Choosing between a collar and a harness for your dog isn’t just a matter of style or preference. It’s a decision that can have a direct impact on your four-legged friend’s health and well-being . Each piece of equipment puts different strain on your dog’s body, and it’s important to understand the anatomical implications of each to make the best choice.
The Collar: A Classic and Practical Choice
The collar is the classic accessory for dog walking. Easy to use and adjust, it is often the default choice for dog owners. However, the risks associated with prolonged use of the collar should not be underestimated, especially for dogs that tend to pull.
Disadvantages of the Collar
• Pressure on the Trachea and Cervical Vertebrae : Collars put direct pressure on the trachea and cervical vertebrae. In dogs that frequently pull on the leash, this repeated pressure can cause long-term injuries, such as crushed trachea or damage to the intervertebral discs in the neck.
• Vagus Nerve Disruption : The collar can also put pressure on the vagus nerve, which is responsible for controlling vital functions, including heart rate. This can cause a slow heart rate, especially in brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs, increasing the risk of fainting.
• Discomfort and Skin Risks : For dogs with sensitive skin or fine hair, the collar can rub against the skin and cause irritation or even open wounds over time. That's why On se la Pet collars are padded with soft neoprene.
Choosing the right collar :
At On se la Pet , we offer 5 sizes of collars, each with a different width, to fit all sizes. Make sure the collar fits well, neither too tight nor too loose, to ensure your pet's comfort and safety. You can follow our Tips for properly adjusting your accessories for a perfect fitting. A well-fitting collar not only contributes to their daily well-being, but also prevents irritation and discomfort.
The Harness: Everyday comfort
The harness, on the other hand, is designed to distribute pressure more evenly across your dog's body, especially around the ribcage. This minimizes the risk of injury and improves your dog's comfort during walks.
Anatomical Benefits of the Harness On se la Pet
• Balanced Distribution of Traction : Unlike the collar, which concentrates the pressure on a small area, the harness distributes the force over the rib cage, a larger and more robust structure. This significantly reduces the risk of injury to the trachea and cervical vertebrae.
• Shoulder and Muscle Preservation : A good harness, especially a Y-shaped one, allows full range of motion in the shoulders. This is crucial to avoid muscle strain and premature joint fatigue, especially in active dogs or those involved in dog sports.
• Posture and Balance Support : A properly fitted harness helps maintain correct posture, which is important for a dog's overall balance and coordination, especially in growing puppies or older dogs.
Beware of Bad Harness Models
It is essential to choose a harness that respects the canine anatomy. Some models, such as the T-Harness, can hinder the natural movements of the shoulders by constraining the muscles and joints. It is important to know that dogs' front legs support up to 60% of their body weight and that their shoulders are the most required joints during their movements. This type of harness, by limiting the range of movement, can lead to muscle tension, premature joint fatigue and chronic pain .
The H-Harness, while popular, also has major drawbacks: it puts pressure around the neck similar to a collar, which can cause discomfort and breathing problems .
A harness fully adapted to the canine morphology
The most suitable model for the canine morphology is the Y-Harness, such as the On se la Pet model. It frees the shoulders, the neck is discharge from tension and allows for uniform distribution of pressure, thus avoiding these problems.
What choice for your dog's daily comfort?
Choosing between a collar and a harness is not something to be taken lightly. By understanding the anatomical implications of each option, you can make an informed choice that will contribute to your dog's overall well-being. An ergonomic harness , like the one offered by On se la Pet, is designed to provide optimal comfort while respecting your dog's natural morphology. However, the choice must also be adapted to your dog's specific morphology and lifestyle . Choosing the right accessory means ensuring pleasant, safe walks and strengthening the bond between you and your faithful companion.
