A collar and harness are two of the most important things you'll need to buy for your dog. Not only do they keep your pup safe and secure, but they also allow you to take your dog on adventures and walks without worry. But with all of the different types, sizes, and styles available, how do you choose the right one? Here's a quick guide to help you choose the best collar or harness for your furry friend.
Size Matters
The first thing you need to consider when choosing a collar or harness is size. If the collar or harness is too big, your dog will be able to slip out of it easily. On the other hand, if it's too small, it will be uncomfortable for your dog to wear and may even rub against their skin. So, how do you know what size to get?
For collars, you'll want to measure around your dog's neck where the collar will sit. For harnesses, you'll need to take two measurements: one around your dog's chest just behind their front legs and one around their neck. Once you have those measurements, consult a sizing chart to find the right size.
Material Matters Too
The next thing to consider is material. Most collars and harnesses are made from nylon or polyester, but there are also leather options available. Nylon and polyester are great for everyday use as they're durable and can stand up to a lot of wear and tear. Leather looks great and has a bit more heft to it, making it ideal for special occasions or photo ops. However, leather can be more expensive than nylon or polyester and may not be as comfortable for your dog to wear all day long.
Choose Your Style
Finally, you'll need to decide on a style. For collars, the two most popular styles are buckle collars and slip collars (also known as choke chains). Buckle collars are adjustable, so you can get a perfect fit for your dog's neck. They're also easy to put on and take off. Slip collars sit tighter on your dog's neck and are often used for training purposes as they allow you to quickly correct your dog if necessary.
For harnesses, there are three main styles: H-style harnesses, step-in harnesses, and vest-style harnesses. H-style harnesses wraps around your dog's body like an 'H' and fastens together at the chest and stomach. Step-in harnesses are easier to put on as you simply step your dog's front legs through the loops and then clip it together at the chest. Vest-style harnesses provide more coverage than either H-style or step-in harnesses as they wrap around both the chest AND stomach area .
Conclusion
With so many different types of collars and harnesses available on the market today, choosing the right one for your pup can seem daunting. But by keeping size, material, and style in mind, you can narrow down your options until you find the perfect fit for both you and your furry friend!
