1. OneTigris Tactical Dog Harness Vest
Key Features
Durability and style with 1000D nylon material
Lightweight, padded, and water resistant
Top handle for grip and restraint
Extra pouches attachable with MOLLE system
Made using strong 1000D nylon material, soft padding, durability and comfort are combined in this tactical dog vest. Quick-release buckles make it straightforward to put the vest on and take it back off again as required. There is also a handle at the top for your dog’s lead, as well as allowing for an extra level of control over them should you need it. Two MOLLE straps are available to attach pouches and ID panels depending on your requirements.
Four colours are on offer depending on your preferences, as well as three sizes which range from medium to extra-large. Get the best fit by measuring around your dog’s chest. If you and your dog have a sense of adventure in you, this is certainly a first-rate choice.
2. ICEFANG Tactical Dog Harness
Key Features
No pull front clip and back-leash clips
1000lb proof-tested Alloy Metal Buckle on biggest load bearing point
Custom-fit no-rub design
Durable handle for maximum control
Designed to attach securely to your dog’s body, this tactical dog harness has also been crafted not to rub and cause discomfort to your pooch. At the front is a ‘no pull’ front clip which gives you more control over your dog if they are not well trained or overly excited. A back-leash clip is fitted at the rear for more well-trained pups.
If you need to pick your dog up for any reason, you can do so easily with the durable handle. Compatible with MOLLE/PALs Pouch, your dog will be able to carry all sorts of gear along with you on your next walk or hike including toys, water bottles etc. You also have the option of attaching identity cards to the front so that your dog can be easily recognized.
3. yisibo Tactical Dog Harness
Key Features
Double-layered 1000D waterproof nylon fabric
Durable contoured and padded handle
Bound and reinforced seams
Soft-padded and water-resistant
Available in four unique designs, this vest has been expertly crafted with bound and reinforced seams for extra strength and security. Two layers of 1000D waterproof nylon fabric have been used in the manufacture of this vest, and the padding is soft to ensure maximum comfort for your dog. You can adjust the front strap in two different ways to best fit your four-legged friend.
As you would expect from a tactical dog harness vest, there is a durable handle at the top, but this one has been specifically padded and contoured for your comfort.
4. OneTigris Tactical Dog Vest Harness
Key Features
Three detachable pouches for water bottle, snacks, toys etc
Mesh interior for your dog’s comfort and ventilation
Strong metal leash clip
Hook-and-loop panel
Why should you have to carry everything for your dog when this MOLLE dog vest comes complete with three detachable pouches? As well as this, there is a hook-and-loop panel available for moral patches. The mesh interior provides excellent comfort and ventilation for the times when your furry friend wants to dash around.
And when you feel like you need to attach your dog’s leash, you can do so with the metal leash clip provided. The top handle of this tactical K9 harness ensures that you have maximum control over your dog in any situation.
5. JASGOOD Tactical Dog Vest Military Harness
Key Features
Combination of high-grade nylon material and soft interior padding
Excellent carrier for tactical outdoor sports
Room for a number of different pouches, water bottles etc
Adjustable straps and well-placed buckles
Made using high grade nylon material for durability, your dog’s comfort is prioritised thanks to the soft padding on the inside. The lining is made of mesh to provide breathability, while also stopping it from sliding down his or her back.
If you like taking your dog out on adventures such as hiking, biking or camping, an adjustable water bottle holder and two MOLLE pouches ensure high carrying capacity. The webbed design even offers the chance to attach more utility patches if you would like. But you need to ensure that you balance out the weight to make your dog’s life easier.
6. EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Tactical Dog Harness
Key Features
Waterproof, durable nylon material
MOLLE system of pouches and magic sticker ID panel
Easy-to-clean
Four quick-release buckles and adjustable chest straps
A military dog vest made using high-quality nylon and a soft padded lining to help prevent chafing, four quick-release buckles ensure that it can be easily put on or taken off as needed. Small pouches are easy to attach, and it includes a magic sticker ID panel which helps to ensure that your furry friend won’t get lost. You can use the top handle to redirect your dog’s movement and train them to walk alongside you.
If you want to attach your dog’s leash, you can do so easily with the metal V-shaped buckle. Three different sizes are available, so make sure that you measure your dog properly before settling on the right one to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.
7. OneTigris Tactical Dog Training Vest Harness
Key Features
Two-handled design for easy lifting and restraint
A number of MOLLE straps to attach carrying pouches
Made using 1000D nylon with breathable mesh underneath
Easy-to-unbuckle neck strap for putting it on or taking it off
A number of MOLLE webbings are available on this tactical dog gear from OneTigris, allowing you to attach all manner of compatible pouches to it. Unlike some of the other tactical vests which we have discussed so far, this one comes complete with two handles – one at the front and one at the back. You also have the space to attach name tapes, ID patches, or decorative patches.
A variety of different sizes and colours are available, so take the time to measure your dog and select the right one for your furry friend.
8. Outry Tactical Dog Training Harness
Key Features
Nylon grab handles and metal leash anchors at front and rear
MOLLE and hook & loop systems
Sizes suitable for both small and large dogs
Softly padded collar for dog’s comfort
Made using the tried-and-tested combination of durable nylon and breathable mesh material underneath, the collar has also been comfortably padded. Thanks to the combination of the MOLLE and Hook & Loop System, your dog can carry many of their own things such as snacks, toys etc when you are out on a trip.
At both the front and the back of this K9 dog harness are nylon grab handles and metal leash anchor points to give you a high degree of control over your dog. Four different sizes are available, making this vest suitable for both smaller and larger pooches.
9. JASGOOD Tactical Dog Vest Harness
Key Features
Two carrying handles and leash attachment points
Inner rubber waterproof layer
Three detachable MOLLE pouches
Breathable, non-slip lining
Another tactical dog vest from JASGOOD, three detachable MOLLE pouches can be comfortably fitted onto it. Two carrying handles and leash attachment points help if your dog is involved in service or military training. Walking is made easy thanks to the lightweight and adjustable straps. On top of this, you can add some additional patches to customise the vest.
If you want to head out in some wetter weather conditions, you can do so without fear that your dog will get soaked to the skin thanks to the inner rubber waterproof layer. The interior mesh lining is also highly breathable and helps to prevent it from sliding down your dog’s back.
10. Hanshengday Tactical Dog Vest Training
Key Features
Package including tactical dog vest and other accessories
Bound reflective patches
Durable, comfortable, and water evaporating
Smooth and breathable 1000D material
Included in this package deal you get a tactical dog vest, reflective stickers, two detachable water bottles and a drawstring bag. The material of the vest is strong and durable, as well as offering high levels of evaporation of both water and sweat.
Bound reflective patches ensure that your furry friend has a high level of visibility if you decide to take them out at night with you. Two leash attachment points and handles are included at the front and rear. And there are also numerous MOLLE pouch attachment areas available to attach depending on your dog’s strength and your requirements.
Best Tactical Dog Vest Buying Guide & FAQ
Features to Look for When Buying a Tactical Dog Vest
From reading the buying guide, you will probably have already noticed that there are several core features to look out for when you are searching for a tactical dog vest for your furry friend. Here are just a few of the main ones to add to your checklist.
- Storage Options
One of the best features of a good tactical dog vest is that you can attach a number of different pockets and MOLLE attachments. There are all sorts of different items which you may want to take out on a walk, camping holiday, bike ride or other adventure trips including dog water bottles, toys, snacks etc. While some of these pouches are fixed, others are detachable which gives you maximum control over how much weight your dog is carrying.
- Materials
Many of the vests that we have discussed are made using high-quality 1000D nylon which is well-known for its tough and durable nature. It is also worth taking a closer look at the interior materials to see what sort of breathability, waterproofness, and evaporating qualities they offer. After all, your dog’s comfort will be one of your biggest concerns when choosing the best tactical dog vests.
- Weight and Durability
Weight and durability are two factors which go hand-in-hand. You should aim to choose a vest which is not too heavy for your dog, but you also don’t want it to be so lightweight and fragile that is rips and tears easily when you are out on a hike. You should also bear in mind any age or health factors which mean that your dog is not as able to carry as much weight. And if they are going to be engaging in a lot of high-energy activities, a more lightweight vest may well prove to be the better option.
- Handles and Leash Attachments
Some of the vests above come with a single handle and leash attachment, while others come with a pair. When you have a couple of leash attachments, you can choose whether you want to keep your four-legged friend close alongside you or offer a little more freedom. And a tough and durable handle can be invaluable in keeping your dog away from any dangerous situations. The last thing that you want is it to break when you are trying to carry them.
You may also like our articles on Dog Leashes and Retractable Dog Leashes.
What Actually Makes the Vest ‘Tactical’?
A tactical dog vest varies from a standard one in a few different ways. First of all, it comes fitted with a handle which is designed to allow you to pick your dog up easily if you encounter terrain which is challenging to cross or pass through. They are generally made of higher-quality material than other dog vests and offer a greater level of protection to your dog’s body.
Most tactical dog vests come fitted with Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) technology which is compatible with pouches and other attachments. You have the option of loading up your dog depending on their strength and what you need to bring along with you on the walk or expedition.
Tactical vests often come in military colors and design patterns, which can simply be a style choice, but they are often used for working dogs in the service. The pouches on a military dog harness can be used to carry medical equipment and all sorts of other useful supplies. Check out our guides on the best dog harnesses and best puppy harnesses for more info.
Benefits of Tactical Dog Vests
When you are investing in a product like a tactical dog vest, you need to have a good idea of some of the major benefits so that you can make a more informed decision.
- Safety
As a dog owner, your primary concern will be how you can keep your furry friend safe from harm. A tactical dog vest plays a big role in this. First of all, you have the handle or handles which you can use for restraint or to carry your dog over difficult terrain. As well as this, you also have the leash attachments which you can put on when you need to keep your dog close, giving you control without the choking effect caused when the leash is attached around the neck. You also have the added layer of protection to their body to help defend against cuts and scratches. And many tactical dog vests come with space for ID cards, so your dog can easily be identified if they happen to get lost or separated from you for any reason. For more options, check out our detailed review of dog ID tags.
- Utility
Many of the vests come complete with their own pouches, attachable water bottles and/or MOLLE compatibility which allows you to affix more. This certainly makes everything from your next camping trip to a simple walk in the park so much easier as your dog can carry a whole host of items along with them including toys, snacks, drinks and other accessories. Obviously, you don’t want to overload your dog, so you should go out on shorter walks before embarking on a long trek with them carrying lots of items.
- Convenience
Convenience is certainly a factor with a tactical dog vest. First and foremost, you have the leash attachments which are easy to clip and unclip from as needed. But you also have the handle at the top which makes it so much easier to restrain your furry friend if you think that they are getting overly excitable or in danger or running away. It is also much easier to pick them up if you encounter some difficult territory in front of you.
- Training for Working Dogs
Dog vests are often used in service or military training as you have that added degree of control which you simply don’t get from a standard leash. For example, you could be looking to teach your dog to walk alongside you, which is made so much easier by the leash attachment at the front of many of these vests. A service dog could be required to carry medical supplies and other essentials along with them, which makes the MOLLE pouches highly useful. Police dogs can also benefit from the extra layer of protection that the vest provides to them.
MOLLE and PALS: What’s the Difference?
When you are looking at vests of this variety, you may find yourself seeing the acronyms MOLLE and PALS over and over again. So, let’s go into a little bit more detail about what these actually mean. MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment, which is military gear used by the US and other NATO forces. Typically, it is based around a load-carrying chest rig or vest. Essentially, it consists of different components such as vests, backpacks and pouches which can all attach to one another.
MOLLE systems include PALS webbing, which stands for Pouch Attachment Ladder System. This refers to the fabric webbing strips spaced one inch apart which can be found on tactical vests. So, PALS is a type of webbing, and MOLLE is the gear and accessories which are attached to this webbing.
Our Top Pick
Our number one choice is this tactical K9 harness from OneTigris. Its durable 1000D nylon material and soft padding in all the pressure areas of your dog’s body ensure that it has the right combination of strength and comfort. Whenever you need to put it on or take it off, you can do so with ease thanks to the four quick-release buckles. On the top of the vest is a handle for picking up your dog or restraining them. You can attach his or her lead to the front using the secure v-ring.
Two MOLLE straps and hoop & loop strips panels allow you to attach pouches and ID panels as you would like, giving you the option to transport all manner of things on your short work or longer adventure. Three different sizes are available for medium to large dogs, and you also have a choice of four colours as well.
Ultimately, this dog vest offers the right balance between practicality, durability, comfort, and style to make it our top pick.
