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Best Shih Tzu Harness UK – Buyer’s Guide

October 02, 2025 4 min read

Best Shih Tzu Harness UK – Buyer’s Guide - Bailey and Coco (UK)

Why Shih Tzus Need a Harness

Shih Tzus are small, lively companions with compact necks and luxuriously long coats. Collars can put pressure on the throat and cause rubbing around the ruff, while a well fitted harness spreads pressure across the chest and shoulders for safer, calmer walks. The right harness also protects the coat from matting and gives you better control in busy areas.

Collar vs Harness for Shih Tzus: At a Glance

Feature Collar Harness
Neck safety Can strain the neck Spreads pressure across chest
Control Easier to slip Escape resistant fit
Coat care Can cause matting at the neck Sits off the ruff, less matting
Training Limited for pullers Front clip redirects pulling
Shih Tzu wearing Olive It Hot size Small harness with owner wearing matching bum bag from Bailey & Coco

Now that you know why harnesses suit Shih Tzus so well, let’s look at the features that make everyday walks easier and more comfortable for your pup.

Best Harness Features for Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus have compact frames and long coats, so choose a harness that balances control with comfort and coat care:

  • No pull front D-ring: Gently redirects pulling for calmer training.
  • Easy on and off neck buckle: No need to slip over the head, which protects ears and avoids coat tangles.
  • Lightweight build: Keeps small dogs comfy on longer walks.
  • Soft, breathable lining: Reduces friction and matting on long coats.
  • Fully adjustable straps: Gets a snug, escape resistant fit for varied Shih Tzu builds.
  • Y shaped chest panel: Allows free shoulder movement and stable control.

Our Bailey & Coco 3 buckle no pull harness is purpose built for toy and small breeds like Shih Tzus and pairs with matching leads and accessories for a complete look.

Shih Tzu in Oxford Tweed size Small Bailey & Coco harness standing side profile
Close up of Shih Tzu wearing Forest Tweed size Small harness showing chest panel and buckles

Next up, sizing and fit. A well chosen size prevents rubbing, keeps the coat neat, and makes walks feel effortless.

Shih Tzu Harness Sizing and Fit Guide

Most adult Shih Tzus wear Small or Medium, but measurements matter. Use a soft tape and aim for a two finger snug fit under each strap.

How to Measure Your Shih Tzu

  • Neck: Around the base where the harness sits.
  • Chest: Around the widest part behind the front legs.
  • Length: Base of neck to base of tail for panel guidance.
Shih Tzu harness size chart showing XS to XL with neck chest and length measurements

Shih Tzu Harness Size Chart

Size Neck Chest Length
XS 24–34cm 26–50cm 20cm
Small 30–45cm 35–66cm 23cm
Medium 35–50cm 40–71cm 26.5cm
Large 40–60cm 55–83cm 32cm
XL 55–83cm 71–99cm 34cm
Forest Tweed Bailey & Coco harness product shot showing breathable mesh and dual D rings
Bubblegum Pink Tweed Bailey & Coco no pull reflective harness front and side views

What Size Harness for a Shih Tzu Puppy

Puppies grow fast, so choosing the right harness size early is key. Most Shih Tzu puppies start in XS or Small, then size up as they approach adulthood. Always measure neck and chest before ordering and allow space for growth.

  • 8–12 weeks: XS fits most young Shih Tzu puppies.
  • 3–6 months: Small is usually the best Shih Tzu puppy harness size.
  • 6–12 months: Many Shih Tzus transition to Small or Medium depending on build.

Are Heavy Working Dog Style Harnesses Good for Shih Tzus

Heavier working dog style harnesses are designed for large breeds and can be too bulky for toy dogs like Shih Tzus. Thick straps and rigid panels may rub, restrict movement, and tangle long coats.

Shih Tzus benefit from lightweight, breathable, and adjustable harnesses that protect the coat and allow free movement. That is exactly what Bailey & Coco harnesses are built for.

Shih Tzu Harness Care and Common Mistakes

Clean gear and a smooth coat make a big difference for Shih Tzus. Here is the quick routine:

  • After walks: Wipe mud with a damp cloth.
  • Machine wash: Place the harness in our Bailey & Coco Wash Bag and use a gentle cycle. Air dry.
  • Coat care: Brush regularly to prevent matting where straps sit.

Common Shih Tzu Harness Mistakes

Mistake Why it is a problem Bailey & Coco solution
Harness too tight Causes matting and rubbing Three point adjustment for comfort
Harness too loose Risk of slipping out Secure chest panel, easy fine tuning
Wrong attachment Back clip only can encourage pulling Use front D ring to redirect
Heavy materials Overheats toy breeds Lightweight breathable mesh

For more small breed tips, see our guides for Pugs and Dachshunds. When you are ready, choose a style your Shih Tzu will love.

Happy Shih Tzu ready for a walk wearing Bailey & Coco Olive It Hot harness next to owner

Shih Tzu Harness FAQ

Are harnesses better than collars for Shih Tzus

Yes. Harnesses spread pressure across the chest instead of the neck, give better control, and help reduce coat matting around the ruff.

Which harness is best for a Shih Tzu that pulls

A no pull harness with a front D ring works best. Bailey & Coco’s three buckle design gently redirects pulling for calmer walks.

What size harness does a Shih Tzu need

Most Shih Tzus wear Small or Medium. Measure neck and chest, aim for a two finger fit, and check the size chart in this guide.

How do I measure a Shih Tzu for a harness

Measure the neck at the base, the chest at the widest point behind the front legs, and length from base of neck to base of tail for panel guidance.

How do I fit a Shih Tzu harness correctly

Lay the chest panel flat, tighten each strap so two fingers slide under comfortably, then walk for a minute and recheck under the front legs.

Do I need to put a Shih Tzu harness over the head

Not with Bailey & Coco. Our harnesses include a neck buckle so you do not have to slip it over the head. This avoids coat tangling, keeps ears comfortable, and makes getting ready much easier.

Is a Y shaped harness good for a Shih Tzu

Yes. A Y shaped chest panel allows free shoulder movement and a stable fit. Bailey & Coco harnesses use a Y shaped front for comfort and control.

Should I get a harness and lead set for my Shih Tzu

Matching harness and lead sets keep you coordinated and make daily walks practical. Choose a set with a harness, lead, collar, and poo bag holder to complete the look.