Dog collars vs harnesses – a topic that sparks debate among pet owners. Whether you’ve got a playful puppy or a calm senior, one thing never changes: every dog needs to head outdoors. Walks, training, and adventures all require a secure way to attach a lead. But should that be a collar or a harness? Here’s a clear guide to help you weigh up the pros and cons for your four-legged friend.

Dog wearing a purple harness lying on grass in a field, illustrating the benefits of using a harness for safety and comfort.
A well-fitted harness helps distribute pressure evenly, keeping dogs safer and more comfortable on walks.

Either you decide on a dog collar or a dog harness.

This question likes to split the community of dog lovers. Here’s why clarity is needed at this point. We explain to you precisely the advantages and disadvantages of both options so that you can make the right decision for your animal. What does the expert say about the dog harness?

Advantages of a dog harness

A dog harness can be used very well by a dog that pulls. Collars reduce pulling on the animal because they cover the chest, shoulders and upper back. This distributes the pressure over a larger area than with a dog collar. Also, the dog is easier to control and grasp with the collar. So you both give off a sovereign image. 

Equipped in this way and with consistent training, it can further minimise the animal’s traction without you having to jerkily and painfully tug at your dog’s neck. This means that dog harnesses are generally safer and can prevent serious accidents. 

While dogs can easily slip out of their dog collars and potentially streak onto the street, to a peer, or into a neighbour’s yard, dog harnesses offer much more security. Escaping is not possible here.

A dog harness may not be better.

The harness can be inconvenient or bulky; a dog collar, on the other hand, is easy to wear, and many dogs are more likely to accept it. On the other hand, some dogs don’t like getting into a harness without hesitation, while others put on a collar without hesitation.

Dog harnesses may not always have room for the tax stamp or other tags you wish to attach (such as an address holder). However, this problem is easily solved by adding a ring or letting the dog wear a harness and a collar.

A dog harness is a must.

You should use a dog harness on your animal if you have a brachycephalic breed. These tend to have flatter faces and, therefore, breathing problems. Also, a dog harness makes life easier for your darling when walking around.

Even if your dog has suffered a collapsed trachea in the past, the dog harness is the favourite. This is a condition in which the windpipe folds in on itself, causing breathing difficulties and coughing. Using a dog collar in such a situation would be counterproductive as it can add further pressure and worsen the condition.

If your pet struggles with spinal disease risk factors, you can wear a collar to protect your four-legged friend’s neck and back. So, at the latest, after a herniated disc or another orthopaedic disease. Especially when your animal is older or weaker, you can support it in this way so it can stand up and move more quickly. So what does the expert say about a rose gold dog collar?

Advantages of a dog collar

Dog holding a leather collar in its mouth, representing the practicality and ease of using a collar for everyday wear.
Collars are simple, affordable, and convenient—ideal for quick walks or keeping ID tags secure.

Collars are more comfortable. Additionally, you can wear them without being pulled over the head and keep them on the dog all day. A dog harness should only be worn while walking.

The dog collar has a metal ring to which the tax stamp and other tags can be attached. A valuable accessory when the cheeky little rascal has strayed from his pack without permission.

A dog collar is generally less expensive to purchase than a dog harness. If your pet is still growing, it makes sense to work with collars before putting your dog in a dog tackle when he is fully grown.

Furthermore, the dog collar is suitable for trips into the city or when there are crowds of people, as well as when the dog needs to be held for a short time. Even if he only needs to be on the leash for a short time and can run free for the rest of the walk, the collar can be a better alternative. 

Wildly, when he rages with his conspecifics, with collars, it does not get tangled as quickly, and the animal does not get caught on trunks or bushes as quickly.

Negative points for the dog collar

As mentioned above, the collar is not for the lively Spanish Mastiff, who has not (yet) learned to walk correctly on a leash. In addition, the tensile forces act too strongly on the neck and neck, leading to health problems over time.

The same applies if health problems rule out wearing a dog collar (see above). If in doubt, you should seek advice from your veterinarian.

Hence, our tip to you.

We recommend having both in the house and getting the animal accustomed to a rose gold pet collar for the fashion-conscious, as well as a dog harness. It's possible that you may need to change throughout a dog’s life.

Conclusion:

Choosing between a collar and a harness doesn’t have to be a battle of one against the other. Each has its own strengths and suits different needs, whether it’s for everyday walks, training sessions, or supporting a dog with health issues. The best approach? Keep both on hand and let your dog’s comfort, lifestyle, and well-being guide your choice. After all, the goal isn’t just control—it’s ensuring your companion enjoys every walk safely and happily.


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