a passionate pet expert dedicated to helping pet owners make informed choices for their furry and small companions.
Product Reviews
Harnesses come in different designs and sizes, & finding the perfect and comfortable fit is very important because not every dog harness can be a good option for Shih Tzu’s long hair and small physique. Without any further ado, below are the 5 best harnesses for Shih Tzus.
1. Puppia Soft Dog Harness
I have bought numerous harnesses in different sizes for my Shih Tzus over the years. I would like to say that Puppia has surely become a reliable brand for me. From the shipping process to product quality, everything is top-notch.
This particular harness is very comfortable and fits my Shih Tzu perfectly. The product is exactly what I was looking for my precious Shih Tzus. It is very well-designed & beautifully constructed.
- Made out of 100% Polyester
- Comfortable padded neck opening
- Rubber Puppia label
The best thing is that it is roomy to the extent that my Shih Tzus can wear it all the time. The range of stunning colors is a huge plus. The mesh fabric of this harness keeps my Shih Tzus from getting chafed in different situations I have been through so far. The only downside is related to the head size which is not adjustable.
Pros
- Machine washable
- Very lightweight and comfortable
- Made of high-quality materials
- Breathable and safe
Cons
- Placement of clasps and buckles needs upgradation
2. EcoBark Dog Harness
By far the most comfortable harness I have ever purchased for my Shih Tzu. This harness is very easy for Shih Tzu to get into. Above all, it was delivered to me on time and packed nicely.
The design is great & it is a no-choke and no-pull dog harness so during walks and runs with my Shih Tzu, there is no yanking or choking on his chest or neck.
- Dog Harness for XS and Small Dogs
- No Pull & No Choke Halter Harness
- Eco-Friendly Pet Harness
I highly appreciate the fact that the harness is made of recycled materials. The harness was true to the mentioned size & fit my Shih Tzu more snugly and perfectly without choking. But on the other hand, I was a bit disappointed that this harness does not have any way of adjusting the neck opening.
Pros
- Breathable and soft
- Eco-friendly
- Available in different colors & stylish patterns
- Durable
Cons
- Bulky
3. Kurgo Tru-Fit Dog Harness
I ordered this harness on my friend’s recommendation to jog and run with my two adorable Shih Tzus so that they can pull safely instead of their regular martingale collars. I always wanted a dog harness that can put pressure on Shih Tzu’s chest instead of his back or neck.
And surprisingly, both of them are doing well with this harness. It can be said that the Kurgo Tru-Fit dog harness has solved my problems.
- No-pull training clip
- Includes dog seatbelt
- Committed to quality
It can easily be adjusted in every dimension. This harness is sold as being very easy to put on & take off, & this is true to some extent. I have another harness as well that is not as comfortable and easy to put on. The chest protection offered by this harness is matchless. The additional strap is a plus to use in my car for seat belting the Shih Tzus.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- 5 adjustable points
- Made of high-quality material
- Won’t pull Shih Tzus
Cons
- It is not chewing proof
4. Voyager Harness
I prefer Voyager products over other brands because they make quality products. The same goes for this harness. It is the best kind of harness to get on Shih Tzus and other craziest canine breeds out there.
How it fits is definitely of utmost importance to me. It has a few adjustable straps with reflective stitching across the canine’s back.
- ALL WEATHER MESH
- REFLECTIVE WEBBING
- PERSONALIZED FIT
The quality is superb, it is soft, thick, and sturdy. Moreover, the price point is also good. I will surely buy this harness again as Shih Tzu grows. I bought two harnesses in 2 sizes, i.e., small and medium, well medium was very big for my Shih Tzu, but the small fits perfectly. This is exactly what I want in a harness, the soft and comfortable padding across Shih’s chest.
Pros
- Breathable and soft air mesh
- Lightweight dog harness
- Great step-in design
- Fully adjustable
Cons
- Sizing issues
5. Pawtitas Dog Harness
The fabric this brand used for the leashes, harnesses, and collars is soft and comfortable, which is what every pet parent would want for their tiny Shih Tzus.
This harness is very well-designed while being durable. Even though for some reason, my Shih Tzu is not a huge fan of harnesses but luckily, he is not panicking or freaking out trying to escape. In other words, he seems extremely comfortable.
- Reflective strip is designed to reflect ambient light in extreme low
- Pawtitas dog harness extra small
- Teal dog harness
The reflective straps on the areas are very functional at night. But just like other nylon harnesses, this one has sharp edges. But sharp parts are quite small, so perhaps not an issue for a canine having a thick coat. And secondly, the chest strap is also not adjustable & was a bit loose so my tiny Shih Tzu chewed through it in a couple of days.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed
- Number of size and color options
- Ensure utmost comfort and safety
- Reflective properties
Cons
- Thin straps
Why Shouldn’t Pet Parents Just Buy a Collar for Shih Tzus?
It is vital to mention that collars can put a lot of strain on your Shih Tzu’s trachea and neck. In few canines, especially small breeds, excessive pressure can cause severe choking. In the worst-case scenario, it can make Shih Tzu’s airway collapse.
According to vets, harnesses are very easy and safe to use when it comes to longer walks.