Did you just get a new dog and wonder if a harness or collar is the right choice? There is no easy answer to this question as it always depends on your dog's characteristics, activity level, age and breed. It can be tricky to decide whether your dog should wear a collar or a harness when walking or training. Again, the activity itself is essential as well. Are you just starting training your dog, or are they older?
Let's compare both accessories below and see the benefits of a harness and collar.
Using a dog harness
A harness comes with multiple benefits for you and your furry pal. Here is why using a harness is suitable for your dog and how it compares to a collar.
If your dog is a puller, dog collars can cause reduced airflow if the pulling happens repeatedly. Brachycephalic Breeds can injure themselves. These are all breeds with flatter faces. A dog harness takes the strain off your dog's neck and prevents neck injury.
When a dog pulls a lot, there is a lot of pressure on his trachea. A harness prevents injuries to your dog's trachea. It is safer for dog breeds with short noses as they have delicate airways and can develop respiratory problems.
A dog harness can serve as excellent training equipment. It discourages pulling and jumping and is ideal for pups who have not learned to walk on a lead yet.
A harness wraps more securely around your dog's body. A cheap polyester and nylon collar can always easily break and put your friend's safety in jeopardy.
If your dog is big, strong, or overly active, a harness makes it easier for you to manage and control your dog. It will give you steering control if your dog is overpowering on the walk.
A harness helps prevent your dog from slipping out a collar unless you use a martingale collar.
Using a dog collar
A collar comes with multiple benefits for you and your dog. Here is why using a collar is suitable for your dog.
A dog collar is the simplest way to identify that a dog has an owner. The attached ID tags can also help your dog be safely returned to you.
Dog collars are easy to put on and take off. They are more convenient and can be permanently left on. These days, there are easy on harnesses that are also perfect for wiggly dogs.
Collars may give you better control and require less physical strength while walking your dog. They are your best and first training instrument.
A dog collar is excellent for controlling aggressive dogs, puppies, or dogs in training.
Dog collars are less restrictive on movement. This is good for working dogs who are running around all day.
If you have a collar made from natural materials, you can even leave it on your dog. If you use a plastic collar from nylon, we recommend only wearing it for a few hours due to microplastics.
Tips for using harness or collars
Here are some tips on buying a harness or collar for your fur buddy:
Choose a harness or collar from natural materials as they are more durable than cheap nylon or polyester accessories. Eco-friendly pet products are the future and the only way we can keep planet earth healthy. Have a look at our shop where you can buy dog collars for sensitive skin.
Hemp material is perfect for dogs with sensitive skin and allergies and can prevent hair loss. Hemp harnesses can be found here.
Some harnesses can be bulky and can be uncomfortable for your dog. Especially polyester ones can make your dog sweat underneath and cause allergies.
Ensure the harness or collar fits your dog correctly to ensure its effectiveness. Improper fit can hurt your dog.
Puppies grow fast. Check your growing puppy's harness or collar often!
Do not leave the harness or collar on your pet for more than a few hours a day.
Choose a harness or collar that prevents a negative experience for you and your dog.
When using a collar or a harness, your dog must always wear ID tags.
Final Thoughts
You're better equipped to find the correct harness or collar for your pooch. The budget shouldn't play the central role here. Quality, durability, and the material's naturalness should be your primary consideration when choosing a suitable collar or harness. It's a nice side effect if you can reduce your pet's carbon paw print simultaneously, so have a look at sustainable collars and harnesses.
Your dogs deserve only the best! Both a collar and a harness are essential for your dog's health and safety. When in doubt, buy both and see how your pooch reacts. In the end, they have one thing in common. They will help take your dog out for walkies, which is essential in any way.
If you have any comments, please do let us know. We would be happy to hear from you.
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