Should Bulldogs wear collars?
Highly recognisable and beloved, brachycephalic breeds, such as Bulldogs, make up some of the most popular dogs in Australia. Brachycephalic literally means “short-headed” and brachycephalic dogs tend to have extremely shortened snouts that make them almost appear flat-faced. Popular brachycephalic breeds include English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, American Bulldogs, Bull Mastiffs, Boston Terriers, Boxers, Pugs, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos and Pekingese.
While not all of these dogs have associated health problems, the shape of the nose and head of a brachycephalic dog can place them at risk for a condition called brachycephalic airway syndrome. This is a chronic, lifelong, debilitating, primarily obstructive airway disease which adversely affects their quality of life.
By design collars are made to go around the neck but for a breed that already has problems breathing this can be detrimental. Being top heavy and prone to respiratory issues, brachycephalic dogs can feel like they are choking when the collar inevitably presses against their windpipe. This is especially true if your best bud has a tendency to pull.
Every responsible dog owner should keep in mind that a collar is primarily intended for keeping a name tag, whereas a harness is designed to disperse pressure over a larger area of the dog’s body. A well designed harness will reduce the strain on your pup’s neck and back and is the best choice for walking your best friend.
How can a collar hurt your Bulldog’s neck?
Every dog needs something to keep them safe during walks, and if you are a proud pet parent of a dog you might be wondering if there is anything specific you should be looking for? Frenchie’s have become one of the most popular breeds, undoubtedly spurred on by their appeal on social media with their cute squashed-in faces and perky little personalities. But it isn’t all adorable wrinkles, wiggling butts and pinchable cheeks…
With their narrow and small nostrils, and elongated soft palates, this breed should avoid heavy physical exertion. Their little bodies are working hard to get the oxygen in and they get tired more quickly – that’s why you can hear your French bulldog breathe heavily after a 20 min walk!
Considering the bulldog’s unique physique, with its neck often being nearly as wide as its head, a harness will provide a level of safety and control for your bulldog that a collar cannot. If your stubborn bully decides to suddenly back up while on a walk, a collar might slip off, whereas a well designed harness, such as a Y-Shaped Haqihana Harness will stay put.
Collars that are pulled, either by the owner suddenly changing direction or from the dog running to the end of it’s leash, can cause damage to the thyroid and trachea of any breed of dogs. But this is especially true for brachycephalic dog breeds like French Bulldog, Chihuahua and Pekingese.
Is a harness the best choice to walk your French bulldog?
As a dog owner, we bet you’ve wondered at least once whether you should choose a collar or a harness for your French bulldog? With such a wide range of options on the market it can be tricky to decide… However, in recent years, dog harnesses have become more popular among the French Bulldog community due to them being considered safer and more secure when walking your Frenchie.
Why Haqihana Harness for your French Bulldog?
Dog harnesses are great tools for teaching your furry friend how to behave on a leash. Dogs are more comfortable and relaxed in a well fitted harness and the owners have better control. Unlike collars, properly fitted harnesses can’t hurt or distress your pup.
The Haqihana Harness is a safe, secure, comfortable Y shaped dog harness. It is designed to rest completely on the thorax keeping the dog’s neck & shoulder joints free. We are proud to offer the Haqihana Harness in Australia, and we might be biased, but we think it is the best dog harness available.
Italian company Haqihana launched its line of harnesses in 2004 in answer to the widespread request by dog lovers for a valid alternative to the collar that would be comfortable and not constrictive. Their high quality materials, all produced in Europe, are non toxic, hypoallergenic, sustainable, and so durable that they come with a five-year guarantee.
The design and quality of a dog harness is important for your dog’s comfort. Most harnesses are poorly-designed and do not allow freedom of movement. They place pressure on the sensitive structures of the neck or across the shoulders or use excess or poor quality materials that rub on the skin. The Haqihana non-inhibitive harness does not cause pain, friction or injury to the skin and does not limit movement in any way or create any other discomfort for your dog.
Finally if your Frenchie drops a few pounds (or puts on a few) the Haqihana Harness offers a wide range of adjustability. Fit and comfort go hand in hand to make a good experience for your pup.
If you are looking for a Harness for your Bulldog, the Haqihana Harness is the perfect choice!
Webbing is fantastic & finish is excellent
The Haqihana harnesses are really nice. The quality of the webbing is fantastic and the finish is excellent. They are highly adjustable and simply perfect for my poodles.
Comfortable, Strong & Soft
They’ve worn the Haqihana harnesses to the beach and in the water. We’ve visited shoe stores for runners, trails in the mountains, and walked through the local vineyards. The harness is very comfortable, strong, and soft. It has not rubbed them at all, and they are even comfy enough in them to fall asleep at the local pub!
Feeling inspired?
If you are ready to change your dog's walking experience purchase your Haqihana Harness and Leash today from our online store.