Dog Harness Vs. Collar

In accordance with state leash laws, dogs must be kept on a leash when they are not on your property such as in public spaces. There are different leash, collar and harness options from which to choose, depending on your needs. Choosing between a harness and a collar for your dog can have an impact on how easily and effectively you walk your dog.

  1. Function

    • Both harnesses and collars are designed to attach to a dog and a leash to prevent the dog from getting away from the owner. Beyond this basic function, there are different types of collars and harnesses, each serving a specific purpose during training, walking or playing with the dog. You are not restricted to one type of collar or harness, but can benefit from multiple types, depending on the intended application.

    Collars

    • Basic nylon dog collars are useful not only for attachment to a leash, but also for identification purposes because you can attach tags to the metal D ring on the collar. There are commercially available training collars that are intended for walking specifically, including slip collars and prong collars. Slip collars are choke chains, which tighten around the dog's neck when they pull while walking. Prong collars are correction collars that give the dog a quick pinch when you tug on the leash, which is an acceptable "correction" to improve a dog's behavior while walking.

    Harnesses

    • Harnesses wrap across the chest and under the torso, so the chest and shoulders bear the pressure when a dog pulls rather than the neck. There are basic nylon harnesses as well as specialty training harnesses, each serving different purposes. Gentle Leader and Halti are two training harness brands that are designed to eliminate pulling and walking issues in dogs and are similar to training collars. Harnesses do not usually feature a D ring that allows an identification tag to be attached.

    Safety

    • All collars go around the dog's neck and must be fitted correctly in order to be effective. If you cannot put two fingers between the dog's neck and the collar, the collar is too tight or is being worn improperly. Harnesses are designed to fit around the dog's body, typically crossing the front of the dog's chest and wrapping under the torso. Because they do not circle the neck or throat, precise fitting is not as vital in using them safely.

    Expert Insight

    • "There are many collar and harness options that exist to meet specific needs or correct specific problems," said Caroline Tanaka, a veterinarian in Austin, Texas. "If you are unsure what collar or harness will best meet your needs while supporting the health and training of your dog, speak to your veterinarian or a licensed dog trainer to have your questions answered."