Best dog collars and harnesses UK 2023: including Pets at Home, Ruffwear, Hugo and Hudson and more
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It’s a simple truth, but a collar or harness are necessary for your beloved dog.
When combined with a lead, they give you the ability to guide and control your dog when you are out walking them, keeping them away from potential danger and ensuring that they are safe and also walking the path you have chosen.
Nevertheless there’s an on-going debate over which is best for your pet.
Should I choose a collar or a harness for my dog?
Many dogs wear collars around the home, and so for many owners it is easiest to attach a lead to that collar, so they can be ready for a walk in seconds.
Some owners do opt to use dog harnesses, which cover the dogs’ body, instead of collars, which are solely around the neck, as this spreads the weight over the front of the dogs’ body.
Harnesses have grown in popularity over the last few years, particularly as they are not around the dog’s throat as any pressure in that area could cause damage to the windpipe.
Don’t take your dog out in just a harness
Dog owners who walk their pet pooch using a harness instead of a collar could be hit with a hefty fine, or even face jail time.
It is against the law for owner’s not to put their name and address on their dog’s collar when out in public, and those who breach this rule risk landing a strict punishment.
The Control of Dogs Order 1992 law for England and Scotland states that a dog must wear a collar with its owner’s name and address on it.
The tag must include a postcode, but it is not obligatory to list a phone number.
Can my dog wear both a harness and a collar?
Yes, a dog can wear a harness and a collar.
Due to the The Control of Dogs Order 1992 law outlined above it’s advised to leave your dogs’ collar on even if you prefer to walk them using a harness to make sure you avoid being fined or handed a jail sentence.
How do I make sure the collar or harness is right for my dog?
A dog’s collar or harness should fit comfortably, but make sure you can pass two fingers between the collar or harness and your pet’s body.
You should also remember to regularly check under either the collar or the harness for redness or hair loss as that would be an indication of an ill-fitting or overused product that needs replacing.
How often should I change my dog’s collar or harness?
The answer to this does depend on the age of your dog, and therefore how often they will grow.
Remember, young pets grow fast and their collar or harness will need adjusting regularly and eventually replacing.
Adult pets are, of course, fully grown and therefore won’t need a new collar or harness as often as puppies.
For your pet’s safety, however, you always need examine the collar or harness regularly for wear and tear regardless of their age and replace when appropriate.
What else can I buy for my dog?
When you’ve taken your dog out for a good walk or a play about in the park with their canine friends they will be in need of a good sleep. That’s when we’ve chosen some of the most stylish, comfortable dog beds for all kinds of dogs, and every owner’s budget.
If you have a puppy, they’re likely to be quite playful and want some more attention when you’ve returned from your walk. That’s when we’ve found some of the best treats to entertain your puppy or dog, including food and fun toys to play with.
You might know Barbour for providing top quality outdoor clothing for adults, but did you know they also provide some stylish outwear for your pooch?
Ensure your dog is always in style with this harness which has been cushioned for added comfort and also features a metal D-ring for safely and securely attaching your dog’s lead.
Available in small, medium or large.
This is a web exclusive item that can’t be bought in-store.
Hounds of Eden is a luxury British dog accessory brand, and they specialise in making bold and beautiful accessories for our four-legged friends.
This is a lightweight, fully adjustable collar with sleek black hardware, with added pink and purple elements to the leopard print.
Available in small or medium. Priced between £10 and £11, depending on the size chosen.
A matching Hounds of Eden Blushing Leopard Print Dog Harness is available for between £18 and £22, depending on the size chosen.
This light-up collar is a good option for ensuring your dog will be seen and is safe when out and about during dark mornings or nights.
It has three light settings so you can choose which one is right for you and your pup, depending on just how dark it is.
Water resistant, it’s easily rechargeable using a USB port.
This is an everyday harness that’s easy to put on and comfortable for dogs to wear.
It has a foam-padded construction so your pet can wear this comfortably for hours.
There is an ID pocket where you can store your dog tags, giving you peace of mind that your dog can be reunited with you if the worst does happen.
There’s a reflective trim for visibility in low-light conditions too so you know they will always be safe and seen while they walk or play.
It’s available in small, medium, large and extra large, so there’s one to fit every pooch.
This navy star dog collar will make your dog shine and get all the attention.
This premium blue star dog collar is complemented by a contoured plastic side release buckle along with special rivets and D ring.
Also included is an exclusive Hugo & Hudson bone shaped tag.
The brand Pioneros are known for producing high quality leather goods, which are handmade by local craftsmen in Argentina.
This colourful rainbow collar is made using fine quality brown leather and has been embroidered by hand with a traditional Argentine pampa pattern.
There’s also a silver-style buckle and D-ring fitted on the collar for a good fit and a practical product you can easily attach your lead to.
Available in sizes XS to XL.
This lovely memory foam dog harness will make your pooch look super cute whilst maintaining their comfort.
It supports and contours to your dogs body, creating a unique tailored fit. It is easy to fit and take off with a clasp too, and each size can be adjusted around the middle.
All you have to do is connect your lead to the D ring on the back.
It’s available in small, medium and large, and is priced between £12.99 and £14.99 depending on the size chosen.