Leash walking
Should small dogs wear a harness or a collar for walking?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
A harness is generally the better choice for small dogs, since their tracheas are proportionally more delicate and some small breeds, including Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers, have a known higher risk of a collapsing trachea, a condition worsened by pressure from a collar during pulling or lifting by the leash.
Why small breeds are more vulnerable
A small dog's trachea has less surrounding tissue to absorb pressure than a larger dog's, and breeds prone to tracheal collapse can develop a dry, goose honk sounding cough that worsens with any pressure on the throat, including from an excited pull against a collar.
Choosing a harness that fits small bodies well
Look for a lightweight harness with soft, wide straps rather than thin cord style straps, which can dig into a small dog's chest and armpits more noticeably given how little padding is naturally there. A step in style, where the dog steps through rather than having it pulled over the head, is often easier for anxious small dogs to accept.
Where a collar still has a role
A well fitted collar remains useful for holding ID tags at all times, even for a dog that walks exclusively on a harness, since it stays on the dog continuously rather than only during walks.
Key takeaways
- Small breeds face a higher risk of tracheal collapse, which a harness helps avoid worsening.
- A goose honk sounding cough can be a sign of tracheal sensitivity worth a vet check.
- Wide, soft straps suit small dogs better than thin cord style harness straps.
- A collar can still stay on for ID tags even if walking happens on a harness.