🦴 Updated on July 16th, 2023
Great Danes are regal gentle giants that we care for and love. However, caring for these animals means careful consideration of their well-being and appearance when choosing products.
To help you make the best possible decision, we’ve curated a list of top-rated choices available for purchase online. Our overall best Great Dane harness winner is the RUFFWEAR Web Master.
Based on your dog’s dimensions, temperament, and personal preferences, we’ve included other options that may be more specialized to your needs.
This review comes complete with a buying guide and an FAQ to help orient your choices when selecting a Great Dane dog harness.
Read on to get insider information on the top ten best harnesses for Great Dane dogs.
Top 10 Best Harness for Great Danes Reviewed
Each outstanding choice of dog harness for Great Dane, or other large breeds of dog, includes a description of specifications and features.
Additionally, we’ll discuss the most notable characteristics, why it’s the best-in-show for its particular category, and who each option is most suitable for.
RUFFWEAR – Best Overall Harness for Great Danes
The RUFFWEAR Web Master is a comfortable option for your Dane, constructed primarily from nylon and utilizes aluminum, foam, web looping, and reflective trim.
This big dog harness hosts an impressive array of features ideal for service dogs, working dogs, hiking, trail running, and everyday use. In addition, it fits securely due to its intelligent anatomic-canine design.
"Houdini" dogs who are adept at escaping their harness will do well with this design. You will fall in love with the RuffWear for its anti-escape properties. You'll enjoy complete control of your animal while walking without having to sacrifice comfort for you or your dog.
The padded lift assist provides easy access to control your dog or help it overcome obstacles. Additionally, the harness features 5-point adjustability that delivers a highly customizable fit for your Great Dane without sacrificing range of motion.
Owners will find two well-built leash connection points in the form of an anodized aluminum V-ring and webbing loop.
The most notable feature of the RUFFWEAR Web Master is its combination of durability and comfort. This rugged harness is built to last and function effectively for year-round use.
Pros:
- High-quality material
- Durable
- Customizable fit
- Perfect for dogs prone to escaping their harness
- Added handle for quick-control
Cons:
- Can be costly
- Some reports of older designs fraying
Auroth – Best Great Dane Tactical Harness
The Auroth harness utilizes durable materials, including a heavy-duty plastic buckle, breathable mesh, padded cotton cushions, metal ring, and wear-resistant nylon.
This harness is excellent for large breeds. If you like a rugged outdoor aesthetic and design, you’ll love this harness.
The harness also features reflective material lining the entire harness for added visibility, no matter the color of your dog’s harness and coat or the time of day.
Notable features include an adjustable design that makes it quick and easy to put on and take off. However, the sturdiness of the materials is where this product shines most. The vest is made from 900D nylon with excellent quality stitching.
Pros:
- Excellent quality materials
- Very durable
- Reflective material throughout
- Satisfaction guarantee
Cons:
- Some reports of puppies escaping the harness
- Molle sewing is a bit small
Eagloo – Best Great Dane Puppy Harness
The Eagloo comes in an extensive range of sizes and colors. It’s made primarily of nylon, with two metal rings, a handle, reflective material, and a soft, breathable oxford vest.
Your dog will adjust quickly to the Eagloo harness. It is sturdy yet comfortable, and the harness has a good sizing range for room to grow.
The extra-large harness is built explicitly for powerful breeds like Great Dane dogs. The no-pull design features a V-ring and an O-ring, not only to stop pulling but teach puppies to heel.
Not only is it no-pull, but it’s also no-choke and relatively easy to get on and off. Because of the extra care that’s employed through its pressure redistribution around the neck, this harness is our top pick for puppies who need harness training that’s effective and gentle.
Pros:
- Thoroughly tested materials for large and small dogs that like to pull
- Extra comfortable no-pull, no-choke design
- Great for puppies in training
- Offers excellent control
Cons:
- Fasteners may be difficult to open
- Less durable than more rugged designs
Icefang – Best Harness for Powerful Dogs
The Icefang tactical dog harness comes equipped with four metal buckles, a Molle vest, a handle, a no-pull front clip, and a hook and loop panel for a custom patch.
The Icefang is our top pick in harnesses for dogs with powerful pulling abilities. If you've been looking far and wide for a harness that will hold up and help you keep adequate control, this harness is worth picking up.
The Molle carrying system allows your dog to carry extra gear such as a dog bowl, water bottle, or dog toy.
It features a no-pull design that grants the owner added control of the animal. With a strong pull or jerk, the harness redirects weight to pull the dog’s legs off the ground, hence canceling the balance needed to provide additional force.
Pros:
- Outstanding no-pull technology
- Good padding for comfort
- Four metal buckles and quality materials
Cons:
- Not as durable as more rugged designs
- Some reports of dogs getting out of the harness
Barkbay (Blue) – Best in Comfort for Great Danes
The Barkbay no-pull reflective dog harness features a variety of options in size and color. The materials used are nylon webbing, zinc alloy clips, and POM buckles.
Here we have a very breathable dog harness that takes comfort to a new level for your Great Dane in terms of keeping him cool.
The nylon is no-rip and anti-chafe, which means you won't have to worry about new unwelcomed raw skin marks on your animal. This design is specially designed for hiking, walking, and running active dogs.
The harness also involves a front-leading halt ring to combat pulling, and it’s easy to put on and take off. It also features ultra-reflective strips and an ID tag pocket.
The Barkbay (Blue) is a well-made harness designed especially for big dogs, but it stands out in terms of its consideration for your dog’s comfort. While built with comfort in mind, many more rugged-style harnesses (including those on this review) can still rub uncomfortably against your dog.
Pros:
- Quality durable materials
- Extra no-rub comfort
- Breathable fabric keeps your dog cool
- No-pull technology
Cons:
- Some reported issues with D-rings coming loose
- Small handle
Noxgear LightHound – Best in Innovative Design
The Noxgear LightHound is an innovative reflective harness that offers bright, colorful LED fiber optic lighting. The lights run on USB-rechargeable batteries. When the batteries die, simply charge them using the USB charging cable that comes with the harness.
The idea behind the illumination is not just for glamor but comes from visual science to help protect your dog from motorists. The lighting works at 360 degrees, so your dog can be seen from every angle.
The light-up harness is machine washable, changes between super bright colors and six multicolor flashing and fading modes. If you like style in a harness and are looking for something functional that looks great on your dog, you’ll enjoy this design.
The harness is also easy to put on and take off and features a highly comfortable and adjustable design.
Pros:
- Innovative illumination for greater visibility
- Machine washable
- Great fit
- 12 hour USB rechargeable batteries
Cons:
- Expensive
- Some reported chafing issues
- Lacks durability
PoyPet – Best Value Harness for Great Danes
The PoyPet harness offers two leash attachments. The materials used are nylon and oxford with metal attachment points for the leash. There is a front clip on the chest and a back clip to counteract pulling, making for easy walking.
This harness is an excellent choice for dogs that often pull during the walk, as it won’t injure them. The weight from the leash is distributed evenly across the chest. The weight distribution provides a relaxing walk for you and your pet.
This harness features a seatbelt attachment, which allows you to keep your dog safe on car rides. You can also use this harness for swimming, hiking, or regular walks with your dog, as it is made of durable material.
The oxford material is scratch-resistant and easy to clean, dries fast, and is non-toxic. In addition, mesh padding is employed as a breathable material that keeps your animal comfortable and cool.
The harness has four straps for added customization. It’s lightweight and easy to handle.
Pros:
- Inexpensive price point
- Well-rounded harness
- Easy to use and maintain
- Good no-pull design
Cons:
- Some reports of inaccurate sizing
- Better for small and medium-sized dogs
Barkbay American – Best in Style
We’ve covered the Barkbay (Blue), but the Barkbay (Stars) also makes our list, and it’s not just about the added star design. This harness is practical, easy to put on, and has many features that make it stand out for Great Dane dogs.
The Barkbay harness is nicely padded and is very comfortable - none of your dogs will complain. You will be really happy with the reflective stitching for walking at night too.
It’s made with nylon webbing and utilizes zinc alloy clips along with POM buckles. Notable features include:
- An ID tag pocket for your dog’s tags
- A sturdy top handle
- Reflective straps
- Rust-resistant anti-scratch metal clips for the leash and on the strap
- Breathable air mesh fabric
- Durable buckles designed to support 450 pounds
The Barkbay (Stars) harness features as many advantages as its counterpart, such as the no-pull design. However, it stands out with its added reflective design to keep your dog extra visible to motorists. It also adds a stylish flair.
Pros:
- Stylish and comfortable
- Reflective pattern plus reflective straps for excellent visibility
- Great price point
Cons:
- No-pull design is not as good as other options
- The top handle is thin and can be hard to grab in a hurry
Rabbitgoo – Best Harness for Stubborn Pullers
The Rabbitgoo dog harness has plenty of color options and will fit your Great Dane. The material is made from polyester, nylon, padded mesh for breathability, and resistant oxford.
The Rabbitgoo is an adjustable harness specializing in its no-pull design to give you the best possible control of your pet. Added control means it’s the optimal harness to break a pulling habit.
This harness is made to withstand powerful pulling and tugging without losing control or harming the animal. As a bonus, the Auroth also includes its Molle System, which utilizes 1-inch strips of Molle Sewn to allow your powerful furry friend to haul some of your gear.
Additionally, the harness includes a sturdy top handle for improved quick control, bright reflective strips to keep your dog visible and safe, and fast-release buckles.
The Great Dane owner who is dreading walking their dog because they want to avoid the frustration of fighting their dog every step of the way will find a great tool in the Rabbitgoo.
Pros:
- Perfect to untrain pulling
- Good price point
- High-quality materials
- Very difficult to escape from
Cons:
- Some reports of fraying in the material
- Could be more comfortable
OneTigris – Best Military-Style Harness for Great Danes
The OneTigris Military-Style harness is made from durable nylon, stainless steel D-rings, X-bungee design, soft, breathable mesh as the inner lining, and four quick-release UTX Duraflex buckles.
You can find it in an XL size for your Great Dane and several color options. It features a front chest K9 ID patch panel, hook & loop design, bold military-style, two straps on each side, easy manual adjustability, and a one-year warranty.
Those looking for a professional-grade harness for service and working dogs will find an all-around comfortable, easy-walking, and durable choice in the OneTigris.
The OneTigris harness is an affordable and well-built option with a striking military design.
Since the harness features a vest-like structure and velcro for patches, it’s great for adding your own patches for service dog work or to let people know not to pet your dog.
Since this is not a no-pull harness, you’ll do best using this on dogs that have been trained to heel and already know not to pull on walks.
Pros:
- Great for heavy daily use
- Excellent quality
- Breathable for hot and humid climates
- Storage and gear-hauling capabilities
Cons:
- The grab handle is not made to bear the weight-load of larger dogs.
- Not a no-pull harness
Great Dane Harnesses Buying Guide
Our top ten harnesses for Great Danes only scratch the surface of the myriad of products available for purchase. Understanding what you and your dog’s needs and preferences are will help give you a starting point in what to consider.
You’ll also want to know how to evaluate the quality and features of the product itself. Below we’ll cover materials commonly used, how to measure your dog for a harness, understanding fit accurately and support, getting your dog in and out of their harness, adjustability and control, and training your dog for a harness.
Let’s start with covering the basic types of harnesses to choose from.
The Different Harness Types
You may use different harnesses depending on your Great Dane’s specific behavioral or physical traits. Most products will advertise these as selling points because buyers are looking for particular features.
No-Pull Harness
One type of harness is the no-pull harness for energetic puppies and adult dogs prone to pulling. Front clip harnesses, a subcategory of no-pull harnesses, connect to the leash through a D-ring located on the chest. The design redistributes the force and pulls the dog back for you.
Utility and Assistive Harnesses
Some harnesses are specifically designed for those with disabilities and offer mobility assistance features. These are great for service dogs.
Utility harnesses refer to an umbrella of different harnesses, such as tactical harnesses. These are used primarily for working dogs and vary by job.
Standard Harness
Last, we have the most common or standard harness, which can host a range of features but is considered the most basic form. It may have fewer features but can still be high-quality.
Popular Materials Used
Most harness materials are meant to be durable and heavy-duty. However, you can look for mesh and cushioning for added comfort and breathability.
Common durable materials used are:
- Nylon
- Oxford fabric
- Braided cords
- Bungee
- Leather (in some cases)
- Military-grade materials
Buckles can be constructed of plastic, aluminum, zinc alloy, or even steel.
Many harnesses feature reflective strips or materials. The purpose is to add safety through greater dog visibility, primarily to passing motorists at night.
It’s essential to choose the proper harness for your dog, as certain materials and constructions may not suit all breeds.
Measuring Your Dog for a Harness
To accurately measure your dog, you’ll first want to choose your favorite harness. Different products have different inches ranges that define different sizes like extra-large. Here’s how to do it:
- Use tailor’s tape or a long string.
- You’ll want to discern the widest part of your dog’s chest, which should be around his rib cage.
- Wrap the tape vertically, from the top of his back, along the rib cage, to the deepest part of his chest.
- You can mark the spot where it intersects if you have a string.
You can do this same process on the dog’s neck for additional useful measurements to find a suitable collar.
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about harnesses for Great Danes.
What is the best harness for my Great Dane?
The best choice is the RUFFWEAR Harness. There is no extra large dog harness for Great Danes or other giant breeds that checks all the boxes like this option.
Do no-pull harnesses hurt the dog?
Most no-pull harnesses do not constrict, chafe, or injure the dog in any way. As long as the harness is made of quality materials and well fitted to your dog, it simply redirects the force of the pull.
Can Great Danes wear a harness?
Great Danes can wear a harness. While many harnesses are designed for everyday use and extended periods of activity, we don’t recommend keeping your dog in the harness at all times. Removing the harness when your dog is resting at home gives your dog’s skin a break and allows oxygen flow.
What do I do if my dog keeps getting out of the harness?
Usually, this has to do with a harness that isn’t the right size or appropriately adjusted. The two-finger test is an excellent way to make sure the harness fits snugly without being too tight. Simply put two fingers between the fabric and the dog. If they fit, then it’s not too tight.
What to look for when choosing an escape-proof harness?
Some dogs are often referred to as “Houdinis” because of their unique physical ability to get out of harnesses, among other things. Therefore, look for harnesses and reviews that speak to this particular problem to see if the harness in question is extra tricky to escape from.
Do no-pull harnesses work?
The short answer is yes. However, it depends on how well designed the no-pull harness is. Harnesses with D-rings on the front and those that employ martingale technology are some of the best. Some dogs require further training and tools to heel and stop pulling.
What type of harness is best for a Great Dane?
A harness with a wide chest strap is best, and it’s also important to make sure the straps are adjustable so you can get a good fit.
Is a harness or collar better for a Great Dane?
Both a harness and a collar have their pros and cons. A harness can distribute the dog’s pulling force more evenly across the body, while a collar can be more dangerous if it becomes caught on something.
Can a Great Dane wear a harness?
Yes, a Great Dane can wear a harness. However, it’s important to make sure that the harness is appropriately sized for your dog to ensure a comfortable fit.
What harness is best for large dogs?
A harness for large dogs is typically one that goes around the neck and attaches to the back. This type of harness distributes the dog’s weight evenly, making it less likely for the dog to pull on his leash and more comfortable for him to walk.
Conclusion
Choosing the best harness for a Great Dane or any other extra-large dog means improving the quality of life for both you and your animal.
You want a harness that will perform well and last a long time. For that reason, the winner of this review is the RUFFWEAR Harness. There is no extra large dog harness for Great Danes or other giant breeds that checks all the boxes like this option.
Combining the secure, customizable fit, control-assist features, durability, padding, comfort, and quality of materials used elevates this product above every other harness in this review.
Our top pick is a fantastic well-rounded choice. For the reasons listed above, and based on the sheer number of outstanding reviews, we encourage you not to hesitate on this opportunity. Add your new Great Dane harness to the shopping cart today!
"Houdini" dogs who are adept at escaping their harness will do well with this design. You will fall in love with the RuffWear for its anti-escape properties. You'll enjoy complete control of your animal while walking without having to sacrifice comfort for you or your dog.
