Harness or collar: which is right for your dog?
A harness spreads the pull across the whole chest; a collar remains unbeatable for simplicity. Here is how to decide, based on your dog's build, age and way of walking.
It is the question we are asked most often in the boutique, and there is no universal answer. There are, however, a few simple pointers that are almost always enough to decide.
What a harness really does
A harness spreads the pull across the chest and shoulders, instead of concentrating it on the throat. For a dog that pulls, has a fragile trachea or a short muzzle, this is not a comfort: it is a necessity.
- Brachycephalic breeds (French bulldog, pug, boxer): a harness, without hesitation. Their airways cannot cope with the pressure of a collar.
- Dogs that pull: a harness avoids jolts to the neck and gives you real leverage to redirect.
- Small breeds (chihuahua, spitz, Yorkshire terrier): their trachea is narrow, and a harness protects it.
- Puppies: while they learn to walk on a leash, jolts are frequent. A harness cushions them.
When a collar is still the right choice
The collar is not an accessory of the past. On an adult dog that already walks well on a leash, it is quicker to put on, lighter, and less cumbersome in the car or on a café terrace. It is also what carries the ID tag, which is compulsory on walks.
In fact, many of our customers use both: a collar day to day for the ID tag and short outings, a harness for long walks, hiking and the car.
The right fit matters more than the choice
A badly fitted harness is worth less than a well-fitted collar. The two-finger rule applies to both: you should be able to slide two fingers flat between the strap and your dog's body, without forcing and without it hanging loose.
Also check that the harness does not rub under the armpits: that is where irritation develops. A strap that sits too close to the elbow is a strap that is too short, not a badly built dog.
What about the material?
For a dog that swims, rolls in mud or lives outdoors, Biothane is life-changing: the webbing does not absorb water, does not hold odours and cleans with a wipe of a sponge. For more urban use, our waterproof fabrics offer the same easy care, with prints that get noticed.
Either way, look at the hardware. It is the first thing to give way on cheap accessories. We work in solid brass, which does not rust and develops a lovely patina.
In short
Short muzzle, small breed, puppy or a dog that pulls: harness. An adult dog that walks well on a leash: collar, with its ID tag. And if you are still unsure, write to us describing your dog, and we will be delighted to help.
