How to Choose the Right Lifting Harness for Your Dog

When your dog struggles with mobility—whether from age, injury, or disability—even everyday tasks can feel overwhelming. The right lifting harness can restore confidence, reduce risk of injury, and make life easier for both of you.

But not all harnesses are created equal. The key is choosing the right one based on your dog’s needs—and the real-life challenges you’re facing together.

Here’s how to match the right harness to everyday challenges your dog faces.

🛻 Problem: Getting Your Dog Into the Car

Solution:
Rear Support Harness or Full-Body Lifting Harness

A rear support harness will support directly under your dog’s hind legs. A full body lifting harness may include a rear and front harness or one harness that supports your dog’s entire torso.

Best for: Dogs with weak back legs, arthritis, or recovering from surgery.

Recommended Brands:

Walkin’ Lift Rear Harness – Comfortable, durable, and ideal for dogs with hind leg weakness.
Help ‘Em Up Harness – A full-body support system with ergonomic handles and hip lift support.
GingerLead Support Harness – Especially good for post-op dogs or those with hip dysplasia.

🐾 Problem: Helping Your Dog Up the Stairs

Solution:
Full Support Harness with Dual Handles

A full support harness that lifts your dog’s entire body will offer the most control as you help your dog up and down the stairs.

Best for: Dogs with both front and rear leg weakness or balance issues.

Recommended Brands:

Help ‘Em Up Harness – Dual-handle system gives you full control without putting pressure on sensitive areas.
Ruffwear Web Master Harness – Lightweight with a strong handle, great for medium support needs and outdoor use.

Tip: The Help ‘Em Up Harness includes a patented hip-lift system that makes stair support smoother and safer.

🌿 Problem: Going for Walks When Rear Legs Are Weak

Solution:
Rear End Support Harness or Walking Sling

Since your dog still uses their back legs, you need a harness that offers light support. A sling that supports your dog’s midsection may be all the help you need. This style harness is intended to help your stabilize and gently support your dog, not lift them entirely off the ground.

Best for: Short walks, potty breaks, and dogs recovering from rear leg surgery.

Recommended Brands:

Walkin’ Support Sling – Soft fleece lining and easy to use on the go.
GingerLead Rear Support Harness – Comes with a leash attachment and is vet-recommended.
Kurgo Up & About Lifter – A budget-friendly sling for dogs who just need occasional help.

🛌 Problem: Helping Your Dog Rise from Lying Down

Solution:
Front End Harness or Chest Support Harness

One of the most common early signs of mobility loss in senior dogs is struggling to stand up from lying on the ground. Your dog may be slow to rise or have a hard time getting their back legs underneath them. In this instance, a front harness with a handle is the best way for you to help your dog off the ground.

Best for: Dogs with front limb weakness, arthritis, or recovering from shoulder or elbow injuries.

Recommended Brands:

Help ‘Em Up Front Harness Only – Can be purchased separately and later combined with rear support.
Walkin’ Front Harness – Lightweight and compatible with wheelchairs and rear harnesses.

Pair with: Non-slip booties or traction mats to help your dog get a better grip.

🐕‍🦺 Problem: Full-Body Weakness or Recovery from Surgery

Solution:
Full-Body Lifting Harness with Adjustable Fit

For dogs recovering from surgery that need support, always check with your veterinarian before you buy a harness. Make sure that its ok to lift your dog, movement may be extremely limited as your dog heals. Ask your veterininarian what harness they would recommend. Post-operative care is not a one size fits all – your dog’s sutures, wounds, and where they can safely be touched (lifted) will vary depending on the surgery they just had.

Best for: Dogs recovering from surgery, with DM, IVDD, or spinal injuries.

Recommended Brands:

Help ‘Em Up Harness – A favorite among veterinarians and rehab centers.
Walkabout Full Support Harness – Soft neoprene body wrap with chest and rear support.
PetSafe CareLift Support Harness – Affordable and widely available, with options for male and female dogs.

💩 Problem: Supporting Your Dog During Potty Breaks

Solution:
Rear Lift Harness with Open Back Design

It’s important that the rear harness you pick has enough room for your dog to poop freely and is cut so that your dog can pee without soiling their harness. Every dog’s undercarriage is different, so you may need to try a few different harnesses before you find the one that fits your pup perfectly.

Best for: Elderly dogs who need potty-time help without soiling their harness.

Recommended Brands:

Walkin’ Lift Rear Harness – Designed to stay out of the way during elimination.
GingerLead – Has a specially designed opening and padding to avoid messes.
PetSafe Rear Lift Harness – Offers good back-end support with easy cleanup.

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Harness:

Measure your dog carefully—weight, girth, and length matter.
Consult your vet or rehab therapist—they can recommend the ideal type for your dog’s condition.
Watch your dog’s body language. A good harness should provide support without causing discomfort or resistance.
Start slow. Let your dog get used to the harness gradually and praise them often during use.

Mobility challenges don’t have to stop your dog from enjoying everyday moments. With the right harness, you can give your dog the freedom to keep moving—safely and comfortably.

The Dog Mobility Project