Your daily walks with Fido are so special to him and hopefully enjoyable for you. Ensuring he wears the most comfortable and maneuverable attire can help make your daily adventures together even more enjoyable. Whether you’re [taking Fido to the beach or just around the block, choosing the right gear is important.
Dog collars have become the more traditional and convenient option. However, some dogs are better off wearing a harness. Read on to find out the pros and cons of dog collars vs harnesses and see which one will work best you and your canine companion.
Things to Consider
At one time or another, all dog lovers have probably walked a pooch that liked to tug hard on the leash. Some dogs will even go so far as to try to drag you along while choking themselves in the process. Getting a harness for Fido may seem like a logical solution to the problem, but this isn’t always the case in these instances.
When determining which device is best for your dog, consider these few basic things:
- His comfort level
- His behavior
- His size. Regular vet wellness checks and pet vaccinations can also help ensure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on preventative care, which can impact their comfort and behavior on walks.
By knowing the pros and cons of collars and harnesses, you’ll have a better idea of which one will work best for you and Fido.
Pros and Cons of Dog Collars
Pros
Works really well for dogs who don’t tug on the leash
Fido can wear it all day
Available in a variety of styles, such as:
Slip collars to prevent your dog from slipping away
Choke and prong collars for training your new pup
Cons
Can be hard to maintain control of your dog when he tugs hard on the leash
May pose a risk for choking, especially with dogs that pull aggressively on the leash
Dogs with respiratory problems may be uncomfortable
Risk of neck injury, particularly with smaller dog breeds
Pros and Cons of Harnesses
Pros
Allows you more control during the walk
Great for teaching puppies how to behave on leash
More comfortable for for dogs with respiratory problems
Less likely to cause neck injuries
Cons
Not made to be worn all day
With long-haired dogs, their fur may become tangled up in the straps of the harness
Some dogs just hate wearing harnesses and this makes more work for you
Can rub up against and irritate the bottoms of your dog’s legs
If you have more questions or want to schedule an appointment with the vet, please don’t hesitate to call our vet office in North Miami, FL, anytime!
