The Best Dog Harness For Hiking
Hiking can be a great activity to get you outdoors and physically active. However, it can also present a unique opportunity to not only get your dog more active but to bond with one another. If you are someone who enjoys hiking outdoors with your dog, you will need to get yourself a quality dog harness. While you may think you can get by with only a leash, a harness is the only way to keep your dog as safe as possible during a hike. There are plenty of harness options to choose from in the marketplace. Below, you will find some of the best categorized based on our comprehensive reviews of the various choices available.
1. Kurgo Dog Harness For Active Dogs (Best Overall)
Built with comfort in mind, this dog harness is the best overall in the marketplace for hikers. It offers just about everything you could want in a dog harness for hiking. Not only does it feature a front leash ring, but it also has a back leash ring. It slips on and off easily and it is made up of lightweight and breathable fabric. The V-neck shaped design helps to contour to your dog’s body which helps them maintain their full range of motion needed to allow them to move freely throughout the hike. The harness itself features an aluminium leash attachment and 4 total adjustment points for maximum comfort.
Pros of the Kurgo Dog Harness For Active Dogs (Best Overall)
- Breathable and Comfortable Fabric
- Easy To Take On and Off
- Adjustable
Cons of the Kurgo Dog Harness For Active Dogs (Best Overall)
- Doesn’t Work As Well For Dogs With Skinny Necks
This harness made by Kurgo is one of the best you will find. Not only is it reasonably priced, but it offers all of the must-have features that you would want to take your dog hiking. Best of all, it can be used for a variety of other outdoor activities which enhances the versatility of the harness.
Also check out: Best Dog Harness for Running
2. Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness (Best Value)
This Ruffwear harness is value-packed. It is available at one of the best prices and the design has been updated to offer much more durability from its previous design. The harness features a reinforced webbing loop and more durable fabric which makes it perfect for the active dog. It features 4 points of adjustment for optimal comfort. The harness has a reflective trim around the entire harness which optimizes visibility in low light conditions which can be needed for hikes that go longer than expected.
Pros of the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness (Best Value)
- Good Design
- Reflective Trim
- Good Price
- Durable Build Quality
Cons of the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness (Best Value)
- Hard To Fit
This dog harness is a great choice for those who are looking for an affordably priced harness for their dog for hiking. It offers just about everything you would want and need in a dog harness and it is priced reasonable relative to the competition.
3. Hurtta Weekend warrior All Day Dog Harness (Most Unique)
This dog harness is easily the most unique and perhaps the most stylish and best looking. The harness itself is versatile and it features reflective piping which enhances the visibility of your dog in all conditions. The makeup of this harness is of 100 percent recycled polyester with waterproof lamination. The inside is made up of a breathable material that is comfortable for your dog during strenuous hiking conditions.
Pros of the Hurtta Weekend warrior All Day Dog Harness (Most Unique)
- Stylish Design
- Eco-friendly Construction
- Plenty of Features
Cons of the Hurtta Weekend warrior All Day Dog Harness (Most Unique)
- Requires Accurate Measuring
As long as you take the time to measure your dog, you should be able to find the right size for the optimal fit. This harness is one of the best available and it offers just about everything you could want or ask for in a dog harness meant for hiking. It comes in a variety of colors which should give you plenty of different options to choose from.
4. Chai’s Choice Best Outdoor Adventure Dog Harness
This harness by Chai’s Choice is another solid contender for the best available. It comes in a range of stylish colors and it is available in a variety of sizes. The outer layer is made of scratch-resistant oxford material and it features a lightweight yet durable Duraflex buckle that should give you peace of mind for its durability. The harness itself is easy to put on and take off and it features a comfortable and breathable mesh lining with plenty of padding.
Pros of the Chai’s Choice Best Outdoor Adventure Dog Harness
- Reflective Material
- Comfortable
- Quality Construction
Cons of the Chai’s Choice Best Outdoor Adventure Dog Harness
- Not Enough Adjustments Available
5. Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack (Best For Serious Hikers)
If you are someone who is a serious hiker and you want your dog to be able to carry all of his or her essentials with you during the hike, there is no better option than the Saddlebag backpack offered by Kurgo. Kurgo created the ultimate hiking companion with this harness. It is both a harness and a backpack in one. This unique yet practical design is perfect for the serious hiker and the hardworking dog. It allows you to fit everything from first aid items to snacks and doggie bags and even treats. Not to mention, the harness itself is designed with ergonomics and an easy to use hiking handle for greater control over your dog during intense hikes.
Pros of the Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack (Best For Serious Hikers)
- Practical Design
- Plenty of Storage
- Great Safety Features
Cons of the Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack (Best For Serious Hikers)
- Somewhat Bulky
This is the best dog harness for hiking enthusiasts. If you need to have a lot of things with you during your hikes and you want your dog to be able to carry his or her weight, this is the ideal solution. Kurgo nailed the design and it offers a lot of practicality that makes it an exceptional addition to a hiking enthusiasts kit. Your dog will love wearing this harness/backpack.
Final Thoughts:
There are a lot of different dog harnesses that are ideal for use when hiking. The key is finding the one that fits your budget and your preferences. Think about fit more than anything as it will dictate the comfort of the harness. You also want to think about how often you will be using it and whether or not you need specific features with the harness. The harnesses above are some of the best you will find available and you cannot go wrong with any of them.
