HARNESSES VS COLLARS

THE DEBATE CONTINUES

The choice between harnesses and collars for dogs often depends on the individual needs, activities, and characteristics of the dog, as well as the owner's preferences. Both harnesses and collars have their advantages and drawbacks. Here, we examine these in some detail:

HARNESSES

PROS:

1. Reduced neck strain: Unlike collars, harnesses distribute the pressure across the dog's chest and shoulders, reducing the strain on the neck. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with respiratory issues or breeds prone to tracheal problems, particularly tracheal collapse.

2. Safety: A harness tends to provide more control, especially for dogs that pull on the leash or wriggle out of collars. It can be helpful for managing strong or energetic dogs, providing better stability and preventing escape while avoiding excessive neck pressure.

3. No risk of choking: Because a harness doesn't constrict the neck, there is no risk of choking or injuring the trachea, even with enthusiastic dogs who pull excessively. This makes it a safer option for certain breeds.

4. Training assistance: Some harnesses are designed to assist in training by discouraging pulling. Front-clip harnesses, for example, redirect a dog's attention when they pull.

CONS:

1. While harnesses provide control, some dogs may feel restricted in their movement compared to with a collar. Harnesses can also rub, which is uncomfortable, and many dogs find them too cumbersome in hot weather.

2. Take time to get used to it: Some dogs may not be comfortable wearing a harness, especially initially. It may take time to acclimate them to it.

3. Can teach pulling: Harnesses that hook on the back can actually help train your dog to pull you, which is the exact opposite of what you want.

4. Fit is a challenge: Getting the fit of a harness right can be a real challenge, particularly with all the different styles on the market, and many owners are unknowingly going around with the wrong harness size for their dogs. This can result in escapee pups or sore dogs who have been rubbed and squeezed by an overly tight harness.

COLLARS:

PROS:

1. Simplicity: Collars are easy to put on and take off, making them convenient for everyday use.

2. Availability: Dog collars are one of the most readily available pet items on the market and are far less complex to fit than harnesses.

3. Identification: Collars are a common place to attach identification tags, providing essential information in case a dog gets lost.

4. Lightweight: Collars are generally lightweight and less bulky than some harness designs, which can be more comfortable for certain dogs.

5. Fashion: The variety of styles and materials provides many very nice options for our canine companions to look their best.

CONS:

1. Neck strain: Collars can place pressure on the neck, which may not be suitable for dogs prone to respiratory issues or certain breeds with sensitive necks.

2. Potential for injury: If a dog is not adequately trained or pulls excessively, collars can pose a risk of injury to the neck or back, especially for small breeds.

3. Less control: Dogs that are strong pullers may be harder to control with a collar alone, and as all the pressure is on the neck, injury can result.

4. Collar too big: If the fit is too loose, your dog may be able to wriggle out and escape. This is especially true for dogs, such as Greyhounds, whose heads are often smaller than their necks.

5. Collar too small: Collar fit can be difficult, and it is very easy to overtighten a collar, which is extremely painful for the dog.

DID YOU KNOW?

You'll know a collar fits if you can slip one finger between your dog's skin and the collar (for small dogs) or if you can fit two fingers between your dog's skin and the collar (for large breed dogs).

NOTE

The equipment you use is obviously far less important than the time you put into training your dog to walk safely next to you. If you spend plenty of time working on your dog's walk etiquette, including their leading manners, using positive reinforcement, the kind of equipment you use when out walking will be far less of a concern.

CONCLUSION

The choice between a harness and a collar depends on the specific needs of the dog, the owner's training goals, and the dog's comfort level. Some owners opt for a combination, using a harness for walks and a collar for ID tags. It's essential to choose a well-fitting, comfortable option, whichever you go for, and to introduce the equipment gradually to ensure the dog's comfort and safety. Consulting with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer can help guide the decision based on the individual characteristics of your dog.