Abstract: A harness assembly (24 surrounding an animal's body around the neck, across the back, upon the underside and around the animal's chest. The harness assembly (24) includes a shoulder connecting member (28) having an upward extending, quick connect plug (34); a neck band (46) encircling the animal's neck and that is attached to the shoulder connecting member (28); a body band (50) encircling the animal behind its front legs and that attaches to the shoulder connecting member (28); and a chest member (54) connected to the neck and body. A stand-up leash (64), which is attached to the plug (34), normally remains in an upright position permitting a person walking the animal to comfortably grasp the leash (64) with a hand grip (88). A quick connect coupling (74) interfaces with the plug (34) for removing or replacing the stand-up leash (64) from the harness assembly (24). The leash (64) also has an extension (90) for lengthening which permits the animal increased freedom of movement.