Harness or Collar: Which Is Better for Your Dog?
Harnesses are quickly becoming the preferred alternative to dog collars, but are they really worth the switch? The answer depends on your dog! Investing in a quality harness and a large dog door could be the ideal solution for your dog’s needs.
Collar Pros and Cons
Collars remain the most common pet accessory, but some recent backlashes have caused many dog owners to reevaluate using dog collars.
Pros
Dog collars are affordable, widely available, and make it easy to attach your dog’s ID tags. Plus, unlike harnesses, you won’t need to put a collar on your dog every time you let them outside or take them for a walk.
Cons
For many dogs, collars can cause painful throat restrictions. Collar-related injuries and choking are especially prevalent among young dogs, whose natural instinct to roam and wander while on a leash can cause choking.
Harness Pros and Cons
Harnesses are quickly becoming a popular alternative to dog collars, but they may not be necessary for every type of dog.
Pros
Harnesses attach to your dog’s chest area, thereby distributing forces that collars use to choke your dog’s neck. As a result, harnesses are typically the most comfortable option for dogs, especially for those who are prone to wandering and pulling and need physical restraint (leashing) to keep under control.
Cons
Most of the cons associated with harnesses are put on the owner rather than the dog. Where collars are left on almost all the time, harnesses are usually put on for every walk. While this is not always the most convenient option, many dog owners consider the health benefits well worth the small amount of extra work.
Which to Choose?
Generally speaking, collars are fine for dogs that won’t tug and pull on their leash, while harnesses are better for more energetic dogs. If you’re not sure, however, a harness is usually the safest bet.
Avoiding Collar Pain with a Dog Door
In any case, a large dog door can help avoid the need to use a leash when letting your dog outside. If you’re considering a dog door, a dog door for large dogs will offer the most flexibility over time.
Call us at 0437-644-330 or +61-437-644-330 to learn more about how a large pet door can help prevent leash-related collar pain altogether!