Collars and harnesses are crucial when owning a dog. To make sure the dog is safe and can be returned home if it gets lost, choosing the right collar is essential. Miniature pinschers, or min pins, are especially in need of a collar or harness anytime they are leaving the house due to their energetic and independent nature.
There are many different types of collars and harnesses on the market, so it can be challenging to choose which one is best. It is important first to consider whether a collar or harness would be a good fit, and then what style of either makes the most sense. Every dog is unique, but there are a few models that are quite suitable for the min pin.
What to Look for in a Collar or Harness
When thinking about whether to fit a dog with a collar or a harness, there are some factors to consider. Min pins are relatively small animals, so they may not need as heavy-duty of a collar or harness as a larger, more aggressive dog would. They are quite active and explorative, however, and that attribute can lend itself to needing a particular type of device.
There are two main factors to consider when choosing the perfect collar or harness, and those are its size and adjustability, and its style. These attributes can be narrowed down further into potential options based on how easy they are to use, what type of material they are made from, and, for harnesses, what shape they are.
Size and Adjustability
It is critical to pick the correct size collar or harness for a dog. These items are meant to protect them, so they should be fitted correctly to each individual dog.
The size of the collar or harness depends on the size of the dog. As min pins are little in the dog world, they need a particularly well-fitted collar to keep them from pulling too much on the leash and hurting themselves as well as from escaping from the device, which puts them in potential danger.
This is where adjustability comes into play. Choosing an adjustable collar or harness that can fit many different size dogs is an excellent option because it can be made larger or smaller for each pup. Min pins will do best with a collar or harness that fits their little body and is not too loose.
Style
Once the right sized collar or harness needed has been established, the next step is determining which style will work best. Again, all dogs are different and may prefer different options, and thankfully there are plenty of choices to choose from on the market.
- First, it should be established that the device chosen is escape-proof. Min pins are intelligent and are more prone to trying to escape than other dog breeds, so it is necessary that the collar or harness is secure and will not allow them to squeeze out of it.
- The next aspect to look at is if the device is easy to put on and easy to take off. While it should not be easy for the min pin to get out of, it is highly beneficial for its owner if they don’t have to struggle to get it on and off every time the dog wants to go outside. Making sure the collar or harness is simple and straightforward will be incredibly helpful for both the min pin and its owner.
- It is also essential to make sure the collar or harness is comfortable for the dog. Because min pins need to have one or the other—or both—on any time they are not inside the house, having soft, breathable, stretchy material will be more pleasant for the dog and will keep it happy. Nylon, polyester, soft mesh, and sometimes even leather, depending on the product, will be enjoyable for the pup.
Lastly, although most collars are fairly similar across the board, there are several different styles of harnesses, and some may be better-fitting than others. The three main shapes of harnesses are the H model, the X model, and the Y model.
The H Model
The H model, also known as the Roman, is made up of two straps and two loops. One loop goes around the dog’s neck, while the other goes around its body, and there is a strap connecting the two loops both on the back and on the stomach.
This is known as the H model because when looking at it from the top, it looks like a letter H is formed on the dog’s back. This type of harness will help keep the dog from injuring its limbs or joints when it pulls on the leash.
The X Model
The X model, or the Scapular, again has two straps and two loops, but each loop goes around one foreleg, and the straps connect them again on the back and stomach.
Similar to the H, the X model is known as such because of the X-shape it makes on the chest. This model is often not recommended because if a dog pulls too hard on it, all of the tension goes to the shoulder blades, which can cause long-term damage.
The Y Model
The Y model, as known as the Swedish or Scandinavian, is fairly similar to the H model. The only difference is that rather than forming an H shape with the added strap on top, the two loops on the Y model are connected, giving it a Y shape.
This model can be beneficial for a small dog like a min pin that has little joints because when pulling on the leash, most of the tension goes to the chest and neck. This is where the dog is more equipped to handle the pressure and will not be as easily harmed.
Best Harnesses for Min Pins
Using a harness on a min pin can be extremely useful for several reasons. For one thing, they are much easier to control than a simple collar. Min pins have a lot of energy, and because they feel as though they are in charge, they may try to lead their owner, rather than the other way around. With just a collar attached to the leash, the dog may have an easier time trying to pull ahead, whereas, with a harness, the owner has more stability to guide it with.
This can make harnesses an excellent training tool. When working with younger dogs or dogs training for a specific job, harnesses can help manage their activity. Because the owner or trainer has more control over the dog, they will have an easier time redirecting it if it strays away from what it should be doing.
Finally, harnesses are an excellent way to keep a dog’s body safe and protect its neck. If a min pin is trying to be the leader and pulls on its leash to move forward quicker, having only a collar attached to the dog can damage its fragile neck. A harness has a better chance of protecting the dog’s body because it distributes the strain rather than placing it all in one area.
There are three main categories of harnesses that work well for min pins. They come in an assortment of the three shape models, as well as a variety of colors and patterns. The best harnesses for these small dogs come in nylon, soft and padded material, and are specifically made to be adjustable.
Harnesses Made of Nylon
Nylon is an excellent fabric for dog collars and harnesses. It is breathable, comfortable, and durable—all things that are necessary for an item worn by an active animal! Nylon also allows the collar or harness to be flexible, which is great for adjusting the size to fit a min pin.
PetSafe Easy Walk Harness
The PetSafe Easy Walk Harness is a Y model harness where the front loop fits the dog’s chest, rather than up farther on its neck, which makes it more pleasant for the dog to wear and helps prevent strain. This harness is excellent for min pins because the design helps to steer them back in their owner’s direction when they are trying to pull away.
This harness has buckles on the belly and shoulders, which makes it easy to take on and off. The leash connects to the belly strap, which makes it easier to keep the dog on track while walking. It comes in several different colors as well as sizes, and there are also in-between sizes to give each dog the perfect fit. The PetSafe Easy Walk Harness can be purchased here.
Pawtitas Step-In Reflective Dog Harness
The Pawtitas Step-In Reflective Dog Harness is an X model harness that prides itself on being easy to use. The harness simply has to be laid on the ground, and the dog can slip each of its front legs into the straps, which then come together and buckle on the back.
This harness would be a good option for a min pin because it comes in an Extra-Small size that is meant to fit toy dogs. As the name suggests, it also has a reflective strip that makes the dog easier to see when out and about around cars. This is important for little dogs, as they are harder to see by oncoming traffic. The Pawtitas Step-In Reflective Dog Harness can be purchased here.
Harnesses Made Soft and Padded
A harness that is made of mesh or another soft material has several benefits. It provides the dog with a lot of comfort and is easy to move around in, which is essential for an energetic min pin. The thick fabric will make the dog a bit warmer, which could be particularly useful for those who live in colder climates.
Puppia Soft Dog Harness
The Puppia Soft Dog Harness is H-shaped, with a strap on the back connecting the front to the bottom portion. It’s the exact harness we use on our 5-month-old min pin Grover. It is made of a breathable polyester mesh, which is light enough to keep the dog relatively cool and is soft to its skin.
The neck of the harness does not pull at the dog’s chest while it is being walked, making it a good option for allowing the min pin to lead the walk. The belt at the bottom of the harness is adjustable, and the harness itself comes in an Extra-Small size, which is perfect for a min pin. The Puppia Soft Dog Harness can be purchased here.
Gooby Escape-Free Sport Harness
The Gooby Escape-Free Sport Harness is a Y model that has four adjustable points at the neck and chest. It is made of neoprene, which is the same material used to make wetsuits. This makes the harness durable and weather-resistant while still being padded to keep the dog comfortable.
This harness is an excellent choice for a min pin because of the escape-free factor. If the dog tries to back out of the harness, it will tighten and hug their body closer, preventing them from slipping out. Min pins like to be independent, but this harness will allow their owners to keep a grasp on them if they try to make a run for it.
It is essential to get the sizing right for the harness to be completely escape-proof, and the Gooby Escape-Free Sport Harness has a size Small that will fit a min pin. This harness can be purchased here.
Bark Appeal Mesh Step-In Harness
The Bark Appeal Mesh Step-In Harness is an H-shape, but is unique from the others in that it doesn’t have any extra straps attached. Instead, it’s just a piece of material that the dog can easily step into with a buckle to clip it together on the back. It is made from soft mesh that conforms to the dog’s body and keeps it feeling good while moving around.
Even the smallest of min pins can get good use out of this harness, as it comes in an Extra-Small and an Extra-Extra-Small size. The Bark Appeal Mesh Step-In Harness can be purchased here.
Harnesses Made to Be Adjustable
While many harness types can be adjusted by lengthening or shortening the straps, there are a few whose sole purpose is to adapt to any dog’s size. These harnesses also have other abilities, which make them useful for more than just the average pup.
Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness
The Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness is an H model that is meant to be put on and removed fast and painlessly. It has quick-release buckles that make it easy to get on and off the dog, but that will not allow it to escape. It is made of durable fabric, and the chest piece helps to lessen stress on the trachea and sternum.
This harness truly has the power to fit any dog, thanks to its five different adjustment points. It can be made into an Extra Small size, which means it will fit a min pin just right. It also comes with a seatbelt loop, so an owner can easily bring their dog along with them while they run their errands. The Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness can be purchased here.
Puppia Authentic RiteFit Harness
Looking at another harness from the Puppia brand, the Authentic RiteFit Harness is built in the H shape and is virtually another form of the Soft Dog Harness with more adjustability. It is made of the breathable polyester mesh and fits comfortably on the chest.
Where it differs from the Soft Dog Harness is in its flexibility of adjustment. The neck portion of the harness comes with buckles and a hook and loop fastener so it can be tailored to any size dog, including small ones like the min pin. The chest portion of the harness is also movable, which means it can be fitted to each dog’s individual needs. The Puppia Authentic RiteFit Harness can be purchased here.
Best Collars for Min Pins
Although harnesses appear to be the safer, easier option, there are some benefits to using just a collar and leash for a min pin. One significant reason is that they typically are more comfortable than a heavy harness. While most harnesses are made to be pleasant to wear, even the softest fabrics can irritate a dog’s skin, and for a small min pin, they may be too heavy to bear easily.
Collars are also great because they are convenient. It is much easier to slip a collar around the dog’s neck, clip its leash on, and head out the door. Harnesses may take more work to get the dog situated, and some dogs will hate the feeling of a full-body restraint. A collar will give them more agility and freedom of movement.
Perhaps the most important positive factor of collars is they provide information. Most harnesses do not have an area to clip a tag or print any words, and its crucial that dogs have some sort of identification on them. If a dog gets lost, the best way to get it home is to read the owner’s address and phone number and any sort of medical needs, and the easiest way to give this information is on a tag on a collar.
The three fabrics the majority of collars come in are nylon, polyester, and leather. Just like harnesses, collars can come in multiple colors, styles, and designs that will fit each unique dog, from toy-sized to the largest ones.
Collars Made of Nylon
Nylon seems to be the most popular material to make into collars. Just like the harnesses, the nylon fabric will provide comfort and flexibility around the dog’s neck and will not make them feel too overheated.
PUPTECK Basic Nylon Collar
The PUPTECK Basic Nylon Collar is one of the simplest collars on the market. It has an adjustable buckle to fit each dog’s neck perfectly and comes in an Extra-Small size that will fit a min pin just fine.
This collar also has a snap-open buckle, which is a crucial aspect of any type of collar. If the dog gets caught on something, the collar will break away rather than tightening around its neck. It comes in an array of colors and has a D-ring that any leash can be attached to. The PUPTECK Basic Nylon Collar can be purchased here.
Blueberry Pet Classic Solid Color Collection Collar
The Blueberry Pet Classic Collar in the Solid Color Collection has many of the same attributes as the PUPTECK collar. It is also made of quality nylon that has high-intensity webbing for added durability. It is a break-away collar with a quick-snap buckle and adjustable straps and has a D-ring coated in chrome to help it last longer.
This collar also comes in many colors and will do well for a min pin because it has an Extra-Small size. The Blueberry Pet Classic Solid Color Collection Collar can be purchased here.
Collars Made of Polyester
Choosing a collar made of polyester is perfect if looking for a long-term option. Unlike regular nylon collars, polyester stands up against water, chemicals, and the sun, so it will last a lot longer. It also makes for a more flexible collar, which may be more tolerable for a pup than nylon or leather.
Blueberry Pet Spring Scent Collection Collar
As with the previous Blueberry Pet collar, the Spring Scent Collection has the break-away collar with the quick-snap buckle and adjustable straps, as well as the coated D-ring. The difference is that this collar is made out of polyester, which will make it tougher to damage than the nylon version.
Compared to other polyester collars, this one is not super stretchy, so it is essential to make sure that it is fitted to the min pin’s neck but that there is some give to make breathing and moving easier. Perhaps the most stylish out of all these collar picks, there are many fun patterns and colors to choose from. The Blueberry Pet Spring Scent Collection Collar can be purchased here.
Flying Dog Santa Fe Collar
The Flying Dog Santa Fe Collar is another great polyester option. This collar is made with UV, rot, mildew, and moisture-resistant fabric, which will keep it cleaner than others. It also is printed with a dye sublimation process that helps protect the color from fading.
These collars are lightweight and comfortable and come in an Extra-Small size, which will work for min pins. They also have a metal buckle that does not have the quick-snap ability but can be personalized, which eliminates the need for an identification tag. The Flying Dog Santa Fe Collar can be purchased here.
Made of Leather
A leather dog collar is an excellent choice for those who would like to spend a bit more on a quality product. Leather collars are better for the environment because they are made of mostly natural materials, as opposed to nylon or polyester, which are synthetic fabrics. Leather is also good for dogs who have more sensitive skin.
AOLOVE Basic Classic Padded Leather Collar
The AOLOVE Basic Classic Padded Leather Collar is made of comfortable padded leather that will feel soft on the dog’s neck. It does have a belt-like buckle rather than a snap-open one, which may make it a little more challenging to adjust. It does provide the option of five different holes, however, which makes it suitable for many different-sized dogs.
Because it is made of leather, the material may begin to stretch over time, which may become a bit of a challenge for min pin owners. As long as it is fitted to the dog’s neck as tightly as possible while still being safe, as it stretches, the buckle can be moved along the holes and still will not be too loose. The AOLOVE Basic Classic Padded Leather Collar comes in an Extra-Small size and can be purchased here.
Custom Catch Personalized Dog Collar
The Custom Catch Personalized Dog Collar has many similarities to the previous leather collar. It has an adjustable belt buckle with several holes to get a perfect fit and does come in an Extra-Small option for min pins.
The best aspect of this collar is that the collar itself can be personalized. The owner can put the dog’s name, their phone number, and any medical information needed right onto the collar, which eliminates the need for an identification tag. The words are engraved into the leather rather than printed on, ensuring the information will last for a long time. The Custom Catch Personalized Dog Collar can be purchased here.
The Right Fit for a Min Pin
No matter whether a min pin owner chooses a collar or harness, any of the options listed above will be satisfactory for the small dog. They are all tough, comfortable, and protective, which are the most important factors when choosing the right collar for a min pin. Every product will keep your dog safe and happy when heading out of the house.