Harness or Collar: Which to Choose for Walking Your Dog? 🐾 The Ultimate Guide for Savvy Dog Owners

🚨 What if your choice of equipment was putting your dog in danger without you knowing it?

Imagine the scene: you're out for a walk, your dog pulls on the leash, and suddenly… it coughs, chokes, or worse, slips out of its harness and runs toward a busy road. Thousands of owners experience this scenario every year—not through negligence, but simply because they didn't have access to the right information at the right time.

The debate between harnesses and collars for dogs is one of the most frequent in the canine community. And yet, the answer is never one-size-fits-all. It depends on your dog, its size, temperament, age, medical needs, and your lifestyle. This comprehensive guide has been designed to give you all the information you need, without any beating around the bush, to make the best possible choice.

Whether you're in France, Belgium, Canada, the United States, or the United Kingdom , the principles remain the same: your dog deserves safe, comfortable, and suitable equipment. Let's go. 🐶

📌 Summary

• Dog collars: advantages, disadvantages, use cases
• Dog harnesses: why they are increasingly popular with owners
• Anti-pull harness: the revolution for dogs that pull
• Dog safety and leashes: what you absolutely need to know
• How to choose between a harness and a collar depending on your dog's profile
• The most common mistakes to absolutely avoid
• Our final verdict and recommendations

🐕 The Dog Collar: A Classic… But Not Without Risks

The collar is undoubtedly the oldest and most widespread dog accessory in the world. It can be found in almost every home with a dog. Practical, quick to put on, and easy to personalize with an ID tag—it has everything going for it at first glance.

But is it really suitable for all situations? The answer, according to many veterinarians and dog trainers, is clearly no .

✅ The advantages of the necklace

The collar offers undeniable advantages for certain specific uses:

• 🏷️ Permanent identification : it remains the ideal support for attaching the regulatory identification tag, mandatory in many countries (France, Canada, USA, UK…)
• ⚡ Quick setup : the collar is in place in seconds — ideal for quick trips to the garden
• 🐾 Signal transmission : For well-trained dogs that don't pull, it offers clear and direct communication between the owner and the dog
• 💰 Affordable price : quality collars are generally less expensive than technical harnesses

❌ The disadvantages of the collar — What veterinarians will tell you

This is where things get serious. Several veterinary studies have highlighted real risks associated with prolonged use of the collar, particularly in dogs that pull:

• 🦴 Cervical and spinal problems : Repeated pressure on the trachea and cervical vertebrae can cause herniated discs, chronic pain, and nerve damage—especially in breeds with fragile necks such as the Pug, Bulldog, Chihuahua, or Shih Tzu
• 👁️ Increased eye pressure : A study published in the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association demonstrated that pulling on a collar increases intraocular pressure, which can worsen or trigger glaucoma.
• 🌬️ Compressed trachea : In dogs that pull hard, the collar can cause chronic coughing and eventually damage the larynx
• 🚪 Risk of escape : a dog that suddenly backs away can easily slip out of a collar, especially if its head is narrower than its neck (Greyhound, Whippet, Greyhound…)

💡 Key takeaway : the collar remains useful as an identification aid, but for active walks, especially if your dog pulls, it can present real medical risks that it would be irresponsible to ignore.

🦺 Dog Harnesses: The Modern and Safe Choice

The best dog harness has gradually become THE benchmark among informed owners, professional dog trainers, and veterinary behaviorists. And that's no coincidence.

Unlike a collar, a harness distributes the pressure of the leash across the dog's entire torso — shoulders, chest, flanks — rather than concentrating it on such a fragile and vital area as the neck.

✅ The advantages of a dog harness

• 🛡️ Optimal neck and trachea protection : zero pressure on the cervical vertebrae, even under significant traction
• ⚖️ Even distribution of forces : pressure is distributed over a large body surface area, significantly reducing the risk of injury
• 🔒 Enhanced safety : a well-fitting harness is much harder for a dog to remove, even in the event of a sudden backward movement
• 🐾 Ideal for puppies : young dogs have bones and cartilage that are still developing — the harness protects them during this crucial phase
• 🏃 Perfect for sporting activities : canicross, hiking, dog cycling… the harness offers essential freedom of movement and safety
• 🧠 Training support : Some models have a front attachment that naturally redirects the dog towards you when it pulls, facilitating training without painful force.

❌ Points to be aware of with the harness

The harness isn't perfect either. Here's what to look out for:

• ⚙️ Essential adjustment : A poorly fitted harness can cause chafing, injure the armpits, or restrict the shoulders. Regular adjustments are non-negotiable.
• ⏱️ Setup time : slightly longer than a collar, especially for models with multiple straps
• 🔧 Quality varies between brands : not all harnesses are created equal. A cheap harness can be just as dangerous as a bad collar

💪 The Anti-Pull Harness: The Game-Changing Solution for Dogs That Pull

If your dog turns every walk into a sled race, you know the feeling of frustration. The aching arms, the burning shoulders, and a dog who doesn't understand why you can't run as fast as him. 😅

The no-pull harness was specifically designed to address this problem without resorting to painful coercive methods. Its principle is elegantly simple: the front attachment, placed on the dog's chest, redirects its momentum towards you as soon as it pulls. The result? It naturally turns towards you, loses its momentum, and gradually understands that pulling doesn't get it forward.

🔑 How does an anti-pull harness actually work?

Unlike a classic back harness (where the ring is located between the shoulder blades), a front-attachment no-pull harness has a ring on the chest. When the dog pulls:

1. The leash is stretched taut from the front
2. The dog's body pivots towards you
3. He can no longer move forward without first confronting you.
4. This interruption of movement naturally creates an association between "pulling = stopping" in his brain

It's physics applied to dog training. Brilliant, isn't it? 🧠

🏆 The best anti-pull harnesses on the market in 2025

Here are the technical features you should look for to identify the best no-pull dog harness :

• ✔️ Dual attachment points (chest + back) for maximum versatility
• ✔️ Neoprene or breathable mesh padding to prevent irritation
• ✔️ Metal safety buckles instead of plastic
• ✔️ Multi-point adjustment (minimum 4 adjustment points) to perfectly adapt to your dog's morphology
• ✔️ Reinforced seams capable of supporting the dog's weight and strength
• ✔️ Reflective strip for nighttime walks — an often underestimated safety feature

🌟 Pro tip : If your dog is a compulsive puller (Husky, Malinois, Border Collie, Labrador, etc.), always choose a harness with a double attachment point. You can then use a double-clip leash for optimal control, even in highly stimulating situations.

🔗 Leash and Dog: Safety Begins with the Right Equipment

The harness or collar is only part of the equation. The safety leash is just as important. And here again, the wrong choices can have serious consequences.

Types of leashes and their compatibility with harnesses or collars

🪢 The fixed leash (1m to 2m) — The absolute standard for training. This is the leash recommended by almost all professional dog trainers. It offers precise control, clear communication with the dog, and eliminates the risk of tangling. Compatible with all types of harnesses and collars.

🔄 Retractable leashes — Convenient but dangerous if misused. Very popular, they are nevertheless frequently implicated in accidents: dogs darting into traffic, cords burning hands or legs, sudden loss of control. If you use one, never combine it with a collar on a dog that pulls — the risk of neck injury is greatly increased.

🔀 The double-clip leash (or two-point leash) is ideal with a double-ring no-pull harness. It allows simultaneous management of the chest and back attachment points, offering maximum control while optimally distributing force. Perfect for large or reactive dogs.

🏕️ The long line (3m to 10m) is excellent for recall training in a safe environment, walks in the forest, or educational training sessions. Always use with a harness to protect the neck joints during sudden stops.

🔴 Critical security mistakes you should never make

• ❌ Never attach a retractable leash to a thin collar on a dog that pulls
• ❌ Never leave a dog tied up alone with a slip collar or semi-choke collar
• ❌ Never use a leash that is too long in urban areas — the risk of accidents is exponential.
• ❌ Never neglect the condition of the leash: a damaged, frayed leash or one with worn clips can break at the worst possible moment

🎯 What Equipment Should You Choose Based on Your Dog's Profile?

This is THE central question. And here's the practical guide that will help you make a definitive decision.

🐶 For a puppy (under 12 months old)

→ Harness 100% recommended. Puppies have developing cartilage and vertebrae. Any pressure on the neck at this age can cause permanent damage. A lightweight, well-fitting harness with soft padding is the ideal choice. Adjust it regularly because your puppy grows quickly!

🐕 For a dog that pulls hard

→ Double attachment anti-pull harness Combined with a double clip leash and positive training sessions, this is the most effective and humane combination to teach your dog to walk properly without hurting him.

🐩 For brachycephalic breeds (Bulldog, Pug, Pekingese, Boston Terrier…)

→ Harness required. These breeds already have naturally compressed airways. A collar, even a light one, can trigger respiratory distress, especially in hot weather. The harness is a matter of health, not personal preference.

🦮 For well-trained dogs that don't pull

→ Collar and harness are acceptable for long walks. If your dog walks perfectly on a loose leash, a collar can be used for short daily walks. Reserve the harness for hikes, active walks, and high-stimulation situations.

🐕🦺 For greyhounds and dogs with a particular morphology

→ Greyhound collar (martingale) or specific greyhound harness. Greyhounds (Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, etc.) have a head that is narrower than their neck—they can slip out of a regular collar in an instant. A martingale collar or a specific anatomical harness is essential for their safety.

👴 For older dogs or dogs suffering from arthritis

→ Harness with back handle A padded harness with an integrated handle on the back will allow you to help your dog stand up, climb stairs or regain its balance — a real plus for its quality of life.

🚫 The 7 Mistakes Most Landlords Make

These mistakes are extremely common — and potentially dangerous. Honestly check to see if you're making any of them:

1. Buying without measuring — A poorly fitting harness will chafe, cause injury, and can lead to lameness or skin lesions. Always measure both the chest and neck circumference before purchasing.
2. Choose the cheapest option — Low-cost equipment often uses flimsy plastic buckles that can break under tension. On a large dog, this can be disastrous.
3. Never check the fit — Your dog gains weight, loses weight, and changes coat with the seasons. The fit should be checked regularly. The two-finger rule: you should be able to slide two fingers between the harness and your dog's body, no more, no less.
4. Leaving the harness on 24/7 — The harness is walking equipment, not a permanent accessory. Wearing it continuously can cause skin irritation, chafing, and even postural changes.
5. Using a choke collar or semi-choke collar without training — These tools, when misused, can cause serious injury. They should only be used by experienced professionals in a very specific educational context.
6. Ignoring pain signals — If your dog scratches after a walk, limps slightly, refuses to wear its gear, or shows signs of discomfort, this is a warning sign. Consult your veterinarian.
7. Using the wrong equipment for the activity — A leash for canicross isn't the same as one for a walk in town. A hiking harness isn't the same as one for everyday training. Equipment suited to the activity guarantees safety and comfort for both of you.

🌍 What International Experts Are Saying

In the United States , the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recommends harnesses for all dogs that pull and for breeds predisposed to respiratory problems. Certified Council of Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) overwhelmingly favor positive reinforcement methods combined with front-attachment harnesses.

In Canada , provincial veterinary associations particularly emphasize the use of harnesses for puppies, highlighting the risks of cervical dysplasia associated with the early use of collars.

In Europe , particularly in France, Belgium, Switzerland and Germany , canine behaviorists and certified trainers agree: the harness is the standard equipment for walking on a leash, especially for dogs with a strong pulling reflex.

🎓 Expert conclusion : the collar remains a useful tool for identification and communication for well-trained dogs. However, for daily walks, and especially for dogs in training, the harness—particularly the no-pull harness—is unanimously recognized as safer and more ethical.

✅ Our Final Verdict: What You Should Do Today

Having reviewed all aspects of this debate, here is our clear and straightforward recommendation:

1. Keep the collar for identification (tag, electronic chip) — that is its main role and it does it very well.

2. Invest in a quality harness suited to your dog's build and temperament — it's one of the best investments you can make for their long-term health.

3. If your dog pulls, choose a double-attachment no-pull harness and combine it with a positive training method — the results can be spectacular in just a few weeks.

4. Choose your leash according to the context: fixed leash in the city, long line for recalls, double clip leash for reactive or sporty dogs.

5. Have your equipment choices checked by a certified dog trainer or your veterinarian — especially if your dog has any particular health problems.

💬 And you, what is your experience?

Have you tried an anti-pull harness and been surprised by the results? Has your vet advised you to change equipment? Or are you still looking for the perfect harness for your pet?

Share your experience in the comments — your story can help dozens of other owners facing the same questions. And if you found this article helpful, share it with other dog lovers around you. 🐾❤️