You can always find passionate pet owners arguing over what are the best products to use for their beloved pets. One such argument is the harness vs collar debate. You’ll find passionate pet owners in both camps. Find out here once and for all which is right for your dog.
We all want what’s best for our furry friends, but how do we know for sure when everyone has different opinions?
Take harnesses and collars, for example. Each side argues that it’s the best, while there’s no one best thing – there’s only a better option, and it differs with every dog owner. It all depends on your dog and your preferences.
So, how do you know which is the better option for you? Read on to see which side of the harness vs. collar debate you and your dog should be on.
Harness vs. Collar: Consider These Things First
When choosing between a harness or collar, it’s easy to forget that there are more factors we need to consider apart from your personal preference. There are certain circumstances wherein one is more appropriate than the other, which we’ll tell you in detail below.
Comfort and Convenience
How often do you want your dog to wear a harness or collar? If your answer is all the time, buy a collar.
Collars are the easiest to use; most have quick release buckles to easily put or remove the collar no matter the size or how energetic your pup is. They’re also more comfortable to wear, so your dog won’t mind wearing it all the time inside your home or anywhere for that matter.
If you want to take your dog outside, you simply snap on a leash, and you’re good to go. You won’t have to wrestle with your dog every time you put it, as is the case with harnesses, which restrict movements and freedom.
Frequency of Walks
There are a lot of exciting things outside, and your dog sure knows it. If you take frequent walks, you’ve probably had to chase your running dog one time, or you may have had to stumble behind as your dog drags you around like a doll.
If you have that problem, a harness may be a better choice for you. It grants you more control of your hyper little beast, which is essential when every little thing, like a squirrel or passing children, excites them. It’s more preferable over collars if you always pass by crowds, busy streets, and such.
However, some dog owners have no problem using collars on their trips outside. Check out the next item to see if you can make do with a collar.
Your Dog’s Personality
Your dog’s personality matters as well. Is your pet well-trained and has good behaviour overall? Don’t restrict its freedom and use a collar.
However, if it’s hyperactive and you constantly have to tug at their leash to stop them from running away, a harness is better, and it may also be better for their health. Use the harness if your pup needs more training.
When they start behaving, that’s the time you can upgrade them to a collar.
Size of Dog
If you have a bigger dog, a harness might still render you unable to control them. It may even work the other way around – they’ll have more control over you.
They’ll be more likely to ignore you when you tug, so there’s a high chance that they’ll drag you around. Dogs react more to a tug at the collar, although you need to be careful as you might pull too hard.
Smaller dogs like Chihuahuas might need a harness as they’re more fragile. It will allow them to breathe properly, and they’ll get more protection from the hug of a harness.
Medical Issues
Some medical conditions will require the use of harnesses. For example, dogs with tracheal collapse shouldn’t use collars, as these things would put stress on your dog’s windpipe that would then cause a fit of coughing. We also don’t recommend using collars on neck issues, and injuries as these may worsen their conditions when they put pressure against them.
A collar will put pressure on their necks, while a harness will displace the pressure toward their chest and shoulders. If you have a healthy dog, however, feel free to use a collar. It’s perfect for everyday use.