Collar or Harness? Which one is the best for a Pomsky

Pomskies have a lot of energy and require multiple walks throughout the day. Have you ever wondered whether a collar or a harness is the best for your pomsky? This post compares the pros and cons of using collars and harnesses so you can choose the best option for your pomsky.

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Benefits of using a Collar

Easy to put on: Collars are quick and easy to put on. They go around the neck and generally only have one buckle that snaps into place.
Faster hook up: If you need to take your pomsky outside or put them on a leash for another reason, you can quickly hook a leash to the collar. Your pomsky will likely already wear a collar around the home, so this can be attached to a leash quickly and you won’t need to search for where the hook up is or take time to put on a harness.
Easier for dogwalkers and/or boarding: Most dogs are accustomed to wearing a collar and do not mind people touching it or adjusting it. For this reason, a collar will be easier for a dog to be walked by an unfamiliar caregiver such as a dogwalker or a dog boarder.
Holds I.D. tag: Collars are designed to hold a dog’s I.D. tag with contact information and medical information. They have a specific loop for the tag, while not all harnesses have this added loop for easy identification of your dog.
Simple sizing and adjustments: It is easy to find a collar that fits your pomsky, since you only need to measure their neck diameter. Many collars have a strap adjuster which allows your collar to be adjusted as your puppy grows and allows you to loosen or tighten your dog’s collar as needed.

Problems with using a Collar:

Can slip off or unlatch: Since collars only hook around the neck, they are more likely to slip over your dog’s head, especially if your pomsky is pulling while walking on a leash. A collar contains one buckle to secure it in place and this can come undone, which could be a problem if you are walking your dog outside.
Dangerous if caught on something: If your pomsky likes to explore around bushes, gardens and rocks, they could get their collar stuck on something while they are sniffing around. If your dog pulls to detach from the bush, it could result in dangerous strain on their neck. It is also dangerous if you have your dog tied to a long leash in the yard by the collar, as they might pull on the collar when they get excited to see other dogs or neighbors walking by.
Choking: The collar can choke your pomsky, especially when it is attached to a leash. Loose leash walking and redirecting your pomsky away from distractions while on a walk can be more difficult when you only have control over your dog’s neck.
No distribution of pressure: Since a collar only secures around the neck, all pressure from the leash is directed toward the neck. This pressure has been known to cause pain and negative health problems in the dog’s back, eyes or neck.

Benefits of using a Harness:

Reduces dangerous pulling: Unlike the collar, when a dog pulls on the leash while wearing a harness, there is less pain and strain on their body.
Pressure evenly distributed: Harnesses are a safer choice due to having evenly distributed pressure. Harness straps go under the belly, around the chest and on the back so the dog is attached to the leash with the center of their body, which is stronger and can withstand more than their neck.
More secure: Pomskies cannot slip out of harnesses as easily as they can slip out of collars. This is necessary for pomskies who have strong hunting instincts and are very curious.
More control: Harnesses allow you to have more control over your pomsky during walks and other daily activities. Most harnesses come with a back loop, which can help you gently hold your pomsky back or redirect your pomsky to go a different way.
Storage pouch: Some harnesses have a small pouch that is great for carrying waste bags or other small items for your pomsky.

Problems with using a Harness:

Difficult to put on: A harness takes longer to put on your pomsky and secure all of the buckles. This can be difficult if you are in a rush or need to take your dog out quickly, such as when you are potty training.
May require training/time for your dog to acclimate: Some pomskies might not like putting their head through the hole of the harness or having you secure clips around their belly. You may need to train your dog to have positive associations with the harness by giving them treats and praise for putting it on. Your pomsky will likely feel comfortable with you putting the harness on, but may still not allow unfamiliar people (e.g. dog walkers, boarding staff, etc.) to put the harness on.
Leash tangles: Depending on where the leash hooks onto the harness, the leash can sometimes get caught behind a dog’s leg or under the belly. Be mindful of which direction your pomsky is walking and try to anticipate where the leash needs to go to avoid leash tangles.
Can be uncomfortable: Since a harness has more material than a collar, it may become itchy or uncomfortable for your pomsky, especially on the back or where it rests under their front legs. This would only be a problem if your pomsky is wearing their harness for extended periods of time. If the harness fits your dog correctly and you remove it after going for a walk, your dog should be just fine.
Sizing is more complex: When selecting a harness, there are several measurements including the length of your dog’s back, the diameter of their chest, the diameter of their neck and the dog’s weight. If you measure your pomsky and their measurements fit into the sizing chart for a harness, you can simply select the size (small, medium or large) based on those measurements. However, some dogs’ measurements might not fit into one of the size categories, which can make it difficult to find a harness that fits well.

Our Experience

Based on our experience with pomskies, we recommend using a combination of a harness and a collar, each for different situations and activities. Collars alone are great when your dog is inside the home or playing with other dogs at a dog daycare or friend’s home. If your pomsky typically wears a harness, you will want to remove the harness before playing with other dogs, to prevent other dogs from biting the harness or getting caught on parts of it.

We also recommend using a collar when your dog is boarded or at dog daycare. Your pomsky will already likely be nervous about being in a new place and being away from their owners. Therefore, they might not feel comfortable having an unfamiliar person put a harness over their head. We recommend using a harness for daily walks and when your pomsky is out exploring with you such as at a fair, the beach, or other outdoor activities. If needed, you can use a treat to entice your pomsky to put their head through the hole when putting the harness on. Be careful when you are snapping the buckles on a harness, so you don’t pinch your pomsky’s fur or skin.

Comparison Chart

Summary

Pomskies can use collars and harnesses, each for different situations and activities. Harnesses are great for walks and hikes to prevent pulling and have better control of your dog. Collars are simple to snap on and great for quick hook ups while potty training. Your pomsky will be happiest when they are able to walk and explore the outdoors with you safely.