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Quick Access To The Best Harnesses For German Shepherds?
| Editors Pick | Brand |
| Best Overall | The RUFFWEAR Harness |
| Best Runner Up | The Rabbitgoo Harness |
| Best Budget | The PetLove Dog Harness |
| Best Under $20 | The BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness |
| Best Tactical Harness For A German Shepherd | The OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness |
When looking for the best harness for your german shepherd, you are sure to find that there are many options. I would go as far to say too many options…
And with so many to choose from it’s easy for someone to get stuck in analysis paralysis. That’s why we created this post.
We looked at dozens upon dozens of the different harnesses available to bring you the crème of the crop. And we’re confident enough to say that if you choose any of the harnesses on this list that both you and your pup will be happy with your choice.
In this post we’ll be going over the top 12 best harnesses that will suit your german shepherd wonderfully. No more painful strain on their neck from a collar, no more escaping you while on walks, and no more losing control of your pup.
Let’s jump in!
Table of Contents
Top 12 Best Harnesses For German Shepherds
Best Overall: The RUFFWEAR Harness
The RUFFWEAR Harness is our best overall pick for german shepherds as it’s both comfortable and durable. Additionally, the 29 points of contact allow this harness to be great for just about any use case.
It comes with 4-points of adjustment to provide a snug fit. It also has an aluminum V-ring on the back for relaxed walking and updated webbing loops on the chest that redirect your dog if they pull too hard while walking or running.
The harness is specially designed for any sized doggo. It has foam padding to help keep them comfy while they wear it, and the design gives your pup a little more breathing room in hot summer months or under a jacket during wintertime fun with friends.
It’s reflective accents go all the way around the chest to give it top notch visibility anywhere, day or night.
Reviews from testers are widely positive with over 82% of people giving this harness 5 stars. Testers also shared that this harness was a repeat buy for them and how it was very comfortable for their dog.
No unwanted scratching and irritation after 10-15 minutes of use with this harness.
RUFFWEAR Harness Key Features:
- 4 points of adjustment
- 29 different leash attachment points
- Reflective features
Best Runner Up: The Rabbitgoo Harness
There are many great harnesses for dogs, and the Rabbitgoo Harness is one of them which is why it got our best runner up spot for german shepherds. The nylon construction on this harness means it’s perfect for use in any environment. It can be used for regular everyday walks or off hiking up a mountain.
One of the most important features for a harness is its straps.
A simple adjustment that takes only seconds ensures that your pooch won’t be pulled or tugged around by their neck and consequently unable to move forward without feeling restrained.
Your four-legged friend will never be injured from pulling when you equip them with this versatile harness.
You’ll be in control while they remain comfortable thanks to the sturdy fasteners.
From the people who’ve tested this harness they said that it was really effective at preventing their pup from tugging. They also shared that they feel it’s really well suited for bigger dogs and a great quality product.
Rabbitgoo Harness Key Features:
- Dual ring setup
- Fully adjustable
- Easy on-and-off design
Best Budget: The PetLove Dog Harness
The PetLove Dog Harness is a stylish and durable harness that offers peace of mind – it’s a great option for people seeking practicality at an affordable price.
This harness is made from scratch-resistant materials, has a large loading capacity for increased strength at stress points, and has easy-to-put on and take off features.
The harness is also made out of materials resistant to being worn and scratched.
It comes with comfortable padding and breathable mesh lining to accommodate most doggo shapes, plus adjustable straps for a custom fit.
And of course the reflective material ensures visibility at night!
PetLove Dog Harness Key Features:
- Easy to put on and take off
- Comfortable padding with adjustable straps
- Stylish & includes reflective material
Best Under $20: The BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness
If you’re in the market for a harness but on a budget, the BABYLTRL Harness is definitely one to consider.
It has lightweight mesh fabric and an ultra-soft design that makes it especially comfortable for larger breeds of dogs at any stage of life. But, also comes at a better price than other similar styles.
The adjustable straps ensures a custom fit for your doggo, so they don’t have room to shake out of it.
The harness features two D-rings in the front and back that are reinforced to provide extra comfort when traveling on longer walks/journeys.
It has locking buckles that offer an even distribution of force to protect their body from choking and injury–this way your pup can enjoy activities like running after their favorite toy without fear.
BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness Key Features:
- Front & back clip
- Evenly distributed pressure to prevent choking
- Easy grab handle for extra control if needed
Best Tactical Harness For A German Shepherd: The OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness
The OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness is the best choice for people who need a comfortable, durable way to keep their big doggo under control.
With an adjustable strap that prevents your dog from choking, this could be considered one of the easiest harnesses to put on. The snaps make it easy to remove and don’t put your fingers in harm’s way when fastening the buckle.
And, there are two leash attachment points – one at the front and one at the back. If you prefer more control or to just walk at a relaxed pace, the OneTigris Tactical Harness is a great choice for a german shepherd.
OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness Key Features:
- Made to have maximum security/safety as well as comfort
- 4 buckles for easy-on-and-off
- 1 year warranty
Our Top-Rated Picks
The Thinkpet Harness
The Thinkpet No-Pull Harness is perfect for energetic doggos because of its breathable mesh. This allows your german shepherd to be happier while the no pull harness absorbs any excess pulling, giving you and your pup the best experience possible.
The back clip will protect them during unexpected movements, and those with the front clip will make sure they stay in place so that you can enjoy a tension-free walk.
Not to mention your canine companion won’t lose out on style too! This wonderful dog vest ensures that they look their best while bettering neck and spine health.
Thinkpet Harness Key Features:
- Thin breathable mesh
- Dual clip feature
- Many colors available
The EXPAWLORER Harness
A dog’s natural tendency is to pull on their leash, but that can be reduced with the right type of harness.
EXPAWLORER Harnesses provide a solution for training while still giving your dog freedom, which is perfect if you have started to worry about losing the leash and not being able to control your german shepherd.
You can be assured of a good grip with the extra handle on each shoulder. Also, the metal D ring on their back prevents your pup from running free when out for a casual stroll.
A great quality harness has reflective features that ensure your pup is seen at any time, such as when it’s dusk or in bad weather conditions.
EXPAWLORER Harness Key Features:
- Designed for big dogs
- Extra handle for added control
- D-ring on back for leash walking
The Friends Forever Large Breed Harness
The Friends Forever Harness is a durable, comfortable dog vest that will give your pup a snug hug during their walks.
For maximum control and comfort, the harness has a no-chafing design that evenly distributes all pulling pressure across your german shepherd’s chest.
It comes with a 10-inch reflective strip built into the straps’ trim, which reflects light back toward headlights for nighttime strolls or other evening activities.
Friends Forever Large Breed Harness Key Features:
- Considerably comfortable without causing irritation to skin
- Great reflective features for night time walks
- Evenly distributes pulling pressure away from throat
The YOGADOG Heavy Duty Dog Harness
When shopping for a harness, there are several factors to consider. One is how easy it is to put on and take off. The YOGADOG Heavy Duty Dog Harness makes this process quick while securely fitting your pup without getting tangled or uncomfortable.
It sports reflective stitching that is comfortable yet heavy-duty making it safe for you and your dog when out in the night or day.
It’s also made with breathable, soft padding that reduces pain on sensitive areas, as well as elastic handles to support a standing grip.
The harness is highly protective and comfortable as it’s made with well-reinforced stitching for long lasting durability.
Additionally, it’s easy release buckle provides total control, and you don’t have to worry about getting anything dirty because it’s waterproof nylon webbing can withstand the elements all year round!
YOGADOG Heavy Duty Dog Harness Key Features:
- Great hand-held control with D-ring if you decide to use a leash
- Made with considerably soft padding
- Reinforced stitching for increased durability
The Kurgo Dog Harness
Designed both for comfort and practicality, the Kurgo Dog Harness features a V-neck design to reduce the risk of neck strain, as well as an integrated seat belt clip. This ensures that you never have to worry about your dog’s behavior on car rides, or restraining them in the car.
This harness has a steel nesting buckle system, as well as a pull handle for security. Plus, it doesn’t impede their movement in any way and easily attaches to your dog’s back without risk of pulling them off balance.
The harness is a great choice for people with german shepherds who want to make every step of their adventures together as easy and safe as possible.
Kurgo Dog Harness Key Features:
- Great for walking, running, camping, hiking
- 4 adjustment points and padded chest
- Includes 10-inch lead for seat belt attachment
The Julius-K9 Harness
A premium-quality European harness, the Julius-K9 Harness makes outings with your german shepherd friend more enjoyable for both you and them.
The wide strap design evenly distributes pressure across your canine companion’s chest, meaning they’re comfortable and secure no matter what you’re doing on your adventure together.
The interchangeable hooks and loops make the various patches available for you to match their mood or personality (or is it just my dog that has sassy moods!).
It also has reflective accents which provide visibility even in the evening and during bad weather.
Lastly, the adjustable straps stretch to fit most shapes and sizes, and the breathable liner will keep your pup cool no matter how long they’re playing.
Julius-K9 Harness Key Features:
- Sturdy & made of high quality materials
- Designed for increased visibility & safety
- Built to last while being friendly to your dog’s skin
The Didog Multi-Use Escape Proof Harness
Along with being comfy and safe, the Didog Harness discourages escape artists. There are four straps that go from around your dog’s chest to beneath their belly, with two secure points of tension. On top of that it has soft pads that prevent chafing at all contact points.
One of the greatest things about this harness is that it has plenty of adjustments and for a variety of german shepherd sizes, while also being nearly impossible to escape from. The hidden top handle and D-ring make attaching a leash or tethering your dog easy as pie.
Didog Multi-Use Escape Proof Harness Key Features:
- Durable air mesh
- Designed for escape artists
- Adjustable multi-point straps
Advantages To Using A Harness
There are many advantages to using a harness that make walking with your pup a more enjoyable experience for the both of you. A few advantages are:
Harnesses provide you more control over your dog than a traditional collar. If you’re in a busy area while on your walk a harness will allow you to control your doggo better without causing them any harm.
For bigger dogs like a german shepherd, the increased control is considerably helpful with your strong pup. Because of this it’s easier on your back and arms while walking them.
For older or wounded dogs a harness can help them get on their feet without considerable strain on their neck like a collar would.
Because a harness hugs your dog’s chest as opposed to being only around their neck it distributes pressure better. This means your dog is much less likely to experience neck or back pain from getting excited and pulling.
Another great advantage is they’re considerably better at preventing your dog from escaping while on their leash compared to a regular collar.
Qualities Of A Great Harness For German Shepherds
The first quality you want in a dog vest is that it’s easy to put on. The last thing you want is for every time you go to take your pup for a walk and there’s a struggle to get the darn thing on.
Being able to take your pup quickly out, without having the hassle of putting on a harness and leash, is worth its weight in gold.
In addition to ease of use, visibility is another important factor for consideration.
Whether you’re walking them at night or in the early morning hours, you want to make sure that they can be seen so they stay safe and don’t run into others who might not be paying attention!
Comfort is another of the most important factors for a harness. A pup might not enjoy going for walks if their experience every time they go for a walk is stressful or uncomfortable.
Walks should be both enjoyable and exciting for them, so look to find one that’s also focused on comfortability!
The Different Types Of Harnesses Available
Back Clip
A back clip harness has the leash attach at the back which provides a care-free, no tangle walking experience. Back clip harnesses also ensure your pup doesn’t chew on their leash as it’s not in their reach.
Front Clip
A front clip harness has the leash attach at the front which helps discourage pulling. Front clip harnesses are known for being used to help train dogs not to pull. If you find your doggo is walking you more than you’re walking them, a front clip harness would be a great choice.
Dual Clip
A dual-clip harness gives you the ability to clip your leash in two places. Depending on what’s happening on a given day, you can choose to clip the leash at the back for leisurely strolls or the front for greater control over your pup.
Step-In Harness
For dogs that really don’t like having something put over their head, a step-in harness is a great choice. Simply lie it on the ground and get your pup to stand in the holes to put the harness on them.
FAQ
What Size Harness For A German Shepherd?
There’s no ‘1 size’ of a harness for a german shepherd. To say, “generally a german shepherd needs a medium sized harness” would be misleading.
Is your dog just a pup? Are they a teen? Have they been eating a little bit too much kibble and gained some weight?
There are many factors that come into play when deciding on a harness size for your pup which is why the best answer is to measure your doggo.
This way you can know with absolute certainty that you’re getting the right sized dog vest for your pup when you’re adding it to your cart.
Let’s address how.
First, you’ll need a bendable measuring tape that’s long enough to go around your dog’s body.
Next, you want to make 2 measurements on your dog. One around their neck and the second around their chest. These two measurements will allow you to use the sizing chart of the harness you’re checking out.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Our list of the top 12 best harnesses for german shepherds.
Many people are starting to move away from collars and towards harnesses because of the better distribution of pressure and control.
No one wants to hurt their fur baby while out on a walk but they also don’t want to be pulled around the entire walk.
Getting the right harness for your pup will ensure that you remain in control and they remain a happy healthy doggo.
We hope that you were able to find one harness on our list that resonates with you and you feel will be perfect for your furry friend.
Here’s to happier walking sessions for both of you!
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10 Best Dog Beds for German Shepherds: Everything You Need to Know