The 5 Best Escape Proof Dog Harness Options - Keeping Them Safe
OUR #1 PICK
Best All Round Best Escape Proof Dog Harness
Chai's Choice (True Love) - Reflective Outdoor Adventure Pet Harness/Vest
True story!
Daze, my kelpie x cattle, was 6 months old when he first slipped through his collar to chase some birds down at the beach (as puppies do right?). I didn't think much of it at the time.
What happened haunted me for days as the situation was similar but much more serious.
Dr. Sara Redding Ochoa | Doctor Of Veterinary Medicine
Sara is Wileypup’s Veterinarian Adviser and helped compose this article to ensure the information is up to date and accurate. For more information on Sara click here
This is what happened.
We were walking to the beach, and the protagonist was again a bird, but the consequences had changed dramatically. Walking next to the road that leads to the beach a seagull had darted down onto the road to scoop up a forgotten chip.
On puppy impulse Daze went to chase, slipped his collar and ran onto the road, just as a car was coming. In an instant I heard the screeching of breaks and thought the worst. Turns out Daze was fine, the car didn't come close to him, but it could have.
In that moment I knew I needed to get a harness that he couldn't slip through and escape (as well as train harder on his impulse control).
Daze The Monster - Showing off his smile (and his harness)!
The lowdown.
In this article we will help you choose the right escape proof harness for your dog, even if they have a proven track record of escaping in the past.
First, we will look at some reasons why a harness is a safe alternative to collars. Then we offer a detailed review, complete with pros and cons for our top 5 escape proof dog harnesses.
We made sure to include a wide range of escape harness styles, price points and sizes so that you can find a quality piece of gear that best meets your specific situation. We have even included harness sizing information so you can see at a glance if each selection comes in a size that works for your pet.
Finding the perfect harness for your toy breed dog houdini dog presents a special challenge. Our bonus pick is just for the little guys!
An Overview - Dog Harness Impossible To Escape
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | RATING | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Chia's Choice - Reflective Outdoor Adventure Pet Harness |
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OneTigris Tactical Dog Vest |
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EzyDog Quick Fit Dog Harness |
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Frisco Padded Front Lead Dog Harness |
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Voyager Mesh Harness |
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Kurgo Tru-Fit Harness |
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Help! My Dog Keeps Backing Out Of Their Harness & Escaping!
If you have an escape artist on your hands, then you may have tried dog harnesses before and had a bad experience. The vast majority of harnesses are made with nothing but webbing, buckles and clips. You have probably seen them lining the shelves of your local pet store in a myriad of colors and sizes.
These harnesses are cheap and easy to manufacture, making them the “go to” for many dog lovers. In fact, for most canines they work great! Right up until your smarty pants pet figures out that all they have to do is back up and duck and they slip right out! Once your dog learns this trick, they won’t “unlearn” it.
All is not lost. Dog gear manufacturers have recognized this problem and solved it. Although you may have to invest a little more for an escape proof harness for dogs, there are some great options out there. Let’s take a look at some of the best for your pet!
Best Escape Proof Dog Harness Options
#1 Best All Round Escape-Proof Dog Harness
Chai's Choice (True Love) - Reflective Outdoor Adventure Pet Harness/Vest
This is another top selection for escape artists. The 4-point adjustments and padded chest and saddleback, allow you to get a great fit which is critical for ensuring that your dog can’t slip out.
Another feature we love about this model is that it has a front clip on the chest piece. This is great if you have a puller on your hands. If they try to pull forward the front connection will turn them sideways, taking the power out of the pull and teaching them that pulling is a losing strategy. Over time this can even train your dog that pulling just doesn’t get them anywhere.
With 5 sizes, almost all dogs can find a great fit. Three color choices give this model some points for style as well. And, you can purchase a heavy duty leash that matches this design.
A great deal of reflective material makes this one of the safest escape harness designs for night-time walks. The lightweight design will keep your pal cool and provide them with a free range of motion.
One downside of the design is the high top-line on the chest piece. This is likely not going to be an issue for all dogs, but if you know your pet has a sensitive neck, this harness may not be the best design as it could irritate the windpipe depending on the fit.
Inescapable Harness Sizing (measure widest part of the chest):
- X-Small: 13-17 inches (33-43 cm)
- Small: 17-22 inches (43-56 cm)
- Medium: 22-27 inches (56-69 cm)
- Large: 27-32 inches (69-81 cm)
- X-Large: 32-42 inches (81-107 cm)
PROS
CONS
#2 Best Escape-Proof Harness for Large Dogs
OneTigris Tactical Dog Vest
As the name suggests, this harness from OneTigris is a tactical harness. However, this doesn’t mean you and your pet have to be on a tactical mission in order to use it. In fact, it’s a great harness even if you completely ignore the tactical part.
Namely, this harness was designed to fit securely and comfortably even when worn for long periods of time. It features an outer layer made with tear-resistant but lightweight nylon fabric combined with soft and fluffy padding on the inside. Both the front panel and the back panel on this harness are made this way. They are connected by straps that are thick and fully adjustable. This way, you can achieve a perfectly tight fit that won’t allow your pooch to escape.
In addition to this, you also get the “tactical” features that can be really useful in everyday life. The harness is covered with velcro-like fuzzy tape that allows you to attach patches or small pouches. There is also a bungee cord crisscrossed on the back that allows you to easily attach small objects.
We recommend the OneTigris Tactical Dog Vest especially for large dogs. It can be hard to find escape-proof dog harnesses in large sizes, but this one actually comes only in medium and large. The “medium” size is quite large too, though, so make sure to measure your dog and check the sizing before buying this harness.
PROS
CONS
#3 Best Easy to Use Escape-Proof Dog Harness
EzyDog Quick Fit Dog Harness
Many dogs get so excited when you pull out the harness that getting them to step through the leg holes can be a real hassle. In fact, the reason some people are still using collars to walk their dog is because learning to use a harness can be a little bit of a learning curve for both owners and our pets.
This inescapable harness is actually about as easy to use as a collar because of the innovative design. Just slip it over your dog’s head and use the single quick clip to fasten the buckle. Because the chest strap goes right behind the legs, it ensures a snug, escape free fit.
There is plenty to love about the quality and features offered by this escape proof harness. Wide and thick webbing, reflective stitching, and extra reinforcement make this a good choice for safety. And, it is strong enough for even the more powerful breeds including German Shepherds, Pitbulls, Rottweilers & Great Danes. For more information check out our below articles:
The chest piece is low profile. What this means is that instead of having a section that goes around the neck, this chest piece is well clear of the windpipe. If you have a dog that insists on pulling when he is distracted by the neighbor’s cat or another dog on a walk, the padded chest strap won’t injure your dog’s delicate neck area.
This is also a good choice to help with problem jumpers as you have much more control, check out our guide on the best no pull harnesses and the best no jump harnesses, for more specific information.
If you are color conscious, this may be an excellent choice for you. It comes in 10 vibrant colors.
No-Escape Dog Harnesses Sizing (measure widest part of the chest):
- X-Small: Chest 15-18”, Neck 11-18”
- Small: Chest 18-21.5”, Neck 14-22”
- Medium: Chest 21.5-26.5”, Neck 16-27”
- Large: Chest 26.5-33”, Neck 18-31”
- X-Large: Chest 33-42”, Neck 21-36”
PROS
CONS
#4 Best Budget Escape-Proof Dog Harness
Frisco Padded Front Lead Dog Harness
If you are shopping for a bargain, this is a good choice. This escape proof harness combines the simplicity of a web style with a little padding along the chest for some added comfort.
It has the features you would expect: plenty of adjustability, quick clips for easy on and off, and front and back enclosures. You can take the padded section off and toss the harness right in the washing machine as well.
It comes in 5 bright colors so every dog in the house can have their own, fitted perfectly. And, if your pet tends to pull on the leash, then clip to the front D-ring and any force from pulling forward will be transferred to the side instead.
The best thing is that the web material used in this harness is durable. For an inexpensive option, choose this is escape proof harness as it will last.
No-Escape Dog Harnesses Sizing (measure widest part of the chest):
- Small: Chest 16-22”
- Medium: Chest 22-34”
- Large: Chest 26-40”
- Giant: Chest 32-50”
PROS
CONS
#5 Best Escape-Proof Dog Harness for Toy and Small Breeds
Best Pet Supplies Voyager Mesh Harness
When it comes to the little dogs, it can be hard to find a harness made just for their small bodies. A loose fitting harness is pretty easy to wiggle out of, especially if it is the plain strap style.
This vest style is the answer for toy and miniature breed dogs such as Yorkies, Pugs, Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas. It comes in sizes perfect for these tiny tikes and fits snuggly around their frame to keep them snug in the harness with no chance of escape.
This harness is lightweight and lined with a soft mesh fabric. It is ideal for all day wear and won’t be too hot even in warmer weather.
Style a big concern? The black mesh is lined with a sharp piping that comes in 5 colors for a snazzy look: red, pink, orange, blue and basic black.
There is a reflective strip on this escape proof dog harness, but it is a small area – not the best if nighttime visibility is a big concern. It also lacks a front attachment point which could be an issue if you have a little puller on your hands.
Check out our other small dog harness guides here:
No-Escape Dog Harnesses Sizing (measure widest part of the chest):
- X-Small: Chest 14-14.5”, Neck 8”
- Small: Chest 14.5-17”, Neck 9.5”
- Medium: Chest 16-18”, Neck 11”
- Large: Chest 18-21”, Neck 13”
- X-Large: Chest 21-23”, Neck 15.5”
PROS
CONS
#6 Best Versatile No-Escape Dog Harnesses
Kurgo Tru-Fit Harness
When it comes to keeping your pet safe in the car, a car harness for dogs is the way to go. This model by Kurgo is not only escape proof, it is designed to work both as a walking harness and as a safety belt made just for your dog.
The chest piece in this harness makes sure that the pressure will be evenly distributed across the chest in the event of an accident while you are driving. Heavy duty fabric, reinforced construction, stainless steel buckles and thick webbing all contribute to a safety harness that will keep your pet safe on rides to all of his favorite places.
There is a total of five points of adjustment which gives you the ability to get that perfect fit. This is gear you will be able to rely on, even if your dog fancies himself the next Houdini.
It’s little low on style with just a classic black option. And, it is a little pricey. However, the quality is there to justify the investment. This is one escape proof harness that you won’t be replacing anytime soon.
This is a good option for medium sized breeds. For more information, check out our guided below:
Escape-Proof Dog Harness Sizing (measure widest part of the chest):
- X-Small: Chest 12-18”, Neck 9-13”
- Small: Chest 16-22”, Neck 12-23”
- Medium: Chest 18-28”, Neck 16-25”
- Large: Chest 24-34”, Neck 19-30”
- X-Large: Chest 28-44”, Neck 24-35”
PROS
CONS
BONUS PICK! - Escape Proof Harness For Small Dogs!
Comfort Fit – Small Padded Dog Harness
Because so many escape proof dog harnesses are designed with medium to large dogs in mind, we wanted to feature this top pick just for tiny and medium dogs. With a chest size that goes down to 7 inches, even the smallest dog is going to find a size that will keep them secure.
This vest style harness is fully padded with a sturdy foam and durable poly fabric exterior. This harness will evenly distribute weight around the entire chest of your pet, thus eliminating any pressure points for a complete comfort fit. In addition, the materials are very easy to keep clean – just wipe with a damp cloth.
With a single snap closure, this harness is easy to get on and off. Unlike strap style harnesses, you won’t need much practice to get the hang of this simple design! Even better, the complete enclosure design means there is no way your dog will be able to back out and escape.
There is one major downside to the simplicity of design and that is that it is only adjustable at one attachment point across the chest. For this reason you will need to make sure that both the neck and chest measurements (found below) are going to be in range for a great fit.
Concerned about quality? This harness comes with a lifetime guarantee. Save your receipt and buy with confidence.
This product is a little stiff at first. Don’t worry. Once your pet wears this a few times it will form fit to a snug and comfortable vest. Your dog will look like he is wearing a custom-made outfit!
No Escape Dog Harnesses Sizing (measure widest part of the chest):
- XX-Small: 10-13 inches (25.5-33 cm)
- X-Small: 13-16 inches (33—40.5 cm)
- Small: 16-19 inches (40.5-48 cm)
- Medium: 18-21 inches (45.5-53 cm)
No Escape Dog Harnesses Neck sizing (measure around the lowest part of the neck)
- XX-Small: 7-10 inches (18-25.5 cm)
- X-Small: 10-13 inches (25.5—33 cm)
- Small: 13-16 inches (33-40.5 cm)
- Medium: 15-18 inches (38-45.5 cm)
PROS
CONS
Myth: A Harness Will Make Your Dog Pull More.
The truth is.
If your canine companion is pulling on a leash they need to be leash trained. This is true whether they are wearing a collar or a harness.
People often misunderstand this because they, rightly, point out that a harness is more comfortable for dogs, thus they can put more force at the end of a leash before pain forces them to stop. This is true. It is why sled dogs are attached to sleds with harnesses and not collars.
However (this is a big however too!).
The same people may not be aware that although your dog can apply less forward force with a collar, they can and do still apply plenty of force to cause permanent damage to their trachea, neck and/or spine.
You have seen that poor dog on a collar choking at the end of a leash to try to get a sniff in? This dog is neither a joy to walk, nor are they being treated with true compassion. The solution for this dog is not a collar, or a choke collar. The solution is leash training.
Even with a perfectly trained dog, there is always the risk that a strong distraction like a squirrel (or a bird) or something that startles your dog like a sudden loud noise might cause them to run hard and fast with a strong jerk when they get to the end of the leash. In such a situation a harness is much less likely to injure your pet.
Harnesses can result in giving your dog more “leverage” at the end of a leash. However, if you have a strong puller you can get a harness with a front clip. When your dog tries to pull hard, this simple solution will force them to turn, taking away their forward momentum without choking them or causing permanent damage.
Leash training is the solution for pulling. However, if you need an equipment solution in the meantime, the safe and smart choice is a front clip harness, not a collar. We have included several front clip models in our review below.
If you want to walk your dog with love, choose the right harness for leash walking and use the collar for style and pet identification tags.
Why Does Your Dog Need A Harness?
No-Escape Dog Harness Conclusion
We hope this detailed review of the best no-escape dog harnesses has been helpful. Please feel free to leave your comments below if you have a related story or comment that might help our readers. Happy tails!
FAQ
References:
- Liz Donovan (Aug 30, 2019) How to Teach a Puppy to Walk on a Leash: Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/teach-puppy-walk-leash/
Sharon Elber (M.S. in Science & Technology) - Professional Dog Trainer
Sharon is a professional dog trainer with over 10 years experience. She is also a professional writer that received her M.S. in Science & Technology Studies from Virginia Tech.
For more info on Sharon click here
16 comments
I have a chihuaua/ miniature greyhound mix female. Chest is 17 “, Neck is 10”. Help?
Hey Evelyn,
The very last harness (under the heading ‘BONUS PICK! – Escape Proof Harness For Small Dogs!’) in the article has a great harness called ‘Comfort Fit – Small Padded Dog Harness. The x-small has a chest of 13-16 inches and a neck 10-13 inches. I think this is going to be your best bet, it’s better for the chest area to be looser than the neck and that extra inch in the chest that your pup has could be taken up by their hair.
If not let me know and I see if I can find something more suited! (also amazon should have free returns so you shouldn’t be out of pocket).
It would have been nice to see the products on dogs. I’m looking for something where the girth is farther back, like behind the diaphragm, so it cannot ride up over the ribs & cause chafing behind the front legs & chest.
Hi Teri,
If you click through to the products they often will show the harness’s on the pups! Hope that helps
Need a better harness, definitely!
It’s never an easy choice as well. What looks good on paper might not be the most suitable when actually in use, if that’s the case definitely return it for a refund and try a different option.
Great list! Oh no, picking one of these would be very tough. Which one can you recommend?
Hi Ryan,
No worries at all! Can you tell me a little bit about your dog?
Thanks for this great list! Actually, I’ve been using trackimo, a gps tracking device, and attached it to my pet’s collar. But i’ll definitely try these for my pet’s additional security and protection. Thanks!
Thanks for the kind words Leah! Always good to have a few options, especially when it comes to our fur babies!
My miniature poodle backs out of harnesses and collars. And since I am arthritic I have a hard time with the plastic snaps you have to pinch in to remove the harness. Two questions: Which harness will work best to prevent escape by backing out? Can I leave it on all day?
Hi Kathie,
We would recommend the Ruffwear – Web Master Secure, Reflective, Multi-Use Harness however make sure choose one that’s right size for your mini poodle (measure widest part of the chest).
Recommend leaving it on when your outside your home or a secure place 🙂
Thank you for writing this article. People don’t ever think about escape proof harnesses until it’s too late. I wasn’t so lucky with my last puppy, Colby, and she ended up getting hit and passed away. I appreciate people like you writing these articles for anyone who doesn’t realize the importance of escape proof harnesses!
Kurgo has a Tru-fit that has regular plastic buckles instead of the metal attachments. Would this one still be considered a good choice for an escape artist? I don’t have a car and I only need it for walking.
Hi Sarah,
What type of dog do you have? The metal option would almost always be a more secure option.
Goody Escape Free harness. Only available for small dogs. Cute harness. May not be very durable.