Harness VS Collar

[shellbeme]

Help! Ok, so right now Rocky has a collar for when we go on walks but, it kind of bothers me. I like it in the fact that I feel like that's the way to go as far as training-but is it really? Can't I still do training with a harness instead? I am worried about it pulling on his little neck. I kinda feel like a harness would be a bit safer. My other half thinks there isn't a big difference but I'd like some input from you guys and some info that I can maybe share with him to show that there is a difference. Wouldn't a harness be better? He's such a tiny dog, it doesn't take much to pull on the leash at all, even if you're pulling just gently.

[Emma's Mama]

I would NEVER use a collar to walk a Maltese or other toy dog. You're absolutely right to worry. It can lead to a collapsed trachea. A harness is the way to go - no doubt about it.

[JesBred]

You can still train on a harness :)

There are a TON of options when it comes to harnesses for training. Is he pulling at all or you are just trying to teach basic walking etiquette?? If he is pulling they have gentle leaders. There is one that goes over his muzzle and there is another type that is a harness with a d-ring on the front. Both work the same way. When he pulls, he is redirected.

If your just teaching basic walking manners a basic step-in harness will work just fine!! Sometimes the trouble with harnesses is it can LEAD to dogs who pull so you need to be sure not to allow him to pull.

[shellbeme]

Thanks again for the replies :) yes its just basic manners we are working on. At this point we aren't even going anywhere but I'd like to be prepared for when we do. I guess we have some more shopping to do this weekend!

[JiJi's Mom]

Harness.

The safety issues are the main reason but there also very fashionable. Look on- line and you will see so many cute designs.

Also listen to your heart when it comes to your babies safety.

[angeleyes]

I've Been working with Sammy and walking on the leash. when he tries to pull, I stop and we go no where for a minute. then we go again until he pulls. Doesn't take him long to figure out that if he pulls he can't keep walking and he doesn't like that. Collars are just to dangerous for these little guys even when they are full grown.

[Morkie4]

I used the gentle lead to train my Yorkie but in the process, it damaged the hair around his muzzle and it is still not completely repaired. But then he was in full coat with very long muzzle hair....:( :( I ended up using a pinch collar on him which worked well with "HIM." But unless you have an aggressive or unruly fluff, I don't recommend it either.

Harness is the way to go.....yes, you have less control so you do need to keep his attention focused on you when you are training him. But it is the safest way to train.

[aprilb]

My girs wear collars as "bling" and I.D. only. I use a step-in harness when walking. You have good control with a step-in because the d-ring is just behind the shoulders. It is comfortable for them and there is nothing around the neck. I taught both my girls to walk with the step-in and they do great!;)

[shellbeme]

Is the 'step in' harness a special harness? I shall google it :) I've seen many different ones. The ones I'm use to are nylon but I've seen some others that look far more comfy. One of my concerns right now is finding one that's the right size sine he's so small but we have made plans to look around this weekend!

[Zuly4034]

I don't like step in harness, I use this. But that is because Miss. Sofia get out of a step in harness.

http://www.petedge.com/catalog/product_popup.jsp?entityId=46679&entityType=product&templateType=1

[Nikki's Mom]

This is the harness that we use and I love them! It doesn't put any pressure anywhere near the trachea and they are adjustable. Kodie is very small and it fits him great. And, as an added benefit, they are cute and stylish!!! :D

http://www.gollygear.com/ezgoharn.htm

[Zuly4034]

Those are really cute lol, I love the french looking one lol

[ilovemysnow]

harness is the way to go! I too use the step-in harness from Petsmart, since Snow's chubbier now, he can't get out of it as easily as before. Plus its big enough so he can still wear his shirts/sweaters with the harness over it since sometimes his clothing doesn't come with a hole on the back for the leash to go through it.

and I agree with Jessica.... you should follow your heart/extinct about our fluffs' safety. =) I always think it's better to be safe than sorry!

And i also have the choke free harness for when he doesn't have any clothing on.

http://www.kingwholesale.com/Shopping/ProductInfo.cfm?Item=24170

[JesBred]

Here check out this thread, it has alot of great harnesses listed :wink5:

Harnesses (http://www.maltesetalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=11487&highlight=step+harness)

[MaxJack'sMom]

We have never used a collar for training with our Maltese, only a harness, and we've never had a problem with it.