10 Best Harnesses for Bernese Mountain Dogs — 2024 Reviews & Top Picks
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Bernese mountain dogs are big and powerful. They’re a joy to take out on a walk, but they need special equipment to walk them comfortably because of their strength. A harness is an excellent tool when walking extra-large breeds like the Bernese, but not all harnesses are made the same!
We’ve all seen the videos of owners calling for their dogs after they’ve escaped a harness, so finding a harness that fits great while being comfortable and secure is the key to great walks together. Based on reviews, specs, and performance, we’ve gathered the best to bring you harnesses that’d be a great fit for your Bernese Mountain Dog.
A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2024
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall
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Chai’s Choice Premium Outdoor Clip Harness |
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Best Value
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Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim Mesh Dog Harness |
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Premium Choice
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Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness |
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| Best for Puppies |
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Frisco Padded Nylon No Pull Harness |
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Check Price |
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HDP Big Dog No Pull Harness |
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Check Price |
The 10 Best Harnesses for Bernese Mountain Dogs
1. Chai’s Choice Premium Outdoor Clip Harness– Best Overall
| Material: | Polyester, Synthetic fabric |
| Harness type: | Front clip |
| Closure type: | Quick release |
| Features: | Seatbelt loop (handle), reflective |
Chai’s Choice Reflective Dog Harness is made for safety, comfort, style, and, importantly, a great fit. This harness may look simple from the outside but has a few tricks up its sleeve, including adding a front clip to help the Bernese that like to walk fast and hard.
This harness features three adjustable straps to ensure a good fit for your dog. It has pads around all the straps, which takes the pressure off their skin and makes each walk comfortable for even the most active pup. A handle built into the top of the harness gives you greater control when you’re out walking, and it can also double up as a handy seat belt loop for car journeys.
The Chai’s Choice harness features a quick-release buckle for less fuss when your walk is done. We loved this harness because the whole package is wrapped up in an attractive package, complete with 3M reflective strips. For some owners who are used to a back clip on a harness, there may be better options than the Chai’s Choice, as it currently only offers a clip on the front. While the material is soft and comfortable, it’s hand-wash only, and it can take some work to get mud and grime out. However, because of its great features, adjustability, and focus on safety, we placed the Chai’s Choice 3M reflective dog harness in our top spot as the best overall harness for Bernese Mountain dogs.
- 3M reflective material
- Handle and seatbelt loop
- O-ring on the chest
- Padded
- Hand wash only
- No back clips
2. Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim Mesh Dog Harness – Best Value
| Material: | Polyester, synthetic fabric |
| Harness type: | Step in |
| Closure type: | Buckle |
| Features: | Two D rings, strap and buckle fastening |
Sometimes, dogs just don’t like wearing harnesses. Luckily, the Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim Mesh Dog Harness has you covered. It is durable, lightweight, and breathable, making it comfortable even on warm days. Unfortunately, it won’t stand up to chewing because it’s so light. This harness is step-in style, meaning that it never has to go over your Bernese Mountain Dog’s head. This makes it simple and easy to use but doesn’t skimp on security.
An adjustable strap on the back of the harness allows for a snug, comfortable fit, and it’s closed with a secure buckle system meaning that no matter how hard your dog pulls, they won’t be able to slip it off (if fitted correctly). However, there isn’t a place for a seatbelt, so an extra seatbelt attachment is needed if you want to take your Bernie for a car trip. The harness has walking covered, with two D rings on the top, allowing for a secure attachment of the leash.
Make sure to measure your dog before purchase, as some reviews stated sizing was an issue, but this can come down to incorrect measurement. The premium features of this harness, the glowing reviews, and the price speak for themselves here, making the Best Pet Supplies dog harness our choice for the best harness for Bernese Mountain Dogs for the money.
- Safety Strap
- Two D rings
- Breathable mesh fabric
- Very affordable
- No seat belt attachment
- Won’t stand up to chewing
- Sizes can run small
3. Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness – Premium Choice
| Material: | Nylon, synthetic fabric |
| Harness type: | Back clip |
| Closure type: | Buckle |
| Features: | Reflective, patch spaces |
The Julius K9 IDC Power Harness was made for dogs with jobs. Your Bernese Mountain Dog will look incredible and feel great in this safety-oriented, sturdy, working dog harness. Created to be the most comfortable yet durable harness your dog will ever wear, the Julius-K9 harness has a premium price that reflects its outstanding features. The inner harness is lined with Eco-Tex, allowing for freedom of motion while being comfortable and breathable on the skin. The outer shell is water-repellent, and the harness is weatherproof, making it great for rainy or freezing-cold walks.
This harness doesn’t have a front clip, so it might not suit dogs that pull a lot. Walking in the dark won’t faze you when your pup wears the Julius K9 harness; it has a reflective chest strap and glow-in-the-dark side labels for optimal visibility. The fitting buckle is secure, and the handle and top D-ring can be attached to the leash for optimum security.
The Julius-K9 harness isn’t as adjustable as other harnesses as it only has one strap, so fitting is essential, but it comes in sizes up to XXL for even the biggest of Bernese. The Julius-K9 Powerharness is truly the ultimate in no-nonsense, high-end harnesses. The price may be premium, but it’s worth it.
- Weatherproof material and fittings
- Strap and buckle fitting
- D-ring and handle for handling security
- Eco-tex lining for comfort
- No attachment at the front
- Expensive
- Not as adjustable as other harnesses
4. Frisco Padded Nylon No Pull Harness – Best for Puppies
| Material: | Nylon, polyester, synthetic fabric |
| Harness type: | Back clip, front clip |
| Closure type: | Buckle |
| Features: | Training, dual clip |
The Frisco padded nylon no-pull harness is excellent for puppies training to walk like big dogs. This harness is particularly good for puppies that haven’t worn a harness before since it has dual D-rings; it features one at the front to help with pulling and control on walks and one at the back for a more traditional feel. The harness is highly adjustable, which is great for puppies that have grown fast.
The harness slips over the head, which can be a deterrent for some dogs. However, puppies are usually good at adapting, so gentle reassurance and praise can help nervous puppies get comfortable with how the harness is put on. Be warned that the Frisco harness isn’t chew-resistant; puppies are notorious chewers, so don’t leave them alone with this harness.
- Training harness; great for puppies
- Two quick-release buckles
- Highly adjustable
- Two O-ring attachments
- Over-the-head only
- Not chew resistant
- Pulling can loosen straps
5. HDP Big Dog No Pull Harness
| Material: | Polyester, nylon |
| Harness type: | Over the head |
| Closure type: | Buckle |
| Features: | Reflective, wide strap |
For Bernese that love to pull or dogs that are elderly and may need more comfort on their walks, the HDP Big Dog No-Pull Harness is an excellent choice. A wide padded strap across the chest helps to distribute pressure evenly and avoid discomfort. When walking, this harness doesn’t put any pressure on the neck, which some dogs that love to pull can experience. This is a great harness for Bernese Mountain Dogs as it provides plenty of firm but comfortable support around the chest and shoulders, and it can be controlled securely but comfortably.
The HDP’s over-the-head harness may not suit dogs that dislike putting their heads through things. There’s also no D-ring at the front of the harness, meaning control is solely focused on the back. Luckily, a handy handle along the back of the harness can help you stay in control.
- Wide and comfortable strap for pulling dogs/ elderly dogs
- D-ring and handle
- Easy-click buckles
- Over-the-head only
- No D ring at the front
6. Kurgo Tru-Fit Enhanced Strength Car Dog Harness
| Material: | Polyester, nylon |
| Harness type: | Front clip, back clip |
| Closure type: | Buckle |
| Features: | Car safety, steel buckles, seatbelt tether |
This harness is a must for any Bernese Mountain Dogs and their parents who love to go on road trips. The Kurgo harness has been crash-tested and is specifically designed to keep your dog safe if they were involved in a car accident. The harness has a seat belt loop and a carabiner, which is compatible with any car seat belt system. This means there’s no more adjustment needed to fit the harness and get your dog on the road!
The steel buckles are the same used by rock climbers, and safety truly is what this harness is made for. For even further durability and enhanced safety capabilities and durability, the Kurgo harness is extensively crash-tested so you can breathe easy when traveling with your pup. However, the harness is only crash-tested for up to 75 pounds.
When your Bernese Mountain Dog grows larger, it will still be an excellent harness for walking but won’t provide the same level of car safety as it did when your dog was smaller. This harness is perfect for growing dogs since it has five adjustment points, but the buckles can be tricky to use, and there’s no quick release, meaning that it takes time to get the harness on and off.
- Crash-tested seatbelt tethers
- Steel buckles
- Five adjustment points
- Only enhanced strength crash tested up to 75lbs
- Buckles can be tricky
- No quick release
7. PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness
| Material: | Nylon, synthetic fiber |
| Harness type: | Front clip |
| Closure type: | Quick-release buckles |
| Features: | No-pull design, minimal |
The PetSafe Easy Walk harness was created by a behaviorist in 2004 and developed alongside vets to combat pulling behavior when walking. Bernese owners will know that if their dog pulls, the owner usually goes with them, so an anti-pull harness is essential for a comfortable walk for you both. This harness puts gradual pressure on your dog’s shoulders when they pull. It won’t hurt or damage their necks, but they’ll get the message that the walk will be much more comfortable if they stop.
Quick-release buckles make taking the PetSafe harness off an absolute breeze, and it’s comfortable and breathable to wear, but putting it on can sometimes be tricky. Also, there’s only a D-ring on the front of this harness, so those who prefer a more traditional walk may find another harness more suitable.
- Developed by vets and dog trainers
- Breathable and comfortable
- Quick-release buckles
- No back D ring
- Can be confusing to put on
8. Chai’s Choice Rover Scout High-Performance Tactical Military Backpack Waterproof Dog Harness
| Material: | Canvas, nylon |
| Harness type: | back clip |
| Closure type: | Quick-release buckle |
| Features: | 3M reflective material, detachable pouches |
If you want your dog to look stylish and feel pampered, the Tactical Military Backpack from Chai’s Choice is an exceptional choice. This harness is comfortable and cool, with two detachable utility pouches included and space for more on top. There’s plenty of room for your dog to carry water bowls, water bottles, and leashes safely and securely. Who needs to wear a backpack when your Bernese can wear one? This is a great harness for those who like to walk in all weather.
It’s waterproof and made from comfortable, breathable canvas, but reviews stated that the pouches can sometimes get caught on the leash. However, the pockets detach easily, thanks to the Velcro fastening. There isn’t a front D-ring on this harness, but the back ring is solid, and there are two handles in case you need to grab your Bernese Mountain Dog in a pinch. This harness is full of features and is essentially a doggie military backpack, so the price is at a premium, but it is built to last.
- Reflective strips
- Detachable utility pouches included
- Waterproof
- Pouches can get caught
- No front D-ring
- Expensive
9. Copatchy No-Pull Reflective Adjustable Dog Harness
| Material: | Mesh, synthetic fiber |
| Harness type: | Clip-on |
| Closure type: | Buckle |
| Features: | Pull-back handle, Sponge-filled fabric |
This is another harness for Bernese Mountain dogs who pull. The Copatchy No-Pull Harness is highly adjustable for a snug and correct fit, but the sliders can be stiff and difficult to adjust. A sturdy D-ring and handle on the top of the harness give you great control when out on a walk, and paired with a comfy strap around the chest, the Copatchy harness offers an excellent alternative for pulling pups. There isn’t a D-ring at the front, so the strap is the only means of communicating to your dog that they’re pulling too hard, apart from actually telling them. They’ll be aware that they’re pulling, but it won’t put pressure around their neck. This harness has all the essentials you want, including reflective strips and color combinations. However, while the material is breathable with mesh panels, it’s not chew proof. Keep an eye on your Bernese if they like to get their jaws around things!
- Easy to fit
- Reflective
- Handle on the top
- No D ring at the front
- Difficult to adjust
- Not chew proof
10. EzyDog Quick Fit Dog Harness
| Material: | Nylon, neoprene, rubber |
| Harness type: | Over the head |
| Closure type: | Buckle |
| Features: | One-click fit, ID tag holder |
The EzyDog Quick-Fit Harness is for those Bernese Mountain Dog owners whose time is everything. If you and your dog are both eager to get out on a walk, the last thing either wants to do is sit and mess about adjusting a harness. This harness is fitted in one smooth click, meaning it can be fitted one-handed. It is placed over the head and has a chest strap that’s designed to minimize any discomfort or chafing). It also includes a handy ID tag holder, meaning you can go out collar-free. The buckles are well-secured and easily adjusted, but they can be stiff when removing the harness. You might also have to remove the harness quickly, as it isn’t chew-proof and can be tempting for dogs to get their teeth around. While the reviews were all highly praising, they mentioned sizing could be on the small side, so be aware when measuring your Bernese for their newest bit of kit.
- Patented one-click fitting system
- Easy to put on
- Reflective
- ID tag holder
- Not chew-proof
- Poor sizing
- Buckle can be stiff
Buyer’s Guide: Buying the Best Harnesses for Bernese Mountain Dogs
Important Aspects to Consider When Finding the Right Harness
The first thing to consider when looking for a harness for your Bernese Mountain Dog is sizing. Getting the perfect harness will still be no good if it’s too big or small. Most harnesses have their own sizing guides, so thoroughly measure your Bernese Mountain Dog before shopping. To measure your Bernese, follow the steps below:
- Place four fingers just behind your dog’s front legs. Then, using a fabric tape measure placed at the end of the fourth finger (probably your pinkie), wrap it around your dog’s chest, ensuring the tape is tight without pulling on the skin.
- Take the measurement and make a note of it.
- Do the same thing but skip the fingers portion; gently wrap the fabric tape measure around your dog’s neck, just under where they’d usually wear a collar. Don’t pull tightly, but make sure it’s not too loose, just touching the skin.
- Make a note of this measurement.
These two measurements should be the only stats you’ll need to find a harness that fits your Bernese perfectly. If you’re stuck between two sizes, look for the one closest to your dog’s measurements. There should be an overlap in sizes available, so generally, go for the more adjustable option to ensure a good fit.
Adjustability
If you have a Bernese puppy, they’ll need a fully adjustable harness to grow with them until you buy the next size. If you have an escape artist, ensuring the harness is highly adjustable can keep them secure and prevent them from slipping out. Bernese Mountain Dogs with anxiety can also benefit from the comforting pressure of an adjustable harness, so consider the level of adjustability when shopping for a new harness.
Harness Type
The harness design should suit your dog’s preferences; they have to wear it, after all. There are usually three types available:
- Harnesses that slip over the head are great for ease of use, but some dogs don’t like the feeling of having to put their head through the hole.
- Step-in harnesses are great for those dogs that need to get up and go, but they usually don’t offer the same adjustability as over-the-head harnesses do.
- Harnesses that clip together usually feature two buckles: one around the neck and one that clips around the chest. These are usually the most adjustable type of harness but can be more difficult to remove once a walk is done as there’s more hardware to deal with.
Durability
The last factor to consider when looking for the perfect harness is durability. A harness that fits great and looks pretty but falls to pieces with the slightest pull will not be any use for a large dog like a Bernese. Looking for harnesses with reviews from large dog owners was a key point in our ranking process. All the harnesses we reviewed are made of highly durable material that, while not chew-proof, all stand up to the test of time and are resilient against strong-willed dogs that want to walk the other way. Looking at weak points such as the base of straps, the sides and chest area of the harness, or the D-ring attachments is a good way to decide whether your Bernese Mountain Dog will feel secure, as any weaknesses will be exploited if your dog wants out!
In Summary
We hope you found some ideas for the next harness for your Bernie. If you’re looking for a great all-around harness that looks the part, has stellar reviews, and is highly adjustable, the Chai’s Choice is our pick for the best overall harness for Bernese Mountain Dogs. For a harness that delivers substance for a great price, the Best Pet Supplies Voyager Harness was our choice for the best-value Bernese Mountain Dog harness. Lastly, if you want to gift a harness to a special Bernie, the Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness was our premium choice due to its high-end features.
See also:
Featured Image Credit: Jennifer McCallum, Shutterstock
