Collars and harnesses are very important for dogs and cats of all breeds. Without a proper collar or harness, your dog might pull too hard and hurt themselves or you. For example, you are walking your dog, and they suddenly run after a squirrel or a street cat. Without a strong harness, you could lose control.
German Shepherds are strong, smart, and full of energy. Because of their size and power, it’s important to keep them safe and under control when outside.
So choosing the right harness or collar isn’t just about safety. It’s also about making your dog comfortable and helping with training. A well-fitted harness can make walks easier and more enjoyable for both you and your pet.
In this blog, we will teach you how to pick the best harness or collar for German Shepherds and any other dog breeds. These tips will help you make the best choice for your furry friend.
Size and Fit
One of the most important things when choosing a collar or harness for your German Shepherd is the right size. If the collar or harness doesn’t fit correctly, it can cause discomfort and even injuries.
To get the right fit, you need to measure your dog’s neck and chest.
For a collar, measure around the neck, leaving a bit of space to make sure it’s not too tight. For a harness, measure the chest, usually around the widest part, just behind the front legs.
An ill-fitting collar can slip off or become too tight, causing pain or even choking. A harness that’s too loose can lead to pulling, which might hurt your dog’s shoulders or back. A snug, well-fitted collar or harness is essential for your dog’s comfort and safety.
Material Durability
German Shepherds are strong and active dogs. They love to run, play, and explore. That means their collar or harness needs to be tough and durable.
There are many types made from high-quality materials. These materials are built to last and can handle the strength of a German Shepherd. If the material is too weak, it could wear out quickly or even break during walks, which could be dangerous.
Materials in Dog Harnesses and Which Is Best for Your German Shepherd
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Nylon
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Best for: Everyday use, walking, training.
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Why it's good: Nylon is strong, durable, and easy to clean. It’s also lightweight, making it a comfortable option for long walks or daily outings. Nylon harnesses are often affordable and come in a wide variety of colors and designs.
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Leather
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Best for: Fashionable, durable use.
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Why it's good: Leather is a classic, stylish material that is tough and can withstand wear and tear. It’s ideal for older, more mature dogs that don’t need the durability of nylon but still require a strong harness.
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Neoprene
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Best for: Comfort, water-resistant activities.
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Why it's good: Neoprene is a soft, padded material that offers great comfort and support for your dog. It’s also water-resistant, making it perfect for dogs who love to swim or play in the rain. Neoprene harnesses are gentle on the skin and reduce chafing, which is ideal for German Shepherds with sensitive skin or longer fur.
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Mesh
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Best for: Warm weather, active dogs.
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Why it's good: Mesh harnesses are breathable, lightweight, and perfect for hot climates. They allow air to circulate, keeping your German Shepherd cool during outdoor walks. This material is often used in harnesses designed for more active dogs, especially in Miami’s warm weather.
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Polyester
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Best for: Budget-friendly, casual walks.
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Why it's good: Polyester is similar to nylon but often a little lighter and softer. It’s still durable enough for German Shepherds and is an affordable option for everyday walks. Polyester harnesses come in various colors and patterns and can be a good choice for dogs that don’t need a heavy-duty harness but still require something sturdy.
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Cordura
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Best for: Heavy-duty use, hiking, and outdoor activities.
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Why it's good: Cordura is a tough, abrasion-resistant material used for high-performance harnesses. It’s perfect for German Shepherds and other breeds that engage in intense physical activity. Cordura harnesses are durable and can withstand rough conditions.
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Padded Foam
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Best for: Comfort, long walks, and training.
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Why it's good: Padded foam provides extra cushioning, which makes it great for dogs that need comfort during long walks or training sessions. It helps reduce pressure on sensitive areas like the chest and back, and it’s particularly good for larger or more muscular dogs like German Shepherds.
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Reflective Fabric
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Best for: Night walks or low-light conditions.
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Why it's good: They are great for keeping your dog visible during nighttime walks. The reflective material makes it easier for drivers or pedestrians to see your dog from a distance.
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One last thing, you also want to make sure the material is breathable and lightweight. Since German Shepherds are active and enjoy moving around, a breathable harness or collar will help keep them cool and comfortable during outdoor activities. A lightweight option will not restrict their movements, making walks more enjoyable.
Purpose of Use
Think about how you plan to use the collar or harness. Is it for daily walks, training sessions, or special activities like hiking? The type of activity will determine the kind of collar or harness you need.
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Daily Walks: A simple, comfortable collar or harness works well for everyday use. Choose one that is easy to put on and take off, and one that your dog can wear for long walks without discomfort.
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Training: For training, you may want a harness that gives you more control over your dog. A front-clip harness can help with pulling.
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Hiking or Outdoor Activities: For these activities, look for a collar or harness that’s extra durable and possibly padded. A harness with extra padding around the chest and belly can reduce friction and prevent chafing, especially during long hikes.
Safety Features
Safety is always a top priority. When choosing a collar or harness, make sure it has safety features that help protect your dog.
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Reflective Strips: If you’re walking your German Shepherd early in the morning or at night, a reflective collar or harness is a great option. It makes your dog visible to drivers and others, reducing the risk of accidents.
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Quick-Release Buckles: In case of an emergency, quick-release buckles can be lifesaving. If your dog gets caught or trapped, you can quickly remove the collar or harness. This feature adds a level of safety that could be important in certain situations.
Types of Dog Harnesses for German Shepherds
Back-Clip Harnesses
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Best for: Casual walks.
Back-clip harnesses are easy to use and provide comfort for well-trained dogs. The leash attaches to the back of the harness, which gives your dog more freedom to walk naturally. This style is great for dogs who don't pull on the leash and are comfortable on walks.
Front-Clip Harnesses
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Best for: Training purposes.
Front-clip harnesses are designed to help with leash pulling. The leash attaches at the front of the chest, which redirects your dog’s attention back to you. This type of harness is perfect for German Shepherds that tend to pull on walks, as it encourages them to walk more calmly. It’s great for training, especially during the learning phase.
No-Pull Harnesses
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Best for: Strong pullers.
No-pull harnesses are made specifically for dogs that pull hard on the leash. These harnesses typically have special features, such as front and back attachments. It helps reduce pulling.
They work by redistributing the pressure across your dog’s chest, which helps to control their energy. For German Shepherds, who are strong and energetic, a no-pull harness can make walks much more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Sport Harnesses
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Best for: Outdoor adventures and exercise.
Sport harnesses are designed for active dogs that enjoy outdoor activities. Like hiking, running, or playing fetch. These offer extra padding and adjustable straps to ensure comfort during physical activities.
Sport harnesses also tend to have durable materials that can handle the wear and tear of adventurous dogs.
How to Measure Your German Shepherd for the Perfect Fit
To ensure your German Shepherd is comfortable and safe in their harness, it’s important to measure them correctly. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
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Neck Measurement:
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Use a soft measuring tape to measure around the base of your dog’s neck, just above the shoulders.
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Make sure the tape is snug, but not tight. You should be able to fit two fingers underneath the tape to ensure it’s comfortable.
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Chest Measurement:
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Measure the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs.
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Keep the tape comfortably snug, not too tight. This area is important as the harness will rest around it.
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Check for a Snug but Comfortable Fit:
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Once the harness is on your dog, check to ensure it fits properly.
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The harness should be tight enough that it doesn’t slip off, but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
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The Two-Finger Rule: You should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body. This ensures it’s neither too loose nor too tight.
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Adjust as Needed:
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Most harnesses come with adjustable straps. After putting the harness on, adjust the straps to fit your dog’s body. Ensure the harness doesn’t rub against your dog’s skin, especially in sensitive areas.
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Here is a helpful video guide to show you exactly how to measure your German Shepherd for the perfect fit.
Top Recommendations for Collars and Harnesses
At Parisian Pet, we offer a wide variety of high-quality collars and harnesses. Here are some of our top picks for your furry friend:
ComfortFit Adjustable Harness
This harness is made with extra padding for comfort and has adjustable straps to ensure the perfect fit for your German Shepherd. Ideal for long walks and daily activities.
Premium Leather Collar
Made from durable leather, this collar provides a classic look while being tough enough for a strong dog like a German Shepherd. It also features a sturdy buckle for added security.
No-Pull Training Harness
Perfect for training, this harness has a front clip that helps reduce pulling. It’s designed to give you better control without causing discomfort to your dog.
Reflective Nylon Collar
For safety at night, this collar has reflective stitching, ensuring your dog is visible during evening walks. It’s made from durable nylon and comes in a variety of sizes.
Sporty Adventure Harness
If your dog enjoys outdoor adventures, this harness is a great option. With breathable materials and an adjustable fit, it’s perfect for hikes, runs, and trips to the park.
Conclusion
Thanks for reading our blog till the end. You can visit our Collars & Harnesses Collection at Parisian Pet for the best options tailored to large breeds like German Shepherds. Whether you’re looking for a stylish collar or a practical harness, we have something for every need.
Contact Us for Personalized Harness and Collars If you need help choosing the perfect fit, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to provide personalized recommendations for your dog’s unique needs.
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