English Bulldogs are short nosed breed they may have breathing difficulties. If you use a collar it can place strain on the trachea when it will pull on the leash. This pressure can injure the neck and throat but if you will be using a harness for your english bulldog it will distribute the pressure between chest and shoulders so their neck and throat will be safe.
Harnesses are better than collars for English bulldogs or any bulldog because their bodies are muscular and they have broad chests. Harnesses provide you control on walks and are more comfortable and enjoyable for Bulldogs because they are easy to put on and take off. A harness is also suitable in warm weather because they are lightweight which allows better airflow.
Types Of Harnesses For Bulldogs
Here we will look at some main types of harnesses which can be best for english bulldogs:
1. Vest-Style Harness
In this type a vest wraps around the chest and back and covers with a comfortable fit because it comes with soft padding from $20 to $50.
2. Step-In Harness
This type of harness is easy to put on and it is secured because it has clips on their back. They are popular harnesses because there is nothing to put on the head of the dog, some bulldogs don’t like it. This design has force on the chest not in the neck, but it can be harder to adjust with the bulldogs with larger chests. You can buy this from $15 to $35.
3. Overhead Harness
Overhead harnesses are easy to adjust. But some Bulldogs may not like putting a harness over their head, and it can also slip over the head. This harness cost is around $10 to $40.
4. No-Pull Harness
A no pull harness gives owners more control without hurting the dog’s neck and throat. If you want to buy a no pull harness, buy the one with adjustable chest straps. You can get it for $20 to $60.
5. Hiking Harness
Hiking harnesses come with multiple clips and a handle on the back. This harness provides more control to the owner on long walks and the handle on the back can help the owner avoid obstacles. You can get this for $30 to $80+.
6. Front-Clip Harness
This style has the leash clip on the chest instead of at the back, this harness can work well for Bulldogs who pull. Weather resistant options for rain and colder weather conditions could be helpful. This style costs $15 to $50.
Leather Harness For English Bulldog
A leather harness can be a stylish and comfortable option for English Bulldogs. Leather is a flexible strong natural material which can last years without tearing. Thats why leather harnesses were liked by many owners before. Leather harness is heavier than the nylon one.
If your dog likes to get dirty then you have to clean the harness after with a cloth using soap to make it shiny and last longer. If we talk about the budget for this harness it is from $30 to $200. Leather and neoprene are excellent choices for long term use. For warmer climates Nylon and mesh can work well. And you can wash it in the machine but not the leather one.
Do Bulldogs Need A Special Harness?
Yes some bulldogs may need special harnesses according to their body structure, breathing issues, and skin sensitivities just like the Blue Fawn Merle French Bulldog, another distinct and popular Bulldog variety. Bulldogs who have a broad muscular chest and thick neck in this case standard harnesses can be difficult to fit properly.
What Size Harness Does An English Bulldog Need?
The harness size for an English Bulldog is determined by their weight, chest girth, and neck measurements. General sizes are medium and large.
Bulldog’s Chest Girth and Neck
The chest girth of adult Bulldogs is mostly between 22 to 30 inches and neck 18 to 24 inches.
Typical Sizing Based on Weight
| Weight | Size |
| Small English Bulldogs (40 to 45 lbs) | Need a Medium size harness |
| Average Adult Bulldogs (45 to 55 lbs) | Often fit in a Large size harness |
| Larger Bulldogs (55 to 60+ lbs) | May require an Extra Large size harness |
What Is The Best Harness For An Old English Bulldog?
If you want to buy a harness for an older english bulldog then it should focus on comfort, support, and easy handling. It is because when bulldogs get older their bones and joints get more sensitive so they cannot tolerate more force. You can use Soft, Padded Harness with wide straps or harness with a built-in handle or step-in or vest-style harness for easy on/off.
Do Vets Recommend Harnesses?
Yes, many vets recommend harnesses, especially for breeds like Bulldogs, because of their health and anatomical needs.
PENGDA Bulldog Harness
The PENGDA Bulldog Harness is a popular harness among Bulldog owners. PENGDA harnesses have wide padded chest straps and they are easy to put on and adjust which stay comfortable for Bulldogs. Price range of PENGDA Bulldog harnesses is $25 to $40.
Some more popular harness brands for Bulldogs are Ruffwear,Kurgo Tru-Fit,PetSafe EasySport,and HDP Big Dog with price range of $20 to $60. Ruffwear and Kurgo harnesses are commonly recommended for older Bulldogs.
