Bernedoodles, the lovable mix of the intelligent Poodle and gentle Bernese Mountain Dog, are known for their affectionate nature, intelligence, and playful spirit. Whether you have a standard, mini, or micro Bernedoodle, ensuring their safety, comfort, and training success starts with the right walking gear. One of the most debated topics among dog owners is: should you use a harness or collar for your Bernedoodle? A harness is generally better for your Bernedoodle, especially for walks and training, as it offers more control and reduces strain on the neck. However, a collar with ID tags is great for everyday wear. Using both for different purposes is often the best choice.

Why Your Bernedoodle Needs a Harness or Collar

A collar or harness is more than just a fashion statement — it’s a safety tool, a training aid, and often, a legal requirement. Here are a few essential reasons why your Bernedoodle should always wear a collar or harness (when outside):

• Identification: A collar can carry ID tags, your contact number, or medical alerts.
• Control: A harness or collar allows you to walk your dog safely and effectively.
• Training: Both tools help reinforce good behavior and leash manners.
• Legal Compliance: Most local laws require dogs in public areas to be leashed.

For Bernedoodles specifically, with their fluffy coats, sensitive skin, and varying sizes (Micro, Mini, Standard), the choice between a harness or collar becomes a key part of their care.

Harness or Collar: The Pros and Cons

When it comes to walking and training your Bernedoodle, choosing between a collar and a harness can be a bit overwhelming. Each option offers its own set of advantages and drawbacks depending on your dog’s size, behavior, and needs. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you make the best choice.

Collars

Collars are a traditional choice for many dog owners. They wrap around the dog’s neck and are easy to put on and take off. One of the biggest advantages of collars is their convenience—they're simple for everyday wear and can easily hold ID, rabies, and microchip tags. Flat collars can also be a helpful training tool for calmer dogs, and with a wide variety of designs and materials available, they allow for personal expression and comfort. However, collars do come with some drawbacks. They can pose a risk of neck or trachea injuries, especially if your Bernedoodle tends to pull or if you're dealing with a young puppy. For strong or excitable dogs, collars may not offer enough control and can even become unsafe. While collars are not typically recommended for brachycephalic breeds due to breathing concerns, this isn’t an issue for Bernedoodles—but it’s still something to keep in mind when evaluating the overall safety and effectiveness of collars.

Harnesses

Harnesses fit around a dog’s chest and back, distributing pressure more evenly across the body compared to collars. This design offers several benefits, especially for Bernedoodles that are energetic or tend to pull during walks. Harnesses provide better control and help reduce strain on the neck, making them a safer option for dogs with tracheal sensitivity or prior neck injuries. They're also a great tool for training, helping to reinforce good leash manners. For smaller Bernedoodles and puppies, harnesses prevent choking and offer a more secure, comfortable walking experience. Despite their advantages, harnesses do have some downsides. They can take more time to put on due to the multiple straps and buckles, which may be tricky for new dog owners. Poorly fitted harnesses may cause chafing, particularly under the armpits, and some dogs may initially resist wearing them. There’s also the potential for escape if the harness isn’t properly adjusted—clever or wriggly dogs might slip out during a walk. To get the most out of a harness, it’s important to choose one that fits well and suits your dog’s size and activity level.

How to Properly Use a Collar

Using a collar might seem straightforward, but there’s more to it than simply buckling it around your dog’s neck. For your Bernedoodle’s comfort and safety, it’s important to use the collar correctly and ensure it fits well. A properly fitted collar can aid in identification, training, and everyday handling, while minimizing risks like choking or injury. Here’s what you need to know to use a collar the right way.

Steps to Proper Use:

1. Choose the Right Fit: A collar should sit comfortably without slipping over the head. You should be able to slide two fingers between the collar and your Bernedoodle’s neck.
2. Check Regularly: Puppies grow fast. Check for tightness weekly.
3. Attach ID Tags: Include name, number, and rabies tags.
4. Avoid Using for Heavy Pulling: If your Bernedoodle pulls hard on walks, use a harness instead.

Pro Tip: Opt for breakaway collars for indoor use to avoid choking hazards if the collar gets caught.

How to Properly Use a Harness

A harness can be a game-changer when it comes to walking and training your Bernedoodle, offering better control and comfort than a collar. However, to fully reap the benefits, it's crucial to use the harness correctly. Proper fitting and adjustment are key to ensuring safety, comfort, and effectiveness. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to properly use a harness to give your Bernedoodle the best experience.

Steps to Proper Use:

1. Choose the Right Type:
   • Back-Clip Harness: Good for well-trained dogs.
   • Front-Clip Harness: Great for leash-pulling training.
   • Dual-Clip Harness: Versatile option for training and walking.
2. Adjust Properly: Make sure the harness sits snug but not tight. You should be able to fit two fingers under all straps.
3. Check for Rub Marks: Inspect areas under the legs for chafing.
4. Practice: Let your Bernedoodle wear the harness around the house first before longer walks.

Safety Note: Never leave a full-body harness on a dog unsupervised inside the house—it can snag on furniture or crate bars.

How to Choose the Right Harness or Collar

Choosing the right collar or harness for your Bernedoodle is essential for their comfort, safety, and overall well-being. With so many options available, selecting the best one can be a bit overwhelming. Factors like your dog's size, behavior, and specific needs will play a significant role in making the right choice.

Choosing the Right Collar:

• Flat Collars: Best for ID tags and occasional use.
• Martingale Collars: Good for training and dogs with narrow heads.
• Breakaway Collars: Ideal for indoor wear, especially in multi-dog households.

Choosing the Right Harness:

• Padded Harnesses: Best for comfort and long walks.
• Adjustable Harnesses: Useful for growing puppies.
• Anti-Pull Harnesses: Great for strong Bernedoodles learning leash etiquette.

Pro Tip: Always measure your Bernedoodle’s neck and chest girth before buying, and consult a size chart. Most Mini and Micro Bernedoodles need XS-M sizes, while Standards may need L-XL.

Training Benefits: Harness or Collar

When it comes to training your Bernedoodle, the choice between a harness and a collar can significantly impact the effectiveness of your sessions. Both options offer unique benefits depending on your dog's behavior and training goals. Understanding how each tool affects leash manners, control, and comfort is key to successful training. Training is a big part of Bernedoodle life—they’re smart and eager to please, but also playful and excitable.

Collar Training:

• Useful for basic obedience (sit, stay, name recognition).
• Best for low-distraction environments.
• Use positive reinforcement, not corrections.

Harness Training:

• Best for loose-leash walking and anti-pulling strategies.
• Front-clip harnesses naturally redirect your dog’s focus.
• Great for high-distraction areas like parks.

Training Tip: Use both tools! Many trainers recommend wearing a collar with ID and a harness for walks, giving you safety and control.

Should Your Dog Wear a Harness or Collar at Home?

Deciding whether your Bernedoodle should wear a collar or harness at home is an important consideration for both their comfort and safety. While these accessories are typically used for walks, many dog owners wonder if it’s appropriate for their dog to wear them indoors. Wearing a collar at home offers some benefits, such as keeping your Bernedoodle’s ID on at all times, which is especially helpful in emergencies. It also provides an easy way to grab your dog quickly if needed. However, collars can get caught on furniture, crates, or other pets, and they may cause fur matting or skin irritation if worn for long periods. A harness, on the other hand, can be useful indoors for specific situations, like house training or recovery after surgery, providing leash support. It’s also helpful during crate training, allowing you to gently guide your pup. However, harnesses are not intended for all-day wear and can cause rubbing, overheating, or discomfort if left on too long. There's also a risk of the harness getting snagged indoors. For safety, it’s recommended to use breakaway collars indoors and remove harnesses when your dog is unsupervised. Additionally, microchipping your Bernedoodle serves as a backup ID in case the collar comes off, ensuring your pet is always identifiable.

What’s Best for Your Bernedoodle? A Harness or Collar?

When deciding between a collar or harness for your Bernedoodle, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Each dog has unique needs based on factors like their personality, age, training level, and walking habits. For example, younger or more energetic Bernedoodles may benefit from a harness during walks and training, as it provides better control and reduces strain on their neck. Older or calmer dogs may be more comfortable with a collar, especially when used for daily wear and holding essential ID tags. The key is to assess how your dog behaves and what will provide the most comfort and safety in different situations. To get the best of both worlds, consider using a well-fitted harness for walks and training sessions, where more control and comfort are needed. Indoors, a breakaway collar with ID tags is a good choice, as it allows for identification while minimizing the risk of injury or discomfort. As your Bernedoodle grows and their needs change, you can adjust their gear accordingly—switching between a collar and harness depending on their activity level, size, and training progress. This flexible approach ensures you’re always meeting your dog’s needs while keeping them safe and comfortable. Remember, Bernedoodles are sensitive and people-oriented. Always introduce new gear gradually, with lots of treats and praise. A happy, confident pup makes walks and training more enjoyable for both of you. Whether you choose a harness, a collar, or both, the most important thing is that it’s safe, comfortable, and fits your Bernedoodle’s lifestyle. With the right tools and a little patience, your walks will be smoother, your training will progress faster, and your bond will grow even stronger.