Letting your dog run and walk freely may sound like a fun idea when he’s a puppy. But as that fuzzy puppy grows bigger, taller, and stronger, finding the best dog harness for German Shepherds will become a necessity.
Not only is it important for your dog to know you’re walking him–not the other way around–but also helps other passersby feel safer walking by you.
Nothing ruins a nice stroll down the street quite like your dog spontaneously reaching up to jump on another dog or ripping the shirt of a nearby stranger with intentions to just say “hello.”
A no pull dog harness does not have to make your dog look like he’s fresh off of a drug sniffing adventure. There is a harness for German Shepherds that are built for fast-paced walks, light jogs, and leisurely strolls.
The goal is to find a large breed dog harness that works for your fitness needs, keeps your dog comfortable as needed, and sufficiently works without a lot of wrestling around.
Best Harness For German Shepherd
1. Chai’s Choice
If you’re an outdoorsy type who wants to take your dog along with you for camping trips and other expeditions, enjoy this 3M reflective dog vest with its two leash attachments. Use the loop on the back to keep your dog in place while in a car; just insert the seat belt loop through the loop.
Key Features
- Available in five sizes (X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large)
- Available in three colors (black, neon yellow, neon orange)
- Zinc alloy D-ring
The lightweight duraflex buckle is strong. And the ergonomic design makes the harness easy to put on and take off. The adjustable straps help you to modify the vest for your pup’s needs. Making high-quality products since 2014, Chai’s Choice harnesses help for the training process.
If used early on and regularly, your dog will get used to wearing it.
Pros
- Soft sponge padding
- Lightweight mesh lining
Cons
- Goes over the head, which may take time for your dog to get used to
- Must loosen neck-straps each time in order to remove the harness, according to one reviewer
This dog harness is covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Industrial Puppy
Dog lovers are common, and some just want to walk up and pet your dog. They should know ahead of time which dogs you should avoid just reaching out to—this includes service dogs and dogs in training. This dog harness lets them know without you having to warn every passerby.
Key Features
- Available in seven sizes (XX-Small, X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large)
- Heavy-duty nylon straps and handle
- Top-mounted handle
The nylon handle can be used for control and training, along with the welded D-ring for easy walking. With heavy-duty double stitching and mesh-lined nylon construction, this is a good vest for puppies in training.
Pros
- Reflective safety band and patches
- Adjustable straps
Cons
- Only comes in bright red
- “In training” patch on harness (can be removed)
This training vest/dog harness reportedly is covered for life.
3. ICEFANG
If you’re looking for an Icefang tactical dog harness that doesn’t rub and is escape-proof, here’s an option for you.
Key Features
- Option of a plastic or metal buckle
- 1,000-pound proof load test (shoulders); 250-pound proof load test (belly)
- Sewing by Bartack and X in Box Pattern on Each Joint and Heavy load Point
This German Shepherd vest comes in 12 different variations and is (currently) available in Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large for your growing dog.
Pros
- Metal buckle cannot break or snap like plastic buckles
- No-pull front clip helps avoid dog controlling the walk
Cons
- D-ring attachment ripped off, according to one reviewer
- Several reviewers mentioned adjustment straps may unravel
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy on this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
4. Rabbitgoo
Rabbitgoo
$16.98
This dog harness is perfect to keep control of your dog, should he be a puller, and comes in handy for training and behavior control.
Key Features
- Available in four sizes (Small, Medium, Large, X-Large)
- Available in five colors
- Back leash attachment with top handle
Although this nylon oxford harness is made to avoid dogs who pull, it is usually a good idea to have a harness made with a top handle like this one. If you need instant control of your dog, especially around cats or other dogs, these handles come in handy.
Plus the four adjustable straps work for weight loss or weight gain in your dog, in addition to walking multiple animals. The reflective feature assists in making sure late-night drivers and bicyclists see you two coming as well.
Pros
- Breathable air mesh
- Soft cushion (protects the dog’s skin while maximizing comfort)
Cons
- Side strap loosened with one dog, according to a reviewer
- Adjusting the harness may result in a reflective side turning inward
Considering the number of people who complained about dogs breaking out of this dog harness or “terrible” sewing jobs, confirm whether this product has a warranty or refund policy. There is no wording about it on the site.
5. WINSEE
If you have ever had to wrestle an ill-forming dog harness on your pup, then you know how important elasticity is.
The last thing you want to do is hear that loud “yelp” and make your dog despise the harness, even though it can be comfortable and make for easier walks if added on correctly.
Key Features
- Solid nylon
- Lockable snap and buckle
- Elastic belt on belly strap
This no-pull adjustable harness has clips in both the front and the back for flexible walking. Made of Oxford material with a reflective feature for night walking, this harness also comes with a dog collar.
Available in orange and black, the sizes range from Medium to Large to X-Large. The two D-rings are intended to make sure that the harness cannot easily be torn off, along with the help of locking the buckle.
Pros
- Adjustable at neck and chest
- X-Large straps bigger and thicker
Cons
- Front area of harness does not adjust, so it may be too big or too small for some dogs
- Verify whether all features/additions are inside: one reviewer did not have a front/back attachment on her harness, another got no free collar
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
6. Friends Forever
If you have a dog who is a puller, having a harness will stop you from accidentally pulling too hard on your German Shepherd’s collar and make the walk less stressful for both of you. And this no-pull harness, intended for large dogs, has extra control and safety.
Key Features
- Available in Large and X-Large
- 3M reflective material
- Black dog vest
From first sight, some dog harnesses look about like fire academy training. They are just too heavy looking to convince the owner that they’re comfortable. This lightweight version takes this problem into account. It allows for free movement without risk of chafing.
Pros
- Pulling pressure evenly distributed
- Heavy-duty leash attachment D-ring
Cons
- Waterproof
- Strong lockable buckle
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
7. BABYLTRL
This Oxford soft vest comes with a sturdy D-ring leash attachment point, so you can easily get your dog in and out of the harness as needed. Sometimes less is more, and this harness is pretty simple to attach.
Key Features
- Nylon handle for easy control
- Available in four sizes (Small, Medium, Large, X-Large)
- Available in three colors (orange, black, pink)
If your dog likes to wiggle around, the soft sponge padding plate prevents dog injuries and make comfort a top priority. Use the front and back rings for attaching the leash, and lock the leash. At night, passersby will see the reflective feature to hopefully avoid accidents.
Pros
- Fast-drying, breathable fabric
- Fully adjustable straps at the neck and back
Cons
- Several users complained that this harness did not stop pulling dogs, just controlled it slightly more
- One reviewer said the dog removed the buckles on his/her own
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
8. PoyPet
The soft filling on this dog harness is hand-friendly, which adds extra control to guide the dog.
Key Features
- Scratch-resistant Oxford material
- Available in five colors (X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large)
- Available in nine colors
Adjustable around the neck and belly, this dual-elastic design can personalize your dog fitting so the harness is not too tight or doesn’t hang down. The no-pull, no-choke features come with two sturdy metal leash attachment points with reinforced webbing.
The reflective stitching assists for night walking. And the four-way adjustable strap, with two snap buckles, can be customized for various dogs, including for daily runs, walking, hiking, hunting, and training.
Pros
- Quick dry
- Ergonomic design for even distribution
Cons
- One reviewer reported that one dog’s leg always ends up out of place because of a gap in material
- Some reviewers reported ripped seams and straps for pulling dogs
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
9. Dogline Quest
Dogline Quest
Prevent pulling and choking around the torso with this patented easy control harness. This breathable harness is perfect for training water dogs or working dogs.
Key Features
- Available in 10 colors
- Available in five sizes, ranging from 18 inches to 45 inches
- Reflective trim
Ready for the night, the reflective trim is great for night walks. The O-ring can be used for an ID tag or leash, or the leash can be used along the back area on the D-ring. There are also service dog patches featuring multicolor raised rubber text.
Secure your dog with assistance from the dual buckles and black hardware. You don’t even have to lift your pet to put the harness in place.
Pros
- Fast-drying neoprene (weather resistant)
- Adjustable straps
Cons
- Harness designed for service dogs so patches may be unnecessary for general dogs (able to remove though)
- Double-check measurements to make sure the harness fits the girth of your dog (one reviewer had to send hers back twice)
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
10. Bolux
This anti-aging, anti-oxidation harness is strong and sturdy. Avoid accidentally choking, pulling, or tugging on your pet while still keeping him comfortable with the help of the adjustable strap.
Key Features
- Available in six colors (X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large)
- Available in 11 colors
- Stainless steel ring
Breathable and easy to adjust, this harness has a handle that can easily be used for outdoor walking. The rugged nylon handle helps you give your dog some distance while still being able to hold on if need be.
The engineering plastic thickened material is durable enough to connect and/or release the harness as needed. Although it has reflecting stitching already, you can also use the hook to attach a small flashlight.
Pros
- Wear-resistant
- Explosion-proof
Cons
- Velcro patches (for service dogs) not included
- Several users reported the buckle unlatched
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
11. Eagloo
Eagloo
$14.99
Get full control with your two metal clips and handle for a no-pull, no-choke experience.
Key Features
- Available in six colors (black, blue, green, orange, pink, rose red)
- Two zinc alloy rings
- Available in four sizes (Small, Medium, Large, X-Large)
With thickened straps and breathable Oxford material, this dog harness has reflective stitching for night walking and soft sponge padding to prevent injuries. Protective with extra comfort, this harness works for daily walks, runs, jogs, outdoor activities, hikes, and training.
The four adjusters make it easy to customize your dog’s walking experience without constantly readjusting each time the harness is taken off.
Pros
- Sturdy handle
- Specially designed adjuster
Cons
- Reviewer reported dog broke the harness on the first walk, and she had to carry her dog home
- Another reviewer reported chafing on the dog’s skin
This dog harness is covered by a 100 percent quality warranty, which includes an option for a replacement or a full refund.
12. YOGADOG
The extended, integrated short leash design means that you can either walk with the dog holding the handle only or use a leash. The walking choice is really up to the owner. But if your dog is a heavy puller than a tight, secure leash may be better.
Your dog will get used to you walking that close to him at some point.
Key Features
- D-ring adapter for long-leash control
- Durable click buckles
- Available in three colors (Large, X-Large, XX-Large)
The ventilated backside makes the dog harness more comfortable on the dog, as well as the padding breast for the front area.
Useful for curb pulling, one reviewer even commented that within five minutes, his German Shepherd dog got so used to it that the reviewer now wants to buy an extra one. Why? To avoid the risk that this heavy-duty harness could run out.
Pros
- 450 pound pulling resistance
- Waterproof nylon webbing
Cons
- Handle not ideal for puppies or short dogs; hard to reach
- One reviewer reported that the handle stretches
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
13. EXPAWLORER
While all of the dog harnesses are intended to help both the dog and dog owner have an easier walk, there are other ways to use the loop. As mentioned above, it can loop into car seat belts to keep your mischievous dog from running all over the place.
Harnesses like these also come in handy for simply holding your dog in place when you’re skeptical of how she’ll react to other dogs. It is easier to just stand in one place to hold a dog than to hope for the best when passing other people and/or dogs.
Key Features
- Available in five sizes (X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, X-Large)
- Available in three colors (black, green, orange)
- Oxford material (outer layer)
With nylon webbing and lightweight mesh lining, this harness is meant to be comfortable for both your neck and belly area. There are also two attachment points, one with an aluminum V-ring on the dog’s back and reinforced webbing on the dog’s chest.
Pros
- Scratch-resistant
- 3M reflective material
Cons
- Several reviewers described it as cheaply made and a knock-off product
- A couple of reviewers complained about the lengthy time it takes to adjust the harness
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
14. ELITE SPANKER
Why should you use a harness instead of a leash? Or, both? Front-range dog harnesses such as these eliminate pressure from your dog’s neck, preventing neck, spine, and windpipe injuries if/when not walked carefully.
Additionally, if your dog is a lunger when it comes to squirrels, rabbits, birds, and other prey, that’ll help you save the prey without hurting your dog.
Key Features
- Available in two sizes (Small, Large)
- Available in five colors
- High-quality 1000D nylon material
The chest girth with three slides provides a two-way adjustment for your dog. The adjustable harness has a V-shaped, aluminum alloy buckle. The vest harness on both sides has an ID panel, attached by a magic sticker, to keep track of your dog during a walk with you or your dog walker.
Pros
- Cotton cloth to avoid scratching
- Waterproof
Cons
- Width of straps different between two sizes; verify dimensions beforehand
- Handle design may still require a leash
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
15. noxgear
Dogs have a habit of lunging forward, especially around SUVs and other automobiles that they cannot see.
Working dogs can sometimes be as careless as puppies. So reflective stitching, and in this case a revolutionary illuminated and reflective design, helps drivers and bicyclists see your dog even when your dog doesn’t see them.
Key Features
- USB rechargeable
- Multicolored LED fiber optics
- Available in four sizes (Small, Medium, Large, X-Large)
Although this dog harness is designed with safety in mind, your dog would be a hit at outdoor festivities with this colorful ensemble. The harness changes between eight bright, solid: red, yellow, magenta, blue, purple, pink, green, and cyan.
It also has six eye-catching, multicolor flashing and slow fading color modes. The Fourth of July is the easy one, but this harness has five more designs: Disco Dog, Rainbow, Cool Comet, Rescue, and Photon Burst.
Press a button and be on your way. The 3M Scotchlite reflective technology requires no batteries and can illuminate for up to 12 hours. It can easily unbuckle and buckle, with a newly redesigned harness and leash attachment for your walking needs.
Machine washable with 360-retroreflective fluorescence material, this attention-grabbing harness is not just for parties and car warnings. If you live in a darker community, specifically one with fewer night lights, this harness is also a necessity just to be able to see your dog in the yard.
The last thing you want to do is let your dog in a big yard and not be able to find him.
Pros
- Weather-resistant
- Lightweight
Cons
- Reviewer reported LED area separated from the nylon material
- A few reviewers reported the harness stopped working once it was put away through summer months (Note: This harness comes in handy all year long)
Ask the merchant beforehand about the warranty policy of this dog harness. It’s not immediately clear on the website.
Bottom Line
With the pros, cons, and features of the harnesses above, you may still be pondering on whether you need a harness for your German Shepherd at all. Some dogs are just fine with a regular leash and collar.
Every dog doesn’t need a harness, and for some, it may be overkill. The only person who can decide whether your German Shepherd harness is worth it is you.
However, even if your dog calms down around you, if you plan on hiring dog walkers or dog sitters who may have a different experience with your dog than you do (and are usually hired for on-the-spot walks when your dog needs to release himself really bad), you may want to have that emergency harness available for them.
The last thing you want is for your dog walker or dog sitter to not be able to control your dog, especially if you simply don’t have the availability to be a regular walker for your furry four-legged friend.
The same goes for other family members and friends that help out with dog walking because a German Shepherd is not a dog meant to just hang out at home and not be walked. Keep all possibilities in mind when buying walking tools for your pet.
Additionally, always make sure your dog feels comfortable while wearing the harness. If you’ve seen your dog fall to the floor or nibble at your fingers while you try to lock the harness in place, you may want to pay attention to what’s not being said in “people” language.
If your dog already loves to walk, the issue is definitely not that your dog simply doesn’t feel like going outside. It may be that the leash is not comfortable on your pet. Obviously hobbling on three legs or walking abnormally are clear indicators, but also pay attention to the way your dog’s back or chest looks inside of the vest.
The goal is to control your dog but not at the risk of “squeezing” your dog. A “Large” on one dog may not be a “Large” on another. Measure your dog and add a few centimeters for extra cushioning. Then watch how your dog reacts.
The Review
Best Harness For German Shepherd
Read through our review of the best harness for German Shepherd on the market today to help you decide which to buy depending on your needs.
Review Breakdown
-
Chai's Choice
-
Industrial Puppy
-
ICEFANG
-
Rabbitgoo
-
WINSEE
-
Friends Forever
-
BABYLTRL
-
PoyPet
-
Dogline Quest
-
Bolux
-
Eagloo
-
YOGADOG
-
EXPAWLORER
-
ELITE SPANKER
-
noxgear
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