What's best, collar or harness?

Collar or Harness? Choosing the Right Walking Equipment for Your Dog

One of the most common questions dog owners ask, often with strong opinions on both sides, is whether it’s better to walk a dog using a collar or a harness.

The truth is, there’s no universal right or wrong answer. The best choice depends on your dog’s size, breed, behaviour, health, and how they move on the lead. What matters most is comfort, safety, and control, not trends or convenience.

At West London Walkers, we listen to you and focus on what you know to genuinely work best for your dog.

Understanding Collars

Collars are the traditional option and work well for many dogs, particularly those that walk calmly on the lead.

For dogs that don’t pull and are comfortable with lead pressure, a properly fitted collar can be:

• Lightweight and unobtrusive

• Easy to put on and remove

• Suitable for everyday identification

However, collars place pressure around the neck. For dogs that pull, lunge or are prone to sudden movements, this pressure can become uncomfortable and in some cases, risky, particularly for smaller breeds or dogs with sensitive airways.

When a Harness May Be the Better Choice

Harnesses distribute pressure across the chest and body rather than the neck, which can make walking more comfortable and controlled for many dogs.

They are often beneficial for:

• Dogs that pull on the lead

• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds

• Dogs prone to tracheal collapse due to over excitement

• Puppies still learning lead manners

• Dogs with neck, throat, or spinal sensitivities

A well-fitted harness can improve handling, reduce strain and help dogs feel more secure while walking, especially in busy urban environments like West London.

Comfort, Fit and Freedom of Movement

Whether using a collar or a harness, fit is everything.

Poorly fitted equipment can:

• Rub or chafe

• Restrict movement

• Cause discomfort or anxiety

A good walking setup should allow your dog to move naturally, breathe easily, and feel relaxed rather than restricted. Adjustability, padding, and correct sizing all play an important role.

Behaviour Matters More Than Equipment

No piece of equipment replaces calm, consistent walking practices.

A dog that pulls excessively on either a collar or a harness may need:

• More mental stimulation

• Slower-paced walks

• Time to sniff and decompress

• Gentle lead training

Walking is not just exercise, it’s enrichment. When dogs are given time to engage with their environment, many lead-pulling issues naturally reduce.

Keeping Walks Calm and Local

We always encourage keeping dogs in familiar local spaces wherever possible. Calm environments reduce overstimulation and make lead handling easier, regardless of whether a dog wears a collar or a harness.

Local routes, consistent routines, and relaxed pacing often have more impact on behaviour than the equipment itself.

So what's best a Collar or Harness?

So what's best a collar or a harness?

For some dogs, a collar is perfectly suitable.

For others, a harness offers better comfort and control.

The key is choosing what suits your dog, not what’s fashionable or convenient.

At West London Walkers, we’re always happy to work with owners to find the most comfortable and practical setup, because safe, enjoyable walks start with understanding the individual dog.

Final Thoughts

Walking equipment should support your dog, not work against them.

If you’re unsure which option is best, pay attention to how your dog moves, reacts, and settles during walks. Small adjustments can make a big difference to their comfort and confidence.

And as always, we’re happy to chat through options and routines that work best for your dog.

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