🦴 Updated on July 16th, 2023
German shepherds are one of the most loved dogs globally and for a good reason. They’re intelligent, loyal, and protective, making them ideal pets for families with children.
But because they’re such strong and active dogs, German shepherds need an excellent harness to help them stay safe and under control.
There are many different types of harnesses on the market, so it can be confusing to find the best one for your dog. But don’t worry – we’re here to help.
Having tried a broad range of products, we concluded that the ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness is the best overall harness for German shepherds. It’s composed of durable materials and includes a built-in leash attachment point.
This article will introduce you to the best harnesses for German shepherds and explain some of the most important features to look for in a harness.
Best Harness for German Shepherd Reviewed
Here are 10 of the best Harnesses for German shepherds.
ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness
The ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness is our top pick because it offers many features and benefits. First, it’s made of high-quality built-to-last materials. The outer layer is water and tear-resistant, while the inner layer has extra padding for comfort.
The harness also includes two built-in leash attachment points and a handle on the back for added control. The attachment in the front helps you control your dog more effortlessly. The attachment in the back is for more stability when you’re hiking or running with your dog.
We consider the ICEFANG a versatile dog harness for proud dog owners to use because of its dual-clip design, sporting a front and back D-clip for you to attach a leash during your walk.
The harness is adjustable in various ways so that you can find the perfect fit for your German shepherd.
The harness has 2 metal buckles on the shoulder position for security that have passed a 250-point proof load. Then there is the durable handle on the top of the harness.
You could use it to help your dog over obstacles, hold them close in crowds or even pick them up and carry them if needed. The padded interior ensures that your dog is comfortable even when wearing the harness for long periods.
Maintenance is a breeze. Simply hand wash the harness with soap and water and let it air dry.
Pros:
- Water-resistant and tear-resistant
- Padded for comfort
- Built-in leash attachment point
- Handle on the back for added control
- Available in 8 colors and 4 sizes
Cons:
- May be too bulky for some
BARKBAY No Pull Dog Harness
The BARKBAY No Pull Dog Harness is made with tough, lightweight nylon that won’t rip and padding that prevents chafing. The harness is made for solid pullers like German shepherds.
This is a comfortable harness that your dog can wear all day without issue. Putting it on and taking it off is simple. Just slide it over your pal’s head.
The BARKBAY No Pull Dog Harness has a built-in control handle near the leash ring to help you keep your dog close in busy areas or when they are trying to pull ahead on walks.
Don’t worry about adjusting, as there are 4 adjustment points to make sure you get the perfect fit. It can withstand loads up to 450 pounds and has a heavy-duty leash attachment point on the chest to prevent pulling.
Then there are the ultra-reflective strips that line the harness. They aren’t just stylish but keep your dog visible in low light conditions. The built-in top handle gives you extra control when you need it, and the front lead ring will help train your dog not to pull.
Pros:
- Made with tough, lightweight nylon
- Prevents chafing
- Reflective strips for safety
- Available in 8 colors and 4 sizes
Cons:
- Front leash attachment point shifts the harness to the side, making it less effective in pulling
Julius-K9 16IDCP-1 IDC Powerharness
The Julius-K9 16IDCP-1 IDC Powerharness is a comfortable and sturdy harness that will hold up to the strength of a German shepherd.
The harness has interchangeable hook and loop patches, so you can customize it to get the look you want.
This is an easy-to-use harness with adjustable points on the front and belly straps to get the perfect fit for your pooch. The straps are made of breathable material to prevent chafing.
The heavy-duty leash attachment point is located on the back of the harness to help prevent pulling. The reflective stitching will help keep your dog visible in low light conditions.
The Julius-K9 16IDCP-1 IDC Powerharness is a comfortable and sturdy harness that will hold up to the strength of a German shepherd.
Pros:
- Comfortable and adjustable
- Sturdy and well-made
- Available in 4 sizes and 25 colors
- Customizable with interchangeable hook and loop patches
Cons:
- The neck portion of the harness is not secure, and stubborn dogs can slip out of the harness
WINSEE No Pull Dog Harness
The WINSEE No Pull Dog Harness has neck and chest circumferences that are adjustable to ensure the perfect fit, and there are 4 points of adjustability on the reflective straps.
The lightweight, breathable mesh won’t irritate your pup’s skin. The padded chest plate provides extra comfort and prevents chafing.
The WINSEE No Pull Dog Harness has a built-in horizontal top handle that gives you extra control when you need it, and the reflective strips will keep your dog visible in low-light conditions.
The front lead attachment point will help train your dog not to pull while walking, and the back leash attachment point is perfect for dogs who like to explore.
The 1680D oxford fabric is so sturdy that it holds up to the load of your dog pulling and prevents them from chewing and attempting to escape the harness.
It’s easy to use and put on with secure quick-snap buckles and a safety lock to prevent buckle failure.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable mesh
- Padded chest plate
- Available in 5 sizes and 20 colors
- Reflective strips for safety
Cons:
- The harness may run a little small for your Shepherd
- Possible issues with thread coming out
RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness
The RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness is designed for extended wear, meaning your pup can wear it all day without it irritating their skin.
The padded chest and belly panel provide extra comfort and the harness, while the foam padded straps distribute the weight evenly.
The low-light visibility is ensured with reflective trim, and there are two leash attachment points. The front and back leash attachment points are a trending feature on many of the vests on our list.
It has 4 adjustable points to ensure comfort and give your dog a full range of motion. The visible fabric increases visibility day and night, so you can always keep an eye on your pup.
It comes with an easy-access ID pocket to store your dog’s ID or license.
Pros:
- Padded and comfortable
- Reflective trim for 24-hour safety
- Available in 5 sizes and 10 colors
- Easy access ID pocket
Cons:
- The quality may be good to start, but I find this particular harness doesn’t hold up long-term
BUMBIN Tactical Dog Harness for Large Dogs
The BUMBIN Tactical Dog Harness is perfect for larger dogs. One thing that makes this harness stand out is its new nesting buckle.
No more sliding the dog's legs through a tiny opening. The new nesting buckle system makes it easier to put on and take off with just a click.
It comes with an upgraded adjustment system that utilizes snaps to ensure it stays in place and that you don’t have to readjust repeatedly.
Similar to the other harnesses, it comes with two metal D rings for leash attachments and can withstand 450 pounds of pulling force.
Pros:
- Upgraded adjustment system
- Nesting buckle system
- Available in 5 sizes and 13 colors
- Withstands 450 pounds of pulling force
Cons:
- Top metal D ring breaks easy
Auroth Tactical Dog Harness for Large Dogs
The Auroth Tactical Dog Harness is one of the more comfortable options for your Shepherd. It’s made with high-quality 900D nylon that is comfortable and breathable for your pup. The harness has a sturdy handle on the top so you can easily control your dog when necessary.
The 2 quick-release buckles to put on and take off, and there are 4 adjustable straps to ensure a snug but comfortable fit.
The Auroth Tactical Dog Harness incorporates a dual-clip design for leash training and casual walks
The 2 metal leash attachment points are reinforced for strength and durability. The harness also has a built-in molle system, so you can add extra pouches or gear if necessary.
This harness is suitable for personal service, recreational, hunting, and law enforcement use. It comes with an ID badge and the Molle/Pals Pouch that lets you hook on your dog’s food and water bowls and toys.
Pros:
- Made with high-quality 900D nylon
- Sturdy handle
- Quick-release buckles
- Molle system for extra gear
Cons:
- I’ve noticed that the quick clips break relatively easily and are not replaceable
PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness
The PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness comes with 2 leash attachment points to train your dog not to pull. It has an ergonomic design to even out pulling pressure and prevent choking.
The oxford material is scratch-resistant and easy to clean. The padded non-toxic mesh material is breathable and comfortable for your pup to wear.
The handle is padded, making it easy and comfortable to grab on to and control your dog when necessary. The harness has 4 adjustable straps to get a perfect fit for your pup and a reflective strip for safety.
Pros:
- Ergonomic design
- Padded and breathable
- Reflective strip for safety
- 4 adjustable straps
Cons:
- Harness pulls apart after constant use
PETAGE Tactical Harness
The PAGE Tactical Harness is made with high-quality 1050D nylon material that is comfortable and breathable for your pup. It’s designed to handle 1500 pounds of pulling force, making it ideal for even the strongest of dogs.
The built-in molle system has pouches on both sides to hold water bottles, among other nick nacks, making it easy to transport the things you need the most.
The harness is made for constant use and is considered a professional vest because it can be used for working service dogs, police and military dogs, or hunting dogs.
It has a sturdy horizontal handle on the top to easily control your dog when necessary while preventing arm injuries.
The harness is adjustable to get a snug but comfortable fit for your pup, and there is also a reflective strip for safety.
The great thing about this company is that they offer a satisfaction warranty. They guarantee to get back to any questions, comments, or concerns within 12 hours.
Pros:
- Made with high-quality 1050D nylon
- Breathable and comfortable
- Sturdy handle
- Molle system for extra gear
- Satisfaction warranty
Cons:
- I have noticed that I have to tighten it each time as the harness loosens on each use
- Plastic clamps may break
tobeDRI No Pull Dog Harness
The tobeDRI No Pull Dog Harness does a decent job of preventing pulling. It comes with two leash attachment points. The front clip is also lower down on the chest, preventing choking.
You’ll appreciate that the rings are seen in nylon webbing and enforced box stitches to prevent it from breaking. It helps the rings hold up over time.
The harness comes with quick snap buckles that simplify putting on and taking off. Each buckle has a locking feature to ensure the harness doesn't come off.
Combine that with the four adjustable straps, and you can be sure to get a snug fit that is comfortable for your pup to wear. The harness is machine washable, and the metal on the vest is rustproof. There is also a reflective strip for safety.
Pros:
- Sturdy horizontal handle
- Quick-release buckles
- Anti-rust metal buckles
- Machine Washable
Cons:
- Despite this harness’s guarantee, I’ve found it still breaks easily with my larger Shepherd
GS Harnesses Buying Guide
Buying a harness is much like purchasing a collar. You need to take into consideration the German shepherd harness size and weight of your dog. But there are a few other factors you should consider as well.
Harness Use
The first is the type of harness you need. Will you be using it for walking, running, hiking, or some other activity? If you’re not sure what you’ll be using it for, then get a versatile one that can be used for indoor and outdoor activities. Make sure it’s waterproof.
Design
The second factor to consider is the design of the harness. You want something comfortable for your dog to wear that won’t rub their skin raw. You also want something adjustable so you can get a snug fit.
Is a Harness Better Than a Collar?
It depends on your dog and what you’ll be using the harness for. But if you only need it for walking your dog, then a collar may be fine.
The best vest for your German shepherd will depend on the individual dog and the owner’s needs.
The essential thing is to find a comfortable harness for your dog to wear that fits well. Once you’ve found the perfect harness, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits it has to offer.
German shepherds are large and strong, so it is important to find a harness that they can’t break or slip out of. Some German shepherd owners prefer the look of a harness over a collar, and some find that harnesses provide more control when walking their dog.
Ultimately, the best harness for a German shepherd is the one that meets the needs of both the dog and the owner.
The Best Materials for a German Shepherd Harness
When looking for the best harness for your German shepherd, it’s essential to consider the material. The harness should be made from a durable material that can withstand plenty of wear and tear.
Nylon is a popular choice for dog harnesses because it’s solid and sturdy. Leather is another option, but it may not be as comfortable for your dog to wear.
The straps on the harness should also be adjustable to get a snug, comfortable fit. If the harness is too loose, your dog may be able to slip out of it. There are vests that are stylish and comfortable.
German Shepherd Dog Harness Types
There are a few different types of German shepherd harnesses to choose from. The most popular type is the standard harness, which goes around the dog’s chest and back. This type of harness is easy to put on and take off, and it provides a good amount of control when walking your dog.
If you’re looking for a more comfortable harness for your dog to wear, you may want to consider a k9 vest for German shepherds. This harness goes over the dog’s back and covers its chest. In many cases, you can just buckle it without the added difficulty of sliding it over the dog’s head and feet.
Another option is a no-pull harness designed to prevent your dog from pulling on the leash. This type of harness attaches to the dog’s chest and back, and it has a strap that goes around the dog’s muzzle.
No-pull harnesses can be helpful for dogs that tend to pull on the leash, but they may not be as comfortable for your dog to wear.
Choosing the Best Dog Harness for a German Shepherd
Now we know that German shepherds are physically solid and strong-minded. They will need to be trained not to pull on the leash from a young age, as it can be challenging to break this habit later in life.
This is where a dog harness comes in, as they provide more control over your dog than a regular collar and leash combo.
The goal is to purchase a harness that is not only built strong but has a guarantee so that you can get a refund or replacement in the case it rips or tears.
You’ll also want to consider how easy it is to put the harness on and take it off your dog, as this can be crucial in training. You want to get a harness that makes life easy for you. Fighting your dog to get their harness on each day will become a headache.
Harnesses come in all shapes and sizes, so finding one to fit your German shepherd shouldn’t be too difficult.
German Shepherd Harness Size
German shepherds are a large breed of dog, so you’ll need to make sure that the harness you choose is adjustable to ensure a comfortable, snug fit. A rule of thumb is that a 75-pound dog will likely need a large. A 50-pound dog will likely need a medium.
Two More Things To Consider
When buying a harness for your German shepherd, the first thing to consider is your dog’s level of training. If your dog is well behaved and doesn’t pull on the leash, then a standard harness should suffice.
However, if your dog is still learning not to pull or is particularly strong, you may opt for a no-pull harness.
The next thing to consider is the aggressiveness of other dogs. If your neighbors have aggressive dogs, you’ll want to ensure that the harness you choose is made from a sturdy, durable material.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to measure German shepherd girth for a harness?
To get an accurate measurement of your German shepherd’s girth, you will need to use a measuring tape. Place the measuring tape at your dog’s neck base and wrap it around their chest. Make sure that the measuring tape is snug but not too tight, and then take note of the measurement.
Will the German shepherd try to remove the harness?
Your German shepherd may try to remove their harness, especially if they’re not used to wearing one. If this happens, you’ll need to be patient and persistent in training them to wear it. It may take some time, but eventually, they will get used to it.
What is the best way to put on a German shepherd harness?
The best way to put on a German shepherd harness is to start by placing it over their head. Then, you’ll want to adjust the straps so that they’re snug but not too tight. Once the harness is in place, you can clip the leash onto the D-ring, and you’re ready to go.
Do German shepherds need harnesses?
Harnesses are not required for German shepherds, but they can be helpful in training them not to pull on the leash. If you decide to use a harness, make sure that it’s comfortable and fits well.
Conclusion
The best dog harness for German shepherds is the ICEFANG Tactical K9 Harness. This harness is made from a sturdy, durable material perfect for strong dogs. The ICEFANG Tactical K9 Harness is adjustable to get a snug, comfortable fit.
Purchasing the ICEFANG Tactical K9 Harness will give you peace of mind knowing that your dog is safe and secure. This harness is perfect for German shepherds who are still learning not to pull on the leash, providing more control over your dog.
We consider the ICEFANG a versatile dog harness for proud dog owners to use because of its dual-clip design, sporting a front and back D-clip for you to attach a leash during your walk.
It is important to compare different harnesses before purchasing, as they come in all shapes and sizes. Finding the right harness for your German shepherd will make walks and hikes more enjoyable. We hope you found this article helpful. Feel free to leave any comments or questions below.
