Do Vets Recommend Collars or Harnesses For Dogs?

Taking your pooch out for a walk is a guaranteed way to get tails wagging! Before heading out of the door you’ll want to make sure you pick up a dog lead and poo bags. When it comes to a collar or harness for dog walking, dog owners are often divided on which is best.

We spoke to James from Goostrey Lane Vets to get a Vet’s perspective on which is best:

I often get asked by my clients “which is best, a collar or a harness?”

Collars give you better control and require less physical strength to walk your dog, especially true for large, strong and boisterous dogs. They are easy to put on and take off, and are comfortable, durable, cheap and adjustable for growth. They offer the simplest way to identify that a dog has an owner, and they are easy to attach an identifying tag (which a legal requirement in the UK). They also don’t restrict a dog’s range of movement of its forelimbs.

However, collars can be easy for your dog to escape from. Too loose and your dog may slip its lead, too tight and you can cause skin or soft tissue trauma. Collars can contribute to back, neck pain or throat pain, as well as damage to thyroid gland, windpipe or food pipe. Small dog breeds such as Yorkshire terriers, Chihuahuas and Miniature Poodles often have sensitive or delicate tracheas, and collars can cause significant issues for their little windpipes.

Harnesses on the other hand can be safer, secure, and more comfortable than collars. They are low risk for dogs to escape from and help to avoid damage to the delicate structures of the neck. Harnesses are generally well suited to dogs who suffer from cervical neck pain, as they distribute the pull force across a larger area of the dog’s body. If you like to go running with your dog, a harness is much safer than a collar as the risk of sudden stops or repetitive pulling during your run is significantly reduced. They can, however, be confusing or difficult to put on or off. You may have to buy a few harnesses to accommodate your dog’s growth and you may need to be physically stronger to walk a large boisterous dog when using a harness.

Personally, I use a harness for my smaller dogs, and a collar for my larger stronger dog. For extra control, especially if your dog is boisterous, try a halter and collar system such as the Halti head collar.

Do dogs in the UK have to wear a collar? 

Yes. Although all dogs over the age of eight weeks must be microchipped with the owner’s details as part of ‘The Control of Dogs Order 1992’ all dogs must wear a dog collar with their owner’s information when in a public place. This can be displayed on an ID tag or on the collar itself and should include:

• Owner's name
• Owners house number or name
• Owners postcode

It is very common to also add your telephone number making it easier if your dog does escape.

Remember, this collar will be on your dog’s neck all day long so your pooch must be comfortable. For the best fit you should ensure two fingers fit between the collar and your dog’s neck. When at home you can take the collar off your dog, but before you head back outside always don’t forget to put it back on.

What are the pros and cons of a dog collar?

Pros of dog collars:

• If a dog is wearing a dog collar it is the simplest way to identify the dog has an owner. If your pooch escapes the collar is used to help your four-legged friend safely return to you.
• They come in several styles including slip collars or clipped material to ensure they are comfortable, attractive and long-lasting.
• Collars usually give you better control.

Cons of dog collars:

• Dog collars can put significant pressure on your pooch's more vulnerable areas and a quick tug on the leash could cause pain.
• Depending on the width of the neck your pooch may also be able to slide out of his collar which would be dangerous if walking on a road.

What are the pros and cons of a dog harness?

 Pros of dog harness:

• A popular choice during a dog walk. If your dog likes to pull on his walks, consider a front-clip harness.
• The harness is fitted around the torso with straps behind the front legs which supports distributing any tension to the chest.
• Helps prevent your pooch from slipping out.

Cons of dog harness:

• If the harness isn’t fitted correctly this can act the same as a collar with putting too much pressure in the wrong area.
• Can be harder to put on and take off at the end of a walk. If not fitted correctly your dog could wiggle out and escape.

Are dogs calmer with a harness?

Putting your dog’s harness on = it’s time for walkies!

Dogs are smart creatures who are skilled at associating objects with actions. If your dog associates his harness with something positive he will feel more relaxed when the harness is on, as he knows he is headed out to run and sniff and do all the things he loves doing on his walks. They are more comfortable as there is no added pressure caused when they pull, unlike a collar and lead. Some dogs feel calmer when a harness is around them due to comfort and safety while others become hyper or struggle due to health issues.

Are dogs bothered by collars?

Some dogs hate wearing their collar while others don’t seem to notice they have one around their neck. If your pooch isn’t a fan of his collar, it’s important to stay calm and avoid chasing him to get this around his neck. Sit on the floor and let him come to you. When he comes to you give him a treat as a reward and try to put the collar around his head. 

So, which is better a harness or a collar?

There are advantages and disadvantages to both harnesses and collar. Both can cause pain and discomfort if worn too tight, and your dog can escape from both if not snug enough. If you’re unsure about which is best to use for your four-legged friend, we always recommend seeking advice from your vet to find out which is best suited to your dog’s breed, size and behaviour.