Dog collar vs. harness

by Sherry
(florida - usa)

TIRED LITTLE COTTON

When I got my Coton from the breeder she said to be sure and use a harness on her rather than just a collar when going for her walks. We have always done that but when I discussed this with her vet he said lots of people with small dogs just use a collar. He did admit though that he did not know anything specific about the coton de tulear. I like the idea of a harness but it tangles her hair so bad now that it has gotten to be so long.

Is there a reason not to use a collar? Do any of you Coton owners use just a collar on your adult dogs?? I sure would never yank her or do any quick movements that might choke her but are their little necks more delicate than other small breeds?

Comments for Dog collar vs. harness

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Feb 21, 2012
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HARNESS WORKS WELL...
by: Anonymous

I have used both. She can be a puller if she really wants to get somewhere in a hurry, like if she sees another dog. The harness I use is mesh and light, does not do too much harm to her coat. Her tags are on the harness.

Nov 25, 2011
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Circle T 120 Tan Latigo Round Collar
by: Vicky & Jonah (Az)

Ditto for what Gale said about Luc. Above is a good collar for Coton's, Silky's etc. This is mat free. U can purchase at pet stores & web.

A collar should be neck size plus 3". This gives the collar a balance. Always go over & not under size. I use a 3 finger rule if u can fit 3 finger tips between the neck & collar it is lose enough.

I still use a harness when in the car with a seatbelt. Not until 2 yrs. old could I use only a collar & we walk every day. Jonah loved chasing moving things that took some work.

I have often thought if they made a harness like this collar walking would be matt free. I settled for a 3/4" harness since a groomer said on long hair it did not mat as much. Still matted alot.

Cowboy Magic detangler & shine did work to lessen the matting. Also works before swimming if yours loves water. The collar is the only magic fix thou I have found so far for my beloved Coton.

One day while on a walk u will look down & realize they are all grown up & no longer need the harness while on a walk. It will be a happy day yet sad that they have now entered into the second lifestage. Puppyhood is gone. :)

Nov 21, 2011
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collar versus harness
by: Carol

Hi..
Small dogs that pull start to cough a lot and can hurt their throat.

For Maxine I use a product made by Puppia Vest Harness. not all pet stores carry them but you can find it at organicpetboutique.com
..soooooooooo easy to put on..slip her front paws in - velcro it and clip and you are ready to go..always leave the collar on just in case your dog gets out.

Carol and Maxine

Nov 20, 2011
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collar
by: SHERRY - COTTON

THANK ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR INPUT. I THINK FOR NOW I WILL
CONTINUE WITH HER HARNESS FOR LONGER WALKS - SHORT TRIPS
INTO TOWN, ETC I WILL USE JUST HER COLLAR.---I WILL TAKE
YOUR ADVICE AND BE SURE TO HAVE HER ID ON WHATEVER IS
USED. HOW NICE IT IS TO HAVE ALL THIS INFO. AT OUR FINGERTIPS!

COTTON AND I WISH ALL OF YOU A HAPPY THANKSGIVING AND
REMEMBER NOT TO FEED OUR BABIES TOO MUCH TURKEY!

Nov 20, 2011
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Collar and Harness
by: Ron

We use a harness and collar ( for the i.d. tags ) when walking our Sophie...The harness spreads the pressure evenly when she pulls when we walk her...Always the collar with the i.d. tags just in case...no choking effect with collar only....Happy Thanksgiving to all....

Nov 20, 2011
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Use both
by: Gale

Good question. I know a lot of us struggle with this decision. It's definitely not recommended to use a collar on a small puppy because if she resists the leash for any length of time it can cause neck problems or even a collapsed trachea. I think this applies to all small dogs; not just the Coton.

As your dog gets older and is trained properly to walk on a leash without pulling, a collar is fine. Luc uses a collar now and we haven't had any issues.

If you do want to continue using the harness when your dog is an adult it's a good idea to have her wear a collar also so she'll always have ID tags on her.

Nov 19, 2011
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Harness
by: Mary Byrne

We use a harness on Simon. He pulls less and it feels more secure on the city streets. He didn't like it much in the beginning, but has grown very used to it.

Nov 19, 2011
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Collar vs harness
by: Cathy

When I first got Jasmine she always used a collar. But as time went on she tried to remove the collar. One day she did when we were out walking! Since then she wears a harness. She only weres a collar when I take her to get groomed.

Nov 19, 2011
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Tracia...
by: Anonymous

Small breeds often have issues with the tracia (sp). Tracia become week from panting. I was told that using a harness can assist with issues in that area...

Nov 19, 2011
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A vote 4 a Harness
by: Anonymous

Collars can sometimes damage small dogs throats (over time) especially if they are "pullers.". We use a harness on our girl.

Nov 19, 2011
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Re: Collar vs. harness
by: Anonymous

We use a collar but only put it on her when she needs a leash as collars tangle the hair too. She does just fine with a collar and leash on her walks.

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