Does my dog need a collar if he has a harness? A Comprehensive Guide

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My dog is microchipped, do they still require a collar with identification?

There can be some confusion around whether a microchipped dog still needs a collar with identification. To answer in short: yes, they do. The microchipping law came into force in 2016,. This states that all dogs in the UK by the time they’re 8 weeks old must have a microchip. The microchip contains much more detail than a collar tag would. Linked to the database, it has information about the dog, owner, as well as the breeder (if applicable). However, microchipped dogs will still require a collar with identity when out in public places. When dogs are found, the collar acts as the initial point of identification, with the microchip then acting as complementary data, in the case of the collar having accidentally fallen off.

Harnesses

The main benefit for using a dog harness instead of a dog collar is the control you have over overly excited dogs, as you have more control over them. If it comes to safety and security harnesses are generally better at preventing accidents because they fasten more securely around your dog’s body and are simply the most secure, and most comfortable way to hook your dog up to his leash. It covers your dog’s chest, shoulders, and upper back, which disperses pressure over a larger surface area whereas collars give you better control over your dog. While dogs can easily slip out of their collars and potentially run into traffic or another person’s yard, harnesses offer much more security and safety.

A good harness will reduce pulling, increase your control over your pup, and decrease stress on his neck and joints. Bonus points: because it secures closer to the dog’s center of gravity, a harness gets tangled in the leash less and helps prevent jumping.

Also here, for the individualists among us, there are different kinds of harnesses, starting from cool, cute or practical, such as bags where you can put some treats or eco-friendly waste bags.

When it comes to specific breeds or diseases, a harness has a better function for your dog:

  • Brachycephalic breed: These breed dogs typically have flatter faces, “shortened head” and refers to the short nose and flat face of dogs like Pugs, Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, Chow Chows, Pekingese, French Bulldogs or Bulldogs. Respiratory issues may be better managed with a harness.
  • Tracheal collapse: This is a medical condition where the trachea will fold in on itself causing trouble breathing and a cough. Please avoid using a collar because it applies further pressure and can even worsen the condition.
  • Risk factors for spinal problems: A condition called intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) makes long-bodied breeds such as dachshunds very prone to slipped disks. By using a harness, you can take pressure off the neck and back and help prevent further damage.
  • Orthopedic disease: Dogs with orthopedic disease can have a hard time getting up to walk so a harness can help you get them up and move around more easily.

    • Pros and cons of dog collars

    Collars are more convenient: The main benefit of collars is that they can be left on at all times, says Fox, as opposed to a harness, which should only be worn during walks. And even if you choose not to leave your dogs collar on at all times, its still much easier to snap a collar on and off than a harness.

    Collars hold ID tags: Collars typically come with a metal ring where you can attach your pets ID tag with your address and/or phone number in case the dog gets lost.

    Collars are not safe for dogs with certain medical issues: Avoid using collars to walk dogs with medical issues such as glaucoma, a history of proptosed eye, neck injuries, or spinal malformations, says M. Leanne Lilly, DVM, DACVB, Assistant Professor of Behavioral Medicine, Veterinary Clinical Sciences, at The Ohio State University.

    She says you should check with your vet to see if your dog is healthy for a collar.

    Collars are not safe for dogs that pull: If your dog constantly pulls against their collar, they can injure themselves or reduce the airflow they are getting. “All collars, when attached to a leash, create pulling on the trachea and vertebrae of the neck. With excessive pulling there is a risk of reducing airflow into the dog or creating pain by causing pressure on the pets vertebrae,” says Arndt.

    Collars should not be used by certain breeds: Collars should not be used on toy breeds and brachycephalic breeds, says Arndt. Examples of toy breeds include:

    Examples of brachycephalic breeds:

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    It can be tricky to decide whether or not your dog should wear a collar or a harness for walks. A lot of it depends on your dog himself, from the breed to his age and activity level. No matter what type of breed you have, one thing’s for sure, they all need to go out on walks! The main two types of leash attachments that you can use for your dog are harnesses or collars.

    Whether you just got a new dog and aren’t sure which to use or you are looking to switch things up, it’s important to know the pros and cons for both dog harnesses and collars before making a decision.