The best harness for Chihuahua is exactly what your small pet needs for its walks. It secures your pet, prevents it from escaping, tugging, and pulling, and is ideal for your lightweight pet.
Your Chihuahua deserves nothing but the best and this extends especially to all of its accessories.
An important accessory is your Chihuahua’s walking harness.
That is why we have 6 awesome products for you in today’ guide.
These small dog walking harness products also fulfill different needs: reflective, escape-proof, ideal for training, and also designer and fashion-forward ones for your teacup Chihuahua.
Just in case you are in a hurry, click on our short summary below to view our Top 6 reviewed products for the best harness for Chihuahua:
- Our Editor’s Pick: PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness, No Pull Dog Harness
- Best Padded Reflective Harness: RUFFWEAR Reflective and Padded Dog Harness for Training
- Best Budget Harness: Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness
- Best Soft Mesh Dog Harness: Puppia Soft Dog Harness
- Best No-pull Puppy Harness: Metric USA / Comfort Fit Pets Step in No Pull
- Best Teacup Chihuahua Harness: Dashin' Dogz Dog Harness and Leash Set for X-Small Breeds
Best Harness for Chihuahua – 2022 Top 6 Picks
1. Our Editor’s Pick: PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness, No Pull Dog Harness
We can easily rely upon the PetSafe Easy-Walk small dog chest harness because it was created by a vet decades ago!
And it has been helping thousands of pet parents take their pets safely and comfortably on their daily walks ever since!
Firstly, your pet will learn good walking manners and will be discouraged from tugging and pulling.
Secondly, this well-designed comfortable dog harness sits on your pet’s chest and back so it won’t hurt its delicate neck bones which leashes-and-collars do.
Further to this, it won’t cause gagging and choking that follows the tugging and pulling action in leash-collar systems.
Thirdly, this strap-like harness is ideal for your pet especially for the warmer months when it does not need that extra padding or coverage for staying comfortable and cool.
Last, but not the least, it is a quick-fit strap-n-go harness that you can put on and take off within minutes!
What we like about it
- Designed by vet and recommended by dog trainers.
- Two-colored straps to identify top and bottom parts
What we don’t like
- Caused scabbing and irritation in the armpits of some dogs. Select the right size to avoid this issue.
- HELPS STOP PULLING: Patented Martingale loop design puts gradual pressure on your dog’s shoulders to safely and effectively stop pulling; a front leash attachment helps you guide your dog
- LEGACY OF TRUST: Created by a veterinary behaviorist in 2004, the Easy Walk harness is loved and trusted by a million pet parents and trainers
- COMFORTABLE FIT: Easy Walk harness has less coverage than other harnesses making it lightweight and very breathable
- NO GAGGING OR CHOKING: Rests across your dog’s chest instead of his throat to stop gagging and choking if he pulls
- EASY TO FIT: Quick-snap shoulder straps and a different color belly strap make it simple to put the harness on your dog
2. Best Padded Reflective Harness: RUFFWEAR Reflective and Padded Dog Harness for Training
If you are looking for a comfortable, foam-padded and reflective harness for walking your Chi in the dark or under low-light conditions, then RUFFWEAR training harness is a good choice.
It has reflective shells all over its design which helps your pet be seen clearly in the dark.
You can also, if needed, attach a beacon to a special light-loop attachment facility provided on the harness.
Perhaps the best feature of best dog harness from RUFFWEAR is its 4-point adjustment feature which makes it ideal for small and petite dogs like Chihuahuas.
This adjustable dog harness ensures a snug fit around your pet’s body so it is comfortable for all-day wear and also keeps it unable to escape or pull or tug while walking.
As if all these features aren’t enough, RUFFWEAR dog harness also comes with a pocket to add your pet’s information or ID card in – just in case your pupper wanders off.
Finally, we must talk about this harness’s durability – since RUFFWEAR has recently been updated, you can now expect additional strength and durability, reinforced stitching, and tough-to-chew shell fabric.
What we like about it
- Secure, comfortable, reliable harness for daily training
- Sturdy and durable
- Reflective and beacon feature
- Padded with 4-point adjustments
- ID-pocket
- Escape-proof and chew proof
What we don’t like
- Sizing issues.
- Made for extended wear: Lightweight, durable, and made for all-day outdoor adventures; Designed for easy on and off
- 2 leash attachment points: Reinforced webbing at chest stands up to pulling and gives additional control (ideal for training, too); Aluminum V-ring centered on back
- Padded for comfort: Foam-padded strips across the chest and belly provide equal load distribution and comfort when running, walking, or resting
- Customizable fit: 4 convenient points of adjustment for full range of motion; Easy access ID pocket for safe storage of your dog's tags
- Easy to see, day and night: Bright, easily visible fabric with reflective trim helps your dog stand out against any landscape day and night
3. Best Budget Harness: Voyager Step-in Air Dog Harness
Voyager’s all-weather cheap small dog harness is not only economical, it is padded, ultra-comfortable, sturdy, and dependable for all those daily adventures you have with your Chihuahua.
Its soft, non-irritating air-mesh material enhances breathability and keeps your pet cool in summers.
Voyager no pull dog harness also comes with reflective and bright colors to enable your pet to be seen by drivers in low-light.
You will also love this small dog harness vest for its secure hook-and-loop fastener which allows an easy-on/easy-off comfort and preventing daily struggle.
Additionally, this mesh dog harness has securing D-rings that flank the sides of its clip-on, making it completely escape-proof and reliable.
What we like about it
- Secure
- Comfortable and breathable
- Chew-proof
- Stretchable and allows range of motion
- Available in many colors and sizes.
What we don’t like
- Not all-weather. Tends to get damp in snow/rain. Too much coverage for summer/warmer months.
- Perfect Fit: Sizing does NOT directly correspond to your pet's breed or weight; Ensure the ideal fit by MEASURING your pet with our Size Guide and referring to our sizing chart before ordering; Not for large dogs
- Comfort All Year: Made with a soft and breathable air mesh, this lightweight, fast drying harness ensures maximum comfort for your pet during walks, regardless of the season
- Enhanced Visibility: Featuring two reflective bands, this harness increases your pet's visibility during morning and evening strolls, keeping them safe in low light conditions
- Triple Security: Our harness provides three layers of protection with a secure hook and loop fastener, a sturdy buckle, and double D-rings, ensuring your pet's safety at all times
- Easy to Use: Enjoy hassle-free walks with this simple, easy-to-wear vest harness. Just let your pet step in, clip the harness, and you are ready to go
4. Best Soft Mesh Dog Harness: Puppia Soft Dog Harness
Looking for a small dog harness vest which is ultra-soft and comfortable for your petite Chihuahua?
Then Puppia’s small dog walking harness can be your go-to choice!
This is a soft mesh vest harness made with 100% polyester and features padding around the chest and neck region.
It also comes with all-weather double-coated D-rings that resist humidity, dirt, and rusting.
Air-mesh allows breathability to prevent sweating, irritation, or hot spots on your pet’s skin.
Your pet will be comfortable all-year round in this small dog harness vest.
It also discourages pulling and tugging and can be used for teaching your pet excellent walking manners.
Puppia’s lightweight dog harness is also machine-washable or you could hand-wash it and leave it out to dry. It is also available in a range of different colors and sizes.
What we like about it
- Breathable and comfortable
- Secure, light-weight, sturdy, reliable
What we don’t like
- Some dogs could chew through it.
- Edges got frayed after a few months.
- Authentic Puppia Soft Dog Harness made out of 100% Polyester
- Adjustable chest belt and quick-release buckle
- Comfortable padded neck opening
- Machine washable, but hand washing and air drying are recommended
- Small - 11.9" x 16.6" Chest Girth / 10.6" Neck Girth
5. Best No-pull Puppy Harness: Metric USA / Comfort Fit Pets Step in No Pull
Comfort-Fit metric USA no pull mesh puppy harness comes with interior and exterior padding.
This small dog puppy harness is made using metric-66 material which is breathable, decreases tension and pinching on your puppy’s delicate body while also creating a snug, hugging fit.
Metric USA harness’s well-designed padding reduces pressure on your young Chi’s trachea and neck and also teaches it walking manners.
Moreover, this step-in very small dog harness is available in various colors and sizes and is also washable.
Furthermore, this no pull puppy harness is even safe for Houdini dogs that love to escape!
What we like about it
- Perfect for training young Chihuahua pups
- Soft, padded, comfortable, breathable, washable
- Sturdy, durable, escape and chew-proof
- Quick to attach
What we don’t like
- Sizing issues around its neck area – some owners found it allowed too much free movement.
- Custom Fit for Small Breeds – Our adjustable dog harness offers a perfect fit for small and medium dogs. Detailed sizing options ensure your pet gets the comfort they deserve, reducing the chances of size-related returns.
- Easy-to-Use Design – Designed for hassle-free wear, this step in harness reduces strain on your dog’s neck, making it ideal for walks, training, and everyday use.
- Lightweight Material – Crafted from soft, durable fabric to keep your dog cool and comfortable, even on longer outings. Perfect for pets who dislike bulky harnesses.
- Velcro Adjustable Straps – The easy Velcro adjustability allows for a customized fit, making it simple to get the perfect size for your dog’s body, ensuring security without restricting movement.
- Secure Fit with Strong Buckle – Featuring a durable buckle that provides a secure, stay-in-place fit, giving you peace of mind during outdoor activities.
6. Best Teacup Chihuahua Harness: Dashin' Dogz Dog Harness and Leash Set for X-Small Breeds
Add some glamorous style to your gorgeous Teacup Chihuahua! You and your pet will surely be the talk of the town thanks to Dashin’ Dogz dog harness and leash sets for teacups and small dog breeds!
This gorgeous vest is made of durable material – comfortable canvas fabric with sewn-on petals. It is resistant to chewing and prevents your pet from escaping.
At the same time, Dashin’ Dogz harness is very easy to get in and out of – so no more daily struggle between you and your pet.
Moreover, it is adjustable thanks to its nylon straps so you can always get a snug fit.
Its sturdy metal rings are resistant to dirt, grime, and rusting as well.
You can use this fashion-forward vest-harness for daily walks or special occasions!
What we like about it
- Cute and stylish
- Comes with matching leash
- Sturdy, strong, reliable
What we don’t like
- Leash is huge.
- Some petals fall off.
- Add a little glamour and pizazz to your morning walk with this pretty dog harness for small and xs dogs. Available in light pink, hot pink, purple, yellow, turquoise and multicoloured. All come with matching leash.
- PLEASE NOTE-: please measure your pet before ordering and compare to the sizing chart on the photos before purchasing. a medium will not fit a medium dog, these are for xsmall and small dog breeds only, up to the size of a small french bulldog
- DESIGN: Made from strong canvas fabric with individually sewn on pretty petals, this harness fastens with Strong Nylon Fastenings around the belly and chest and a metal d-ring on the back to attach the leash. The inside lining is slightly padded for extra comfort.
- STYLE: Comfortable and Cute Small Dog Harness -. you won't find a prettier, more girly or more stylish harness on Amazon.
- BREEDS: Suitable for Xsmall and Small Breeds only like chihuahua , pugs, puggles, shih tzu, teacup, yorkie, toy breeds, dachshund etc also kittens, cats and even rabbit. Both soft and comfortable , yet stylish and practical. These designer harnesses have it all.
How to Select the Best Harness for Chihuahua?
A Chihuahua is a small dog that requires a comfortable and lightweight harness that won’t injure it.
While Chis do not pull on their leash as much as larger dogs tend to do, they still require a high-quality harness to prevent injuries to their delicate neck bones.
Older Chis with neck issues also need snug harnesses instead of collars for their walks.
Here are the features of the best harness for your Chihuahua:
1. Style of the harness
Dog harnesses for small dogs like Chis come in various styles. Different styles have different functions and also offer different fits around your pet’s body.
So, it is a good idea to do your homework prior to buying one.
Different harness styles for dogs include front-clip, back-clip, adjustable type, reflective, senior-dog harnesses, crash-test or car harnesses, fashionable harnesses etc.
Whichever style you choose, make sure it is comfortable for your pet.
You can also discuss with your vet or a dog-trainer about the kind of harnesses to select for your Chi, especially if it has health issues.
This way, you can cover your pet’s individual health needs.
2. Is made of a high-quality material
High-quality harnesses are made with cotton, nylon, polyester, faux leather, or synthetic leather.
This way, it is chew proof and escape proof.
Cotton and nylon are good choices in harnesses as they are lightweight, hypoallergenic, and also quite long-lasting.
Mostly, these are great to use all year round and also suitable for Houdini dogs that like to escape!
You can also select a padded harness to ensure a snug fit and keep your pet injury-free.
For winters, you can get heavier vest-style harness or coat harnesses too in case your pet shivers in winters.
Padded harnesses are especially recommended for pets that pull on the harness.
3. Fits your Chi snugly
We have given the steps to measure your Chihuahua down below.
Mostly, Chihuahuas would need Small or Extra–Small harnesses. You can also choose a teacup Chihuahua harness.
Note that you should not go by size alone since different brands have different sizing references.
In case your Chi happens to be between sizes, always choose the larger size since it would be easier to adjust and tighten it while a smaller size would be too restrictive for your pet.
4. Easy on/off
There should not be a daily struggle between you and your pet for putting the harness on.
Select one with a quick two-step on/off action for easy removal/easy wearing.
5. Some more features to consider
Some other features to consider in your pet harness includes reflective colors or bands – so your pet is always visible in low light, comes with a leash – so you need not buy one separately, and includes pockets for ID tags, or for additional beacon placement, etc.
Also Read: Best Bark Collar for Chihuahua
How do you measure a Chihuahua for a harness?
- Make sure your pet is standing on a level surface.
- Use a measuring tape. If needed, enlist the help of a friend/family member for measuring your pet. They can help hold your pet still while you measure or distract it with some petting or treats.
- Measure your pet’s largest or broadest part of the chest. This is usually right behind their shoulder blades, around the chest, and behind the front legs. Write down this measurement in inches and centimeters.
- Next, measure around your pet’s neck. Write down this measurement as well.
- You must also weigh your dog because some brands differentiate pet harnesses based on the body weight.
You can now select a harness for your Chi based on the harness descriptions given for your shortlisted product.
Is a Collar or Harness Better for a Chihuahua?
A harness is always better for Chis since it is escape-proof and also healthier for your pet’s delicate neck.
Collar and leashes are good but not if your Chi tends to pull a lot.
This could be damaging for its delicate neck bones and could lead to issues like spondylitis, tracheal collapse, etc.
Therefore, a harness or vest-style no pull harness is a better option for your pet.
Also Read: Best Collar for Chihuahua
What Is the Best Harness for a Teacup Chihuahua?
Teacup Chihuahuas need a harness that will keep them safe.
It should fit comfortably and ensure a snug fit.
The harness should be durable, come in attractive colors, and ideally be reflective so your tiny pet is seen in low light.
In addition, the harness should be stylish and fashion-forward, as teacups are glamorous breeds that must be shown off in style!
FAQs on the Best Harness for Chihuahua
1) Is it okay to leave a harness on your dog all the time?
It is okay, but it is best not to.
Your pet cannot really sleep comfortably in the harness as its buckles and straps could poke into its delicate skin.
You must especially remove the harness if it is wet or dirty to avoid skin issues in your Chi.
2) Should I get more than one harness for my Chihuahua?
You can always buy more than one harness, but ideally, even one is sufficient.
It all boils down to you and your Chi’s walking schedules.
It is always a good idea to have a backup harness in case your pet chews through it or it gets damaged or broken.
If you walk your pet twice a day, then it is certainly a good idea to keep multiple harnesses on hnd.
Then you can wash the one used in the morning and use the extra while that one is drying.
3) Should your Chihuahua with tracheal collapse use a harness or collar for walking?
A harness goes around your pet’s chest and does not touch its neck area.
Therefore, a harness or a harness vest is definitely much more comfortable for any dog with tracheal collapse as it helps avoid unnecessary pressure on the already fragile bones.
Also Read: Why Does my Chihuahua Snort like a Pig
4) Can Chihuahuas go on long walks?
Chihuahuas are small but active and energetic dogs.
They need daily walks but you should not exert them too much at a time.
Vets recommend short walks of 15-20 minutes for this small breed.
Therefore, instead of one long walk, try breaking up your pet’s exercise sessions in 2-3 shorter walks of 15 minutes each.
You must also vary this duration based upon your pet’s age, overall health, weight, etc.
Speak to your vet and decide upon the right amount of exercise for your Chi.
Also Read: Keep Your Pet Stimulated with the Best Toys for Chihuahua!
Conclusion
The best harness for Chihuahua is comfortable for its small and delicate frame, ensures a snug fit, and is resistant to chewing and escaping.
It also discourages tugging and pulling.
We recommend the PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness, No Pull Dog Harnessas it checks all of the above boxes and has been designed by a vet and is highly recommended by dog trainers.
Do check out our other recommendations as well.
