We always want to do what’s best for our furry friends! But what if what’s best different from what we’re used to? More often then not, we see dogs out and about with just a leash and collar instead of a harness. And for some dogs, that may be all they need! Harness vs leash… What’s best for your dog?
Answer the questions below, and you’ll be able to figure out what the best option is for your unique pup!
Disclaimer: the information in this article is intended to be used as a guide and is not meant as a substitute for Veterinary advise. Please consult a licensed Veterinarian for any and all medical questions you may have.
Does Your Dog Pull Excessively?
A harness is more beneficial for a dog that often pulls at the leash because their necks are quite delicate and similar too our own anatomy.
Dogs that pull excessively are more prone to injuries such as…
bruising, whiplash, headaches, crushed trachea, damage to larynx, and fractured vertebrae.
Dogmantics – click to read for more information
And there’s more!! If you’re interested in learning about more possible injuries, check out this post from Dogmantics.com.
A harness like this one is breathable, easy to use, and perfect for small, energetic dogs. Click here to shop
Do You Walk on Busy Streets?
When walking in busy neighborhoods or big cities, it’s best to have more control over the dogs through use of a harness. For instance, you may need to stop suddenly, or pull the dog closer to you in order to avoid a potential hazard.
But, your dog definitely doesn’t need to give up style for efficiency! This vest harness is perfect for a small dog with a big fashion sense! Click here to shop
Is Your Dog Very Small and/or Young?
Walking any dog on a leash and collar can lead to long term health problems. These include hypothyroidism, eye and ear problems, and low blood supply to the front legs, causing excessive licking. You can learn more from this article written by Dr. Peter Dobias.
These concerns become increasingly more serious the smaller the dog, or puppy, is. So dogs like Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Pugs, Italian Greyhounds, and Chihuahuas are placed at a high risk for these health problems when walked on a leash and collar.
Harnesses like these give the dog handler more control, but also distributes the force from the leash throughout the dog’s chest and shoulders. Click here to shop
What do you use to walk your dog? SHARE with us!
For more information on dog walking accessories, visit the American Kennel Club’s article on Harnesses vs Collars.
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