Many Havanese breeders prefer only a harness be used, while others and many Havanese guardians like a collar. We feel there are circumstances when one is to be favored over the other.
For a puppy that is still learning to walk on a lead, we recommend that you use only a harness. These little ones encounter many new and potentially scary things while out and about. A frightened puppy will pull backward fiercely to “escape” and if wearing only a collar, could slip out of it and be seriously injured or killed in the process. A properly fitted harness offers both physical and mental security.
Havanese puppies are really small. From about 9 weeks of age to 4 months old, an XXS size fits most (these can be hard to find.) From there, size up. Check and double-check with each size to make sure your puppy cannot pull out of it!
We prefer the step-in style of harness. Many puppies and adult dogs do not like having anything squeezed over their head. We like this one by Pawtitas. They have any size you need in fun colors, too. No, we are not affiliated. ;)
Once a youngster is confident in public and reliable walking on lead, it is appropriate to use a collar instead. Again, make certain it is sized correctly. It’s far better for a collar to be a bit on the snug side to keep the dog safe than to experience any tragedy from pulling out of its collar.
Be aware, however, that collars can badly damage the trachea if yanked and jerked on by either humans or the dog itself. So if in doubt, it would be wise to use a harness.
Whether you use a harness of a collar, get out and enjoy the summer with your favorite Havanese! We’ll be doing the same.