There are two ways to determine if the collar is the right size and fit for your dog. First, there should be enough room between your dog’s neck and the collar when you insert two of your fingers. However, this only applies if you’re bringing your dog to the animal supplies store when buying the collar. If you can’t bring your pet to the store, then you can try this second method: use a tape measure to measure around your dog’s neck and then add two inches to the measurement. Speaking of measurements, you should make it a habit to measure your puppy’s neck regularly and get them a new collar once they’ve outgrown their old one.

A dog harness is composed of several nylon straps arranged in such way that the contraption wraps around the dog’s back and chest and encircles its front legs. The straps on these harnesses are adjustable to some extent, making it an excellent choice for growing dogs. Unlike dog collars, leashes are attached to the harness with a clip located at the harness’ (and the consequently the dog’s) back and not at the neck.

Common Misconception about Dog Harnesses

There is one misconception that people have when it comes to dog harnesses, and this is actually what encourages many dog owners to go to the animal supplies store to buy them. That is, most people who buy dog harnesses think that their dog will be pulling less when they wear one. However, the opposite is true.

Dog harnesses attach to dogs in such a way that it allows the dog to use all of its strength to tug and pull. This is when you consider that the straps are attached to the upper back, shoulders and chest of the dog. This is actually the reason why you’ll see sled dogs use harnesses instead of dog collars. That being said, dog harnesses are good options if you want your dog to pull you while you’re exercising outside such as when you’re riding your bike or whilst wearing rollerblades.

Along that line, dog harnesses are excellent for smaller dogs who cannot overpower and pull their owners while walking or running. Dog harnesses are also excellent options for larger and stronger dogs because even if they pull and tug rather strongly, there is no concern for them damaging their trachea or injure their neck in some way. This is actually one reason why dog harnesses are more recommended over dog collars.