One of the most common questions when choosing dog gear is:
Harness or collar for your dog?
The answer isn’t entirely straightforward, as the right choice depends on your dog, the situation, and how the gear will be used. Both collars and harnesses have their place, but increasingly, harnesses have become the go-to option for everyday life — and for good reason.
In this guide, we’ll explore when a harness is the better choice, when a collar works well, and what types of harnesses suit different dogs.
Harness or Collar – What Does the Choice Really Depend On?
Dog collar is a traditional and familiar piece of equipment for many dogs. It’s lightweight, easy to put on, and particularly suitable for calm dogs that don’t pull on the leash.
Dog harness, on the other hand, distributes pressure more evenly and reduces strain on the neck. This often makes it a more ergonomic and dog-friendly option.
A harness is generally the better choice if:
- Your dog pulls on the leash
- Your dog is small or delicately built
- Your dog is active or energetic
- Your dog has breathing or neck sensitivities
Harness or Collar for a Puppy?
During puppyhood, the right equipment plays an especially important role.
A young dog’s body is still developing, and constant pressure on the neck may place unnecessary strain on growing structures. For this reason, a harness is often the safer and more comfortable choice for puppies.
Harnesses:
✔ reduce pressure on the neck
✔ often feel more natural for puppies
✔ support the learning phase
Which Harness for Which Dog?
Not all harnesses are created equal — nor should they be.
Y-Shaped Harness – The Best Choice for Many Dogs
Y-shaped harnesses offer an ergonomic and well-fitting solution that does not restrict shoulder movement or place pressure on the neck.
They are particularly well suited for:
- Active dogs
- Dogs that pull
- Longer periods of wear
- Dogs where comfort is a priority
It’s no coincidence that they are often considered the best harnesses for dogs.
Examples of well-designed Y-shaped harnesses
Furlou Padded Harness
CLOUD7 Active Harness
Step-In Harness
Step-in harnesses are a familiar and practical choice for many dog owners, particularly when ease and speed of use are priorities.
As the name suggests, step-in harnesses are designed so the dog steps into the harness with their front legs before it is secured along the back. This often makes them feel clearer and less intrusive for dogs that dislike gear being pulled over their head.
Step-in harnesses work especially well for:
- Calm dogs that walk nicely on the leash
- Small dogs and puppies
- Dogs that do not pull strongly
- Situations where gear is put on frequently
Examples of step-in harnesses
Staey Step-In Teddy Harness
CAFIDE Jala Harness
Breed-Specific Harnesses
Breed-specific harnesses are particularly useful for dogs whose proportions differ from standard fits:
- Dachshunds
- Sighthounds
- Bulldogs
Better fit = better comfort.
For example, the Masimalo Harness is designed with sighthounds and dachshunds in mind.
How to Measure Your Dog for the Right Harness Size
Fit makes all the difference.
Harnesses that are too small may restrict movement, while oversized ones can rub or shift uncomfortably. When shopping for dog harnesses online, always check the product’s size guide and measure your dog carefully using a soft measuring tape.
Size guides typically include:
- Chest circumference
- Neck circumference
- Back length
Do not pull the measuring tape too tight. If your dog’s measurements fall between two sizes, choosing the larger size is usually the safest option.
In Conclusion – Which Is Actually Better?
There is no single correct answer, but in modern everyday life, harnesses are often the more ergonomic, comfortable, and versatile solution.
Well-fitting harnesses:
✔ support natural movement
✔ enhance comfort
✔ make walks smoother
At Ruffy, we believe that great gear isn’t just practical — it should also feel and look good.
Because a comfortable dog is a happy walker.
