A Tracking Collar Vs. Dog Harness: Which Is Better?

Once a tracking collar reached the market, it revolutionized this product category. The extra features combined with a beautiful design exceed an average pet owner’s expectations. However, there’s a hanging question whether this collar is still better than a dog harness?

You should compare the products before picking a suitable solution. This article will cover the basics of collars and harnesses, including their advantages and drawbacks. Check out the details to identify an adequate item for your pooch!

Dog Collar Basics

The majority considers collars the basic equipment piece for any pup. It’s because the collar is where you position an ID tag. If the pet runs away, the person who finds it can reach you quickly.

The ID tag can contain:

• Pup’s name
• Information about health conditions
• Your contact information 

You can go for branded units like a Burberry dog collar or even make one yourself. Whichever you pick, it’s critical to get the right size. The product shouldn’t be too tight, or it might cause discomfort and even health issues. 

Adjustable dog collars are convenient for a growing pup. If you notice it’s becoming tight, simply switch to the next size. It’s convenient and saves money you’d spend on buying multiple accessories.

Features:

Apart from adjustability, here are other features to consider:

• Material

Always go for a durable and resistant fabric to extend the unit’s longevity. The common material used is a cotton fabric of different colors and patterns. You can also use leather, neoprene, biothane, and even hemp.

• Color

 A gold dog collar can be an excellent choice for some breeds. Some owners like patterns or adding a bow tie to make the accessory more formal. It’s your call, but always check if the dog likes the unit.

• Price

The cost should meet your budget. A standard collar with no electronic features shouldn’t be too pricey. The cost increases if the manufacturer uses a premium material.

Basic Collar Pros

• Affordable

These products aren’t pricey, although it depends on the chosen brand. However, a basic collar doesn’t have to cost more than a few dollars. It’s convenient if you want to buy more models and combine them.

• Suitable for storing critical info

You can put an ID tag with vital pooch’s information inside. That can be critical if you lose your dog. The finders can check out your phone and contact you immediately.

• Comfortable

Dogs get used to these units quickly, and they rarely mind wearing them. If you pick a high-quality collar, they won’t feel it on their neck. That means they won’t resist when you want them to wear the unit. 

Basic Collar Cons

• No control over the dog without a leash

Your pup can go anywhere with this unit. There’s no way to control their movement. You have the option of adding a leash if you want to establish control.

• Not usable in training sessions

Even if you are teaching basic obedience, these units won’t help much. Your dog might not understand you or want to listen. If you don’t have e-collar features, that’ll make training difficult.

• Potential leash tangles

If you put on a leash, there’s a risk of tangles. Those could be stressful and even lead to potential injuries. The risk of tangles is higher if your dog is extremely active and easily distracted.

How Is a Tracking Collar Different from Standard Units?

The idea was to create GPS collars that leverage technology. It’s an evident step forward compared to classic accessories for your dog’s neck.

The premium quality is noticeable immediately. Manufacturers use durable materials to ensure the product lasts long and looks great on your pup. It might remind you of the Coach dog collar or another standard unit. If you look better, it features tracking functions, too.

The products work with iOS and Android apps. It’s easy to use the software since it offers a user-friendly interface. The learning curve is minimal. You’ll be comfortable using the tool in seconds.

It’s the tracking function that makes these collars unique. Depending on the model, it can track your pup within nine miles. Users can set geo-fence locations. These are areas where your dog can move freely, such as the backyard. If they somehow leave, you immediately receive a notification. 

These units feature offline maps, which means you don’t need a mobile network to use them. It relies on GPS technology and has a two-second refresh rate. The product is compatible with Google Maps. Those features make it suitable for hunting and other outdoor activities.

Main Features of a Tracking Collar

• Real-time info about the pup’s location

It’s impossible to lose your dog’s location with this product. Depending on the model, the device covers a range of up to nine miles. It’s convenient for hunting, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

• Alerts when the pet leaves a safe area

Thanks to geofencing, you’ll know as soon as the dog leaves the backyard. You can set any area as free for the pet to explore. The moment they leave it, the device will inform you.

• Suitable for multiple dogs

It’s perfect for trainers since they can track multiple pups simultaneously. Depending on the software, you can connect up to 20 or more dogs to the app. Whenever you need to know their whereabouts, simply use your phone.

Tracking Collar Pros

From the user’s perspective, these products come with multiple advantages. Here is why pet owners appreciate these units:

• Peace of Mind

The collar provides a peace of mind because you always know the pup’s location. The extensive range ensures they can’t get lost when you are outside. 

• No leash required

These products are suitable for off-leash training. Even if the pup goes out of your sight, you can track them.

• Attractive and Durable

These products are durable and they look great. That makes them a long-term investment, and you’ll love how they contribute to your dog’s appearance.

Tracking Collar Cons

No product is perfect, and that applies to tracking collars. The user reports indicate these could be downsides of these units:

• Injury risk

If your dog gets out of sight, who knows where they might go? That increases the chance of an injury.

• Pricier than standard units

Since these products feature GPS technology, they could be more expensive than basic collars. Make sure to consider that while deciding on your budget.

• It requires a phone app

The manufacturers often offer free iOS and Android editions. That makes things easier, but you’ll still need the phone to perform the tracking.

Dog Harness Basics

The harness goes over your pup’s torso. It’s the main difference compared to collars, which go around the neck.  Harnesses often come with multiple straps and release buckles on sides. Some manufacturers use the same materials as for the collars. It’s critical to go for a fabric that won’t irritate the pup. That particularly matters in warm weather, so comfort is your top priority.

Dog Harness Pros

• Excellent for walks

If you don’t trust your pup, a harness assists with walking sessions. It ensures the owner has optimal control at all times.

• Suitable for curious dogs

Can virtually anything distract your dog? The harness will ensure they maintain the desired direction. That makes it extremely useful whenever you are outside.

• Improved safety

The fact you have control means your pup will stay safe. Harnesses also have less risk of tangling than a classic leash. The secret lies in their specific design.

• Optimal weight distribution

Thanks to this, the risk of neck injuries is considerably lower. If you pull the harness, it doesn’t put all the weight on the dog’s neck. The design ensures an optimal distribution throughout the torso.

Dog Harness Cons

• Some dogs find it unpleasant

It can be the material or the pup’s fur. The harness might be painful for long-furred pooches. It could pull out their hair, which is highly unpleasant.

• Improper use might be a problem

A front-clip harness might compromise the pup’s shoulder movement. Make sure not to use these units too often to prevent pulling or aggression. It increases the risk of health-related consequences.

Final Thoughts – What’s Best for Your Dog?

Collars and harnesses both have their advantages. The latter is adequate for walking, but the former might be necessary for training. It’s all about securing maximum value for your money. The tracking collars deliver a peace of mind while allowing you to let your dog off the leash when outside. You’ll know the pup’s whereabouts at all times. It’s no wonder the product revolutionized the market, so make sure to give it a shot!