Prong Collar vs. Harness: Why a Prong Collar Can Be the Better Choice for Training Your Dog

When it comes to choosing the right walking tool for your dog, the decision often comes down to two popular options: a prong collar or a harness. While harnesses have become increasingly common due to their association with comfort and control, they may not be the best fit for every dog—especially for those dealing with behavioral issues like pulling, reactivity, or lack of focus. In these cases, a properly fitted and responsibly used prong collar can offer several key advantages.

Understanding the Tools

Before diving into the comparison, it’s important to understand what each tool does.

• Harness: Wraps around the dog’s chest and shoulders, distributing pressure across the body. Commonly used for pulling sports or for dogs with medical issues that affect their neck.

• Prong Collar: Made of interlocking links with rounded prongs that apply gentle, even pressure around the neck when the dog pulls. It mimics the natural correction a mother dog gives her puppies and is designed to get the dog’s attention without causing harm.

Benefits of a Prong Collar Over a Harness

There are many benefits to choosing a prong collar over a harness.

1. More Effective Communication

One of the biggest advantages of a prong collar is that it facilitates clearer communication between dog and handler. When fitted and used correctly, the collar provides a quick, gentle correction that mimics the way dogs naturally communicate with each other. This helps the dog quickly understand what is being asked, which is especially valuable in obedience training or behavior modification.

2. Discourages Pulling

Harnesses—especially back-clip ones—can actually encourage pulling, as they engage the dog’s chest and leverage their natural strength. This is why sled dogs wear harnesses. In contrast, a prong collar discourages pulling by applying pressure when the dog pulls forward, then releasing when they return to your side. It teaches leash manners much more efficiently for many dogs.

3. Improved Focus and Attention

Some dogs become overstimulated or distracted in public. A prong collar provides a subtle cue to refocus their attention without escalating to more forceful or repeated corrections. With consistent, fair use, the dog learns to stay tuned into their handler, making walks more enjoyable for both parties.

4. Increased Safety for Handlers

Large or strong dogs that pull on a harness can easily overpower their handler, especially in unexpected situations. A prong collar gives the handler more control without relying on strength alone, reducing the risk of injury to both the dog and the person.

5. Humane When Used Correctly

Contrary to common misconceptions, a prong collar is not a “painful” or “punitive” tool. In fact, when fitted properly high on the neck and used under the guidance of a knowledgeable trainer, it is one of the most humane tools available. The pressure is evenly distributed and does not choke or damage the trachea like some flat collars or improperly used harnesses can.

Important Caveats

Although prong collars have clear advantages, they must be used responsibly.

• Never leave a prong collar on when your dog is unattended.

• It should only be used during training or walks—not as a permanent collar.

• Always consult a professional trainer or behaviorist familiar with balanced training methods before introducing one.

Conclusion

Both prong collars and harnesses have their place in the world of dog training. However, for dogs that are reactive, pull heavily, or need clearer boundaries, a prong collar—used with care and respect—can be a more effective and humane option. As with any training tool, education, proper fit, and consistency are key to success.

A well-trained dog is a happy dog, and the right tool can make all the difference in achieving that harmony.