The debate rages on…Which of the two is better for your dog, a collar or a harness?
The discussion is not just about whether a harness or collar is a better option for your dog but also about which is more humane. Both have their pros and cons. So, read on as we talk about these in detail:
What is a Dog Harness?
Dog harnesses are a type of clothing that dogs wear. They come in various styles and colors, and each dog has its preferences regarding how it wears its harness.
Custom Dog harnesses are designed to help dogs walk with less effort. The harness is made of leather, nylon, or synthetic materials and has an adjustable strap around the dog’s chest area.
The leash attaches to this strap, and it can be worn under or over clothing so that your dog can wear it while you are walking outside.
What is a Dog Collar?
Dog collars are a fashion accessory for people who own dogs. They can range from simple metal tags to elaborate designer styles.
Dog collars are usually made of metal, leather, or plastic. Metal collars are the most common and have a small metal tag attached to them. They can be found in different colors and designs that match your dog’s personality and look.
Leather collars are made from real leather and look great on your dog’s neck. They come in different colors and patterns that match your dog’s coat color. The leather collar also comes with breakaway parts, so it will not break if your dog pulls on it during playtime or walks around town.
Plastic collars are made from plastic, making them easy to clean and maintain. Plastic collars can also come in different colors such as pink, blue, or black depending on the style you choose for your dog’s collar.
Pros of a Dog Harness
- Harnesses Reduce Pulling:
Harnesses are the most effective way to reduce pulling. This is because harnesses keep your dog from pulling, so they can focus all their energy on walking. You will know when your dog is about to pull because you’ll see his head turn toward the side where he wants to go, and his body will begin to move in that direction. If you don’t correct him, he may end up pulling you over with him because he has exhausted himself trying to get where he wants to go.
- Harnesses Tend to Be More Secure:
You can attach a leash to the front of your dog with a harness. Harnesses are more secure than collars because they’re designed to hold your dog in place. If your dog gets loose, you don’t have the option of putting on a collar and hoping he’ll stay put.
A harness also allows you to walk your dog without worrying about him pulling on his leash or biting it — which would cause injury.
Some dogs will still pull when wearing a harness, but it’s less likely than if they wore a collar.
Cons of a Dog Harness
- Harnesses Are Less Convenient:
Harnesses are less convenient than collars because they must be attached to the dog’s collar with a leash and/or a lead. They’re also less suitable for security purposes, as you can only put on a harness whenever you need to take your dog for a walk or run an errand.
Pros of a Dog Collar
- Collars Hold ID Tags:
Knowing your dog’s name and other contact information is important, especially if you have lost your dog. Collars are convenient, and they hold ID tags that make it easier to find your pet. They can also be custom embroidered with your dog’s name and phone number in case they get lost.
- Collars Are More Convenient:
Collars are much more suitable than harnesses because they don’t need to be fitted around the dog’s body. It is also easier for them to wear a collar because they don’t have to worry about their paws getting caught in the harness straps.
Cons of a Dog Collar
- Collars Are Not Safe for Dogs That Pull:
Dogs can be unpredictable. They may sometimes not obey your commands, especially when the leash is short and the collar tightens. If your dog pulls on the leash or tries to run away from you, he may panic and pull harder, which could cause him to injure himself or become frightened and even aggressive.
The Final Verdict
As you can see, harnesses and collars can be very different from one another, but both hold a great deal of value for pet owners. The best choice for your dog may depend on your dog type and whether it has any pre-existing injuries or illnesses. If you have any additional questions or concerns about your dog’s physical health or behavior, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with your local veterinarian.
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