Collars, Leashes, and Harnesses 101 - Bark Begone

Collars, Leashes, and Harnesses 101

Have you got a new dog? Is it time to leash-train your little buddy? If yes, then you hit the right place. Getting into the nitty-gritty of harnesses, collars, and leashes can be overwhelming. Especially if you’re new to the kingdom of canines.

A puppy collar is the first thing an owner should get to introduce the concept of wearing something to their dog. There are several benefits of dog collars. However, they are mostly used for protection, identification, control, and sometimes fashion.

However, when going to a crowded place, a dog collar is not enough. These escape artists can become invisible in the blink of your eye. In that case, a leash will come in handy. It keeps your pooch in a controlled position.

If your dog is small or has a short snout, a leash-collar combo may lead to injury. In that case, a harness is usually suggested. Using a harness for dogs that pull can be a great option. It covers a large portion of the body while reducing stress on the neck and back.

Here is a guide that can help you choose between collars, leashes, and harnesses for your furry companion.

Dog Collars

A puppy collar can be a great option for your pooch learning behavior correction. It won’t magically fix your dog. However, it can kickstart your mutt’s training journey. You need to explore some collar types before buying one for Fido.

Martingale collar

Are you tired of your pooch’s excessive pulling? If so, try a martingale collar as soon as possible.

It works by tightening your dog with a small rope. Don’t worry, you won’t be strangling your pup. It prevents your pooch from slipping out while they pull. The discomforting pressure imposed by the martingale collar discourages this habit.

Bark Collar

These collars are preferred for puppies who are blasting your ears off with barking. This product does not address the main reason behind those howls and growls. You might be thinking, is it safe? How does it work? 

Such collars use ultrasound waves. The waves emitted by the collar can not be heard by human ears. It readily diverts your mutt’s attention, stopping those excessive howls. 

E collar

These collars contain two electrodes while being operated by remote control. By pressing the start button, your pooch instantly feels a sensation. This sensitivity felt by the dog distracts them. 

However, an e collar for dogs should be used with care. This sensation felt by your mutt causes muscle contraction. Using this device at a higher setting might be painful for them.

Prong collar

These collars are used in the initial phases of obedience training. It is made of multiple chains connected. Its open ends are directed towards the pooch’s neck.

Its appearance might be scary to you. However, it works fine if the collar fits perfectly. It protects your pooch from trachea damage caused by pulling. A prong collar is suggested for immature owners or mutts engaged in tugging and pulling.

GPS collar

If you have to leave your pooch alone, a GPS dog collar is your way to go. These dog trackers function by sending a radio signal to the GPS unit. It provides the exact location of your mutt.

Some of these gadgets also have activity monitors. You can easily see your dog while at work. It ensures the safety of your mutt.

Harnesses

Front clip Harness

Some canines cannot be controlled with collars. In that case, a harness might come in handy. You can also use a collar in conjunction with a harness to control your pooch. Here are some of the best dog harnesses.

The front clip harness has a D-ring designated in front of the dog’s chest. The D-ring is the place where the leash connects. It prevents your dog from tugging itself forward by raising the pressure in front.

You can use it along with a martingale loop for exerting added pressure. However, it can get tangled if it does not fit properly.

Back Clip Harness

These are quite similar to front clip harnesses. The main difference is the D-ring position on top.

This upward placement prevents the leash from getting tangled in your pooch’s legs. However, this excessive force applied can result in pulling and tugging issues.

Dogs have an instinct of opposing the pressure exerted. That is why when you apply force upward, they pull themselves forward.

Head Halters

This bad boy is for the big hulks! And for dogs that pull you in every direction to sniff every smell.

A dog weighing 58lbs cannot be handled by a usual harness. A head halter allows you to have a lot of control by putting little to no force.

It functions by targeting a pressure point under your pooch’s jaw. If your dog is aggressive, you might need a muzzle along with the harness.

Dual Clip Harness

With a dual clip harness, you can control your pooch with the most flexibility. You can clip your mutt at the front as well as back through it.

In case you use one D-ring, it can either be utilized as a front-clip harness or a back-clip harness. If you choose a double-ended leash, just connect both the D-rings and enjoy maximum control! 

The downside is that it can be heavy as compared to other harnesses. It might get too heavy if your dog is comparably small.

Leashes

Just like harnesses and collars, there are tons of leashes available in the market. Here are some most common dog leashes.

Adjustable Leash

These are the most commonly used leashes. This dog leash being adjustable makes itself a perfect choice for everyday life. 

These leashes can extend from 1.20 meters and 2.50 meters. If you’re looking for something more flexible, some varieties  can be extended to three meters. 

You can also wrap a hand loop around your arm for more of a comfortable experience. It allows your pooch to explore and room around while staying under your control.

Hand Loop Leash

This is the most conventional form of a puppy lead. It consists of a long rope dog leash with a snap link for linkage with a collar. 

In some kinds, a harness is attached at one end while a loop on the other. The hand loops are made from different materials, such as nylon, leather, and plastic. 

Additionally, they are available in various designs and patterns. 

Training Leashes

Another great lead for your playful furry companion is known as a training leash. A training leash comes with a puppy collar along with the strap. 

It can be an excellent option when your dog has to swiftly be put on and off the lead. It’s best for activities such as obstacle courses, and agility training. 

Additionally, it also comes with a stopper. It helps to adjust the head of your mutt to prevent slipping out. Initially, these were made for hunting purposes. Using a retriever leash, your Fido can run as fast as possible.

Flexi Leash

Similar to classic leads, these leashes are connected to the collar or harness through a snap ring. 

Its length can be uncoiled when the mutt is strolling. However, it can be wound with a single click from the owner. 

Its flexibility makes it user-friendly. But remember that your dog might get confused and frightened by this abrupt change of length.

Wrapping Up

Figuring out so much at once can be intimidating. However, this guide can assist you to find the right and correct products for your furry companion. 

Keep in mind-persistence pays off! Make your puppy wear their gear everywhere, even in the house, while you are training them! They will catch on in no time. 

Snippet:

Here is a complete guide about collars, harnesses, and leashes. Give it a read!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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