Harness or collar – which is better for my dog?
Harness or collar – which is more appropriate for the species? A matter that divides the dog world. But it is more than just a question of faith. Because whether you and your dog will be happier with a dog harness or the best shock collars for pitbulls depends on many different factors.
Purpose of harness and collar
Both collars and harnesses have the same purpose: combined with a leash, they give us the ability to guide and control our dog and keep him away from danger. Depending on the character and temperament of the dog and the handler, not inconsiderable forces are thus often exerted on the leash, harness and collar. And this is exactly the crux of the matter.
Health
A collar, as the name implies, is placed around the dog’s neck. When the leash is pulled, the force acts directly on the animal’s neck and throat – where important organs such as the thyroid, larynx, trachea and blood vessels are located. This gives the owner the opportunity to exert more force on the dog – but at the same time increases the risk that the dog will be injured. Recent research has shown that long-term force on the spine and thyroid gland can cause chronic inflammation.
A harness acts on the chest and back of the quadruped. The force is thus better distributed, the daily walk becomes smoother and less troublesome for the dog. However, a harness that does not fit can interfere with the quadruped’s shoulder blade and its natural method of locomotion.
Training
The impact on the harness or collar should be as small as possible. This is only possible if owner and dog can communicate through other impulses than pulling on the leash – and requires good training, especially for more active four-legged friends. Whether a harness and collar are effective depends on your dog’s training and your own prudence. If every walk becomes a test of strength, it often helps to invest in a good dog training school rather than a tighter harness or collar!
The right product
Whether you choose a harness or collar: Both need to be fitted for your dog’s age, weight, and size.
A harness, for example, should be a hand’s width behind the elbow and should definitely not rub directly under the armpits. At the same time, the material should not press on the sternum.
Collars also come in many different sizes and made of many different materials. The latter should be lightweight, yet strong and flexible. Buckles make it easier to put on and adjust.
We wish you and your dog all the best and a lot of fun on walks together!