It takes a special person to invite a pup with a disability into their home. A blind dog faces challenges that many pets won’t have, including navigating where they live. Canine vision is about 20/75. Even though they can see in low-light conditions, it’s still difficult to go from point A to point B. Harnesses designed for these animals help ensure your blind dog’s safety by preventing avoidable injuries.
Our guide covers everything you need to know to make the best choice for your dog. We’ve included reviews of products that focus on creating awareness and those for home use.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorite in 2024
Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall | Muffin's Halo For Blind Dogs |
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Best Value | Dexil Blind Dog Harness |
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Premium Choice | Dean and Tyler Blind Dog Harness & Leash |
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Best for Puppies | Doggie Stylz Blind Dog Vest Harness |
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Dean and Tyler Blind Dog No-Pull Harness |
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The 7 Best Harnesses for Blind Dogs
1. Muffin’s Halo For Blind Dogs – Best Overall
Material: | Polyester, cotton, fabric |
Closure type: | Bolt snap |
Sizes: | Girths between 10.5–23.5 inches in four sizes |
Other features: | Training |
Muffin’s Halo For Blind Dogs might look odd, but it’s functional for helping your pup learn how to get around your home. The product includes wings for head and neck protection and halos, which provide a buffer when your pet is exploring. The harness portion has Velcro enclosures, and the halo attaches to the wings. The design prevents your dog from stubbing their feet at barriers or hitting their head on walls.
There is a learning curve for your pooch. However, it won’t interfere with your dog’s regular activities. They can even sleep with it in place. It is pricey, but we can justify the cost with the benefits and confidence building, thus making it our choice for the best overall harness for blind dogs.
- USA-made
- Machine-washable
- Lightweight
- Safety features
- Pricey
- Learning curve
2. Dexil Blind Dog Harness – Best Value
Material: | Polyester |
Closure type: | Buckle |
Sizes: | Girths between 13–32 inches in four sizes |
Other features: | High visibility, no-pull option |
The Dexil Blind Dog Harness is one offering in the manufacturer’s line of color-coded products. The white color is reserved for the purpose of letting others know your dog can’t see. The lettering on the harness is large and easy to read from a distance. The size range is generous as well, and it will likely fit most canines. The affordable price seals the deal and makes it our pick for the best harness for blind dogs for the money.
We understand the specific color patterns. However, a white harness is a dirt magnet. Washing will only work so well, unfortunately. Nevertheless, it’s a durable product, and you can also get a matching leash to complete your dog’s styling ensemble.
- No-pull option
- Comfortable fit
- Highly visible warning
- Affordably priced
- One color choice that gets easily dirty
3. Dean and Tyler Blind Dog Harness & Leash – Premium Choice
Material: | Stainless steel, nylon |
Closure type: | Snap |
Sizes: | Girths between 21–47 inches in five sizes |
Other features: | Reflective |
The Dean and Tyler Blind Dog Harness & Leash is a well-made product with quality construction. It’s a harness that will last the test of time. It is a no-pull model, making it easier to control your pet on the included lead. The removable “Blind Dog” patches pop against the black material, and the straps going around your pup’s body are wide enough for added comfort.
Everything about this harness has the owner and dog in mind. It is lightweight yet durable and weather-resistant. The belly strap is also removable. On the downside, it is pricey, but you get what you pay for with this product.
- Padding for comfort
- Traffic handle
- Wide straps
- Durable and well-made
- Expensive
4. Doggie Stylz Blind Dog Vest Harness – Best for Puppies
Material: | Nylon |
Closure type: | Quick-release |
Sizes: | Girths between 12–42 inches in six sizes |
Other features: | Traffic handle, reflective stripes |
The Doggie Stylz Blind Dog Vest Harness is another well-made product that fastens securely on your pet. Large sizes include a lock for your peace of mind. It is also durable with an attractive design and has reflective piping for extra safety on night walks. It’s easy to use, making it less stressful for your pet. The harness also has a traffic handle for optimal control of your pup whenever they are about to step into danger.
The alert labels are highly visible to provide adequate warning to anyone approaching. Its no-pull design also makes it an excellent choice for puppies and pullers.
- Traffic handle for safety
- Large letter for easy warning to the public
- Reflective removable patches
- Easy-snap buckle
- Occasional sizing issues reported
5. Dean and Tyler Blind Dog No-Pull Harness
Material: | Nylon |
Closure type: | Quick-release |
Sizes: | Girths between 21–47 inches in five sizes |
Other features: | Removable belly strap, adjustable |
The Dean and Tyler Blind Dog No-Pull Harness is a scaled-down version of other products made by this manufacturer. It doesn’t compromise on quality, and it fits perfectly and hugs your pup’s body snuggly. The harness shares many features with its other items, including the removable belly strap and adjustable design.
The no-pull design prevents chafing on your dog’s neck. The straps are wide to distribute the force and make it more comfortable for your pet to wear. It also has metal leash rings attached, making it as durable as possible.
- Durable
- Adjustable
- Removable belly strap
- Only one color
6. Mokernali Blind Dog Harness
Material: | Nylon, plastic |
Closure type: | Double buckle |
Sizes: | Girths between 12.5–19.5 inches in four sizes |
Other features: | Reflective |
The Mokernali Blind Dog Harness is another anti-collision device with a detachable loop that protects your dog’s head. It is also adjustable, making it more versatile than comparable products. It’s round instead of the oval shape often seen in these items. You can use it indoors or outdoors, with the reflective stripes on the nylon portions. The design has metal bars and knobs to get the fit right as well. While practical, they are also clunky.
On the downside, it only comes in two sizes and one color. However, it’s less expensive than similar products for this purpose.
- Adjustable loop
- Reflective material
- Affordable
- Only two sizes
- Clunky design
7. GabeFish Lightweight Adjustable Blind Halo
Material: | Polyester |
Closure type: | Quick-release |
Sizes: | Girths between 8.8–39.6 inches in four sizes |
Other features: | Reflective stripes |
The GabeFish Lightweight Adjustable Blind Halo is another riff on this anti-collision theme. It is similar to our last entry, with the metal bars and knobs, and it gives it the same comfort and usability issues. It comes in two colors and two sizes. The ranges with the latter are wide, necessitating cutting the straps for pups on the smaller end.
If you’re curious if it can help your pet, you can’t go wrong with this product. It’s affordably priced for the benefits it offers, but know that it isn’t going to be large enough for many dogs.
- Affordable
- Protecting head loop
- Awkward design
- Questionable durability
- Heavy
- Not ideal for larger breeds
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Harnesses for Blind Dogs
A harness offers several advantages over a collar. It makes it easy to handle an unruly pup. A blind dog might be skittish, thus providing similar benefits. These products also do an excellent job of distributing the pressure on your pet’s body. Your pooch is less likely to slip out of a harness than a collar. That’s the last thing you want with a blind animal.
Some harnesses look like the standard product. They are easy to use but offer limited additional features. You’ll also see step-in products, which are a godsend for these pets. Many have padding for your pet’s comfort and to prevent chafing. Many others also clearly identify the animal as a blind dog. The labels are helpful since they make the people around you aware of your pet’s condition. Some are permanent, and others are removable.
A specialized design includes a horizontal ring to prevent the animal from running into objects and walls. These harnesses are an excellent choice for pets learning the lay of the land with less risk of hurting themselves. Their appearance is a radical departure from the standard harness. However, their purpose differs, although you can use them for everyday activities.
- Material
- Closure type
- Sizes
- Other features
Material
Nylon and polyester are popular choices because of their affordability and lightweight. They are also durable and can handle a lot of use. Products for specific uses are made of various materials, from mesh to neoprene to fleece. Closures are typically made of stainless steel and plastic, which offer similar advantages. The construction of the harness directly affects the price since some seem more like medical devices.
Closure Type
Buckles and quick-release closures are common options on harnesses. They are easy to use and sturdy, even when used with dogs that pull. Various snaps are also available. Security is the primary desired feature for obvious reasons with blind dogs. However, you should consider your pup’s comfort. Undoubtedly, they’ll get used to putting the harness on and off, especially if you make it worth their patience with a treat.
A front clip is desirable for dogs that tug on the leash. A no-pull harness transfers the pull to the animal’s armpits instead of their neck. They are an excellent option for a pup new to these accessories. It’ll make it easier for the pooch to build confidence while maneuvering in the world.
Sizes
Harnesses come in various sizes, with each one including a range in inches. Fitting the harness properly depends on an accurate measurement of the animal’s girth, which is the widest part of your pet’s body. You should also measure your pup’s lower neck if required for sizing. If your dog is between sizes, opt for the next one up for a fit with the necessary slack to keep your pooch comfortable while wearing it.
Other Features
Of course, manufacturers often offer various features to increase their salability. Consider how you plan to use the harness. A waterproof or reflective product doesn’t provide any additional benefits if your dog only wears it indoors. Many items we reviewed had handles on the upper portion to allow you to grab your dog quickly should they step out into traffic or somewhere else that could be dangerous. Some are padded and may even have a QR code to provide your contact information.
Conclusion
After completing our reviews, the Muffin’s Halo For Blind Dogs was our top pick. While pricey, it can help your pet get around safely without interfering with daily activities. The Dexil Blind Dog Harness uses a color-coding system to provide helpful alerts to people within sight distance of your pet. This trait is white, making it the only choice available. Nevertheless, it’s an affordable and well-made product. However, regardless of which you choose, just make sure that it’s the right choice for your individual dog and their special needs as a blind pet.
Featured Image Credit: Janice Hedgecock, Shutterstock
Contents
- A Quick Comparison of Our Favorite in 2024
- The 7 Best Harnesses for Blind Dogs
- 1. Muffin’s Halo For Blind Dogs – Best Overall
- 2. Dexil Blind Dog Harness – Best Value
- 3. Dean and Tyler Blind Dog Harness & Leash – Premium Choice
- 4. Doggie Stylz Blind Dog Vest Harness – Best for Puppies
- 5. Dean and Tyler Blind Dog No-Pull Harness
- 6. Mokernali Blind Dog Harness
- 7. GabeFish Lightweight Adjustable Blind Halo
- Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Harnesses for Blind Dogs
- Conclusion