Are you trying to find the best harness for your Shih Tzu?
It’s easier said than done! There are tons of different materials, sizes, colors, and features to choose from! I’ve included options for every need and budget, so you can find one that works for you.
You may also be wondering why you would use a harness for your Shih Tzu instead of a collar. There are many reasons, but the main one is security and safety for your dog. Many people find they have better control with a harness, and they don’t risk choking their excitable dog by pulling on its leash.
Be sure to check the sizing chart or instructions on whichever harness you choose. It’s important that your dog’s harness not be too tight or too loose, both for safety and comfort!
8 Best Harnesses for Shih Tzus:
#1. Puppia Mountaineer II Coat + Harness
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The Puppia Mountaineer Coat with an integrated harness is great for Shih Tzus that love to play outside, even in cold weather. This harness gives you the added peace of mind of a warm, fleecy extra layer to keep your pup comfortable! Additionally, the sturdy harness is great for maintaining control of your dog.
Besides the obvious benefit of extra warmth, my favorite feature of this harness is the many different color and pattern options! You can choose whichever fits you and your pet the best. 🙂
Positives:
- The lightweight coat will keep your dog warm and comfortable in winter weather.
- Plenty of color and pattern options to pick the right one for your dog.
- The harness provides a secure connection to your leash and reduces pulling.
Negatives:
- Price – this is the most expensive option on our list because of the coat feature.
- The sizes of this harness run a bit small, so you may need to order a size up for your dog.
- The coat doesn’t detach from this harness, so you will only be able to use it during cold weather.
#2. Noxgear Lighthound Illuminated Harness
The Noxgear Lighthound Illuminated Harness for Shih Tzus is one of my favorite options!
This unique harness has multicolored LED lights that allow you to see your dog in low light, whether you’re walking on a foggy morning or a dark evening. There are eight colors to choose from, in addition to flashing light options, so you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect setting to keep your pet safe.
Both the neck and chest openings are adjustable, so you can be assured of a great fit no matter the size of your dog. Additionally, this harness snaps on quickly and easily, so you can get outside without delay!
Positives:
- This LED harness keeps your pet visible and safe in low-light conditions.
- The adjustable neck and chest openings provide a comfortable fit for any dog.
- The harness provides a secure connection to your leash and reduces pulling.
Negatives:
- Price – because of the LED technology, this harness is more expensive than other options.
#3. Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness
If you’re looking for a comfortable, durable harness for your Shih Tzu, look no further than the Ruffwear Front Range. This harness combines some of the best features available into one long-lasting product. The padded body is sewn together with sturdy nylon thread, and the adjustable nylon straps allow for a perfect fit. Finally, thick plastic slide buckles (also called quick-release buckles) and an aluminum leash loop ensure that this harness will stand up to even the most active pups.
Best of all, the Ruffwear Front Range harness comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose one that fits you and your dog’s personalities perfectly. We have the Red Sumac color for our dog, Bennie! 🙂
Positives:
- This harness is durable AND comfortable thanks to a padded nylon design with adjustable straps.
- The premium materials will hold up well even with daily use.
- The harness provides a secure connection to your leash and reduces pulling.
- There are two leash attachment loops – one on the chest, and one on the back.
Negatives:
- The fabric over the padded parts of this harness can be difficult to clean because dog hair tends to stick.
- Dogs with thick skin on their necks or very large barrel chests may not be able to use this harness.
#4. Black Rhino Comfort Harness
The Black Rhino Comfort Harness is perfect for Shih Tzus that get extra excited on walks.
First, the padded design ensures that your dog’s skin won’t be pinched or pulled if they try to run ahead of you. Next, you have the benefit of gentle pressure on your dog’s chest to remind them not to pull. And finally, this harness has a padded handle on the back that you can hold to keep your dog close and safe.
There are five colors to choose from, and every Black Rhino harness has adjustable straps, a quick-release buckle, and reflective stitching for added safety.
Positives:
- Comfort and safety are the main priority with this harness’s padded design and back handle.
- The harness provides a secure connection to your leash and reduces pulling.
Negatives:
- The mesh padding can be difficult to clean, especially if your dog sheds.
#5. Mighty Paw Sport Harness
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If you need a harness for your Shih Tzu that is the perfect balance between durability, comfort, and price, it doesn’t get better than the Mighty Paw Sport Harness. And you will be happy to hear that the heavy-duty metallic hardware, tough nylon webbing, and neoprene padding come at a reasonable cost. 🙂
This harness has a plastic slide buckle, which is sturdy and long-lasting. The aluminum leash connector is just as durable, and you can also use it to attach tags. Despite its reasonable price, this harness doesn’t skimp on details. The stitching is secure, and the reflective stitching adds style and safety to this impressive harness.
Positives:
- This harness is high-quality without breaking the bank.
- The neoprene padding keeps your dog comfortable.
Negatives:
- The leash loop is small compared to other options.
#6. Petsafe Easy Walk Dog Harness
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If you’re trying to find an INEXPENSIVE harness for Shih Tzus that works well, you can’t do better than the Petsafe Easy Walk Harness. This option is made of basic nylon webbing. It has a chest loop to attach a leash and a slide buckle closure.
Although it’s a basic option, this PetSafe harness is durable and easy to use. Plus, there are nine color options to choose from, so you can choose the color that best fits your pet!
Positives:
- Price – this harness is one of the least expensive options on our list.
- Nine color options provide personalization.
Negatives:
- This is a basic harness without the bells and whistles that other options include.
- There is no padding on this harness, which can cause irritation if worn too long.
#7. LupinePet Basics Dog Harness
LupinePet’s standard nylon harness for Shih Tzus comes in a seemingly endless number of colors and patterns!
The harness is made of sturdy webbed nylon with slide-buckle closure and adjustable straps. It also features a metal ring at the back to attach a leash.
The no-fuss design and quality materials make LupinePet harnesses highly recommended. It is a great option if you want a simple harness for everyday use!
Positives:
- Despite being inexpensive, this collar is made with durable materials.
- Endless colors and patterns mean you can pick a style that truly fits you and your pet.
Negatives:
- This is a basic harness without the bells and whistles that other options include.
#8. Embark Illuminate Reflective Harness
The Illuminate Reflective Harness from Embark is great for Shih Tzus (and owners!) who like to take walks in the evening. The reflective fabric is easy to see in low-light environments, keeping your pet visible and safe.
In addition to the reflective design, this harness has adjustable straps for a perfect fit. It also features slide buckle closures and a metal ring to attach a leash. You truly can’t go wrong with this inexpensive reflective harness!
Positives:
- Despite being inexpensive, this collar is made with durable materials.
- Available in pink or blue, both colors have a highly visible reflective finish.
Negatives:
- Some users note that the webbing can fray or wear within a few months.
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What harness do you use for your Shih Tzu?
Let us know in the comments below!