Taking your pooch for a stroll is an awesome way to get your pet the necessary exercise. It’s equally important for bonding with your dog. Choosing the best collars for dogs that pull can be a minefield so we have compiled a list of the best ones available today.
Some dog owners really hate taking their dog for a walk because their dog tends to pull at the leash. It is a miserable experience to walk a pulling dog and it can cause a lot of stress. It can also be a little embarrassing, too.
Don’t worry because, with the right collar, usage, and training, you can get back control of your dog and make walks an enjoyable experience.
We have made a shortlist of the best collars for dogs that pull. we have also compiled a “Buyer’s Guide”. This will help you make an informed choice when purchasing a dog collar for a pulling dog.
Anti-pull dog collars – How do they work?
There are a few kinds of no-pull collars and harnesses on the market which is great news for dog owners and their pets. Each no-pull technology behaves differently so you’ll want to think about the best option for you and your pooch.
The three most popular kinds of collars and harnesses
Correctional Collars
Correctional collars are designed to train your dog when out on walks by allowing you to issue a form of positive punishment. When your dog starts to pull at the leash, you can use this physical correction to get your pooch under control again.
A word of caution, correction collars can injure your dog if you don’t know what you’re doing so should be left to the professionals
Compression Harnesses
We are big fans of compression harnesses. They basically get tighter when your k9 pulls on the leash. The harder it pulls on the leash, the tighter the leash will get.
Compression-style harnesses are much better than correctional collars because they apply pressure to the animal’s rib cage rather than the animal’s neck. This means fewer injuries for your furry friend.
They’re quite comfortable for pooches and they don’t look as scary to fellow dog owners at the local park as correctional collars.
Compression harnesses can be a very good way of controlling your dog but please note that they still exert some pressure on the dog. Caution should be exercised if your dog has health issues such as joint pain.
Directional Collars and Harnesses
These help you to redirect your dog’s attention and to train your dog to behave on the leash. Directional collars and harnesses are the most popular kind of harnesses for dogs that pull. They have a simple design in that they have a clip that goes between your dog’s front legs, rather than its back legs. This is known as a “front clip”.
Lots of dog harnesses have front clips now in addition to a traditional back clip. This allows the walker to choose different leash attachments as required.
A front-clip harness is a great way to deal with the innate pulling instinct of dogs and they make it much easier to “off-balance” your dog and get his full attention.
Considerations when buying a dog collar for a dog that pulls
There are a lot of dog collars available today so it can be a minefield trying to choose one. Don’t worry though, as we have done the hard work and found the top dog collars for pulling dogs.
When you’re looking for a dog collar, you’ll want to consider the following:
Material
Soft material is obviously best. We recommend mesh or wool because these materials are more comfortable for your hound and exert less pressure.
A rough-feeling collar or harness can chafe the dog and potentially damage fur or skin. Dogs might also chew at the leash or harness it if it feels rough to them.
Adjustable
Make sure you get an adjustable dog harness. You will then be able to adjust the collar to ensure a good fit for your pet’s size and shape. Collars with multiple adjustable points are even better.
Quick-Release Function
This is a very important feature for when you need to remove the collar quickly or in case of some kind of emergency.
Best collars for dogs that pull
rabbitgoo Dog Harness
This is the largest of rabbitgoo’s dog harnesses and has been specially designed to help you keep control of your pooch should he or she start pulling at the leash.
rabbitgoo Dog Harness, No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips, Adjustable Soft...
- Adjustable Dog Harness - Recommended Breeds: Small to Large Dogs, such as Golden Retriever, Huskie, Labrador, Alaska, German Shepherd, Akita, etc. Please measure the size carefully before purchasing this present for your puppy. Make your puppy stand out with this Classic Black Harness!
- Adjustable Dog Harness - Recommended Breeds: Small to Large Dogs, such as Golden Retriever, Huskie, Labrador, Alaska, German Shepherd, Akita, etc. Please measure the size carefully before purchasing this present for your puppy. Make your puppy stand out with this Classic Black Harness!
- No Pull, No Choke - Our non-pulling dog harness is specially designed with 2 metal leash rings for safer dog walks. Use the chest attachment clip to stop your dog from pulling on walks, perfect for dog training or dogs who tend to pull. The back one is great for casual walks, jogging, hiking, etc
- Easy to Use - This hassle-free overhead harness is easy to put on and take off with its 2 fast-release buckles. Slide the harness over your dog's head, buckle it up, adjust the straps, and here you go! Grab the top handle for additional control. Lightweight and easy to clean
- Fully Adjustable - This adjustable harness features 4 easy adjusting straps around the body. You can use its 2 neck straps and 2 chest straps to create a perfect fit for your dog with some room of growth. No worries about slipping out or choking
- Safe and Comfortable - Your dog will enjoy the daily walk in this comfort dog harness! Made of durable nylon oxford and padded with soft cushion to protect your dog's skin. Breathable air mesh keeps your dog cool during outdoor activities. Super bright reflective strips ensure a safe walk both day and night
This anti-pull and anti-choke collar is perfect for dogs with chest sizes from 20 up to 36 inches. It’s fitted with a pair of metal leash rings which are robust enough to handle the most mischievous of dogs.
We love the overhead design of this dog harness because it is really easy to take it on and off. The rabbitgoo is one of the best leashes on the market. It will help you to keep a safe hold on your pet even (if he sees a female dog and starts to get a bit excited).
The rabbitgoo harness is our top choice for the best collar for dogs that pull. It has a lot of adjustabilities and can be altered for a super-snug fit. It also has quick-release buckles if you need to remove the device swiftly.
Fitted with two sets of straps, one goes around your dog’s neck and the other around the chest area. Despite this, the harness is still really comfy and won’t leave your dog feeling sore or in any way restricted.
With over 110K reviews on Amazon at the time of writing, this fantastic dog harness is great for small to medium-sized dogs. It is made from durable but soft Oxford nylon which is both padded and breathable.
BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness
This dog harness is for large k9s. The BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness is a great remedy if you have a large dog that is prone to pulling on the leash.
BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness No Pull Adjustable Pet Reflective Oxford Soft Vest...
- Extra large size: Chest Girth 32-42 inch. Perfect harness for large dogs, like golden retriever, great dane, saint bernard and more; You’d better determine your dog’s chest girth by measuring the widest part of your dog’s chest before purchase. (Including Dog Collar Which Can Only be Used for Attaching ID Tags)
- Extra large size: Chest Girth 32-42 inch. Perfect harness for large dogs, like golden retriever, great dane, saint bernard and more; You’d better determine your dog’s chest girth by measuring the widest part of your dog’s chest before purchase. (Including Dog Collar Which Can Only be Used for Attaching ID Tags)
- No pull and choke free: Pulling pressure is evenly distributed to the body to prevent Pulling and Choking. Our dog vest harness comes with 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.
- Sturdy handy handle: Our pet dog harness comes with sturdy D-ring leash attachment point and easy grap handle to help you to control and assist your dog.
- Easy to wear& adjustable: This pet harness with simple design and quick snap buckles which make it easy to put on and take off; Fully adjustable straps at the chest and neck, which allow a custom fit for your pet.
- Reflective & comfortable: With the reflective strap pet vest, keep your dog SAFE all the time while out for a walk even at night; Breathable mesh lining with soft sponge padding plate of our dog harness prevents dog injuries, giving extra comfort and protection.
This extra-large harness is recommended for dogs with a neck measurement from 23 to 35 inches and a chest size from 32 to 42 inches.
It’s specially engineered to distribute the pressure evenly. This means that “Fido” doesn’t have to stress about getting choked on his daily walks.
A big pro of this large dog harness is how easy it is to slip on and off. If your dog is a “night owl”, you’ll love the reflective strip that can be seen at a huge distance. This will keep you and man’s best friend safe and sound.
On the technical side, the harness is fitted with a rugged D-ring leash attachment and it has a buckle closure. It is surely one of the best collars for dogs that pull hard on their leash.
A worthy contender for the best dog collar for large dogs that pull, it has over 29,000 reviews on Amazon at the time of writing this article.
2 Hounds Freedom Harness
Next on our list of the best harnesses for dogs that pull is the 2 Hounds Freedom Harness. It is best for dogs with a 28 to 32-inch chest.
2 Hounds Design Freedom No Pull Dog Harness | Adjustable Gentle Comfortable...
- ENJOY MORE WALKS: Easy to use & comfortable to wear, four adjustment points plus Swiss Velvet lining prevents rubbing
- BETTER CONTROL: Two connections give you better training results with your dog
- TRAIN WITH EASE: Recommended by veterinarians, trainers, and dog behaviorists worldwide - helps you train your dog.
- ENJOY MORE WALKS: Easy to use & comfortable to wear, four adjustment points plus Swiss Velvet lining prevents rubbing
- BETTER CONTROL: Two connections give you better training results with your dog
- TRAIN WITH EASE: Recommended by veterinarians, trainers, and dog behaviorists worldwide - helps you train your dog.
- MADE IN THE USA: Stainless steel hardware and super strong nylon webbing.
- CHEWING WARRANTY: Chewing replacement warranty offered by 2 Hounds Design.
- PROPER HARNESS SIZE: To get the correct sizing of your dog, use a soft measuring tape and measure around the largest part of the dog's chest. Choose the smallest size that fits within that measurement.
Available in a staggering 19 colors, we suggest that you start with a look at the “Hot Pink” for female dogs and the “Kelly Green” for male dogs.
The collar is made from hard-wearing nylon and it has 2 connections. The first of which gives you a kind of “power steering” so you can better steer your pooch as you take a stroll. The second connection has a “martingale loop” with a tighten-limiting action. This ensures that any pressure is spread evenly to avoid any harm to the animal.
Please note that you can either grab the harness on its own or with the 2-point leash included.
And if you’re still on the fence, you might like to know that the manufacturer will replace your harness free of charge if your dog chews through it.
PetSafe Gentle Leader Collar
The Leader Collar from PetSafe was engineered by a professional dog trainer and is recommended by vets for its comfort and usability.
PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar, No-Pull Dog Collar, Large 60-130 Lb., Black
- VET RECOMMENDED AND TRAINER DESIGNED: This headcollar instinctively redirects your dog’s tendency to pull by placing gentle pressure on pain-free points and eliminating pressure on his throat
- TEACHES BETTER LEASH MANNERS: Gently and safely helps you control unwanted leash behaviors like pulling, lunging and jumping for even the most determined pullers
- VET RECOMMENDED AND TRAINER DESIGNED: This headcollar instinctively redirects your dog’s tendency to pull by placing gentle pressure on pain-free points and eliminating pressure on his throat
- TEACHES BETTER LEASH MANNERS: Gently and safely helps you control unwanted leash behaviors like pulling, lunging and jumping for even the most determined pullers
- NO MORE COUGHING AND CHOKING: A padded neoprene nose loop puts pressure on the back of the neck instead of your dog’s throat, which prevents choking and gagging
- ALLOWS FULL RANGE OF MOTION: Take greater control during your neighborhood strolls while still allowing your dog to bark, eat, drink and play fetch
- EASY TO FIT: Use the adjustable nose loop and quick-snap neck strap to properly fit the headcollar on your furry friend in minutes
- WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: Whether you accidentally purchase the wrong size or your dog mistakes his headcollar for a chew toy, our Customer Care Center is happy to assist with replacements or resizing
- QUALITY GUARANTEED: PetSafe brand has been a trusted global leader in pet behavior, containment and lifestyle innovations for nearly 30 years; we help pets and their people live happy together
- Won’t fit our furry friends with short snouts (like pugs or bulldogs)
A padded neoprene loop shows that this collar was designed with the dog’s comfort in mind. It also features a snap enclosure so that it’s ready in seconds.
Here at Everyday Ape, we are happy to endorse PetSafe due in part to their excellent customer service. If you have any problems, their customer service department is responsive and helpful.
This collar is designed for dogs weighing between 60 and 130 pounds.
A primary reason for this harness to get on our list is the way it allows you to take control of your k9’s pulling without limiting his range of movement. After all, we don’t want anything to infringe on Fido’s Funtime, do we?
The PetSafe Gentle Leader Collar is one of the best dog collars for the money. It should put an end to your dog’s coughing and choking on walks.
PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness
PetSafe is one of the leaders in providing dog accessories that are excellent quality but still very competitively priced. The Easy Walk dog harness was actually created by a veterinary behaviorist with a deep knowledge of the best ways to control dogs.
PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness, No Pull Dog Harness, Black/Silver, Large (EWH-HC-L-BLK)
- LEGACY OF TRUST: This harness was created 15 years ago by a veterinary behaviorist and is trusted by a million dog parents and trainers each year
- TEACHES BETTER LEASH MANNERS: Patented Martingale loop and front chest leash attachment minimizes your dog’s pulling by gently steering him in the direction you are headed
- LEGACY OF TRUST: This harness was created 15 years ago by a veterinary behaviorist and is trusted by a million dog parents and trainers each year
- TEACHES BETTER LEASH MANNERS: Patented Martingale loop and front chest leash attachment minimizes your dog’s pulling by gently steering him in the direction you are headed
- NO MORE GAGGING AND CHOKING: The harness safely controls light to moderate pulling by resting across your dog’s chest instead of his throat
- COMFORTABLE FIT: Keep your dog cool with less coverage than many other harnesses; light and breathable construction while still maintaining quality and durability
- QUICK AND EASY TO FIT: The quick-snap shoulder and belly straps allow you to fit the nylon harness easily on your dog
- WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: Whether you accidentally purchase the wrong size or your dog mistakes his harness for a chew toy, our Customer Care experts are happy to assist with replacements or resizing
- QUALITY GUARANTEED: PetSafe brand has been a trusted global leader in pet behavior, containment and lifestyle innovations for nearly 30 years; we help pets and their people live happy together
This baby has a ton of votes for best collars for dogs that pull on their leash. It has a martingale loop (located on the chest area) to prevent any twisting of the harness.
Regarding sizing, dogs with chest sizes from 16 to 21″ can safely use this harness, so if you have a larger dog, you might be better with the BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness.
This anti-choking/anti-coughing harness is a great choice for beginners. It allows for easy control over light to moderate pulling.
With the endorsement of vets and dog trainers and a 1-year chew damage replacement policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of collar is best for dogs that pull?
A good dog collar is one that is properly sized, safe, and comfortable. Most importantly it should fit your dog’s personality and lifestyle.
These days, there is a very wide range of dog collars, harnesses, and other devices made to help you walk your dog more easily.
While any old dog collar will probably suffice, carefully choosing the right collar will improve your dog’s safety. It will also save you money from buying replacements in the long run.
You should look at our list of the best 5 best collars for dogs that pull and of course, check the reviews on Amazon.
What collar stops a dog from pulling?
While no collar can totally stop a dog from pulling, you can reduce this problem considerably by using the right collar and harness.
Your choice of collar/harness will depend on your dog’s size, breed & temperament.
If you’re looking to save time, we highly recommend the rabbitgoo Dog Harness. In sizes to fit just about every size of pooch, it has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon with over 110K reviews.
How do I stop my dog from pulling on the leash when walking?
An easy way to help your pup learn to walk without pulling on the leash is to stop moving forwards. He will try to pull but when he doesn’t and walks by your side, you should give him a snack. If he is not a “snacky” kind of pooch, give him his favorite toy or bone.
Is a collar or harness better for pulling?
Your main concern should be to choose the right size collar or harness for your dog. For harnesses, you should be able to slip a finger between your dog’s fur and the harness (for smaller pooches) or two fingers (for bigger k9s).
Whether you use a harness or a collar for your dog depends a lot on your pet’s health, and more so, your vet’s recommendation. You should have a quick chat with your vet just to check that you are making the right choice.
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