What is better, a harness or a collar?

Dog Harness or Collar. Which One to Choose for Your Four-Legged Companion. When it comes to walking your dog , two accessories stand out as the most common options. The harness and the collar . Every dog ​​owner wants the best for their pet, but the question often arises. What is better, a harness or a collar ? In this blog, we will look at the pros and cons of both options to help you make an informed choice.

The collar is the most traditional accessory used to attach a leash. It is easy to put on and can be worn by the dog at all times, which also makes it an ideal support for an identification tag . However, using a collar can pose some problems, depending on the dog's breed, size or behavior.

• Ease of use : easy to put on and take off, the collar is often seen as the most practical solution.

• Identification : it allows you to easily attach a medal or plaque with the dog's information.

• Lightweight accessory : generally not bulky, the collar does not bother the dog when it moves freely.

Disadvantages of the collar:

• Neck Pressure : The collar puts pressure on the dog's throat and neck, which can be problematic for smaller breeds or those with fragile tracheas. This pressure can also be problematic for dogs that tend to pull on the leash.

• Risk of injury : A dog that constantly pulls on its collar risks damaging its cervical vertebrae, throat or even causing breathing problems.

• Difficulty controlling energetic dogs : For very active dogs or those who tend to pull, a collar may be less effective for control and safety.

The harness has become a common alternative to the collar , especially for energetic or large dogs . Unlike the collar , the harness distributes the pressure of the leash over a larger area of ​​the body, making it a more comfortable option for some dogs.

• Pressure distribution : By covering a larger area of ​​the body, the harness prevents pressure from being concentrated on the dog's throat and neck. This significantly reduces the risk of injury, especially for dogs that pull a lot.

• Better control : A harness generally provides better control, especially with powerful or active dogs. This allows for better direction of the dog while ensuring its safety.

• Ideal for dogs with breathing problems : Brachycephalic breeds (such as bulldogs or pugs) that already suffer from breathing difficulties benefit from a harness, as it prevents pressure on the trachea.

• Leash training : Some harnesses are designed to discourage dogs from pulling by distributing the force differently and encouraging a calmer walk.

• More complicated to put on : depending on the model, a harness can take longer to put on than a simple collar.

• May restrict movement : An ill-fitting harness may restrict your dog's movement or rub against its skin, causing irritation.

• Less suitable for some small dogs : For small dogs with low energy or who do not pull, a collar may be more suitable, as a harness can feel bulky.

Choosing between a harness and a collar will depend on several factors, including your dog 's size , behavior, and specific needs.

• For dogs that pull on the leash , a harness is often the best option, as it provides better control while reducing the risk of injury.

• For calm dogs that don't pull and walk quietly, a collar may be sufficient.

• For breeds with breathing problems (such as pugs, bulldogs), a harness is recommended to avoid making their breathing difficulties worse.

• For small, fragile breeds , avoid collars that could damage their delicate necks.

There is no universal answer to the question of whether a harness or collar is better. The choice depends on your dog and your personal needs. For some dogs, a collar is a simple and effective option, while for others, a harness offers more comfort and security. You might even consider using both, depending on the situation. For example, a collar for the house and a harness for walks . The key is to observe your dog and choose what is best for his or her comfort and safety.