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10 Best Harnesses for German Shepherds in 2024 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Categorized as Buyer's Guide & Reviews
best german shepherds harness

One common issue that German shepherd owners face is finding a harness that fits their dog properly. Because German shepherds are such a large breed, many standard harnesses are simply too small.

Moreover, they have a strong musculature, which can make it difficult to find a harness that doesn’t rub or chafe.

That’s why we’ve put together these reviews and buyer’s guide.

In it, we’ll cover some of the most common challenges German shepherd owners face when choosing a harness, as well as our top picks for the best German shepherd harnesses on the market.

We’ll also provide some tips on how to measure your dog for a harness, so you can be sure to choose the right size.

With our guide, owners can be sure to find a harness that will keep their German shepherd safe and comfortable on walks and hikes.

Our Picks for The Best Harnesses for German Shepherds


10 Best Harnesses for German Shepherds Reviewed

1. rabbitgoo Tactical Dog Harness

Looking for a top-quality dog harness that can stand up to the rigors of training, hunting, and working? Then check out the rabbitgoo Tactical Dog Harness.

This heavy-duty vest is made of 1050D nylon with sturdy stitching for extra durability and wearability. The two metal shoulder buckles can bear great pulling force, ensuring your dog is safely harnessed during any activity.

Let’s take a look at how comfortable this harness is for your german shepherd. The well-padded design covers all pressure points, so your dog won’t feel any discomfort. The breathable air mesh keeps them ventilated and comfortable.

In terms of maximum control and safety, this harness is the two metal leash attachment points. This allows you to attach your leash to either the top or bottom of the harness, giving you more control over your dog’s movement.

But what about the ease of use? Well, the rabbitgoo Tactical Dog Harness is one of the easiest to put on and take off. Thanks to the four quick-release buckles and five adjustable straps, you can get a perfect fit every time.

This makes it a great option for dogs who need to be in and out of their harnesses frequently such as service dogs, police dogs, and search-and-rescue dogs.

With six color options and four sizes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your large breed dog.

However, there was one downside to this harness: the straps that adjust.

Some people mentioned that they needed to readjust the straps frequently because the saddle tended to go sideways and didn’t stay in the original adjustment.

Pros:

  • Heavy-duty construction.
  • Two metal leash attachment points.
  • Quick-release buckles and adjustable straps for a perfect fit.
  • Available in four sizes and six colors.
  • Padded and breathable design.

Cons:

  • The straps needed to be adjusted frequently.

2. Auroth Tactical Dog Harness

Auroth Tactical Dog Harness is our runner-up for the best harness for German shepherds.

This durable harness is made of 900D nylon and features sturdy stitching for extra durability. It’s also well padded in every pressure load point, so your dog will be comfortable even during the most intense training sessions.

Plus, the breathable air mesh keeps Fido cool and dry, even when things start to heat up. And if that wasn’t enough, the harness also features two metal leash attachments for added security.

While many dog owners loved the Auroth Tactical Dog Harness’s durability and comfort, some found that the molle’s width was just a little too small to let the attachment bands go through.

Pros:

  • Durable.
  • Well padded.
  • Breathable air mesh.
  • Two metal leash attachments.
  • Large color and size selection.

Cons:

  • Design flaw prevented some accessories from being attached.

3. Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness

The Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness is perfect for German shepherd puppies. It’s made of a soft, breathable air mesh and features two reflective bands on the sides for added safety.

It’s also weatherproof, so you can use it in all kinds of conditions. Plus, it’s super easy to put on – just step in, clip, and go!

With its three safety features, the Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness is the perfect choice for keeping your pup safe and sound.

While many dog owners loved the Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness’s ease of use, some found that it wasn’t escape-proof. If your dog is a master of escape, you may want to look for a different harness.

Pros:

  • Super easy to put on.
  • Soft, breathable air mesh.
  • Weatherproof.
  • Reflective bands for better visibility.
  • Provide three safety features.

Cons:

  • Not escape-proof.

4. WINSEE Dog Harness

Fourth on our list is the WINSEE Dog Harness. This is a great product for anyone who wants to have more control over their dog without hurting or choking them. This harness is made with reflective straps, so you can easily see your dog in low light.

WINSEE Dog Harness is also one of the few products on the market that comes with slide adjusters at the chest and neck, which is extremely helpful to get a snug fit on your dog. It also has a sturdy fabric handle on the back, and a slide lock to keep it securely fastened.

The double stitching and reinforcement stitching at high-stress points are top-notch. It’s also easy to fit and put on and nicely padded for your dog’s comfort.

The downside was that some people found that the adjusters didn’t lock, so they needed to be readjusted every few days. But of course, this would depend on your dog’s activity level and how tight you would like the fit to be.

Pros:

  • Reflective straps.
  • Slide adjusters at chest and neck.
  • Sturdy fabric handle.
  • Double stitching and reinforcement stitching.
  • Easy to fit and put on.

Cons:

  • Adjusters didn’t lock.

5. PetSafe Easy Walk No Pull Dog Harness

The PetSafe Easy Walk No Pull Dog Harness was created over 15 years ago by a veterinary behaviorist. The goal was to create a harness that would stop dogs from pulling on the leash, and it has become one of the most popular harnesses on the market.

This innovative harness is designed to gently steer your dog in the direction you want to go, without hurting him or causing him any discomfort.

The patented Martingale loop and front chest leash attachment work together to keep your dog under control, while still allowing him to enjoy his walk.

And because the harness goes around your dog’s chest instead of his neck, it won’t choke or hurt him even if he does try to pull.

However, there is one downside to this harness – if it gets wet, it will dry brittle and tear easily. So if you’re planning on taking your dog out in inclement weather, be sure to use a different harness.

Pros:

  • 15-year vet-trusted design minimizes pulling.
  • Promotes good leash manners.
  • Prevents gagging and choking.
  • Safe for dogs of all sizes.
  • Durable and easy to use.

Cons:

  • Not suitable for wet weather.

6. PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness

Next on our list is the PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness. There are many reasons why this harness is so popular, but the chief among them is the fact that they have multiple clips making putting them on and taking them off a snap.

That’s right, with PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness, you won’t have to wrestle with your dog to get them into their harness – the multiple clips make it easy to put on and take off, even for the most uncooperative of dogs.

Furthermore, the reflective material is a big hit with fashion-conscious dog owners, who love the way it helps their pets stand out from the crowd.

And when it comes to cleanup, PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness is second to none. Whether you’re dealing with muddy paw prints or slobbery kisses, this harness is easy to clean and keeps looking like new.

Despite its many benefits, some people said that the PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness was just okay, and didn’t prevent dogs from pulling terribly.

While it might help to keep your dog under control, it might not be the best option if you were looking for a no-pull harness.

Pros:

  • Easily on and off with three quick-release snap buckles.
  • No pull and no choke design distributes pressure evenly.
  • Reflective strap for nighttime walks.
  • Sturdy padded handle for easy grabbing.

Cons:

  • Not the best no-pull harness.

7.  OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness

The OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness is made with full metal buckles that are strength tested at 397lb/180kg for size M and 485lb/220kg for size L/XL.

But that’s not all – the OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness also has you covered with their 1000D Nylon construction. This material is known for its durability and resistance to dirt, water, and abrasion.

These two features mean that you can rest assured that your dog is safe during even the most strenuous activities. But they didn’t stop there – they also included a comfortable padded interior to keep your dog comfortable even when he’s working hard.

However, there is one downside to this harness – it can sometimes overheat your dog.

So if you’re planning on using this harness for activities like hiking or running, be sure to take breaks often and give your dog plenty of water to prevent him from getting too hot.

Pros:

  • Durable metal buckles.
  • Fully adjustable to fit dogs of different ages, sizes, and body build.
  • Easy on-and-off structure
  • Various leash attachment options.
  • a MOLLE system on the sides allows you to attach extra gear.

Cons:

  • Can overheat your dog during strenuous activities.

8. tobeDRI No Pull Dog Harness

The tobeDRI No Pull Dog Harness is a good quality no-pull harness that is perfect for keeping your dog safe and under control.

This tough little harness is made from high-quality materials, and it shows. The stitching is thick and sturdy, and it’s clear that a lot of thought went into the design.

The front and back leash attachment points are sewn with durable thick nylon webbing and enforced box stitches and bartacks. This ensures that the harness will withstand even the strongest of dogs.

And if you think that’s good, wait until you hear about the leash. The harness also comes with a leash, so you don’t have to worry about buying one separately.

Don’t think the leash is just an afterthought, either – the leash included with the tobeDri No Pull Dog Harness is a real workhorse.

It’s made from the same high-quality materials as the harness. The leash also has a comfortable foam handle that prevents leash burn, even when your dog pulls hard.

While the tobeDRI No Pull Dog Harness is a great quality harness, it does have one downside – it’s not good if your dog hasn’t been trained to not pull on the leash. This leash is best for dogs who already have good leash manners.

Pros:

  • Made from high-quality materials.
  • Sturdy construction.
  • Comes with a leash.
  • The leash has a comfortable foam handle.

Cons:

  • Not good for training dogs to not pull on the leash.

9. Eagloo Dog Harness

Have you ever wrestled with your dog, trying to put their harness on, and felt like you were in a losing battle? Well, struggle no more!

The Eagloo Dog Harness is designed for ease of use, so you can get your dog ready for their walk quickly and without any drama.

The harness goes on easily over your dog’s head and fastens securely at the chest and belly. It’s also adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit for your dog.

Its comfort point is also worth mentioning. These harnesses are designed to contour to your dog’s body, giving them a comfortable fit that won’t rub your dog’s armpit or chest hair the wrong way.

And because Eagloo Harnesses are made of breathable mesh, your dog will stay cool and comfortable even on the hottest days.

While the Eagloo Dog Harness is overall sturdy, it’s not very reflective. This can be a problem when walking your dog at night or in low-light conditions.

Pros:

  • Prevents choking.
  • Mesh lining prevents dog injuries.
  • The sturdy handle on the back for easy grabbing.

Cons:

  • Not very reflective.

10. PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness

The last harness on our list is the PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness. This harness is a popular choice among dog parents because it is both sturdy and gentle on dogs’ skin.

The harness fits snugly and doesn’t rub or chafe the skin, which is important for keeping your furry friend comfortable. The No-Pull feature is also great, as it means you won’t have to constantly adjust the harness while out on walks.

What makes the PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness stand out is its amazing customer service. From size issues to getting a refund or replacement, their team is always eager to help.

The downside of the PHOEPET No Pull Dog Harness is that the buckles are not very good quality.

They have a tendency to break or come undone, which can be dangerous for your dog. If you decide to purchase this harness, be sure to check the buckles regularly to make sure they are secure.

Pros:

  • Fits snugly and doesn’t rub or chafe the skin.
  • The No-Pull feature is great.
  • Amazing customer service.

Cons:

  • The buckles are not very good quality.

Why Should You Use a Harness for Your German Shepherds?

When it comes to walking or running with a German shepherd, a harness is always the best option. A harness provides more control than a collar, which is important when dealing with a strong and energetic breed like a German shepherd.

Additionally, a harness can help to prevent injuries. By distributing the weight evenly, a harness takes the strain off of the dog’s neck and spine, which are both vulnerable to injury.

In summary, harnesses are a safer and more comfortable option for German shepherds, making them the perfect choice for any owner.

Types of Dog Harnesses

Dog harnesses come in several different types, depending on the purpose and use of the harness.

A No-Pull harness is a harness constructed with straps around the dog’s chest, torso, and neck. In this type of harness, the leash is attached to the front so that if your dog pulls, the leash gives a tugging effect to turn him to the side rather than allowing him to dive on ahead.

A padded harness has soft padding on the chest and back areas that give your dog comfort and stability. This feature is excellent for deep-chested big dogs like German shepherds and boxers.

A car harness acts as a seatbelt for your dog. It is designed to protect your dog from the impact of a crash when an accident occurs. Also, this harness keeps your dog from roaming the car too much, distracting the driver and increasing the risk of an accident.

A tactical harness is a multi-functional harness that allows dogs to carry some loads on their bodies. This harness is perfect for service dogs who need to carry medicine, water, and other emergency items. This harness is quite easy to notice; you might have seen it before. It often has a military design and tactical aesthetic with a sign that reads: “Service Dog Do Not Pet.”

A tracking harness is designed to ensure that a dog’s movements are not restricted and to let the dog breathe normally while following a ground scent. This harness is often used for dogs doing search and rescue missions.

A reflective harness has a strip of reflective material sewn in to keep your dog visible at night or in low light conditions. This feature is especially important if you plan to walk at night with your dog.

What To Look For When Buying a Harness for German Shepherd?

Here are some things to look for when choosing a harness for your German Shepherd:

1. Harness Style

There are many different styles of harnesses on the market, so it’s important to choose one that suits your dog’s needs.

Back-Clip Harness

Back-clip harnesses offer a number of advantages for both dogs and their owners. For dogs with tracheal problems, the back clip helps to distribute the pressure more evenly, preventing further damage to the throat.

This harness is also ideal for dogs who have mastered the art of walking on a loose leash. The back clip allows owners to keep a closer eye on their pets, making it easier to correct any unwanted behavior.

In addition, back-clip harnesses offer greater stability than front-clip harnesses, making them less likely to slip off.

Font-Clip Harness

A front-clip harness is a type of harness that attaches to your dog’s leash at the front, near the chest area. This style of harness is typically used for dogs who need to learn leash manners and can be helpful in reducing pulling.

Front clip harnesses provide more control over your dog’s direction than a traditional collar and leash setup, and they can be less likely to cause neck injuries.

However, they may be more likely to get the leash tangled between your dog’s legs, and they may put too much pressure on your dog’s throat if not fitted properly.

Dual-Clip Harness

A dual-clip harness is a versatile and convenient tool for dog owners. With a front and back clip attachment, you can easily tailor the harness to your dog’s individual needs.

If your dog is prone to pulling on the leash, attaching the leash to the front clip can help to redirect their attention and prevent them from pulling too hard.

Alternatively, if your dog is more likely to walk calmly by your side, attaching the leash to the back clip may be more comfortable for them. Either way, a dual-clip harness provides you with the flexibility to choose what works best for your dog.

2. Measurement

The first and most important thing to look for in a harness for your German Shepherd is the right fit. You don’t want a harness that is too big or too small for your dog. German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs, so make sure to measure your dog before purchasing a harness.

3. Adjustability

Another important thing to look for in a harness is that it is adjustable. This is important because you want to be able to adjust the harness to fit your dog’s body perfectly.

4. Comfortability

Another thing to consider when choosing a harness for your German Shepherd is comfort. You want to make sure that the harness is comfortable for your dog to wear. This is especially important if you plan on using the harness for long walks or runs.

5. Reflective

A reflective harness is a great option for German Shepherds. This is because German Shepherds are dark-colored dogs and can be difficult to see at night. A reflective harness will help to keep your dog safe and visible at night.

How to Measure German Shepherd Girth for Harness

To get an accurate measurement of your dog’s girth, you will need to use a soft tape measure.

Start by measuring around the widest part of your dog’s chest, which is typically right behind the front legs. Make sure to keep the measuring tape snug against your dog’s body, but not too tight.

Next, measure around the base of your dog’s neck. This measurement is important because you want to make sure that the harness is not too tight around your dog’s neck.

Finally, measure your dog’s back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. This measurement is important because you want to make sure that the harness is not too long or too short for your dog.

Here’s a short-video from Kurgo that will show you how to measure your German shepherd’s chest, neck, and weight:

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the best harness for your German shepherd, we recommend the rabbitgoo Tactical Dog Harness.

It’s made of heavy-duty construction, has two metal leash attachment points, and is quick and easy to put on. It’s also available in four sizes and six colors, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your large breed dog.

The Auroth Tactical Dog Harness is our runner-up pick.

It’s also made of durable materials and features two metal leash attachment points. It’s well-padded and has a breathable air mesh to keep your dog cool and dry. Plus, it’s available in a large selection of colors and sizes.

For German shepherd puppies, we recommend the Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness. It’s made of a soft, breathable air mesh and is super easy to put on. It also features reflective bands for added safety. Plus, it’s weatherproof, so you can use it in all kinds of conditions.

No matter which harness you choose, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your German shepherd. Happy shopping!

Why Trust Us?

At TrainYourGsd, we love animals and believe pet ownership should be rewarding, fun, and educational for everyone.

Our editorial team spends hours doing research, testing, and writing about the best products so that you don’t have to. They only recommend products they believe in and use themselves.

To help you find the best harness for your German shepherd, we spent hours combing through customer reviews and testing products ourselves.

We looked for features like durability, adjustability, comfort, and safety when choosing which products to include in our guide.

We also considered the size of German shepherds when making our picks.

Finally, we only chose products that are available in a wide range of sizes to ensure that you can find the perfect fit for your dog.

By Andrew Garf

Andrew Garf has loved dogs, especially German Shepherds, since he was 10 years old. Though he also loves burgers, training dogs is his real passion. That's why he created the website TrainYourGSD.com - to help dog owners learn how to properly train, care for, and bond with their German Shepherd dogs.