Harnesses vs Collars: Which is Better for Your Dog?
Have you ever wondered if you should walk your dog on a harness or a collar? We have put together some factors to consider to help you make the best decision for your dog.
What to Consider
Safety and Comfort
- Harnesses allow for dispersed amount of pressure on the dog’s body, mostly spread out across the chest area. This can help prevent trachea trauma resulting from pulling or lunging.
- For dogs that are well behaved on the leash and who never pull, a collar or slip-lead is perfectly suitable.
- Regardless of whether you choose a collar or harness, comfort and safety are always the priority.
Types and Styles
- There are many different styles, brands and materials used to make harnesses and collars. All adjust to fit and but with varying degrees of exactness. Some connect with buckles and others with quick releases. Material choices include mesh, nylon, fabric, micro-suede, rubber, rope and leather.
- Some breeds, especially large chested dogs like Doberman Pinschers or Dachshunds, need a great deal of adjustability when fitting for a harness. It can be challenging but is achievable.
- Harnesses vary on how they adhere to the dog’s body and where the leash connects to the harness.
Sizing and Fit
- A proper fit is crucial to ensure that either a harness or a collar is comfortable, secure and safe for your dog.
- Each dog is different in body size, structure and activity level. Young pups, with their bounds of energy and playfulness may need a different solution than a mature dog.
- Sizing will be different for each brand or company. If your dog is a size small in one brand or style, the same dog may be a size medium from a different designer. Measure your dog’s neck and girth in inches to determine the correct sizing.
Walking a dog in a harness is ideal for puppies, fragile dogs, smaller dogs and dogs that pull or lunge. Collars are useful for calm dogs and for displaying license and name tags. It is our recommendation to remove the harness from your dog after a walk. Getting the proper fit is fundamentally important.
We are happy to help you pick out the perfect harness or collar. Stop in to discuss the best solution for your dog. Feel free to bring your leashed dog to get a perfect fit.