One of the most important choices you can make as a dog owner is whether to use a collar or a harness.

PITTSBURGH, PA / ACCESS Newswire / August 29, 2025 / For millions of pet owners, daily walks are an essential ritual of bonding and exercise with their dogs. According to Dr. Eugene Aversa, DVM, a seasoned General Practice Small Animal Veterinarian with more than twenty-four years of experience, walking is more than just an activity. It is a time of joy and connection, but it must also be safe. The equipment we choose plays a critical role in preventing injury and ensuring a positive experience for both the pet and the owner.

The Importance of Using Harnesses for Dogs

One of the most important choices you can make as a dog owner is whether to use a collar or a harness. In fact, it can make all the difference in a dog's long-term health and comfort. While collars are still common, more experts and veterinarians recommend harnesses as the safer and more effective option for many dogs.

1. Protecting the Neck and Throat

The neck contains many vital structures, including the windpipe, the larynx (the "Adam's Apple"), the neck bones, and some very important vessels and nerves. Pulling on a traditional collar places all of the leash pressure directly on these delicate entities. This may not seem problematic at first, but over time, or in cases where a dog pulls, collars can cause:

• Tracheal damage or irritation to the windpipe.

• Neck pain and injury, especially in small breeds with delicate necks.

• Increased risk for conditions like a collapsed trachea, common in toy breeds.

Harnesses, on the other hand, distribute pressure evenly across the stronger chest and shoulders, protecting the vulnerable neck and throat area.

2. Better Control for Owners

Harnesses give owners more control over their dogs, especially for:

• Strong pullers: Front-clip harnesses discourage pulling by redirecting the dog's forward motion.

• Large or powerful breeds: Harnesses provide leverage without causing harm.

• High-energy puppies: Harnesses help guide without putting too much stress on growing necks.

This control improves safety during walks, particularly in busy or unpredictable environments.

3. Increased Comfort for Dogs

Harnesses are designed to fit snugly around a dog's body, reducing strain and improving comfort. For many dogs, harnesses feel more secure and less restrictive than collars. Some harnesses are even padded to prevent rubbing or chafing, making them a better choice for longer walks or active dogs.

4. Safety Benefits

Harnesses significantly reduce the risk of escape. Dogs can easily slip out of collars if they back up or pull in just the right way. A well-fitted harness secures the chest and torso, making it much harder for dogs to wiggle free.

Additionally, reflective or brightly colored harnesses can improve visibility during early morning or nighttime walks.

5. Helpful for Training

Harnesses are valuable training tools. With options like front-clip harnesses, trainers can discourage pulling and to redirect unwanted behaviors humanely. Because they avoid putting stress on the dog's throat, they make positive reinforcement training safer and more effective.

6. Special Considerations for Health

For dogs with certain health conditions, a harness isn't just helpful-it's necessary:

• Dogs with respiratory issues (such as brachycephalic breeds like pugs or bulldogs) benefit greatly from harnesses, as they prevent airway obstruction.

• Dogs recovering from surgery or injury may require harnesses to avoid stress on the neck.

• Older dogs or those with mobility challenges can use specially designed harnesses that allow owners to gently lift or support them.

Choosing the Right Harness

Not all harnesses are the same, and choosing the right one depends on your dog's size, behavior, and needs:

• Back-clip harnesses: Good for general use and calm dogs that do not pull.

• Front-clip harnesses: Great for strong dogs that pull, as they redirect energy and help with training.

• Dual-clip harnesses: Offer versatility with both front and back options.

• Step-in or vest-style harnesses: Easy to use, especially for small breeds.

Using a harness is one of the simplest changes you can make to protect your dog's health, increase comfort, and ensure safe, enjoyable walks. While collars still serve an important role for carrying identification tags, harnesses accommodate tags as well and are the superior choice for leash control. By investing in the right harness and ensuring a proper fit, you safeguard your dog's neck and make every walk a positive experience.

About Dr. Eugene Aversa, DVM

Dr. Eugene Aversa is a General Practice Small Animal Veterinarian with twenty-four years of clinical experience. He is known for his expertise in conventional medicine, as well as his commitment to compassionate, ethical care. His philosophy emphasizes thorough case management, clear communication with clients, and always putting the needs of animals first.

For more information:

https://www.eugeneaversadvm.com/about-me.html

Contact Eugene Aversa: eugene@eugeneaversa.com

SOURCE: Eugene Aversa DVM