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In search of the best tactical dog vest for your canine friend?

If you have a canine companion, you know how important it is that they stay secure and healthy.

Dog jackets, tactical dog vests, and K9 tactical harnesses are great options for giving your dog an extra layer of protection along with the means for them to hold their own gear for tactical, work and recreational purposes.

Tactical dog vests are also useful tools for lifting and carrying your dog during dangerous or difficult situations while in the field.

A tactical dog vest or harness is perfect for:

• Service dogs – for carrying medical supplies, water, and emergency items
• Police and working dogs – for adding a layer of protection and storage for equipment
• Hunting dogs – for carrying small supplies and visual indication while out in the wilderness
• Outdoor companion dogs – for carrying their own food and water, helping them exercise, and expend energy

Read on to find the best tactical dog vests and tactical dog harnesses.

Best Tactical Dog Vest & Harness Comparison Table

Name	Image	Sizes	Material	Colors	Price	Our Rating
OneTigris Tactical Dog Molle Vest Harness – Our Top Pick!		S/M/L/XL	1000D Nylon	Black, coyote brown, multicam, orange, ranger green	$$ See It	98
Cynology War Labs Quarter Dog Vest Harness		Large	500D cordura	Foliage green, ranger green	$$$$ See It	91
Signature K9 Modular Tactical Dog Harness		One size (adjustable)		Black, brown	$$$$ See It	96
Pellor Tactical Police Dog Training Molle Vest Harness		M/L/XL	1000D Nylon	Black, brown, CP	$$ See It	95
Ultrafun Tactical Dog Molle Vest		M/L/XL	600D Nylon	Black, camo, green, tan	$ See It	87
MEIKAI Tactical K9 Service Dog Training Vest Harness		L	1000D nylon	black, coyote brown, ranger green, army city uniform, camouflage pattern	$ See It	92
Lifeunion Tactical Dog Vest Harness		S/L	1000D Nylon	ACU, AOR1, black, camo, coyote brown, grey+green, mad, ranger green , typ, white+black	$ See It	91
Feliscanis Tactical Dog Vest Training Molle Harness		S/M/L/XL	1000D nylon	ACU, AOR1, black, brown, CP, ranger green	$$ See It	95
OneTigris Tactical Service Dog Vest – Best Budget Option!		S/L	1000D nylon	Black, coyote brown, ranger green	$ See It	96
Yisibo Tactical K9 Dog Training Vest		S/L	1000D nylon	Army city uniform, black, coyote, brown	$ See It	97
ArcEnCiel Army Tactical Dog Vest Harness		L/XL	1000D nylon	Black, coyote brown	$$ See It	90
Xhorizon Army Tactical Dog Vest		S/M/L/XL	1000D Nylon	Black, army green, cp camouflage, coyote brown	$$ See It	88
Strenco Tactical Training Dog Vest Harness		S/M/L/XL	1000D Nylon	Black, brown, camo, green	$ See It	87
Tri-polar Service Dog Training Vest Molle		S/M/L	600D Nylon	Brown, black, red	$ See It	85

Best Tactical Dog Vest & Harness Reviews

The selected tactical dog vest models below are among the most elite and highest quality options on the market. These are the best tactical K9 vests available based on high levels of durability, functionality, and practicality.

By examining the pros and cons for each of the best tactical dog vests, you’ll be able to determine which is the most ideal for your dog and his or her individual breed and size. When it comes to your canine friend, don’t settle for anything but the best.

OneTigris Tactical Dog Molle Vest Harness – Best Tactical Dog Vest 2017

The OneTigris is a heavy-duty tactical dog molle vest harness with an advanced MOLLE system for maximum storage and versatility. Built tough with functionality in mind, it outperforms almost all other models on the market, which is why it’s our top pick.

Features & Performance

It’s made from durable 1000D nylon, perfect for heavy outdoor use. This vest also has a mesh design for the comfort and breathability with lots of hooks and loops for adjustment. It comes with two carry handles attached to the front and back of the harness and two attachment points for a leash.

This is a great tactical dog vest for taking your dog out on excursions or adventures that require packing lots of supplies. It works best for dogs who don’t mind carrying a large load with additional weight from extra pockets.

Who Should Buy It

This tactical dog MOLLE vest is best for someone looking for an adjustable tactical dog harness with lots of pocket features for maximum storage capabilities. If your dog will mainly be carrying gear while hiking or working (as opposed to rushing through thick bushes), it’s a great option.

Get the OneTigris Tactical Dog Vest

– Specs –

Cynology War Labs Quarter Tactical Dog Harness

The Cynology War Labs Quarter tactical K9 harness vest is simple and lightweight, but extremely durable.

Features & Performance

Its simplistic design ensures a solid form made with 500D cordura. This tactical dog vest will fit most dogs between 50 and 80 pounds, so it’s suitable for medium and medium-large dogs, including labs, pit bulls, pointers and German shepherds (GSD’s). It comes equipt with a cast steel D-Ring for leashes and a cobra buckle for greater support. It doesn’t take up the majority of the top of your dog’s body, so he or she can move more quickly and efficiently without getting easily snagged on something.

Who Should Buy It

This is a great tactical dog harness option for a canine that does a lot of physical work in the field, especially if they may need to maneuver through tight spaces. The strong buckles and grab handle design makes this K9 vest ideal for physically securing your dog quickly and effectively.

Get the Cynology Labs Vest

– Specs –

Signature K9 Modular Tactical Dog Harness

The signature K8 Modular Ultimate Load Bearing tactical dog harness is a strong, lightweight harness designed with functionality in mind.

Features & Performance

This durable K9 tactical harness is crafted to be used as training equipment for dogs in the military or law enforcement. This vest has lots of padding without sacrificing air flow, with two long MOLLE strips ready for pouch attachment. The vest is equipt with Velcro, a reinforced handle and a V-ring to ensure that there is an even distribution of weight if you need to lift or pull your dog. It also offers a lot of room underneath for easier movement. For some dogs, the harness may sit at a weird angle, so adjustments may be needed to perfect the fit.

Who Should Buy It

Consider this tactical dog harness if you’re looking for something basic and strong that you can easily customize to your dog and individual preference for use. This tactical K9 vest is a great buy if you want something made in the USA and don’t mind paying extra for adjustability.

Get the Signature K9 Harness

– Specs –

Pellor Tactical Police Dog Training Molle Vest Harness

The Pellor tactical police dog training MOLLE vest harness offers all the basics for a breathable Nylon tactical dog vest with Velcro paneling.

Features & Performance

This tactical K9 harness comes in three different sizes to suit a variety of breeds and sizes. It’s made from 1000D Nylon and comes in a couple of different colors, including camo. It allows for the addition of patch furniture on the back and includes two different leash attachment points. The materials are fairly durable for the price, but the overall strength and quality isn’t quite comparable with a few other brands (especially the straps, which are sometimes reported to be weak).

Who Should Buy It

This is a great tactical dog harness if you’re looking for something available in extra large sizes with easy adjustability and two leash attachment points. For the price, it’s a great training tool but may not be best for more advanced outdoor work.

Get the Pellor Tactical Dog Vest

– Specs –

Ultrafun Tactical Dog Molle Vest

The Ultrafan tactical dog MOLLE is a multi-functional vest for effective comfort.

Features & Performance

This tactical dog vest features a compatible MOLLE system for extra storage as well as two carry handles. It’s made from 600D Nylon and fits three sizes with some adjustability. The fitting may be a bit loose for some breeds and sizes, so it might not be ideal for dogs that are very active outdoors or in the field. The quality of the stitching and handle strength is average compared to other brands, but appropriate given the price.

Who Should Buy It

If you’re on a budget and looking for something simple with MOLLE functionality and easy installation, you might consider purchasing this tactical dog vest. However, due to the lower quality of the material compared with others available on the market, it’s probably better used for aesthetic or training purposes rather than heavy duty work.

Get the Ultrafun Dog Vest

– Specs –

MEIKAI Tactical K9 Service Dog Training Vest Harness

The MEIKAI tactical K9 service dog training vest harness is a uniquely designed option for a large dog chest harness.

Features & Performance

This small and lightweight harness comes in a variety of colors, so it’s a great practical accessory for your dog that won’t weigh them down. It’s made for dogs with a chest girth of about 25.6-39.3 inches. It features Velcro areas along both sides, which is great for adding patches, badges, and reflective strips. The harness could be described as thin and the clip lacking in durability, but overall the harness is fairly fitting, especially for smaller/average sized dogs.

Who Should Buy It

This tactical dog harness is a very affordable buy for someone looking for a very simple, attractive harness with lots of color options. While it’s great for basic walking, training, and hunting purposes, it wouldn’t be a good option for heavy duty fieldwork due to its lack of protection and storage features.

Get the MEIKAI Tactical Dog Harness

– Specs –

Lifeunion Tactical Dog Vest Harness

The Lifeunion tactical dog vest is a durable yet comfortably light K9 harness complete with strong belts and and a sturdy handle.

Features & Performance

This tactical dog harness comes in a variety of colors and a few different sizes. While it’s lightweight, it also includes a thick thorax and abdomen belt for optimal strength to minimize pulling. The metal ring and handle on the top along with the 1000D Nylon materials make for a sturdy, waterproof product. While there is a strip of Velcro on either side, it’s only a small amount most ideal for patches and badges. Depending on the dog, this harness may fit loosely.

Who Should Buy It

Check out this tactical dog harness if you want something small yet functional and waterproof, with a strong handle and plenty of color options. If you want convenience, it may take some trial and error when it comes to fitting it for your dog, but the belts make it very easy to take on and off.

Get the Lifeunion Tactical Dog Vest

– Specs –

Feliscanis Tactical Dog Vest Training Molle Harness

The Feliscanis tactical dog vest training molle harness is a heavy duty tactical dog vest designed for manuverability and comfort, with the addition of a MOLLE system.

Features & Performance

This tactical K9 harness is designed with a strong 1000D Nylon material meant to withstand wear and tear while still being very lightweight and breathable. The overall design of this vest is based on the comfort of the dog, including padding to prevent chafing and laceration. While the pouches aren’t included, you’ll find a MOLLE system on either side of the vest, along with a carry handle on both ends of the vest. The stitching may weaken with heavy use. Depending on the size and shape of your dog, there may be some fitting issues.

Who Should Buy It

This is a good buy if you’re looking for something fairly affordable, lightweight and capable of pocket installation. It’s great for basic walking and hiking use, especially for service dogs, but you may need something more durable for long-term fieldwork.

Get the Feliscanis Dog Vest

– Specs –

OneTigris Tactical Service Dog Vest

The OneTigris tactical service dog vest is a uniquely designed dog MOLLE vest made for comfort, strength, and versitility.

Features & Performance

This tactical dog harness is made with waterproof 1000D Nylon and lots of additional soft padding. It comes in two sizes based on neck and chest girth measurements, with some adjustability. The vest comes with four quick release buckles, so it’s quite easy to put on most dogs and fairly secure. It also comes with a MOLLE system with paneling on either side as well as bungee cords for additional item storage.

Who Should Buy It

If you’re on a budget and searching for a lightweight and waterproof tactical dog vest with MOLLE capabilities, this is an affordable choice. The product is fairly strong compared to others in a similar price range, but you’ll need to make sure you take proper measurements of your dog before buying.

Get the OneTigris Tactical Dog Vest

– Specs –

Yisibo Tactical K9 Dog Training Vest

The Yisibo tactical K9 dog training vest is a small and simple yet functional and durable tactical dog vest crafted with mobility in mind.

Features & Performance

This padded tactical dog harness is made from waterproof 1000D Nylon and is uniquely designed with a very sturdy handle over the top of the harness. You’ll find a patch of Velcro on either side, but not much room for additional MOLLE bags. This harness comes with a quick release buckle and two-way adjustment around the chest area, but there may be some fitting and comfort issues for certain breeds and sizes.

Who Should Buy It

This is a fairly affordable tactical dog harness, so it’s a great buy if you’re looking for something that won’t weigh your dog down. The overall sturdy design makes it an ideal product if your main focus is being able to hold your dog firmly, even without a leash.

Get the Yisibo Tactical Dog Vest

– Specs –

ArcEnCiel Army Tactical Dog Vest Harness

The ArcEnCiel Army tactical dog vest harness is a multi-functional military service dog vest with a breathable design.

Features & Performance

This tactical dog vest has a long back length with a complete MOLLE system on both sides, along with Velcro paneling down the back. This vest is capable of holding h a variety of items, including water bottles, food, paperwork, and patch furniture. It comes with two carry handles on the front and back along with two leash attachment points. This vest is very similar to the slightly more expensive OneTigris tactical dog MOLLE vest, but it does not come with the greater number of size and color options.

Who Should Buy It

If you have a dog within the size limitations of this vest, it’s a fairly affordable buy for a fully functional MOLLE dog vest. If you want something with lots of room for storage and attachments, it’s a very versatile and fitting vest for the right canine.

Get the ArcEnCiel Tactical Dog Vest

– Specs –

Xhorizon Army Tactical Dog Vest

The Xhorizon Army tactical dog vest is a full-sized MOLLE vest designed for long-lasting breathability and comfort.

Features & Performance

This tactical dog vest will cover up most of your dog and give plenty of space for various attachable pouches. It’s made with 1000D and lots of mesh Nylon to help your dog breathe and move comfortably for an extended period of time. This tactical army dog vest has an extended MOLLE system and a long panel of Velcro, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for an optimal pocket attachment. The adjustable straps make for easy wearing and there’s an extra layer of soft padding around the collar so that your dog won’t experience chafing on their neck.

Who Should Buy It

Choose this harness if you are looking for something with lots of MOLLE capabilities and Velcro attachments. Overall it’s a good quality product in the mid-price range and ideal if you’re concerned with your dog’s comfort.

Get the Xhorizon Tactical Dog Vest

– Specs –

 Our Verdicts: Top Tactical Dog Vest Options

Best Tactical Dog Vest 2017: OneTigris Tactical Dog Molle Vest Harness

Best Quarter-sized Tactical Dog Vest: Cynology War Labs Quarter Dog Vest Harness

Best Budget Model: OneTigris Tactical Service Dog Vest

Best High-End Model: OneTigris Tactical Dog Molle Vest Harness

Tactical Dog Vest & Harness Buyer’s Guide

What is a Tactical Dog Vest?

A tactical dog vest is a vest or harness that your dog wears for a variety of purposes related to work, training, recreation, and exercise. It often includes Velcro for adding patches and badges; larger models include a MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) system that allows for the attachment of bags and gear.

While the size and design of a tactical dog vest can vary, there are generally two types: full-sized and quarter-sized. A full-sized K9 vest covers most of the dog’s back and has more room for an extensive MOLLE and Velcro system. A quarter-sized tactical dog harness is designed more for lightweight maneuverability and basic badge or patch display, with limitations in attachments and less protection.

What Makes it “Tactical”

A tactical dog vest isn’t your typical, average K9 harness. Everything from its materials to its design and features is meant to optimize functionality and security. The best tactical dog vests can be worn out in the field and withstand high levels of wear and tear in any kind of weather.

With a tactical MOLLE dog harness, your dog can comfortably carry essential items, equipment, and gear wherever they go. With a durable vest that includes a strong, sturdy handle, you can safely have your dog with you while you’re out in the field, with the ability to lift or carry them if needed.

Advantages of Tactical Dog Vests

Tactical dog vests are used for a wide range of purposes for personal service, law enforcement, military, hunting, or outdoor recreation. Not to mention a tactical K9 vest will make you and your dog look way more tough at the dog park.

While most tactical dog harnesses come in black or shades of green (for military working dogs), there are also a few that have bright or aesthetically pleasing colors (for hunting, service, and companion dogs). Here are a few reasons every working or companion dog should have a tactical dog vest:

Control

Whether you’re training a young dog or dealing with a dog who may have aggressive tendencies while in public, you need to have control over them at all times. A tactical dog harness can allow you to hold, lift, and pull your dog. This is something that’s much more difficult to do with a simple leash and collar.

With a tactical K9 vest or harness, you have control over your dog’s entire body rather than just their neck (pulling from the neck alone can also cause injury to your dog). Many vests include two handles and leash attachment points, with an easy steering design so that your dog can’t escape your grip or hurt themselves.

Protection

A sturdy, durable tactical dog vest is a great way to keep your canine companion well protected, whether that be from natural forces (rain, brambles, sunlight, bushes), wildlife, other dogs or people. A vest will give them security and an extra layer of support to reduce penetration from harmful forces.

Functionality

With a well-fitted MOLLE vest, your dog now has the ability to carry its own gear. Food, water, medicine, papers – your dog can carry all of these things safely and comfortably with a tactical dog vest.

If you own a work-oriented breed, you probably know how much they love to physically perform. A tactical dog harness will help give your dog the physical exercise they crave while additionally pulling their own weight during work or recreation.

Warmth in Winter

Even if your dog has a thick coat of fur, giving them an extra means of warmth can allow them to work and be active, even in the coldest winter months. Many of the best tactical dog harnesses provide efficient heating and cooling regulation, so your dog can stay comfortable under any conditions.

Training

Tactical dog vests and harnesses are great teaching tools, especially for younger dogs. It’s important to be able to control your puppy’s energy, and a harness or dog jacket is a great way of doing that without risking injury.

A tactical dog harness that is weighted down with pockets is also a way of slowing down high-energy dogs for better control and exercise. It’s best to introduce your dog to a tactical harness as early as possible; many dogs can grow a positive association with vests when they see them as indicators for work or play.

Features to Look for when Choosing the Best Tactical Dog Vest Harness

Materials

The toughest materials for tactical dog vests include products made from high-quality Nylon. Due to its higher strand strength properties, 1000D nylon is the most popular material for the best dog vests and K9 gear. Anything less (600D Nylon) is generally cheaper and poorer quality, but may still be suitable for general use by service or companion dogs.

Size & Fit

Many tactical dog vests will come in a variety of sizes to accommodate a wide range of dog breeds. Large, the most common size, is generally suitable for medium-large and large breeds (labradors, GSDs, pointers, huskies, etc.).

Make sure to measure your dog before purchasing any harness or vest; take measurements of the inches from the back of the shoulders to the start of the tail, the girth around their chest, and the size of their chest and neck. It’s a misconception that all tactical dogs are large; tactical dog vests and harnesses can also be found in smaller sizes for puppies and smaller breeds.

Weight

The best tactical dog vest harness should be lightweight enough for your dog to carry comfortably, while not being flimsy or easily ripped. The weight of the dog itself may also play a role in how well the vest fits, especially regarding the shoulder, neck and chest areas. Before adding heavier items to a tactical MOLLE vest, make sure to factor in your dog’s age, size, health, and levels of energy.

Handle

The handle needs to be made with high-quality Nylon and sturdy enough so that you can pick up your dog easily without the straps breaking. The best ways to check the handle quality of a given tactical dog vest is to check out the customer reviews, as this is generally the first thing someone will notice after using the vest for the first time.

Durability

If your dog works or hikes out in the wilderness, they’re likely to get themselves into all kinds of trouble. Whether they’re getting caught up in briars, encountering enemies or rolling through mud and sharp rocks – the best tactical dog vest should hold up through it all.

Again, check out the customer reviews and see what people are saying about the overall durability of the vest. Is it strong enough for fieldwork or is it more suited for service dogs or puppy training? Look for products made with thick, waterproof materials.

Extra Features

Several of the best tactical dog vests will come with additional features, including extra pockets and MOLLE function for carrying additional items, such as magazines or water bottles. Room for storing paperwork is also highly practical if you’d like your dog to be able to carry their own paperwork.

Bare in mind that more features often means more weight and bulkiness, but not always. If you’re interested in a vest with lots of extra features, look for something that has detachable pockets and customization.

Price Range

A tactical dog vest or K9 harness will range in price from as low as around $10 to as high as $100 or more (tactical vests around $100 or over generally come with additional features, such as pockets and leashes).

Vests and harnesses in the average price range ($30-$50) are generally worth their weight, provided they are well-designed and durable. Consider paying extra only if you intend to have your dog wear the best on a consistent, long-term basis.

Wrap Up

Your dog is more than your pet; they’re your close companion, through countless adventures and hardships.

That’s why equipping them with a tactical dog vest or harness is the perfect way to ensure they’re prepared for anything they might encounter while working or exploring outdoors. They give you their loyalty, so return the favor by securing them with a protective and functional tactical K9 vest.