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How To Choose The Right Collar Or Harness For Your Furry Friend!

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As the warm weather approaches, dog lovers from all over will venture out of their homes and out into the world for sunshine, fresh air and to exercise with furry friends. Exercise is crucial to your dog’s health, and it is important that your dog is properly walked on a leash when they are not in a fenced-in area. To avoid dangers and possible accidents, a leash and collar or harness is the way to go! But why? And which is better: a harness or a collar?

It is important to provide identification of your pet, especially when out in public or in case your pet is found by someone out in the community. ID and vaccination tags should be placed on a collar around your dog’s neck, as a safety precaution and to allow others to know that your pet is well cared for. Not only can a collar identify your pet, but many collars can be customized and it is fun to choose different colors, sizes, and styles that fit your pet! Although you may see many pet owners walking their dogs with a collar and leash, another option is to utilize a harness. Depending on your dog’s breed, behavior and body type, a harness may be a safer option and provide comfort.

A harness usually comes around the chest and the trunk of a dog and can be a great tool for puppy training and deterring pulling while you walk your dog. Always consult with your veterinarian before purchasing a specific type of harness, as some harnesses can cause pain/discomfort to your dog. It is also important to choose the appropriate size for your pet. A sales associate or a veterinarian can usually assist in this area, to decrease the risk for skin irritation or discomfort to the dog’s musculoskeletal system.

A harness can provide direction and allow your dog to safely maneuver by your side through a park or neighborhood, especially if your furry friend has visual deficits or mobility issues due to arthritis. Harnesses also assist with keeping you safe! If your dog likes to jump or pull during a walk, this can put your shoulders at risk for injury, as you try to manage your pet while they are wearing a collar/leash. A harness decreases the pull from around the dog’s neck and allows you to manage them from around their trunk.

Lastly, the type of breed you have may also be a good indicator of whether or not a collar or a harness is more appropriate. Dogs that are known to have difficulty breathing or have a shortened head – known as brachycephalic airway syndrome – are more susceptible to issues and discomfort with collars. Some types of breeds with this particular condition are pugs, boxers, and bulldogs. A veterinarian may recommend a particular collar/harness for your pet, and it is always a good idea to discuss with your veterinarian what is most beneficial to keep your best friend comfortable and safe.

If you’re looking for a great selection or dog harnesses or maybe a personalized dog collar, then shop Doggie Diva!

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