If you enjoy walks with Fido as much as he does, then it’s important to ensure his attire is comfortable and maneuverable. While collars may be the more traditional and convenient option, some dogs are better off wearing a harness. Finding the right fit can help make your daily adventures together all the more enjoyable. Read on to find out the pros and cons of dog collars vs harnesses and see which one is best for your canine pal.
Things to Consider
Most every avid dog lover has probably walked a pooch that liked to tug hard on the leash at one time or another. Some dogs even end up choking themselves on the leash as they try to drag you along. In these instances, a harness may seem like a logical solution to the problem, but this isn’t always the case.
There are a few key things to consider when choosing a device that’s best for your dog:
- His comfort level
- His size
- His behavior
By knowing the pros and cons of harnesses and collars, you’re better able to choose the one that works best for you and Fido.
Pros and Cons of Dog Collars
Pros
- Can be worn throughout the day
- Work best for dogs who don’t usually pull on the leash
- They come in a variety of styles, such as:
- Slip collars that prevent dogs from slipping out of the collar
- Prong and choke collars, which work well for dog training purposes
Cons
- Increased risk of choking for dogs that like to tug on the leash
- May be uncomfortable for dogs with respiratory problems
- Can cause neck injury, especially for smaller dogs
- May be difficult to control your dog if he pulls hard on the leash
Pros and Cons of Harnesses
Pros
- Decreased risk of neck injury
- Work great for training puppies to behave on leash
- Gives you more control during the walk
- More comfortable for dogs with respiratory problems
Cons
- Not made to be worn all day
- Fur can become tangled and wrap around the straps of the harness, especially in the case of dogs with long fur
- Some dogs dislike wearing harnesses, which makes more work for you
- Can irritate the skin on your dog’s legs
If you have more questions or need to schedule an appointment for Fido with the vet, please don’t hesitate to call our office anytime!
