Dogs, whether they are big or small, require exercise, and most of them enjoy their outdoor time. So, what type of restraint do you use when you take your loving furry family member out for a walk? You can always find passionate pet owners arguing over this particular question – whether to get a dog collar or a harness for your beloved pups. It is quite natural that every pet owner is looking for the best products for their dogs but sometimes they might get confused and end up buying the wrong products. With this article, you would be able to make a choice as to what is good for your dog – A dog collar or a harness!
With so many methods available to control your dog when out on walks, you want to use a product that is best suited for your pup.
Considering Dog Collar vs Dog Harness
While you are making a choice between a dog collar or a harness, it is quite easy to forget that there are several factors that you must consider before buying the product. There are certain circumstances wherein one is more appropriate than the other. Let’s consider all the factors one by one.
#1 Your Dog’s Comfort and Convenience
How often do you want your dog to wear a harness or collar? If your answer is all the time, then you should buy a dog collar. Why? Dog Collars are the easiest to use. Most of the dog collars have quick-release buckles that make it convenient 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.
Dog collars are also a convenient option when you want to take your dog outside, you can simply snap on a leash, and you are 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.
#2 The Frequency of Walks
Most of the dogs love to play outdoors. When you are frequently taking them for a walk, they are quite excited and run around to their favorite places. In such a situation, you would have to chase your running dog every time. 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.
#3 Make A Choice Based On Your Dog’s Personality
Your dog’s personality is the most important factor that you must consider before making your final choice. Is your dog well-trained and has good behavior overall? If yes, then don’t restrict his freedom and use a collar.
Dog harness would be a good option only when your dog is hyperactive and you constantly have to tug at their leash to stop them from running away. So, you should use the harness if your pup needs more training. When they start behaving, that’s the time you can upgrade them to a collar.
#4 The Size Of Dog Matters!
If you have a big dog, using a harness would not be a good option. You won’t be able to control them. It may even work the other way around – they will have more control over you. Moreover, they are likely to ignore you when you tug or pull them, whereas, with a dog collar, your dog would respond to your tug and follow it. 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 covering of a harness.
#5 Does Your Dog Have A Medical Problem?
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 coughing or breathing problems. 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 dog collar would put pressure on their necks, while a harness will displace the pressure toward their chest and shoulders. If you have a healthy dog, you can easily use a dog collar as it would be perfect for everyday use.
Dog Harness – Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages
- Better for dogs with medical conditions
- Effective training tool for puppies
- Better for smaller dogs
Disadvantages
- More restricting
- Back-attaching type might not be effective for distracted big dogs
Dog Collar- Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Allows more freedom; dogs love it!
- Holds identification and other tags easily
- Easy to put on, adjust, and remove
- Provides an easy transition to various activities
- All different breed dogs can wear dog collar
Disadvantages
- Some types can cause pain or discomfort depending on its use
This should help you make an informed decision on which product is the most suitable for your dog. If you decide to get a collar, make sure that it’s not the type to cause pain as a means of training.
Summary:
Whether you opt for a collar or harness will depend on your dog’s walking style and comfortability levels. If you are concerned about your dog’s neck and throat because it tends to pull and choke itself on its collar, you might want to switch to a harness and see how your dog responds. For puppies, you may be able to start walking with a harness and switch to a collar later in life.
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