Even though dog collars have been very prevalent, the American kennel association suggests that it might not be the best for your furry friend. Your dog might not be very fond of his collar. Dr Pete Wedderburn, a veterinary surgeon, says, “Traditional collars are not the best way to control your dog.” Collars are uncomfortable, and they might not be the friendliest option to treat your pet. Dog harnesses are similar to harnesses for toddlers. Therefore safety is an assurance. It’s time we discard the traditional dog collar and switch to dog harnesses. Here are four reasons why you must do so.
Why Use Harness?
1. Ideal for all Sizes
If you own a big dog or an untrained big dog who, talking him out can be a challenging task for you and a risk to others. A harness will let you have more control over your dog than a collar.
On the contrary, if you own a smaller and more delicate breed of dog, a collar can put unnecessary pressure on his neck, making the dog uncomfortable. A harness will distribute the entire weight from the neck to the whole body and give you excellent control of him in public places. Be it a small dog, an old dog, an injured dog, or a disabled dog; a dog harness is suitable for all!
2. Safe and Secure
Dog harnesses have soft paddings, acting like a protective layer around the dog. Your dog can quickly get out of a collar but not out of a harness. A correct sized harness will fit your dog correctly and keep him in place. When you’re travelling, the harness will help you to safeguard your dog with the seatbelt. If you own Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Pekingese, a harness will be the safest option. A harness can protect your dog from hypothyroidism (low thyroid gland hormone), ear and eye issues, collapsing trachea and paw licking and foreleg lameness, caused by a collar.
3. Training
A harness will keep your puppy focused while you take him out for walks in busy and crowded public places. Although you can train your dog without a harness, a harness is sure to make your work easier. The harness will let you have more control over your dog. Also, a harness is equal to comfort, and comfortable training equals fun! Your dog will respond to your training methods efficiently if they enjoy them. If your dog has made up his mind to escape or chase something in public, it can easily wiggle its way out of a collar but not a sturdy harness.Its is advisable that you read reviews about certain dog breeds that do well with other animals , which would reduce your effort of training.
4. Prevent Choking & Injuries
If your dog keeps pulling the leash tied to his collar, there are high chances of neck injuries, and if not neck injuries, severe discomfort. In case of a harness, the leash is tied to a hook present on the back or the chest of the dog’s harness, thus keeping the dog safe from injuries. If your puppy suffers from breathing problems, switch to a harness immediately, because pulling a leash tied to a collar can promote coughing. Some breeds have brittle bones in their necks and pulling the leash tied to a collar can lead to a severe neck injury and pain.
Popular Types of Harnesses
Dog harnesses are made scientifically in laboratories, by observing the body movements of the animal. They have soft paddings to protect your dog and they provide them with the comfort they deserve.
- Nylon strap harnesses
The nylon strap harness resembles the human toddler’s harness. Putting on the harness on your pet can be initially troublesome, but once you are used to it becomes very convenient.
- Webbing and buckle harnesses
Buckle harness is a much sturdier version of the normal harness and has gained its popularity over the years. This harness has been originated from the horse harness used in the Roman Empire. They are made up of thick nylon and plastic.
- Standard harness
The standard harness will distribute the leash’s entire force against a dog’s back and chest, for a small dog. That might not be the best option for huge dogs since it will give them the opportunity to pull against the leash.So, this easter buy your dog a perfect harness compatible with their size.
- No-pull harness
In the no-pull harness, the harness will tighten, in case the dog pulls the leash. This harness will protect the dog by putting the pressure under his armpits instead of the neck, thus preventing further injury.
Cons of a Collar
- Even though collars might be a comfortable option for small puppies, they are not the best when it comes to training your pups.
- Collars can cause neck injuries very easily.
- Collars can create pressure on the eyes of your dog and can worsen his condition if he already has glaucoma or other such eye problems and even ear and neck problems.
- Collars can even cause thyroid problems to your dog! They could injure the glands.
Our pets are like our children, and they deserve our best care. Hence, we need to know what’s good and bad for them. Have a look at these websites to get some more knowledge about what’s best for your dog and how you can keep them the safest and happiest they can ever be.
We hope this article helps you to get a fair idea of what’s best for your furry buddies. Now, get your dog a good harness. Your dog will surely thank you, and you will surely appreciate us!
