Collar vs. Harness: Which is Best for Your Pup?

If you’re a dog owner, you may be wondering whether your pet should wear a collar, a harness, or both. While collars and harnesses both serve to keep your dog under control and attached to a leash, they have different benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.

Dog collars are a popular choice for many pet owners, as they are easy to put on and take off, and they can hold identification tags. However, collars can be uncomfortable or even harmful to your dog if they pull too hard on the leash or if the collar is too tight.

On the other hand, dog harnesses distribute pressure more evenly across your dog’s body, which can be more comfortable and safer for your pet. But harnesses can be more difficult to put on and may not hold ID tags as easily as collars.

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The Pros and Cons of Dog Collars

When it comes to collars, there are several types to choose from, including flat collars, rolled collars, choke collars, and martingale collars. Each type has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the right one for your pet.

Flat Collars

Flat collars are the most common type of collar, and they come in a variety of materials, such as nylon, leather, and neoprene. They are great for everyday wear, and they are perfect for attaching identification tags. However, they can put pressure on your dog’s neck, especially if they pull on the leash.

Puppy with large collar next to adult dog ready for shock collar training

Rolled Collars

Rolled collars are similar to flat collars, but they are rolled instead of flat. They are perfect for dogs with long hair, as they won’t mat or tangle the fur. However, they can be difficult to find in pet stores, and they may not be as durable as other types of collars.

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Choke Collars

Choke collars, also known as slip collars, are designed to tighten when your dog pulls on the leash. They can be effective for training purposes, but they can also be dangerous if used improperly. They can cause injury to your dog’s neck, and they should never be left on your dog when unsupervised.

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Martingale Collars

Martingale collars are similar to choke collars, but they are designed to prevent your dog from slipping out of the collar. They are great for dogs with narrow heads, such as Greyhounds and Whippets. However, they can be difficult to adjust properly, and they may not be as effective as other types of collars for training purposes.

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Identification Tags

Regardless of the type of collar you choose, it’s important to attach identification tags to your dog’s collar. This will ensure that your dog can be identified if they get lost. You should include your dog’s name, your phone number, and any other relevant information, such as medical conditions or allergies.

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Overall, collars are an important tool for keeping your dog safe and secure. However, it’s important to choose the right type of collar for your dog’s needs, and to use it properly to avoid injury.

The Pros and Cons of Dog Harnesses

When it comes to walking your pet, choosing between a collar and a harness can be a tough decision. While collars are the traditional option, harnesses have become increasingly popular in recent years. Here are the pros and cons of using a dog harness.

Front-Clip Harness

A front-clip harness is designed to attach the leash to the front of the dog’s chest, which can help to reduce pulling. This type of harness can be particularly useful for dogs that are strong pullers or have a tendency to lunge. However, a front-clip harness can be uncomfortable for some dogs, especially those with sensitive skin, as the harness can rub against their armpits.

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Back-Clip Harness

A back-clip harness is designed to attach the leash to the back of the dog’s body, between the shoulder blades. This type of harness is generally more comfortable for dogs, as it doesn’t put pressure on their chest. However, a back-clip harness can be less effective at reducing pulling, as it doesn’t provide as much control as a front-clip harness.

Ella with no pull harness behaving on walk

Pros of Dog Harnesses

  • A dog harness is a safer option than a collar, as it reduces the risk of neck injuries and choking.
  • Harnesses provide better control over your dog, making it easier to manage them on walks.
  • Harnesses can be useful for dogs with medical conditions, as they can provide additional support and stability.
  • Harnesses can be a good option for dogs that are prone to slipping out of their collars.

Cons of Dog Harnesses

  • Some dogs may find harnesses uncomfortable or restrictive, which can make them less willing to wear them.
  • Harnesses can be more difficult to put on and take off than collars, which can be inconvenient for some pet owners.
  • Harnesses can be more expensive than collars, especially if you opt for a high-quality option.
  • Harnesses can cause skin irritation if they don’t fit properly or if they are worn for extended periods of time.

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When to Use a Collar vs. a Harness

Deciding whether to use a collar or a harness for your dog can be confusing. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on your dog’s breed, size, and personality, as well as your needs and preferences.

Collars are best for:

  • Walking well-behaved dogs on a leash
  • Training puppies and young dogs
  • Identification purposes

However, collars can also have negative effects on your dog’s health, particularly if they pull on the leash. Collars can cause:

  • Choking and coughing
  • Damage to the trachea
  • Eye and ear problems
  • Neck injuries

Harnesses are best for:

  • Dogs that pull on the leash
  • Dogs with respiratory problems, such as brachycephalic breeds
  • Dogs with neck injuries or surgeries
  • Dogs that escape from collars

Harnesses distribute the pressure evenly across your dog’s chest or torso, reducing the risk of choking and tracheal damage. They also provide more control over your dog’s movements, making it easier to train and walk them. However, harnesses can also have some drawbacks, such as:

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  • Difficult to put on and take off
  • May not fit well or be comfortable for some dogs
  • May require more physical strength to control your dog

Overall, the choice between a collar and a harness depends on your dog’s individual needs and your preferences as an owner. Consider consulting with a veterinarian or a dog trainer to determine the best option for your pet.

Leash Training with Collars and Harnesses

When it comes to leash training your dog, both collars and harnesses can be effective tools. However, each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Collars are generally easier to put on and take off, and they can be a good option for dogs who are already used to wearing them. However, collars can put pressure on your dog’s neck, which can be uncomfortable or even harmful, especially for breeds like greyhounds and whippets, which have slender necks.

Harnesses, on the other hand, distribute pressure more evenly across your dog’s body, which can be more comfortable for them. They can also be a good option for dogs who pull on the leash, as they provide more control and prevent choking. However, some harnesses can be more difficult to put on and take off, and they may not be as effective for biking or other activities that require a more upright posture.

When choosing a collar or harness for leash training, consider your dog’s breed and personality, as well as your own experience and the activities you plan to do together. Always make sure the collar or harness fits properly and is adjusted correctly to prevent discomfort or injury.

Choosing the Right Collar or Harness for Your Dog

When it comes to choosing a collar or harness for your dog, there are a few things to consider. The right choice will depend on your dog’s breed, size, and personality. It’s important to choose the right gear to ensure your dog’s comfort and safety.

Tracheal Collapse and Brachycephalic Breeds

If your dog has tracheal collapse or is a brachycephalic breed, such as a pug or bulldog, a collar can put pressure on their neck and make breathing difficult. A harness can be a better option for these breeds, as it distributes pressure across their chest and back, rather than their neck.

Skin Sensitivities

Some dogs have skin sensitivities that can be aggravated by a collar. If your dog has a skin condition or is prone to irritation, a harness may be a better choice. Look for harnesses made from soft, breathable materials that won’t rub or chafe your dog’s skin.

When choosing a collar or harness, it’s important to consider your dog’s individual needs. Take into account their breed, size, and any health or skin issues they may have. With the right gear, you can ensure your dog’s comfort and safety on walks and outings.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, whether your dog should wear a collar and a harness depends on your specific needs and situation. If you frequently take your dog to the dog park or on playdates, a harness may be a better option as it provides more control and reduces the risk of injury.

If you enjoy running with your dog, a harness is also a better option as it reduces the strain on your dog’s neck and allows for more comfortable movement. Additionally, if your dog tends to pull on walks, a front-leash attachment harness may be the best choice.

However, if you simply need a way to display your dog’s ID tags or need a quick and easy way to take your dog for a walk, a collar may be sufficient. Just be sure to choose a collar that fits properly and doesn’t put too much pressure on your dog’s neck.

Remember, the safety and comfort of your pet should always be a top priority. Consult with your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer to determine the best option for your dog’s specific needs.

FAQ

Is it better to walk your dog with a harness or collar?

A harness is a much better option than a collar for walking your dog. Provided that the harness is not loose, but fitted well, the pull from a leash will be focused on your dog’s strong back, rather than their neck.

Harnesses also usually have a handle on the back, give you an extra holding option when you need to control your dog. You can still keep the collar, but use it for identification tags instead of walking!

Why are harnesses bad for dogs?

While harnesses are easier on your dog than being pulled around the collar on their neck, there are certain caveats. First off, it takes a little time to put a harness on or to take it off. Next, your dog can pull away with much more strength than you’d have to worry about with a collar.

Finally, if the harness is too loose, your dog can push and wiggle and might escape – so be sure to select your harness carefully if you are going to use one.

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Should a dog wear a collar all the time?

Your dog can wear the collar 24 hours a day if you like, but many owners prefer to take the collar off at the end of the day after the dog has their last potty break. This gives their neck fur a little time to ‘breathe’, so to speak, so that there is less wear and tear from the constant rubbing of the tight collar.

This is pretty much an aesthetics choice, as the collar shouldn’t rub hard enough to chafe or harm your dog, but it will definitely have an impact on the fur below it if it’s always on.

Should a harness be left on a dog?

If the harness is on slightly loose (though not loose enough to wiggle out of) and provided that the material is soft, then your dog can wear the harness all day if you prefer this. That said, it isn’t recommended to do this with puppies or dogs that aren’t yet used to it.

Further, you should consider that even if it’s loose, that harness will be constantly rubbing on their fur and this may eventually affect the look of your dog’s coat. While it takes a little time, it’s generally better to simply take the harness off and only put it on when you need it.

Do dogs like collars?

At first, no, they probably don’t. A collar feels weird at first, but over time your dog’s opinion of it should change. They will start to associate the collar with positive things, such as nice walks in the park and the treats that they get when they are outside with you.

All in all, it generally takes about 2 weeks for this to happen, so if your dog hates their collar right now then don’t worry too much – they’ll soon see that it’s a good thing and quickly come around.

Are harnesses bad for dogs’ shoulders?

Worn too tightly and left on for too long, a harness can cause a bit of strain on a dog’s shoulders. This is because the standard design will place a lot of pressure on specific muscles, such as the supraspinatus, the biceps, and the brachiocephalicus.

This can lead to inflammation, arthritis, bursitis, or just old-fashioned shoulder pain – so take the harness off when you aren’t using it. Your dog will thank you for it!

Do dogs pull more with a harness?

Yes. One of the caveats of using a harness is that it is centered on their back. While that means less stress on your dog’s neck, it also tempts your dog to pull more and so you’ll need a firm grip to keep a handle on things when you are walking your dog.

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With a retractable leash, you can compensate for this by locking it into place at a length that gives your dog a little freedom but not too much to manage. This way, if they try to pull, you can walk closer and lock the leash at diminishing lengths until you are satisfied that you have enough control of the dog.

Why are front clip harnesses bad?

Front clip harnesses are a good fit for some dogs, but they do come with their own set of problems. The chief complaint is that a loose-fitted front clip harness can harm your dog if they suddenly pull very hard on the leash.

As the clipped area is situated in front of the chest and throat, pressure in these regions may result in an inadvertent injury to these areas.

Should dogs wear collars indoors?

That’s a judgement call, but many dog owners like to remove their dog’s collars when the dog is inside or after they’ve had their last walk of the day. This helps to give the fur on the neck a little time to revitalize from all the rubbing and pressure that the collar produces during normal, daily wear.

While it’s something of an aesthetics choice (as the collar should not be abrasive enough to chafe), removing your dog’s collar from time to time is a good way to help ensure that the effects of wearing it are going to be minimal.

Are dog collars cruel?

Dog collars are not cruel, provided that the material is soft (though durable) and that the collar is not too tight. A collar that is worn too tightly, on the other hand, can cause skin irritation, loss of fur, and even infection – so just be sure that it’s on securely, but loose enough that it won’t hurt your dog.