Introduction
With the rise in popularity of taking dogs everywhere from road trips to grocery stores, many owners wonder whether a dog seat belt harness or collar is better for safely securing their canine companion in the car. Both harnesses and collars have benefits and drawbacks in important factors like safety, comfort, and convenience. This comprehensive guide will outline the advantages and disadvantages of each option to help dog owners decide if a harness or collar is the right choice for their pet. The goal is to provide dog owners with the information needed to make an informed decision to keep their furry friends safe while traveling, as unrestrained dogs in vehicles can lead to dangerous distractions and injuries in a collision. Learn what experts recommend about harnesses vs. collars, and see if your dog will be more secure and comfortable with one option over the other. The right dog car restraint can make for safer, more enjoyable car rides for both owner and pet.
Safety Benefits
While no restraint system can fully protect a pet in the event of an accident, harnesses and collars offer safety benefits compared to an unrestrained dog. The key difference in safety between harnesses and collars relates to force distribution and ejection prevention.
In a crash, the dog’s forward momentum creates force on the restraint. A harness distributes this force across the chest and shoulders, while a collar concentrates force on the neck and trachea. This makes harnesses safer in an accident, as they reduce the risk of neck injury.
Additionally, harnesses are designed to prevent ejection, keeping the dog contained within the vehicle. Collars do not prevent ejection on their own. An unrestrained, ejected dog is at high risk of serious injury or death if thrown from the vehicle.
Overall, dog harnesses provide superior accident safety compared to collars through better force distribution and ejection prevention. However, both options are safer than an unrestrained dog.
Comfort
Dog harnesses provide much greater comfort than collars when used with a seat belt. Collars can often choke or restrict a dog’s breathing when pressure is applied in a collision or sudden stop. The harness distributes the force across the chest and shoulders rather than the neck. This avoids injury and allows the dog to breathe freely.
Harnesses also allow for more freedom of movement while secured in the car. Dogs can sit, stand, lay down, and turn their heads without pulling against a choke collar. The harness moves with the dog’s body, keeping them safe while letting them get comfortable. Collars are fixed and static, limiting how dogs can position themselves while traveling.
For anxious or excited dogs that pace and move around a lot in the car, a harness provides safety without discomfort. Exuberant dogs may hurt themselves struggling against a collar when all they want is to explore or look out the window. With a properly fitted harness, they can settle down knowing they have more room to move.
Ease of Use
When it comes to ease of use, there are some key differences between harnesses and collars. Harnesses tend to be more straightforward to put on and take off. Most harnesses are step-in designs, where you open up the neck and belly straps and the dog simply steps through the leg holes. Adjusting the straps to get the right fit takes some practice, but most harnesses have buckles that make it easy.
Collars can be a bit trickier, especially if your dog isn’t used to wearing them. You have to get them positioned properly around the neck and adjusted to the right tightness. Too loose and they can slip off, too tight and they can be uncomfortable. It also takes some training to get a dog comfortable wearing and not resisting a collar. The limited adjustability of collars also means it’s harder to get an exact customized fit.
For most dog owners, harnesses provide simpler day-to-day use compared to collars when it comes to getting them on and off your dog and getting the right adjustable fit.
Escape Prevention
Harnesses are generally more escape-proof than collars for dogs who try to wiggle out of restraints. The straps wrap fully around the chest and torso, making it much harder for dogs to back out of harnesses. Collars only encircle the neck, so it’s easier for dogs to slip downwards and get free.
Harnesses are especially important for dogs who try jumping out windows or car doors. A collar could potentially enable hanging or choking in these scenarios, whereas a harness keeps the dog safely restrained. For high-risk dogs, a harness could be lifesaving by preventing potentially deadly escapes.
There are some no-pull harnesses designed specifically to prevent escape by tightening snugly when the dog pulls. These can give even more peace of mind for dogs intent on getting free. Consult with a trainer to ensure proper fit and function if using an anti-escape harness.
Cost
When choosing between a dog seat belt harness or collar, cost is an important factor to consider. There can be a wide range in pricing between different brands and models.
In general, harnesses tend to be more expensive than collars. A basic dog seat belt harness usually starts around $15-20, while more heavy duty options with additional padding and adjustments can run $30-50. High end brands can cost over $100.
Collars are simpler and use less material, so they tend to be cheaper. Basic seat belt dog collars start around $10-15. There are fewer features that add cost. However, you still get a range based on quality and durability of materials.
It’s important not to just choose the cheapest option. Make sure the product is well-made and fits your dog properly. Paying a little more for quality could save money and be safer in the long run.
Consider your budget, but don’t let it be the only deciding factor. Weigh the pros and cons of harnesses vs. collars based on your dog’s needs. With some brands, just $10-20 more can get a much sturdier and more comfortable option.
Travel Accessories
Many dog car restraints offer attachable accessories to make traveling with your dog more convenient. Popular accessories include:
- Water bottles – Attachable water bottles allow you to conveniently provide water for your dog without stopping the car. Look for bottles that are leak-proof and easy to refill.
- Treat pouches – Treat pouches attach to the car harness so you can reward your dog during the drive. Make sure to get a pouch that closes securely.
- Waste bag dispensers – Waste bag dispensers attach to the harness so you have bags ready for potty breaks. Choose a dispenser that holds multiple bags.
- Collapsible bowls – Collapsible travel bowls make it easy to feed and water your dog on the go. Silicone bowls are lightweight and compact.
The right accessories allow you to meet all of your dog’s needs while driving safely. Prioritize accessories that don’t obstruct your view or your dog’s movement.
Training Your Dog to Use a Seat Belt
Getting your dog accustomed to wearing a seat belt harness or collar is an important part of keeping them safe in the car. Like any kind of training, it will require time and patience to help your dog adjust.
Start by having your dog wear the harness or collar for short trips around the block or to the park. Give them treats and praise while buckled in so they associate it with a positive experience.
Properly fit the harness or collar so it’s snug but not too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between the strap and your dog’s body. Check that they can sit, stand, and lay down comfortably while wearing it.
On longer car trips, stop frequently so your dog can get out, stretch their legs, and relieve themselves. Bring water to offer your dog a drink. Go slowly with acclimating your dog to being buckled up to avoid frustration.
With consistent, positive training, your dog will get used to their seat belt and see it as part of their travel routine when going for a drive.
Recommendations
When choosing between a dog seat belt harness or collar, consider your dog’s size and needs to determine the best option:
For Small Dogs:
The SlowTon Dog Car Harness is an excellent choice for small dogs under 15 lbs. It has an adjustable strap with a zinc alloy snap hook that securely attaches to any seat belt. The vest-style design evenly distributes force across your dog’s chest and belly for comfort.
For Medium Dogs:
The PAWABOO Dog Safety Vest Harness is ideal for dogs 15-35 lbs. It has a sturdy nylon vest with breathable mesh and an elastic bungee tether that absorbs force and keeps your dog from jumping around.
For Large Dogs:
The Mighty Paw Safety Belt is perfect for large dogs over 50 lbs. It has a steel reinforced claw hook that latches strongly onto seat belts. The vest has thick padded straps across the chest and belly for even weight distribution.
For Dogs Who Pull:
Try the EzyDog Drive Car Restraint, which has a shock-absorbing bungee tether to prevent pulling. The vest has two secure attachment points to the seat belt for greater control.
Consider your dog’s needs and your budget to find the right option. Proper training is also essential for teaching your dog to settle calmly during car rides.
Conclusion
In summary, both dog seat belt harnesses and collars have benefits when it comes to safely restraining your dog while driving. Harnesses tend to provide more security and reduce injury risk by distributing force across your dog’s chest and shoulders rather than the neck. They also allow your dog to move around and lay down comfortably. However, harnesses can be more difficult to put on and take off, and certain dogs may be able to wiggle out of them.
Collars are generally more affordable and simpler to use, but don’t provide as much security and can put pressure on your dog’s throat and trachea in an accident. Proper training and fit is essential with collars to prevent escapes and choking hazards.
Ultimately, harnesses are usually the better choice for large dog breeds, while smaller dogs may do fine with a properly fitted collar. It’s best to consider your specific dog’s size, temperament, and travel habits when deciding between a harness and collar. The most important thing is keeping your dog safe and secure while driving.