If you're a dog owner, you know how important it is to provide your furry friend with the right equipment for their daily walks. One of the most debated topics in the world of dog gear is the question of whether a dog harness or collar is better. While both have their advantages and disadvantages, we can describe the main differences between the two and help you decide which one is right for your canine companion.
Dog Collar
The dog collar is the most commonly used piece of equipment for dogs. They come in various materials such as nylon, leather, or metal, and they're typically worn around the dog's neck. Collars are usually fastened with a buckle, snap, or clasp, and they have a ring to attach a leash.
-
Easy to put on and take off (like Neewa Easy fit collar)
-
Lightweight and less bulky than a harness
-
Good for well-behaved dogs that don't pull
-
Collars with identification tags provide important information in case your dog gets lost.
Disadvantages of the collar:
- Can put pressure on the dog's neck, which can cause discomfort, choking, or injury if the dog pulls or jerks suddenly
- May not be suitable for dogs with respiratory problems or neck injuries
- Not recommended for dogs that pull on the leash as they can cause damage to the trachea, thyroid gland, or spine.
Dog Harness
A dog harness is an alternative to the dog collar that goes around the dog's torso. They come in various styles and materials, such as nylon, leather, or mesh, and they have a ring to attach the leash. Some dog harnesses have a front clip, which helps to discourage pulling (like Neewa No Pull harness), and others have a back clip, which provides more control and stability.
Advantages of the dog harness:
- Spread the pressure across the dog's chest and back, which is more comfortable for the dog and reduces the risk of injury
- Provide better control and support for dogs that pull or have respiratory problems
- Help to prevent escape, especially for dogs with small heads or thick necks
- Some harnesses come with additional features such as padding, reflective material, or handles for extra control.
Disadvantages of the dog harness:
- More challenging to put on and take off than collars
- Some dogs may find them uncomfortable or restrictive, especially if they're not used to wearing them since early stage of life. To convince the dog to wear the dog harness, it can help to associate the wearing to something pleasant/fun (like going to the park) and remove the dog harness as soon as you go back home.
- Some harnesses may cause rubbing, chafing, or matting of the dog's fur if they do not have paddings to protect the dog hair
Which one is better?
There is no straightforward answer to this question, as it depends on your dog's individual needs, preferences, and behavior. Generally, harnesses are a better option for dogs that pull, have respiratory problems, or need extra support, while collars are suitable for well-behaved dogs that don't pull and have no neck injuries.
Conclusion
Choosing between a dog harness and collar is a personal decision that depends on your dog's individual needs and behavior. Collars are a simple and lightweight option for well-behaved dogs, while harnesses provide more support and control for dogs that pull or have respiratory problems. Whichever option you choose, make sure to select a high-quality and comfortable product that fits your dog properly and doesn't cause any harm or discomfort. At Neewa we developed our products with dog trainers to meet the dogs' needs at the best.
