In the past we’ve focused a lot on dog harnesses specifically for hiking.
Today though I want to talk about tactical dog harnesses. One, because they’re extremely functional for outdoor activities, and two because…well…they look awesome.
What is a tactical dog harness?
A tactical dog harness is multi-functional and often employs a MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) system allowing for the attachment of bags and equipment.
Many are worn in the field by military or police dogs, but also hikers or extreme sportsman due to their ability to handle considerable wear and tear.
ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness
This no-rub harness is 100% escape-proof, and the front clip allows you to train your dog to walk beside you with little effort.
The alloy metal buckles on the shoulder position of the vest are perfect for load-pulling pooches.
There’s plenty of room for patches, and the two 1” strips of MOLLE sewn onto both sides allow your dog to carry gear when training or adventure hiking.
Did we mention that it’s made of military 1050D nylon, one of the strongest materials on the market?
OneTigris Tactical Service Dog Vest
This harness is great for medium to large dogs and is well-padded in pressure areas for extra comfort. Its 4 quick-release buckles make the harness super easy to clip on and remove.
Plus, the soft velvet neck strap, two adjustable chest straps, and belly band keep your canine comfy and controllable. With the MOLLE hook and loop system, you can add on treats and toys, extra pouches, or water.
Its high quality and intuitive design make it a definite crowd-pleaser.
10 Best Tactical Dog Harnesses
| Rank | Picture | Name | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | | ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness | See it on Amazon |
| 2 | | OneTigris Tactical Service Dog Vest | See it on Amazon |
| 3 |  | K9-powerharness Julius | See it on Amazon |
| 4 |  | EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Tactical Service Dog Vest | See it on Amazon |
| 5 |  | JASGOOD Tactical Dog Vest Military Harness | See it on Amazon |
| 6 |  | Ultrafun Tactical Dog Molle Vest | See it on Amazon |
| 7 |  | BARKBAY Tactical Dog Harness | See it on Amazon |
| 8 |  | Hanshengday Tactical Dog Vest | See it on Amazon |
| 9 |  | Feliscanis Tactical Dog Training Vest Harness | See it on Amazon |
What types of dogs need a tactical harness?
Tactical dog harnesses are great for:
- Service dogs – for carrying water and medications
- Emotional support dogs – for easy identification in public
- Police and working dogs – for protection and professionalism
- Hunting dogs – for visibility and storing supplies and bait
- Outdoor companion dogs – for optimal handler control and reflective properties
Tactical dog harnesses were initially designed for dogs to accompany their owners into the outdoors where they would encounter rough terrain and even combat. Now, these durable and practical vests can be used for a wider array of purpose, including guidance and control of aggressive dogs. They’re also great for sensitive dogs, there are additional straps and pads to secure the canine’s comfort. They even benefit flighty dogs or special needs pups since most harnesses have the ability to display dog identification.
Choosing the Best Tactical Dog Harness
So what’s the right tactical harness for your dog?
When selecting a harness, there are several important factors to consider.
Function
What kind of tactical harness is best suited to your and your doggo’s needs?
Are you looking for increased overall control?
An added layer of protection?
More storage?
Identifying these elements beforehand makes choosing the right tactical harness or vest much more straightforward.
Size, Fit, and Weight
Tactical dog harnesses are made for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and breeds.
Always take precise measurements of the following before purchasing a tactical harness, in order to prevent lacerations, abrasions, and other injuries:
- Girth. Inches around your dog’s chest, right behind their front legs. It’s a good idea to add 2” to your measurement to accommodate for weight gain or coat growth.
- Length. Inches from the back of their shoulder blades to the beginning of their tail.
- Lower neck. Inches around their lower neck.
Keep in mind that measuring instructions may vary by the manufacturer, and there are lots out there.
Tactical Dog Harness Reviews
To help you and your canine companion make an informed choice, we’re going to take a look at the top picks from our list above in a bit more detail.
1. IceFang Tactical Dog Harness
This elite harness comes in different sizes for owner adjustability, while featuring a front chest clip for optimal canine guidance. Overall, this harness offers excellent value and durability. It features two metal buckles at the central load bearing points to ensure durability of your harness. The adjustability of straps, storage, identification attachment, and various colors, make this harness easily a top choice for your needs.
2. One Tigriss Tactical Dog Harness
This harness has an escape proof design along with excellent strength and durability for your hiking or versatile needs. It allows you to carry gear while maintaining control of your pup. And it has four great colors to choose from for your canine friend. It also features a reflective trim, which allows your canine to be more visible on evening outings.
3. K9-powerharness Julius
Widely used in the United States and across Europe by policemen and firefighters, this tactical harness is the top choice for working dogs.
The harness features a reflective chest strap and edges, a steel leash attachment ring, crash-tested buckles, and a side-bag attachment option.
It also distributes your dog’s weight equally and ensures that their joints are kept safe without restricting their movement.
4. EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Tactical Service Dog Vest
This harness has a versatile look and is appropriate for outdoor sports, training, military, and leisure. It has quick-release buckles with tri-glide adjustment clips.
Designed to prevent chafing and hair pinching, it’s made of durable nylon material with neat stitching and soft padded lining.
The MOLLE system and the elastic bands on top also allow for additional storage, leaving you with more room in your bag.
5. JASGOOD Tactical Dog Vest
Lightweight and practical, this multi-purpose harness also comes with 3 detachable double-zipper MOLLE pouches and 3 high-quality rubber patches.
There are 2 carry handles on both sides of the vest, plenty of webbing, and additional attachment points for leashes, magazine pouches, or water bottles.
6. Ultrafun Tactical Dog Molle Vest Military Training Harness
7. BARKBAY Tactical Dog Harness
This vest comes with 3 heavy-duty buckles that allow quick release of your canine friend. It’s made of 1050D nylon, sturdy stitching, and abrasion resistant material.
8. Hanshengday Tactical Dog Vest
This tactical harness comes with everything you need when you’re in the field, in combat, or just exploring, including a detachable water bag, drawstring bag, and reflective Velcro patches.
It’s made of 1000D nylon with tight stitching and firm adjustable straps, complete with 2 carry handles on each end of the harness to lift or carry your dog in difficult situations.
9. Feliscanis Tactical Dog Training Vest
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How Do I Measure My Dog for a Tactical Harness?
A: Measure as follows
- Around the chest, from the shoulder blades to above the front legs.
- Around the widest part of the neck.
- From the nape of the neck to the base of the tail.
Then review the product’s sizing guide to ensure a proper fit.
Q: How Do I Wash a Tactical Harness?
A: Hand wash with cool water and detergent, then air dry.
Q: Is a Tactical Harness Good for Training a Service Dog?
A: Yes. The handles, high visibility, and comfortable straps make this ideal for training your canine friend.
Keeping Your Canine Prepared
Man’s best friend needs to be prepared too. A tactical dog harness or vest is the best way to ensure that you and your furry companion are ready for what’s out there. Stay safe, and happy adventuring.
Better listen to him and sign up below!
Great info. Looking for a good pack for my adult Doberman..
I tried the icefang tactical dog harness. My dog got out of it in 3 seconds. A simple collar holds him better. Waste of my money.
There is no way in hell your dog came out of the harness it is impossible because the way it is made with the straps that go on each side of the neck and with how tight the two straps under the belly. Not to mention how long the harness is if he did manage to pull it back over there head how did he get his paws from are there legs. It actually sounds to me that you don’t know what you are talking about and you did not put the harness on the right way and make it tighten enough.
I have 2 German Malinois and before u say they don’t exist it’s hybrid dog that’s half German Shepherd and half Belgian Malinois. I have used them on both from puppies to adult and I never had any issues controlling the dogs or getting out if them. Because ur an idiot you probably drove people away from such a great harness. One of my dogs is a police K-9 and wears harness for 10 to 15 hours a day and most of the K-9 have the same harness never never had an issue just operator issues it not the harness it you
How is it during the summer??
Live in Florida my Mal loves it wears it everyday.
I believe the proper breed name is Mutt
Hi. I am trying to figure out if I put the Icefang harness on my dog incorrectly. He is a Bassadore and has a longer body but short legs. He pulled himself out of the harness twice. Maybe I am putting on him wrong, but I really don’t think so.
I believe you. My dog escaped his as well.
It would be nice to see what harnesses are American made
Did you find an american made harness? Looking for my 57 lb English Bulldog. Who can escape a collar and a https://joyrideharness.com/products/worlds-best-dog-harness.
I ordered an Ice Fang Tactical vest for my Rescue dog Daisy. As a rescue we don’t know what her breeds are but put Pit and Hound in there. She is an excellent hunter with the ability to trail, run and dispatch wounded game. However she has a very light, non-dense, thin coat of hair. The vest initially was for her belly and throat protection as she would tear through the woods, damn the briars, and come out a bloody mess. With her pink polka dotted skin and snow white hair it looked like she just lost a bear fight. Ice Fang beat that but she isn’t much of a swimmer with little hair for buoyancy. Are there float attachments that would clip on or attach to the molle? I’d like to get some if possible so she won’t have to struggle to swim. She is a 45#+ with a Med. size vest which fits her body perfectly.
I don’t see the pouches sold anywhere except one website that had a combo of vest and pouches. The reviews on the company were horrible, and multiple complaints to the BBB. I want to purchase the Tigris Tactical Vest in Coyote Brown with the large pouch for my service dog.
Marina,
Sorry this is a super late reply, but here’s a few options if you’re still looking:
One Tigris Saddle Bag (Coyote Brown): https://amzn.to/3J5WuyC
One Tigris Tactical Harness w/ Pouches (Coyote Brown): https://amzn.to/3I0fInR
Hi. I bought two tactical harnesses for my Bassadore. One can from Pet Belong. You have it on your site but it’s from a different company. It’s your #1 pick by Icefang and you say it’s 100% escape proof. Unless the pictures are different, they look actually the same. I am not trying to be difficult but my dog escaped from what looks like the same vest. I am just wondering if they are made the same? I just want a vest he can’t get out of.