

The OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness is made from durable 1000D nylon, ensuring that it can withstand your dog’s various outdoor activities. The padding in pressure areas makes it comfortable for your dog to wear throughout your hiking adventure.

With four quick-release buckles, you can easily put on and take off the harness, while also ensuring its security on your dog.

The MOLLE system and military-style design add extra functionality, with plenty of space for attaching pouches, ID panels, and more. However, note that the harness is not designed to bear heavy weights, so avoid relying solely on the grab handle to lift your dog.

While using the OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness, you may notice that the straps might start pulling loose if your dog is a heavy puller. Make sure to keep an eye on the straps and tighten them as needed. Additionally, take the time to ensure a proper fit by measuring your dog’s neck and chest and referencing the sizing chart provided.

4. RUFFWEAR Web Master Harness

The RUFFWEAR Web Master Harness is an excellent choice for hiking enthusiasts and their four-legged friends. With an anatomical design tailored for dogs with a sense of adventure, this harness ensures security even in the most challenging terrains.

One of the standout features of this harness is the padded, reinforced handle, which makes it easy to safely lift and assist your dog over obstacles. This is especially beneficial for working and service dogs, as well as amputee dogs that may require additional help navigating their surroundings. The harness also boasts five convenient points of adjustment that allow a full range of motion, ensuring your furry friend always stays comfortable.

However, some users have reported that the back and chest panels can be quite stiff, potentially causing discomfort or irritation for some dogs. Additionally, the harness requires hand-washing for cleaning, which might be inconvenient for some pet owners. The price of the RUFFWEAR Web Master Harness might also be a consideration, as it comes at a premium compared to some other harnesses.

5. Kurgo Tru-Fit Quick Release Dog Harness

As an avid hiker looking for the best dog harness, you’ll appreciate the Kurgo Tru-Fit Quick Release Dog Harness for its comfortable and lightweight design. With five easy adjustable points and plastic quick-release buckles, it’s a breeze to put on and take off, making it suitable for walking or jogging.

The no-pull training clip on the front D-ring helps you train your dog not to pull by turning them around when they try. The additional back leash ring caters to regular walking or jogging needs. After using this harness, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your dog’s walking behavior.

What sets this harness apart is the inclusion of a 10-inch dog seatbelt tether to use during car travels. This feature helps restrain your dog and prevent distracted driving. However, it’s important to note that the harness is not crash tested. Always prioritize your pet’s safety and consider other alternatives if crash testing is an essential criterion for you.

6. RUFFWEAR Hi & Light Dog Harness

After trying out the RUFFWEAR Hi & Light Dog Harness, I can confidently say that it lives up to its reputation. The low-profile construction and lightweight design make it comfortable for my dog during long hikes and neighborhood walks. The side release buckles are easy to use, making the process of putting on and taking off the harness hassle-free.

One noticeable feature is the leash attachment point – an anodized aluminum V-ring centered on the back, providing gentle guidance and control throughout our adventures. With four convenient points of adjustment, the harness allowed for a full range of motion and a more customized fit. This harness also includes a pocket for storing ID tags and dog waste bags, which I found particularly helpful. The bright fabric, reflective trim, and safety light loop added extra usability during nighttime hikes.

Despite its many benefits, there are a few drawbacks. Some users, including myself, have experienced sizing issues and needed to make adjustments or reorder for the perfect fit. Additionally, the harness is a bit expensive compared to its competitors. Lastly, while the debris resistant liner is designed to help shed dirt and fur, I found that it could be more effective.

Overall, if you’re seeking a comfortable, lightweight, and durable harness for hiking with your dog, the RUFFWEAR Hi & Light Dog Harness is worth considering. Just be prepared to spend a little extra and possibly make some sizing adjustments for the optimal experience.

7. PET ARTIST Tactical Dog Harness for Hiking

The PET ARTIST Tactical Dog Harness provides a functional and secure option for hiking and training purposes.

Its durable construction includes heavy-duty buckles and multiple attachment points, ensuring your dog is safe and under control during activities. The no-pull front D ring guarantees ease of handling, while the MOLLE system allows for customization with pouches and patches.

In terms of comfort, this harness is a great choice, with soft sponge and breathable mesh padding. The adjustable design also ensures a perfect fit for your dog. Despite its many positives, this harness may not be suitable for smaller dogs due to its bulkiness. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the stitching, and improper neck sizing for certain breeds.

8. Kurgo Dog Harness for Hiking

The Kurgo Dog Harness is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventures with their furry companions as it provides comfort and security for both daily walks and rugged hikes. Its V-neck design allows easy movement while the padded chest area ensures reduced strain on your dog’s neck and chest.

Made with breathable mesh material, this harness is comfortable for extended periods of wear, even on hot days. The reflective trim ensures visibility at night, keeping your dog safe during evening walks. The back handle also makes it convenient to assist your dog over obstacles or to have better control in tricky situations.

9. Auroth Tactical Dog Harness

In my recent experience with the Auroth Tactical Dog Harness, I found it to be an excellent solution for hiking with my large dog. The easy adjustment and quick-release buckles made it a breeze to secure a snug fit, maximizing mobility and ensuring the harness stayed in place during our outing. The heavy-duty 900D Nylon material ensures durability, perfect for any outdoor environment, and the well-padded pressure points protected my dog’s skin while providing breathability.

The addition of the MOLLE system on both sides of the harness allowed me to attach extra gear like water bottles and my dog’s favorite toy.

Related:

• 9 Best Hiking Socks
• 8 Best Hiking Boots Under $100

Buying Guide

When looking for the best dog harness for hiking, there are several key factors to consider. By keeping these features in mind, you can find the perfect harness to ensure you and your canine companion have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable hike.

Comfort: Your dog should feel comfortable wearing the harness during your hikes. Look for harnesses made with padded materials and breathable fabrics that will not cause your dog any discomfort or irritation.

Durability: Choose a harness made from high-quality, sturdy materials that can withstand the demands of hiking and outdoor adventures. Look for features like reinforced stitching and heavy-duty buckles that indicate the harness is built to last.

Fit: Make sure the harness fits your dog properly to prevent any injuries or discomfort. Measure your dog’s chest and neck size, and consult the sizing chart provided by the harness manufacturer.

Adjustability: A good dog harness should have multiple adjustable points to ensure a secure and custom fit for your dog. This will not only keep your dog comfortable but also help distribute their weight evenly while hiking.

Weight-bearing capacity: Consider your dog’s size and weight when choosing a harness, as certain harnesses will have weight-bearing limits. Ensure that your selected harness can safely support your dog’s weight during a hike.

Reflective accents or visibility features: Since you will be hiking outdoors, look for harnesses with reflective accents or high-visibility colors that can help keep your dog safe in low-light situations.

Remember that finding the ideal harness may involve some trial and error, but by considering these key factors, you can make an informed decision. Happy hiking!