A dog leash is an essential piece of equipment for every dog owner.
Now, you’ve got a leash. The next question is, “should I get a collar or a harness for my dog?” What’s the difference between a dog collar vs harness?
Read along to make sure you’re providing the safest protection and support to your doggo. Let’s get going!
Pros and Cons of Dog Collar
A collar is designed to fit around a dog’s neck. It is where you can attach a leash for walks or just as an identification tag or a GPS. Read here for more information about GPS dog collars.
Advantages of Dog Collars
The best dog collar can offer more control over the pet. It’s easy to clip a leash to a collar and can provide more security while walking your pet or giving commands.
When you buy a dog collar, it comes in much more sizes than a harness. So you can find one that fits your pet perfectly.
Disadvantages of Dog Collars
Collars can fit too tightly, causing friction on the fur and skin. Dogs can slip out of collars on a leash, unlike in a harness. It can cause them to run off.
Collars can also be damaging for bully breed dogs. It is due to the deep wrinkles on their necks which can become infected. This can create long-term tissue damage and discomfort.
Pros and Cons of Dog Harness
Harnesses are designed to fit around the dog’s chest and shoulders. These can provide more control after a dog pulls on their leash. Many dogs have difficulty breathing while wearing a collar.
Advantages of Dog Harness
Unlike a collar, a dog harness offers more comfort for your pet, as the weight of the pull is evenly distributed on their body. This is great for larger breeds and puppies. A large breed on a collar can put strain on their necks and can cause physical harm.
Harnesses are much easier to put on a dog than a collar. Your pet does not have to struggle to get the collar buckled or loose around their neck. Due to their design, harnesses also make it more difficult for dogs to slip out and run away.
Disadvantages of Dog Harness
The primary disadvantage of a dog harness is that it can be restrictive for your dog.
Depending on the style of the harness, it can be difficult to get a perfect fit. The straps often don’t fit around a dog’s body properly, which can create a lot of rubbing and chafing.
The extra material of the harness can also interfere with the dog’s natural movements. This can impair their ability to run, jump, and even lie down.
In addition, harnesses do not provide the amount of control that a collar does if a dog needs to be disciplined. A collar is much better for these types of needs.
Understanding Dog Collar vs Harness
The decision to buy a dog collar vs harness seems overwhelming. If you educate yourself on the differences, you’ll be sure to make the right decision for your pet.
Remember, both have their distinct functions. So make sure to weigh the pros and cons of both before buying one. If you’re still uncertain, consult your pet’s veterinarian to get help.
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