If your dog always pulls like a train, consider a double-ended training leash like those supplied by HALTI (see below) and Mekuti. Training leads consist of one extra-long strap with a clasp on either end. They are suitable for use only with front-range harnesses equipped with an attachment on the chest as well as on top. Julius-K9 is a huge player in the world of canine wear. The company started out supplying harnesses for police and emergency rescue dogs and has applied some of its original designs to a wide range of consumer pooch models. The ThinkPet is designed with rough and tumble in mind, and also works well for dogs that like to pull. It evenly distributes pressure across the body to protect your dog’s body and avoid the dreaded choking. You could feasibly use this harness all year round, although you’d be better off also investing in the standard model for winter use. But for the summer months, there really isn’t a better-fitting and more convenient harness than this one. If you have a puppy or a small dog up to 15kgs in weight that you’d rather not let off the lead, consider one of these extendable auto-rewind models from Flexi. Available in two lengths (3m and 5m) and three sizes, the Flexi’s tape is neon coloured so others are less likely to get tangled up in it when your dog’s doing its mad dog stuff. We would suggest the 5m version simply because it’s a good thing to have an extra two metres to hand.

The IDC Powerharnesses is available in nine sizes – from Baby 1 (teacup dog) to Size 4 (Newfoundland) – and is available in 25 colours. You can also replace the Velcroed side patch with a customized label of your choice. An excellent everyday option for top wags. Halti is suitable for a number of different dog breeds, coming in three different sizes. Additional benefits include a reflective strip on the harness for use when walking your dog at night. For the best experience, it’s recommended that you combine the Halti with the compatible Halti Training Lead, which you can use for even more “steering” control. If you’ve got through several dog harnesses during the lifespan of your dog, you’ll likely be looking for one that can withstand a bit more tough action and energy. verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ READ NEXT: Best dog clippers The best dog harnesses to buy 1. Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness: The best all-round dog harness for convenience and fit

Yes. Although we extol the virtues of walking your dog with a harness, a collar is still essential attire for any dog (even when wearing a harness). Aside from being a legal requirement in the UK, a collar also tells others that the dog has an owner and isn’t a stray. A collar also allows you to attach a name tag – extra peace of mind that compliments the mandatory microchip underneath the animal’s skin between the shoulders. The Julius-K9 provides a reassuringly snug fit that doesn’t get in the way of the dog’s movements; the lower chest strap sits just behind the forelegs and doesn’t rub against the elbows. However, it does seem a bit over-engineered. The chest webbing on the Size 1 model we tested is about 5cm in width and strong enough to pull a train. It’s also difficult to adjust.

IDC Powerharnesses are far and away the easiest of all models to fit and remove: simply slip the large opening over the dog’s head, clip in the chest strap, attach the lead to the top-mounted D-ring and go. Do bear in mind that a harness of this nature won’t necessarily prevent your dog from pulling; it’s simply a kinder, more convenient, safer and comfier alternative to walking with a dog collar and leash.Where the figure-hugging Ruffwear Front Range is quite heavily padded and therefore a little hot to wear when the temperature rises, this skimpier, bikini-like model is thinner and lighter and much better suited for use on hot summer days.