These powerful, muscular dogs need specific features in their harnesses to ensure both comfort and control.
After testing countless options and consulting with other American Bully owners, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect american bully harness.
After testing countless options and consulting with other American Bully owners, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect american bully harness.
Top 3 Selected Harnesses for American Bullies (overview)
Pros
Cons
Pros
Exceptional build quality and durabilityStrong, well-positioned handle for control
Easy to put on and take off
Excellent visibility features
Water-resistant and easy to clean
Minimal sliding or shifting during use
Cons
High price pointCan be warm in very hot weather
Pros
LIGHTWEIGHTWELLBUILT
COMFORTABLE
LIFT-AWAY WITH SECURE HANDLE
STRONG BUCKLES
EASY CARE / WASH
Cons
PRICE Pros
PRICECOMFORTABLE
SECURE HANDLE
STRONG BUCKLES
EASY CARE / WASH
Cons
NOT REFLECTIVEUnderstanding American Bully Anatomy and Why It Matters for Harness Selection
Let me tell you why American Bullies need special consideration when it comes to harnesses. These dogs typically have a massive chest-to-waist ratio, with some adults sporting chest measurements of up to 28-32 inches! Their muscular build, broad shoulders, and thick neck create unique challenges for harness fitting.
I learned the hard way that standard harnesses often don’t account for an American Bully’s distinctive muscle structure. Their deep chest and broad shoulders mean that traditional harnesses can cause chafing or restrict movement. Plus, their strong pulling instinct means we need something particularly sturdy – I’ve had more than one regular harness break during an excited moment!
The skin sensitivity of American Bullies is another crucial factor. Despite their tough appearance, many Bullies have sensitive skin that can become irritated with the wrong material or fit. I noticed this with Tank when he developed some redness under a poorly fitted harness, which immediately signaled the need for a change.
I learned the hard way that standard harnesses often don’t account for an American Bully’s distinctive muscle structure. Their deep chest and broad shoulders mean that traditional harnesses can cause chafing or restrict movement. Plus, their strong pulling instinct means we need something particularly sturdy – I’ve had more than one regular harness break during an excited moment!
The skin sensitivity of American Bullies is another crucial factor. Despite their tough appearance, many Bullies have sensitive skin that can become irritated with the wrong material or fit. I noticed this with Tank when he developed some redness under a poorly fitted harness, which immediately signaled the need for a change.
Top 3 Selected Harnesses for American Bullies Reviewed
1
Our choice:
Julius K9 Dog Harness
The Julius K9 Powerharness is worth every penny for serious training.
I love its industrial-strength materials and the perfect balance of control and comfort it provides. (Read full review)
I love its industrial-strength materials and the perfect balance of control and comfort it provides. (Read full review)
Julius-K9 Dog Harness Best For Large Dog
The Julius K9 Dog Harness makes it easy to quickly get ready for the day ahead. This simple, safe, and comfy harness …
$59.99
2
Best Overall:
WebMaster Dog Harness
The WebMaster Front Range Harness has been my go-to recommendation for fellow Bully owners. Its durability is unmatched, and the reinforced handle on top provides extra control when needed. (Read full review )
Web Master™ Dog Harness with Handle PAWESOME
The Web Master Harness is a secure, supportive, multi-use body harness built for manoeuvring and assisting dogs up and …
$69.95
3
Budget Friendly option:
Top Paw Comfort Dog harness
The TopPaw Comfort harness offers impressive quality for its price point. While it may not last as long as premium options, it provides good value and adequate support for casual use. (Read full review)
Top Paw® Neoprene Comfort Dog Harness Best For Large Dog
Make your dog’s harness safe, secure, comfortable and stylish by choosing this Top Paw Black Neoprene Comfort Dog …
$24.99
Essential Features to Look for in American Bully Harnesses
Through my experience, I’ve identified several must-have features for American Bully harnesses. First, look for extra-strong materials and reinforced stitching. I recommend harnesses made with military-grade nylon or similar durable materials – trust me, your Bully will put it to the test!
Wide straps are non-negotiable. They help distribute pressure evenly across your dog’s chest and prevent the harness from digging in during walks. I always go for straps that are at least 2 inches wide for adult American Bullies.
Padding is crucial, especially around the chest and armpit areas. I’ve found that neoprene or fleece-lined harnesses work best for preventing chafing. The padding should be thick enough to provide comfort but not so bulky that it causes overheating.
Adjustability is key – look for harnesses with at least 4-5 adjustment points. This allows you to customize the fit to your Bully’s unique body shape. I particularly value harnesses with adjustable chest plates, as they can accommodate the breed’s broad chest.
Wide straps are non-negotiable. They help distribute pressure evenly across your dog’s chest and prevent the harness from digging in during walks. I always go for straps that are at least 2 inches wide for adult American Bullies.
Padding is crucial, especially around the chest and armpit areas. I’ve found that neoprene or fleece-lined harnesses work best for preventing chafing. The padding should be thick enough to provide comfort but not so bulky that it causes overheating.
Adjustability is key – look for harnesses with at least 4-5 adjustment points. This allows you to customize the fit to your Bully’s unique body shape. I particularly value harnesses with adjustable chest plates, as they can accommodate the breed’s broad chest.
How to Properly Measure Your American Bully for a Harness
Getting the right measurements is crucial, and I’ve developed a foolproof method after helping many Bully owners.
Here’s my step-by-step guide:
1. First, measure the chest at its widest point, usually just behind the front legs. Add two inches to this measurement to ensure comfort. For American Bullies, this is particularly important due to their broad chest.
2. Next, measure the neck circumference where the collar typically sits. Be careful not to measure too high up or too low down – you want the natural neck line.
3. Finally, measure the length from between the shoulder blades to about 2 inches in front of the tail. This helps ensure proper coverage and fit.
Pro tip: Take measurements when your Bully is standing straight, and measure twice to ensure accuracy. I always write down the measurements for future reference.
Here’s my step-by-step guide:
1. First, measure the chest at its widest point, usually just behind the front legs. Add two inches to this measurement to ensure comfort. For American Bullies, this is particularly important due to their broad chest.
2. Next, measure the neck circumference where the collar typically sits. Be careful not to measure too high up or too low down – you want the natural neck line.
3. Finally, measure the length from between the shoulder blades to about 2 inches in front of the tail. This helps ensure proper coverage and fit.
Pro tip: Take measurements when your Bully is standing straight, and measure twice to ensure accuracy. I always write down the measurements for future reference.
Training Your American Bully to Love Their New Harness
Based on my experience with Tank, introducing a new harness requires patience and positive reinforcement. Start by letting your Bully sniff and investigate the harness. I like to place treats on and around it to create positive associations.
Begin with short wearing sessions inside the house. I started with just 5 minutes and gradually increased the duration. Use high-value treats and lots of praise during these sessions.
If your Bully shows resistance, don’t force it. I’ve found that breakfast time is perfect for harness training – they’re hungry and more motivated to cooperate!
Begin with short wearing sessions inside the house. I started with just 5 minutes and gradually increased the duration. Use high-value treats and lots of praise during these sessions.
If your Bully shows resistance, don’t force it. I’ve found that breakfast time is perfect for harness training – they’re hungry and more motivated to cooperate!
Training Your American Bully to Love Their New Harness
American Bullies can put serious wear and tear on their equipment, so proper maintenance is essential. I clean our harness weekly using mild soap and water, paying special attention to areas that come in contact with skin.
Check all buckles and attachment points before each use. These powerful dogs can stress hardware, so regular inspection is crucial. I replace any harness showing signs of significant wear, usually every 8-12 months with heavy use.
For storage, I hang the harness to maintain its shape and allow it to dry completely after cleaning or wet walks. This prevents odors and extends the life of the materials.
Check all buckles and attachment points before each use. These powerful dogs can stress hardware, so regular inspection is crucial. I replace any harness showing signs of significant wear, usually every 8-12 months with heavy use.
For storage, I hang the harness to maintain its shape and allow it to dry completely after cleaning or wet walks. This prevents odors and extends the life of the materials.
Conclusion
After years of experience with American Bullies, I can’t stress enough how important the right harness is for both you and your dog’s enjoyment of daily walks and training sessions. While finding the perfect fit might take some trial and error, the effort is worth it when you see your Bully comfortable and happy during walks.
Remember, these powerful dogs need equipment that matches their strength and unique body structure. Don’t compromise on quality – a good harness is an investment in your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Want to make your daily walks more enjoyable? Start with one of my recommended harnesses above, and you’ll notice the difference immediately. Your American Bully deserves the best, and with the right harness, you’ll both enjoy many amazing adventures together!
Remember, these powerful dogs need equipment that matches their strength and unique body structure. Don’t compromise on quality – a good harness is an investment in your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Want to make your daily walks more enjoyable? Start with one of my recommended harnesses above, and you’ll notice the difference immediately. Your American Bully deserves the best, and with the right harness, you’ll both enjoy many amazing adventures together!
