Does your gentle giant pull on the leash like a runaway train? Or maybe you’ve wrestled with a harness that just doesn’t seem to fit your big dog right? You’re not alone! Choosing the perfect harness for a large breed dog can feel like a puzzle. It’s tough to know which one will be comfortable, safe, and strong enough for their size and energy.
Many harnesses just aren’t built for the unique needs of big dogs. They might chafe, restrict movement, or simply not provide enough control. This can lead to frustrating walks for both you and your furry friend, and sometimes even discomfort or injury for your dog. But don’t worry, finding the right gear doesn’t have to be a headache!
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great large breed dog harness. We’ll explore the key features to look for, different types of harnesses, and how to find the best fit for your dog’s specific build and personality. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to confidently pick a harness that makes walks enjoyable and safe for everyone.
Our Top 5 Large Breed Dog Harness Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Large Breed Dog Harness Detailed Reviews
1. rabbitgoo Dog Harness No Pull with 2 Leash Clips
Rating: 9.4/10
The rabbitgoo Dog Harness No Pull with 2 Leash Clips is designed for large dogs, offering a comfortable and secure way to walk your furry friend. This harness aims to make walks safer and more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
What We Like:
- It effectively prevents pulling, making walks smoother.
- The two leash clips offer flexibility for different walking styles.
- The soft padding ensures your dog’s comfort and protects their skin.
- Reflective strips enhance visibility for safer walks at night.
- The adjustable straps allow for a custom, secure fit.
- The easy-control handle provides extra support when needed.
- It’s made from durable Oxford material and is easy to clean.
- The breathable air mesh keeps your dog cool.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s important to measure your dog carefully before buying to ensure the right size.
- While designed for large breeds, some very specific body shapes might require further adjustment.
This rabbitgoo harness is a solid choice for owners of large dogs seeking a more controlled and comfortable walking experience. It balances safety features with the comfort your dog deserves.
2. Beebiepet Heavy Duty Tactical Dog Harness for Large Dogs
Rating: 9.2/10
The Beebiepet Heavy Duty Tactical Dog Harness is built tough for your big, strong dog. It’s designed to handle everything from daily walks to serious working dog duties. This harness offers excellent control and comfort for your canine companion.
What We Like:
- Built to Last: This harness is made from strong nylon and has sturdy stitching. It’s designed for powerful dogs and won’t let you down.
- Perfect Fit, Easy On: With four adjustable straps, you can get a perfect fit for your dog’s neck and chest. The chest buckles open wide, making it super easy to put on and take off.
- Carry Your Gear: The Molle system on the sides lets your dog carry supplies. This is great for training, hunting, or any outdoor adventure. You can easily add pouches too.
- Never Lose Your Dog: The anti-lost ID tag is a smart feature. You can write your dog’s info on it, so if they ever get lost, someone can contact you.
- Free Leash Included: You get a free 5ft dog leash with a comfy handle and a strong, tangle-free hook. It’s ready for action right out of the box.
What Could Be Improved:
- Color Options: While the brown is nice, more color choices would be a great addition for owners who like variety.
- Instruction Clarity: Some users might find the initial setup a little tricky; clearer instructions could help.
This harness is a fantastic choice for owners of large, active dogs. It provides security, comfort, and practical features for any situation.
3. PHOEPET Reflective Dog Harness Large Breed Adjustable No Pull Vest with with Handle 2 Metal Rings 3 Buckles [Easy to Put on & Take Off](L
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Rating: 8.6/10
The PHOEPET Reflective Dog Harness for large breeds is designed to make walks safer and more comfortable for both you and your furry friend. This orange, adjustable vest aims to reduce pulling and enhance visibility, especially during evening strolls.
What We Like:
- Easy to Use: This harness is a breeze to put on and take off. It features three buckles, including one on the neck with a lock, so you don’t have to pull it over your dog’s head. Your dog will likely enjoy wearing it more!
- No More Pulling: With two sturdy metal hook loops for leash attachment, you can choose the front loop on the chest to significantly reduce pulling. This makes walks much more enjoyable. Most people find the back hook works well too.
- Stay Safe and Seen: The reflective material is fantastic for dark conditions. It makes your dog highly visible to drivers, giving them plenty of time to react and keeping your dog safer.
- Helpful Handle: The handle on the back is super useful. It helps you keep your dog closer when they try to lunge at something. It’s also handy for assisting your dog into the car.
- Great Customer Service: PHOEPET offers 100% best customer service. If there are any quality issues, you can get a refund or a replacement.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the harness is designed for no-pull, some very strong pullers might still require additional training.
- The adjustable straps are effective, but ensuring the perfect fit for every unique large breed might take a little trial and error.
This PHOEPET harness offers a practical and safe solution for walking your large dog. It prioritizes comfort and visibility, making your adventures together more enjoyable.
4. Auroth Tactical Dog Harness for Large Dogs No Pull Adjustable Pet Harness Reflective K9 Working Training Easy Control Pet Vest Military Service Dog Harnesses Army Yellow L
Rating: 9.2/10
The Auroth Tactical Dog Harness for Large Dogs is a robust and versatile option for owners of big breeds. This harness, in a striking Army Yellow, is designed for both function and comfort, making it ideal for training, working dogs, or simply everyday adventures.
What We Like:
- The harness is incredibly easy to put on and take off thanks to its two quick-release buckles.
- You can adjust it perfectly for your dog’s comfort using four metal rings, so it won’t restrict their movement.
- It’s built tough with strong nylon and stitching, ready for any challenge and designed to last.
- The Molle system lets your dog carry useful items like water bottles or treats, making it perfect for longer outings.
- You get excellent control with two leash attachment points – one at the front for training and one at the back for regular walks.
- Well-padded spots protect your dog from pressure, and the breathable mesh keeps them cool.
- Reflective strips help keep your dog visible and safe in low light.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s important to carefully measure your dog and check the sizing chart before buying to ensure the best fit.
- While the harness is great for carrying gear, the pouches and accessories are sold separately.
This Auroth harness offers a fantastic combination of durability, control, and comfort for your large canine companion. It’s a solid investment for any active dog owner.
5. WINGOIN Tactical Dog Harness for Large Dogs
Rating: 8.7/10
Take your large furry friend on all your adventures with the WINGOIN Tactical Dog Harness. This heavy-duty harness is built tough for dogs like German Shepherds and Labradors. It’s designed for comfort, control, and safety during walks, training, or even hunting trips.
What We Like:
- Built with military-standard 1000D nylon, this harness is super strong and lasts a long time.
- The two-layer design with breathable mesh keeps your dog comfy and prevents rubbing.
- Putting it on is a breeze thanks to the four quick-release buckles. You can buckle it up from the side, which many dogs find less scary than going over their head.
- The sturdy handle gives you great control, and the two D-rings are perfect for leash attachment and training.
- Safety comes first with reflective strips that make your dog visible to cars and people at night.
- It’s adjustable to fit dogs with a chest girth of 27-37 inches and a neck girth of 19-25 inches.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the size chart is helpful, it’s always best to measure your dog carefully to ensure the perfect fit, as breed suggestions are just a guide.
This WINGOIN harness offers excellent durability and practical features for any dog owner. It’s a reliable choice for keeping your large dog safe and comfortable on all your outdoor excursions.
Choosing the Right Harness for Your Gentle Giant
Large breed dogs are wonderful companions. They offer loyalty, love, and a whole lot of fun. But when it comes to walks and adventures, they need the right gear. A good harness is essential for their comfort and your control. This guide will help you pick the perfect harness for your big buddy.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a large breed dog harness, keep these important features in mind.
- Comfortable Padding: Look for harnesses with thick, soft padding. This protects your dog’s skin from rubbing and chafing. It’s especially important around the chest and under the legs.
- Adjustable Straps: Your dog’s size might change, or you might need a snugger fit for better control. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit. This ensures the harness is secure but not too tight.
- Durable Hardware: The buckles and D-rings must be strong. They hold your leash and keep your dog safe. Metal hardware is usually more durable than plastic.
- Secure Buckles: Make sure the buckles are easy to fasten but won’t pop open accidentally. Some harnesses have a locking mechanism for extra security.
- Multiple Attachment Points: Some harnesses offer a front and back leash attachment. A front clip can help reduce pulling. A back clip is good for dogs that don’t pull much.
- Reflective Strips: Safety is key, especially on evening walks. Reflective strips make your dog more visible to cars and cyclists in low light.
- Easy On/Off Design: Large dogs can be wiggly! A harness that is simple to put on and take off saves you time and frustration.
Important Materials
The materials used in a harness affect its durability and your dog’s comfort.
- Nylon: This is a very common material. It’s strong, lightweight, and dries quickly. Many harnesses use durable nylon webbing.
- Mesh: Some harnesses have a mesh lining. This adds extra padding and breathability. It’s great for warmer weather.
- Neoprene: This is a type of rubber. It’s often used for padding. Neoprene is soft, waterproof, and helps prevent chafing.
- Metal (for hardware): As mentioned, metal D-rings and buckles are usually stronger and last longer than plastic ones.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can tell you if a harness is well-made.
- Good Quality Stitching: Look for strong, even stitching. Loose or messy stitching can mean the harness might break under stress. Reinforced stitching at stress points is a good sign.
- Smooth Edges: The edges of the harness material should be smooth. Rough edges can irritate your dog’s skin.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known pet brands often have a good track record for quality. Reading reviews from other large breed owners can be very helpful.
- Weight Capacity: Some harnesses are rated for a certain weight. Make sure it can handle your dog’s size and strength.
- Water Resistance: If you walk in wet conditions, a water-resistant harness will dry faster and stay cleaner.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a harness feels and works in real life matters.
- Walking and Training: A good harness gives you better control during walks. It helps manage pulling and keeps your dog safe. For training, a front-clip harness can teach your dog to walk politely by your side.
- Car Travel: Some harnesses are designed to be used with car seatbelt attachments. This keeps your dog secure during car rides.
- Outdoor Adventures: For hiking or exploring, a sturdy harness is a must. It should be comfortable for long periods and allow for freedom of movement.
- Dogs with Breathing Issues: For brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Pugs or Bulldogs, or dogs with other breathing problems, a harness is often preferred over a collar. It avoids putting pressure on their throat.
- Dogs Prone to Escaping: A well-fitting harness is harder for dogs to slip out of compared to a collar.
Frequently Asked Questions about Large Breed Dog Harnesses
Q: How do I measure my large dog for a harness?
A: You need to measure your dog’s chest girth. Measure around the widest part of their chest, just behind their front legs. Also, measure their neck circumference. Check the harness brand’s sizing chart for specific measurements.
Q: What is the difference between a front-clip and back-clip harness?
A: A front-clip harness has a leash attachment on the chest. This helps redirect your dog when they pull. A back-clip harness has the leash attachment on the dog’s back. This is usually more comfortable for dogs that don’t pull much.
Q: Is a harness better than a collar for large dogs?
A: For many large dogs, a harness is better. It distributes pressure across their chest and shoulders instead of their neck. This is safer, especially for dogs that pull or have breathing issues.
Q: How often should I check my dog’s harness for wear and tear?
A: You should check your dog’s harness regularly, at least once a week. Look for any fraying, loose stitching, or damaged hardware.
Q: Can a harness help stop my dog from pulling?
A: Yes, especially a front-clip harness. It can help discourage pulling by gently turning your dog back towards you when they lunge forward.
Q: My dog has sensitive skin. What kind of material should I look for?
A: Look for harnesses made with soft padding like neoprene or fleece. Also, ensure the straps are wide and smooth to avoid rubbing.
Q: How should a large breed harness fit?
A: The harness should fit snugly but comfortably. You should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body. It shouldn’t be too tight to restrict movement or breathing, and it shouldn’t be so loose that they can slip out.
Q: Are no-pull harnesses effective for all large dogs?
A: While no-pull harnesses can be very effective, their success depends on the dog and consistent training. Some dogs may still pull, but the harness will make it more manageable.
Q: What if my large dog is very strong?
A: For very strong dogs, choose a harness made with extra-durable materials and strong hardware. A front-clip harness can offer more control. Consider professional training to help manage your dog’s strength.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a good quality large breed dog harness?
A: You can find good quality harnesses at reputable pet supply stores, both online and in physical locations. Reading customer reviews on websites like Amazon or Chewy can also help you find the best options.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!