Most people choose a dog harness with their eyes.
Cute colour. Nice pattern. Maybe a “no pull” label slapped on the front.
But your dog isn’t choosing based on trends — they’re living in it.
And the wrong harness can rub, restrict movement, create throat pressure and slowly make your dog uncomfortable without you realising.
So here’s how to choose a dog harness in Australia that actually supports your dog’s body — not just your aesthetic.
1. Always Start With Shoulder Freedom
If a harness sits high across the shoulder joint, it blocks natural front leg movement.
Dogs compensate with a weird stride. That means:
• Sore muscles
• Stiff joints
• Altered gait over time
Look for a Y-front design that sits clear of the shoulder joint and allows full extension.
Movement first. Always.
2. Watch the Chest Strap
Chest pieces ride up.
When that happens, pressure shifts toward the throat.
One pull on the lead and boom — windpipe pressure.
A well-designed dog harness should sit low enough on the chest to avoid throat contact during normal walking.
Kind > restrictive.
3. Secure Fit Without Twisting
Loose harnesses slide around.
Sliding = rubbing.
Rubbing = irritation.
Irritation = dog avoiding the harness.
Look for:
• Fully adjustable straps
• Curved hardware that sits flush
• Secure fit that stays put without squeezing
A good fit doesn’t move every time your dog does.
4. It Shouldn’t Be a Wrestling Match
If you have to shove it over their head or lift legs through straps, you’re going to create stress.
That’s especially true for:
• Senior dogs
• Arthritic dogs
• Anxious rescues
• Dogs who hate handling
A harness that clips at the neck and body makes life easier for both of you.
No manhandling required.
5. Don’t Rely on Equipment to “Fix” Pulling
A harness isn’t a magic wand.
It shouldn’t work by being uncomfortable.
It should provide secure attachment points while you build skills through reward-based training.
If a product promises control through pressure, ask yourself who it’s really designed for.
So What Does a Good Dog Harness Actually Look Like?
• Y-front design
• Clear shoulder placement
• Longer chest panel
• Secure but comfortable fit
• Easy to put on
• Designed with movement in mind
That’s the baseline.
If you’re looking for a dog harness in Australia that prioritises proper fit and natural movement, the WAGD Dog Harness was built around exactly that philosophy.
Because cute is for you. Comfort is for them.
And all dogs are good dogs.
If you want to understand why fit matters before buying, read our full dog harness fit guide here.