Among the number of accessories you can purchase for a dog, food bowls and harnesses are pretty much a necessity, and being an owner of an energetic and playful Shih Tzu; you probably want to take him outside for a stroll to release some of his long-lasting energy.
Before buying any random product, you should know that neck collars can be very dangerous for your pet because they don’t have a strong muscle capable of withstanding pressure.
Using the wrong collar can lead to health issues such as the collapsed trachea, breathing problems, spinal damage and there are even some studies relating to cornea conditions, glaucoma, and thyroid issues to the pressure caused by collars.
So let’s not waste any more time and take a look at some of the cutest and safest harnesses we have selected for you and also see which one we believe to be the best harness for Shih Tzu!
10 Best Harnesses for Shih Tzu’s
1. Puppia Soft
Puppia Soft
$11.99
Features
- Authentic Puppia Soft Dog Harness made out of 100% Polyester
- Adjustable chest belt with plastic clasp and quick-release buckle
- Comfortable padded neck opening
- Machine washable, but hand washing and air drying are recommended
We start our selection with this harness made by Puppia, which is a very popular product among dog owners of various breeds.
Key Specifications
- Sizes – 6 sizes, from X-small to XX-large
- Colors – 14 different colors
- Material – 100% polyester
- Why It’s Recommended – Soft, breathable mesh with a variety of sizes and colors
It comes in six different sizes, and you should check the size chart to find the measures that best fit your dog. Be aware that some users note that this chart may not be very accurate, but you should consider the measure of the lower portion of their neck rather than the actual neck size.
You can find the Puppia dog harness in 14 different colors so your dog will never be out of fashion no matter what color his coat is. Made out of a 100% polyester mesh, this harness is very soft, flexible and breathable minimizing the chances of your dog showing rashes or allergies due to the friction of the harness with their skin.
Built using durable materials, it comes with an adjustable chest belt and a quick-release buckle, and although the neck is not also adjustable, it’s comfortably padded.
Pros
- Good variety of sizes and colors
- The fabric is soft, flexible and airy
- Adjustable chest belt and quick-release buckle
- Machine washable, but hand washing and air drying are recommended
Cons
- Size chart not overly accurate
- There are complaints of the fabric is too soft and dogs managing to wriggle out
- It’s not adjustable around the neck so it can pressure some necks
The Puppia harness is machine washable, but the manufacturer points out that hand washing and air drying are recommended.
2. PetSafe Easy Walk
PetSafe Easy
$20.95
1 used from $19.14
Features
- Vet and trainer recommended: Created by a veterinary behaviorist over 15 years ago, the easy walk harness stops light to moderate pulling
- Safe solution for pulling: Allows you to control light to moderate pulling and rests across your dog’s chest, instead of their throat, so there’s no choking or coughing
- Quick and easy: Fit the harness on your dog in just a few minutes with the quick snap shoulder and belly straps, the front clip chest d ring gives you extra control over your dog
- 1 year chew damage replacement: If your pooch decides to turn the harness into a chew toy, we will replace it for a minimal fee
- Comfortable fit: Our patented Martingale loop on the chest piece helps provides relaxed control and prevents twisting
Another very simple and yet safe option is the Easy Walk Harness by PetSafe. Made using nylon, it comes in 6 sizes, and the manufacturer provides a size chart for you to find the one which is best for your puppy, according to his size.
When taking his measures, you should have your dog stand to make sure the sizing is correct; there is a video providing the info on how to measure your dog’s width and girth.
Key Specifications
- Sizes – 6 sizes, from petite to extra large
- Colors – 7 different colors
- Material – Nylon
- Why It’s Recommended – Has four adjustment points and doesn’t choke
Unlike other harnesses, Easy Walk has the front leash attachment steers your dog to your side reducing leash pulling and you can rest assured it will not choke due to the fact that the straps rest along your dog’s chest and belly, not his neck.
The straps are thin but also secure to provide your Shih Tzu with a cooling comfort during the hot weather. Since there are four adjustment points, you can easily adjust the harness to perfectly fit your dog’s unique shape. And don’t worry about putting this harness incorrectly, the belly strap is made on a different color exactly to make it even easier for you to never have any doubt on how to put this on.
Pros
- Good variety of sizes and colors
- Easy replacements if it rips or tears
- Four adjustment points to perfectly adjust to your dog’s size
- Does not choke due to the straps resting along the dog’s chest and belly
Cons
- Complaints of dogs cutting themselves due to the chaffing
- Issues of nylon ripping and the plastic buckle breaking
PetSafe offers a phone customer care if you ever need any help finding the right size and also any replacement parts, either because it some strap ripped or tore from chewing or scratching, but this replacement will be sent for a nominal fee.
3. DEXDOG
Features
- BEST DOG CAR HARNESS: This chest plate harness is perfect for use in the vehicle when on car rides with your four-legged best friend. It keeps them safe, secure, and comfortable on long trips. We use it for Dexter when we drive around and he loves it! **Please note this harness does NOT come with the seatbelt attachment or dog car seat.**
- CHEST PLATE DESIGN: The chest plate featured in the design of this small dog harness has been padded and layered with a breathable material that keeps you pup cool and comfy. It is finished with reflective detailing that ensures your pooch will be visible when out for evening walks, runs, jogs or hikes. The adjustable and reflective straps allow for both safety and comfort. At DEXDOG safety comes first! Additionally, your dog will not be disappointed with its easy, light, and quick design.
- ADJUSTABLE HARNESS: These dog harnesses are conveniently adjustable thanks to the sliding clips that are fitted onto the straps. It simply the best dog chest plate harness on the market! Please check the sizing chart on in the pictures for more information on determining your pups proper harness size. If you have any question, feel free to message us!
- SIZING & COLOR OPTIONS: We offer these dog harnesses in a variety of sizes. The XXS harness makes an excellent small dog harness or pitbull puppy harness, while the larger harness are ideal as boxer dog accessories. Our DEXDOG Chest Plate Dog Harness is available in many different color options, including black, turquoise, pink, purple, blue, and green.
Another model you should definitely consider is the Chest Plate Harness that is perfect for dogs that pull a lot and even to be used in vehicles while driving your four-legged friend around.
Key Specifications
- Sizes – 6 sizes, from XX-small to X-large
- Colors – 6 different colors
- Material – Padded plate layered with breathable material
- Why It’s Recommended – Good choice for dogs who pull a lot and car seat
It keeps them safe, secure, and comfortable on long trips, but note that this does not come with the seatbelt attachment or dog car seat.
The chest plate features a design padded and layered with breathable material to keep your pup cool and comfy, and it’s also finished with reflective detailing to ensure your pooch is visible when out for evening walks, runs, jogs or hikes. These adjustable and reflective straps allow him to be safe all the time.
Coming in a variety of sizes and colors, you can easily find the harness you love, and that’s also going to look great on your Shih Tzu, even so, It’s conveniently adjustable thanks to the sliding clips that are fitted onto the straps.
Pros
- Chest plate design
- Good variety of sizes and colors
- Adjustable stripes due to sliding clips
- Satisfaction guarantee policy from the manufacturer
- Reflective finishing to ensure your pooch will be visible when out for the evening
Cons
- Issues with the clasps breaking
- Fabric is a bit stiff
- There are complaints about the straps being too narrow
You should check the sizing chart to find which Chest Plate Harness best fits your adorable friend but keep in mind the manufacturer has a satisfaction guarantee policy and will give you a full refund, no questions asked, if you aren’t completely satisfied with your purchase.
4. Authentic Puppia RiteFit
Authentic Puppia RiteFit
Features
- Features neck adjustability for those dogs that are in between sizes
- Same comfort and look of the Soft Harness
- Adjustable chest belt
- Rubber Puppia label
If you really liked out the first item on the list, but still wanted something more, maybe you should check another model, also made by Puppia, that comes with a great additional feature.
Key Specifications
- Sizes – 6 sizes, from small to X-large
- Colors – 9 different colors
- Material – 100% polyester
- Why It’s Recommended – Soft, breathable mesh adjustable at the neck and waist
The Authentic RiteFit model is a new and improved version of the Soft Harness, made using the same 100% polyester mesh, a soft, flexible and breathable material, but with another point of adjustment at the neck.
Coming in 6 sizes and 9 different color options, this harness is the best option for dogs who are in between sizes, or you believe they still haven’t reached their full height because of the two adjustment clips.
Pros
- Good variety of sizes and colors
- The fabric is soft, flexible and airy
- Adjustable neck and chest belt
- Machine washable, but hand washing and air drying are recommended
Cons
- Issues of the fabric being stiff
- Can be complicated to adjust to the dog
The Puppia harness is also very secure and comfortable for your dog and easy for you to wash it whenever needed it, because it’s a machine washable product, although the manufacturer points out that hand washing and air drying are actually recommended.
5. Gooby
Features
- Thick Padded Dog Clothes For Small Dogs: Providing insulation, water resistance, and wind protection for small dogs to medium sized dogs, meaning our largest size will fit a dog around 32 lbs. For accurate sizing please measure your pups chest size and reference our size chart.
- Water Resistant and Lightweight: Our dog jackets for small dogs keeps your dog warm, it keeps your dog dry, it’s comfy, it protects them from snow, it’s lightweight, it doesn’t get soggy from snow or rain and it’s cute. Or at least, that’s how they look when you check out the photos of those cute dogs in the customer reviews. Apart from being well insulated and cute, you can also attach a leash onto it without the need for a harness.
- Pain-Free Zipper Guard: Avoids your pet's hair from getting caught in the zipper. A painful experience that no pets should go through. The protective guard on the dog jacket prevents dog fur and skin from getting accidentally zipped – very painful experience your small dog will not experience when you get a Gooby dog vest. The jacket zipper is located in the back which makes it easier for you to put on and zip - struggle free!
- Bottom Opening Design: Unlike most dog coats and sweater vest, this one is actually cut so your dog doesn’t dirty the dog vest when mother nature comes calling – so you won’t have any potty issues. But let’s say your dog does manage to get themselves into some deep… mess you’ll be relieved to know you can safely machine wash and tumble dry the Gooby dog vest with ease.
- Fleece Lining and Dual D-Ring Leash Attachment: Love walking again!When your small dog wears this zip on dog sweater, they won’t want to take it off. Not only because of our 2 d ring design, allowing you to securely attach a leash without needing another harness or collar (although it’s a valid reason) – but because of its fleece vest lining, the Gooby padded cold weather vest keeps your small dog warm and dry when out on a walk in the winter.
Changing a little bit in style, the Gooby Padded Vest is a multi-function piece of clothing for your dog. It will keep him warm and dry in cold or rainy weather, while still being a secure lightweight Shih Tzu harness, you can just attach the leash onto it without using an actual harness.
Key Specifications
- Sizes – 5 sizes, from X-small to X-large
- Colors – 9 different colors
- Material – Waterproof outer with a soft fleece interior
- Why It’s Recommended – It’s not only a harness but also an awesome vest
It’s specially designed for dogs, with a special cut, so it doesn’t get in the way when mother nature comes calling your puppy.
It comes in 5 different sizes and 9 different colors, each shade being a totally new look for your fashionable dog. The zipper is located in the back of the vest which makes it easier for you to put on and zip, no extra struggle! Also, the vest comes with a protective guard on the jacket in order to prevent the dog’s coat and skin from getting accidentally zipped, which can be really painful and traumatic for your pooch.
Pros
- Multi-function vest and harness
- Waterproof outer and super soft fleece interior
- The zipper has a protective guard
- Your dog will never be out of style
Cons
- There are complaints about the zipper breaking
- Many users say it can’t be used in the washing machine
Made using a fleece lining, the Gooby vest will surely be a huge success, and many dogs just absolutely love their comfy outfits, in fact, some dog owners even say their pets like to sleep in it. You won’t experience any more awkward moment where your dogs are just petrified begging you to remove this thing off of him. You are both going to love it!
6. EcoBark
EcoBark
1 used from $11.86
Features
- : , EcoBark Mesh Red Dog Harness for Teacup Breed Dogs: VERY IMPORTANT TO MEASURE- Correct measurements ensure a no slip and no choke perfect fit pet vest. Please Refer to our sizing chart to find the best harness for your puppy. RECOMMENDED BREEDS: X-Small and Very Small Dogs such as Maltese, Teacup Chihuahua, and Very Small Puppies 4 to 6 pounds.
- & : Soft, gentle, breathable double layered mesh fabric made from non-toxic ROSH tested mesh fabric with durability built to last. Strong full body collar for daily walking, running and hiking. Soft and extremely breathable lightweight airflow for an enjoyable walking experience. Anti-rub technology Designed to protect your pet from chaffing due to strap rubbing against the dog's legs and chest for ultimate comfort and control innovation.
- -- Strong Ultra Padded Vests include Recycled Straps made from recycled water bottles. We use environmental friendly material that is highly durable designed to disperse the dog's weight onto the chest to not choke the pet's trachea. Tested Mesh Fabric is an all purpose and all weather ultra padded breathable harness for hot, rainy, or snowy days.
- : Our Vest Harness is escape proof when the dog has the correct sizing. These Harnesses are made to sit a bit higher than most dog harnesses, this ensures that it is harder for your puppy or dog to escape. Specially made to not constrict dogs trachea. The EcoBark Classic Harness incorporates the highest Standard of Specialized Safety Buckle, Custom built to ensure the highest level of strength and long-lasting safety.
- - & : Anti-rub harness technology with Custom Stitched Cover Designed to protect your pet from chaffing due to strap rubbing against the dog's legs and chest for ultimate comfort and control innovation. Quick on and off over the head feature. Great for puppies and small dogs. We are an American family owned harness company, please contact with any questions or concerns.
If you are still looking for that balance of comfort, yet long-lasting durability the EcoBark is for you.
Key Specifications
- Sizes—6 sizes, from X-Small to XXL
- Colors—10 different colors
- Material—Mesh and Polyester
- Why It’s Recommended—While the material is soft and breathable, it is still tough against small dogs who tend to pull a bit on walks.
A double mesh layer and polyester fabric mix make this harness stronger than the typical harness while still being soft and breathable for your dog’s skin and fur. A stitched cover design is anti-rub, which means your dog will not be injured and their skin won’t be irritated from the harness rubbing against them. The specialized safety buckle is made of environmentally friendly material.
When measuring your dog to find the right harness size make sure that you accurately measure their chest girth and the base of their neck. The neck size does not adjust, unfortunately, but the sizing should still allow enough of an opening for your dog’s head to slip through and it is specially made not to harm your dog’s throat if they tend to get excited on walks and pull.
This harness is great for small dogs or puppies getting their first footing outside. You will have a harness to last in a fun color of your choice.
Pros
- Wide variety of colors and sizes
- Made of recycled material
- Specialized safety buckle
- Soft, breathable and durable material
Cons
- Does not adjust around the neck
- Harness sizes run small
- Some customers have stated the sizing chart is not fully accurate
Since the EcoBark Max Comfort and Control Dog Harness sits higher on the dog compared to other harnesses, it will be harder for your dog to escape without hurting their small body.
7. Pawtitas Reflective
Features
- SUITABLE FOR ANY STAGE OF THEIR LIVES: The extra small dog harness is an outstanding choice for breeds like Pomeranian Yorkie Shih Tzu Chihuahua Maltese Miniature Pinscher and small puppies
- REFLECTIVE HARNESS PROPERTIES: The Pawtitas reflective step in harness strip designed to reflect ambient light in extreme low light conditions, providing maximum visibility when your puppy need it the most.
- ERGONOMICALLY DESIGNED: We created an step in dog harness with the functionality of a dog vest harness , easy to use yet an easy walk dog harness great for your adventures.
- GREAT COLOR SELECTION: We understand we all are unique, so is our pooch, with that philosophy in mind we created the Pawtitas Dog Leash with a large selection of colors available in both sizes.
- Not for chewing. Do not leave dog unattended with product. For the safety and comfort of your pet we recommend to measure them prior the purchase of the mesh dog harness
If you want a harness that is easy for your dog to slip in try the Pawtitas Pet Reflective.
Key Specifications
- Sizes—4 sizes, from X-Small to Large
- Colors—13 different colors
- Material— Polyester and Cotton
- Why It’s Recommended—This harness is comfortable for your dog to wear while being safe a secure to walk your dog any time of day.
This harness is great for dogs of all ages. Its comfort and easy to fit style is perfect for adventures of all sorts from short walks around the block to hiking out in the mountains. The step-in design is easy both on you and your dog to use without the hassle of placing it on your dog.
There is also reflective material stitched into the harness that is designed to reflect ambient light at night, so your dog is safe during night walks. But you are not limited to night walks as the harness can be used at any time.
The polyester and cotton blend is meant to last long without harming or chafing your dog while on a walk. Make sure that you accurately measure your dog’s chest girth to get the right-sized harness.
The harness is adjustable thanks to its adjustable buckle to make sure the harness fits snug on your dog without them slipping out. If you need help placing the harness on your dog some easy to use instructions with pictures are included.
Pros
- Has reflective material sewn into the harness
- Suitable for all life stages
- Ergonomic design for comfort and ease of use
- Has a great variety of colors to choose from
Cons
- Not durable if the dog starts to chew on it
- Runs small
- Some customer have stated the stitching is scratchy
Cater to yours and your dog’s personality with the variety of fun colors and sizes that Pawtitas Pet Reflective Step in Dog Harness offers.
8. RYPET
Features
- SIZE: Small - Chest Girth 9"-15.5", matching leash is 59". Please measure size before purchasing. Recommended weight 3-7lbs, please refer to our size chart and measure the size of your pet before placing the order.
- BREATHABLE MATERIAL: Made of soft and breathable air mesh fabric, keep your pet soft and comfortbale for them walking.
- CUTE DESIGN: Classic plaid design, never out of date. Attached with cute bowtie and safe bell, you can easy find your pet according to the bell sound.
- EASY TO ADJUST: Very Easy to adjust the chest size, just need to move the metal clip to enlarge or narrow the chest.
- Fit small dogs or other small animals, such as Chihuahua, Yorkie, poodles, cat and so on. If any of the measurements are between two sizes, please choose the larger size or contact us.
Harnesses do not have to be a solid color. Your dog can wear a fun design as well like with the fun plaid design of RYPET Small Dog Harness and Leash Set.
Key Specifications
- Sizes—3 sizes, from Small to Large
- Colors—3 different colors
- Material—Mesh
- Why It’s Recommended—Both the material and fun design is what makes this harness fun to use on your small dog while on their walk.
The soft, breathable air mesh fabric lets your dog’s skin and fur breath while on their walk so they will be comfortable. The mesh material is also water-resistant but not repellent, so it is meant more for the occasional splash of water, not full submersion. The cute plaid design with attached bowtie and removable bell say that your dog has a great sense of fashion, even if they don’t know it.
The harness is easy to adjust all around. Metal clips and a fixed buckle let you easily adjust the size of the chest strap to ensure your dog will have a comfortable fit that will not irritate them or where they won’t slip out of. The leash and slip ring on the harness has a 360-degree rotation to adjust to your dog’s movements. The metal material is firm and won’t rust for longer-lasting use.
When measuring your dog for the harness size if they are in between two sizes pick the larger of the size since the harness can be adjusted to be smaller.
Pros
- Has a fun pattern
- Easy to adjust
- Breathable material
- Comes with a matching leash
Cons
- Ideal for small to medium-sized dogs only
- Size runs too small
Your little dog will look great and show off their confidence with the fun design of the RYPET Small Dog Harness and Leash Set.
9. Downtown Pet
Downtown Pet Supply
Features
- Please review the size chart in the image on the left to ensure proper fitment of the harness
- Easy step in design; Effortlessly slip this harness on and off your pup in seconds
- Padded design reduces tugging and pulling on your pups neck; Breathable mesh dries quickly
- Features double stitched fabric, strong velcro closure, and heavy duty d-rings for leash attachment
- Xsmall fits 11 - 12 inch chest; 9 - 10 inch neck
Designed to last, Downtown Pet is comfortable for your small dog while being secure enough that they will not slip out of it.
Key Specifications
- Sizes—4 sizes, from X-Small to Large
- Colors—7 different colors
- Material—Mesh
- Why It’s Recommended—This harness offers triple security to ensure that your dog will stay snug in the harness for fun walks to come.
Downtown Pet Supply guarantees that their harness will fit dogs comfortably. If the harness does not fit then, they are more than happy to exchange at no extra cost to you.
The padded design helps reduce pulling without harming your dog’s neck. As well, the breathable material is ideal for all types of weather. If it gets wet don’t worry, the harness dries quickly without harming the material of the harness.
Placing this harness on your dog is done in three easy steps. First, you let your dog step into the harness. Make sure that the harness is snug but not too tight on your dog before closing the Velcro strap. Then you push the buckle together, and you are good to go on your walk.
This security system and double-stitched fabric will ensure that the harness will last longer and have better durability than other similar harnesses.
This harness is meant to better fit smaller dogs mainly due to its material and structure design. Be sure to follow the sizing chart to get as accurate a measurement as you can before ordering your dog’s next harness.
Pros
- Triple security harness
- Fully adjustable
- Comfortable fit
- Easy step-in design
- Heavy-duty metal D-Ring to attach a leash
Cons
- Size runs small
- Only meant for small and medium-sized dogs
Comfort and durability are combined in the secure and comfortable Downtown Pet Supply.
10. FUNPET
Features
- Extra Small - Chest Girth 10"-15", Neck Girth 8.0", the neck girth is not adjustable, please choose the right size according to the neck girth and add about 1" to the neck girth when measure your dogs
- Made of 100% polyester, covered with breathable mesh
- Connect a leash with the metal ring on the back, but no leash in package
- Do not hurt when walking and running because of comfort padded vest
- Do not fit for very little kittens, we recommend xs size for the dogs that the weight is under 4 pounds
Simple in design yet durable, the Paccomfet Soft Mesh is comfortable and durable for fun bonding walks with your little dog.
Key Specifications
- Sizes—3 sizes, from X-Small to Medium
- Colors—7 different colors
- Material—100% Polyester
- Why It’s Recommended—The soft, breathable material provides comfort for your dog while on their walk.
Paccomfet’s harness is comfortable for your dog to use thanks to the padded vest. It will not harm their skin and allows their fur and skin to breathe thanks to the breathable mesh. The durable material is meant to help the harness last longer through multiple uses. It is lightweight enough that your dog will not be irritated when wearing this harness.
It is easy to clean as well, preferably done by hand to avoid wearing out the strength of the material. It does not come with a leash, but it does have a durable, metal D-Ring attachment where you can attach the leash of your choice to it.
Pros
- Made of durable material
- The chest strap can be adjusted
- Can be used on cats as well
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Only for small and medium-sized dogs
- Does not include a leash
- Some customers have stated the neck hole runs big and cannot be adjusted
Thanks to the solid color of the Paccomfet Soft Mesh Dog Harness you can pair this fashionable and functional harness with any collar so your dog can walk in luxury.
Bottom Line
As we reach the end of our list, you can now search through the best 5 options among good and safe harness for your tiny ball of fur, but we still would like to point out our favorite: the Gooby – Padded Vest.
Not only this is an absolutely adorable vest – and we encourage you to check the photos submitted by users at Amazon – but also this is great for groomed Shih Tzus or the ones that live in really cold places because being waterproof it can easily protect them from the cold and the snow or rain.
It is made using quality materials with a gentle fleece interior that will make you want to have a vest just like this one to match your puppy’s. The Gooby vest also comes in various colors that are sure going to stand out and make your dog shine in the crowd!
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![10 Best Harnesses for Shih Tzus in [2021]](https://nitrocdn.com/tohiBbFzEPmvdOtxeOnqTAHWsPrBeTPF/assets/static/optimized/rev-abe501e/wp-content/uploads/thumbs_dir/best_elevated_dog_bed_dogstruggles-orwa7mlx81kdan0c6trbmpjycz0xohkryv5ztihyrg.jpg)
Nadia
Nadia is passionate about all things dog related and is one of the leading writers at Dog Struggles. Her attention to detail and expertise means you can rest assured knowing her product recommendations & reviews are the best of the best.
