Hundezubehör

articles

Filters
Reset All

Dog Harness or Dog Collar – Which is Better?

More and more pet owners are opting for a dog harness instead of the traditional dog collar. But why is that? Unlike conventional dog collars, the dog harness is not only attached around the neck but also secured by a strap that runs under the chest. This can have significant health benefits for the dog.

Dog Collar and Dog Harness Compared

Dog collars are predominantly made of nylon, leather, or the increasingly popular material, Biothane. Nylon collars are available in many different colors – making them ideal for those who prefer bright colors or patterns. Additionally, nylon is particularly water-resistant and dries faster than other materials. Leather collars, on the other hand, are generally a bit more expensive but with proper care, they maintain their good appearance over time. Flat leather collars made from cowhide are sturdier and more robust, making them perfect for large or strong-pulling dogs. Round leather collars made from elk leather, however, are not suitable for dogs that tend to pull hard on their leashes. Biothane combines the positive qualities of nylon and leather into one material. This durable fabric is soft, flexible, has no sharp edges, and is very easy to maintain, tear-resistant, and durable. Furthermore, Biothane collars do not absorb moisture and are thus antibacterial.
Commonly found are collars with buckle closures, allowing owners to adjust the fit individually. There are also collars with hard plastic closures, where the stability and quality are crucial as low-quality closures may break, allowing the dog to escape from the collar. Another type is the choke collar. These are slipped over the dog's head and fit relatively loosely around the neck. When pulled, they tighten enough so that the dog cannot slip out of the collar. However, such a collar always has a corresponding stop, such as a metal ring, to prevent the dog from being choked. It's important that the metal ring is sewn into the material and made of stainless steel. Additionally, the edges and corners should be soft. Reflective applications on collars provide additional safety, ensuring that the dog is visible in various weather conditions and at night.
There are also various designs of dog harnesses. Therefore, it is essential to research the different models thoroughly to find the perfect one for your dog! Firstly, there is the walking harness, also known as the "H-harness." Due to its flexible size adjustability, it grows with the dog's body. Lightweight and simple in design, the walking harness is particularly suitable for sports and other activities. The Y-harness, on the other hand, fits more snugly around the body compared to the H-harness. For this reason, it is considered particularly escape-proof. Another type of dog harness that shouldn't be overlooked is the Norwegian harness, which has become one of the most popular models among dog owners in recent years. This harness is pulled over the dog's head and secured with a chest strap. Particularly noteworthy is its relatively small contact area, making it suitable after surgeries when scars are still fresh.
There are various sizes of dog harnesses available for puppies, small dogs, and large dogs. The harness size is determined by the dog's chest circumference. The best way to measure this is with a tape measure, passing it from the shoulders under the chest while allowing about an inch of leeway. Ideally, there should be about two fingers' width between the dog and the harness. Make sure that the chest strap does not pinch in the dog's armpit or fit too tightly against the body.

Vantanges of a Dog Harness

Most collars fit tightly around the neck. This poses a risk as pulling on the leash can create significant force on the larynx and cervical spine of the dog, potentially leading to severe injuries. In contrast, with most dog harnesses, the leash is attached at the connection point between the neck and chest harness, shifting the pulling point from the neck to the chest area.

How to Properly Fit a Dog Harness

It's best to accustom your dog to wearing a harness early on, ideally by rewarding him with positive reinforcement. Put the harness on your dog for a few minutes, play with him, or feed him a treat before taking it off again. With this effective method, it won't take long for him to develop a positive association with the dog harness.

Worldwide Shipping Options

Competitive shipping rates tailored to your location, ensuring your order reaches you swiftly

31-Day Return Policy

Shop with confidence, knowing you can return or exchange items if you're not completely satisfied

Responsive Customer Service

Our dedicated support team is here to assist you with any inquiries or concerns

Secure Payment Options

Enjoy a secure shopping experience with our protected payment system