A properly-fitted harness is safer and more comfortable for your dog than a collar. Learn why and discover tips for choosing the best harness for your dog.
Collars are synonymous with dogs. They often carry an ID tag, and you can choose one to accentuate your dog’s coat color or reflect your personal style. However, a harness is often a better and safer choice than a traditional dog collar, for several important reasons. Let’s compare collars vs. harnesses for dogs.
The downsides of collars
As common as they are, collars can actually be harmful in the following ways:
- A collar puts pressure on the dog’s neck, especially the throat area, which can restrict his ability to breathe. Even if the collar isn’t fastened too tightly and its static use isn’t causing harm, the dog may still exert pressure on it when leashed. “Constant pulling or sudden lunging can cause injuries or permanent damage to your dog’s neck,” says certified dog trainer Andrea Gronwald.
- A dog can also hook his collar on objects like a doorknob, tree branch, or protruding object. This can lead to restricted breathing and injury.
- The type of collar also impacts your dog’s safety. Prong collars press painfully into a dog’s neck if he pulls. A collar that tightens as the dog strains on the leash can also be risky.
- A determined dog can learn to slip out of most collar types. This can be harmful if the animal is near traffic or any other environment where his freedom could put him in danger.
- If a collar is too tight, it can rub against the dog’s skin. “Many people don’t check their dogs’ collars regularly,” says veterinarian Dr. Shawn Messonnier. “Failing to do so can cause skin irritation, as well as allowing the collar to become too loose or too tight.”
Why are harnesses better?
“A collar’s main function is to keep identification tags on your dog,” says certified dog trainer, Andrea Gronwald. “Walking your dog with the leash attached to his collar is not recommended. Body harnesses are a much better option for leashed walks.”
- A harness diverts pressure from the neck. When a dog pulls, a harness distributes the pressure from your dog’s neck and throat to his shoulders, back and chest. Harnesses typically don’t loop around the neck in a restrictive fashion, making it far less likely that the dog’s breathing will be compromised. Therefore, you greatly reduce the risk of neck and throat damage.
- It gives you better control over your dog. Because his whole front section is surrounded when he’s wearing a harness, he’s less able to engage in sudden unexpected activity.
- A harness is a safer choice for dogs with certain health issues. “Dogs with neck or throat issues, such as kennel cough, collapsing trachea, Wobbler’s disease or other issues of the cervical spine, should wear a harness to avoid pressure on the trachea and spine,” says Dr. Messonnier.
Choosing the right harness for your dog
A harness is effective only if it suits your dog’s needs. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind when making a purchase:
- If your dog is an escape artist, a harness with a third strap that loops lower on his torso provides better containment. If not, a traditional harness purchased from a pet supply store with a few thin to medium-sized straps should be appropriate.
- Some harnesses come padded with fleece for comfort, others have handles for close proximity control, and some even glow in the dark for nighttime safety. It’s important to select the proper harness for you and your dog’s lifestyle. “I like harnesses that are the least intrusive for my dog,” says Andrea. “I look for lightweight, soft, yet durable materials.”
- Harnesses come in a variety of materials that vary in durability. Big dogs or those that pull may need metal latches and thick straps, whereas smaller dogs could use less durable options, such as vest-like harness styles. Ensure you select a harness rated to your dog’s weight.
- “Consider investing in a car travel harness that allows you to secure your dog with a seat belt,” advises Andrea. “Not only will this prevent him from jumping into your lap while you are driving, but it will also secure him should you need to slam on the brakes. “Look for a high quality harness that lets your dog sit and lie down rather than forcing him into a seated position.”
When considering collars vs. harnesses for dogs, remember that a harness is safer and more comfortable. It also gives you greater control and peace of mind. And harnesses come in just as many colors and designs as collars!
The right harness fit is paramount
Once you’ve selected the proper harness type, be sure to purchase the right size for your dog. Fit it so it’s secure yet comfortable. Adjust the straps so the harness fits securely and contains the dog. However, make sure they’re not so tight that they hinder lung expansion or cause discomfort.
When the harness is pulled, most of the pressure should land on the chest, not the neck. If the latter occurs, it’s possible the harness is not the best fit for your dog’s anatomy.
The post Collars vs. harnesses for dogs appeared first on Animal Wellness Magazine.
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