Skip to content
When it comes to walking and training your dog, two of the most common tools are the dog collar and the dog harness. But with so many options out there, how do you know which is the right choice for your furry friend? This article breaks down the key differences, pros and cons of leashes and collars.
What is a Dog Collar?
A dog collar is a loop of material that goes around your dog's neck and serves several core purposes:
- Identification - Collars usually have space to attach ID tags so your dog can be identified if lost. Collars must be safely fitted with room for two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck.
- Control - The collar connects to a handheld leash so you can maintain control of your dog when walking them. Most collars tighten slightly when pulled against to discourage your dog from lunging or pulling excessively.
- Accessories - Many collars allow you to attach useful accessories like flea and tick treatment drops. GPS tracking devices and activity monitors can also attach to certain collars.
- Decoration - Collars obviously serve a functional purpose but also allow pet owners to accessorize their dogs with colorful, stylish collars featuring decorative patterns and designs.
What is a Dog Harness?
A dog harness is an alternative to a traditional collar. Instead of encircling the neck, it wraps around your dog's chest and shoulders in a crisscrossing network of straps with a leash attachment point on the back. Harnesses serve several key functions:
- Control - Like collars, harnesses connect to handheld leashes for walking and maintaining control over your dog. Certain front-clipping harnesses are specifically designed to discourage pulling and lunging.
- Comfort - Harnesses disperse pressure more evenly across the chest/shoulders rather than the delicate neck area, which is especially important for breeds prone to respiratory issues.
- Safety - It's challenging for dogs to slip out of a properly fitted harness, reducing risks associated with escaping and getting lost. Harnesses also reduce strain to the neck area if dogs do pull hard.
- Specialized Tasks - Some service dogs and working dogs wear specialized harnesses to assist handlers with stability, mobility assistance, and more. These harnesses provide handles for human assistance.
Which Is Better For Your Dog: Collar or Harness? Key Factors to Consider
Now you have a basic idea of what is a dog harness & dog collar. With a foundational understanding of collars and harnesses, deciding which option to use depends largely on your individual dog and their unique needs/challenges. Here are some key considerations:
Breed Size and Body Type
A harness helps prevent neck strain and allows for greater control, especially important for larger, stronger breeds prone to pulling like huskies and pit bulls. Smaller toy breeds may find harnesses overly bulky and restricting.
Respiratory Issues
For short-nosed breeds like French bulldogs and pugs prone to respiratory issues, distributing pressure across the chest/shoulders with a harness is safer than putting pressure on the delicate throat area.
Training and Behavioral Issues
For dogs prone to pulling, certain front-clipping harnesses provide immediate control and redirection to discourage the behavior. But for training very distracted dogs, a snug collar and leash provides constant yet gentle pressure that serves as a useful reminder to pay attention. The choice depends on your dog’s sensitivities and the context of use.
Outdoor Activities
Rugged harnesses built for the rigors of hiking and adventure provide greater freedom of movement and control over challenging terrain. But sleek, unobtrusive collars may suit more casual walks.
Age and Physical Limitations
Puppies shouldn’t wear restrictive collars as they’re still developing strength and coordination. Harnesses provide greater safety and control. Elderly dogs also benefit from harnesses to account for limited mobility range and prevent strain on aging joints.
Individual Temperament
While some dogs easily grow accustomed to wearing a harness, others dislike the feeling of confinement and bulkiness. Try both options, judge your dog’s unique tolerance levels, and find the right balance of control/comfort that works for them.
Best Practices For Collar and Harness Use
Follow these best practices for safely using collars/harnesses:
- Proper Fit - Leave room for two fingers between straps and your dog’s body to prevent choking hazards and ensure comfort.
- Keep On AT Home - Even exclusively indoor pets should wear ID collars/tags in case they slip out. GPS harnesses provide extra assurance if a dog escapes your property off-leash.
- Don’t Leave Unattended - Dogs should never be left alone and unattended while wearing restrictive collars and harnesses due to injury/choking risks if caught on objects while unsupervised. Remove before crating.
- Care and Inspection - Check for wear/tear damage regularly. Replace worn straps. Ensure metal clips/rings function properly.
Final Words
The decision between leashes and collars depends largely on breed type, behavior, activity context, and your dog's unique sensitivities and challenges. Trying both options can help determine the right solution to meet your dog’s needs. Just be sure to properly fit the device and supervise your dog anytime they have a restrictive collar or harness for safety.
