Shih Tzu Collars and Harnesses
Overview
For a Shih Tzu, a brachycephalic breed, selecting the right harness is crucial, while collars are discouraged due to potential health risks. We strongly advise all Shih Tzu pet parents to understand why opting for a well-fitted harness is a vital part of their little guy or gal's care.
This page contains:
Brachycephalic vs. Mesocephalic Breeds: Understanding the Need for Harnesses (not collars) for Shih Tzu Dogs
What to Know About Tracheal Collapse: How this Relates to Collars and Harnesses
Recommended Harnesses: For Shih Tzu Puppies and Adult Dogs
AllShihTzu Members' Models: Some stylish Shih Tzu pups and adults showing off their harness vests
Brachycephalic vs. Mesocephalic Breeds: Understanding the Need for Harnesses (not collars) for Shih Tzu Dogs
Brachycephalic breeds like the Shih Tzu are characterized by their short snouts and compressed breathing passages, in stark contrast to mesocephalic breeds, which have longer snouts and non-compressed airways.
The compact facial structure of a Shih Tzu means that their nasal passages and trachea are much shorter and can be prone to obstruction, making breathing less efficient compared to their mesocephalic counterparts.
This anatomical difference is critical when considering restraints; for Shih Tzu puppies and dogs, a collar can be overly restrictive on their already limited airways. The pressure from a collar, even when slight, can exacerbate breathing difficulties. For these reasons, a harness is recommended to distribute pressure more evenly around the body, avoiding additional strain on a Shih Tzu’s compressed respiratory system, and allowing for safer, more comfortable breathing.
What to Know About Tracheal Collapse: How this Relates to Collars and Harnesses
Like humans, a dog's neck houses two critical channels: the esophagus which leads to the stomach, and the trachea (windpipe) which is the airway to the lungs and which is encircled by soft, pliable cartilage rings (tracheal rings).
If the tracheal rings weaken or collapse inward, this is called tracheal collapse. It is an painful health condition that makes breathing difficult, as collapsed rings obstruct the windpipe. It is hard to treat. Often cough suppressants, corticosteroids, and sometimes pain medication is given, however it cannot be completely reversed. There is also somewhat risky surgery and includes prostheses around the outside of the trachea.
Some breeds have a predisposition to tracheal collapse; the Shih Tzu is one of them. Wearing a dog collar while on a leash, puts strains on the windpipe, an already vulnerable area. So, this is another reason, when choosing between a collar or a harness for a Shih Tzu, always choose a harness.
The Benefits of a Harness
To summarize what we've discussed so far and to add on to it, there are several important benefits of having a Shih Tzu wear a harness:
- Helps prevent tracheal collapse
- Promotes better breathing
- Gives you better control when walking your Shih Tzu; with a harness, you can safely implement heeling techniques of keeping your Shih Tzu to your side and control their stops, starts and turns.
- It does double-duty, as it is an accessory required when placing a Shih Tzu in a car seat.
There are many wonderful harnesses that are super comfortable and very easy to put on and off. Options include regular harness and clothing & coat harnesses. Let's take a look:
Top 3 Recommended Regular Harness Vests
These are regular harnesses that have an O-ring that the leash attaches to and are good choices year-round.
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#1: Puppia Authentic RiteFit Harness.
This is ideal if you are looking for a harness that is fully adjustable. This is made with durable yet breathable mesh, and it has padded edging. The size small has a starting neck measurement of 9.5" and extends to 11.5", and there are larger sizes, as well. So, this is great for all but small pups (see below for those). There are 2 snap-buckles on either side, for very easy on-off. And these can be found in several colors.
#2: Puppia Harness Soft B Vest.
This is fantastic as well. You do not need to go over the head, you just slip a Shih Tzu's two front paws into the arm holes. Then, it buckles on the back. It's adjustable on the sides and has padded top edging for comfort. It's great even on hot days, as it's made of durable yet breathable mesh.
This starts in extra-small with a tiny neck girth of 8.2", and goes up from there, so it's perfect for Shih Tzu of any size, including little pups. As an added plus, these are simply adorable.
#3: EcoBark Step in Dog Harness for Small Dogs.
This is a padded, breathable air mesh, lightweight harness vest that is breathable with a sturdy buckle. It's easy to get on and off. A great aspect is that it comes many sizes for a custom fit (xxxs to xl). The xxx-small is for tiny puppies in the 2 to 3 pound range. Adult Shih Tzu dogs 7 to 10 pounds often wear a small and those 11 to 17 usually wear a medium. These have some great colors and designs.
Top 3 Recommended Jackets & Coats with an Integrated Harness
Clothing harnesses for Shih Tzu dogs combine a harness and a canine jacket or coat, for an easy way to be safe while on a leash while staying warm. So, these are ideal for chilly days.
#1: Voyager Step-In Plush Dog Harness.
This is a great choice for an in-between option of a regular harness and a clothing harness. It's no bigger than a regular step-in, but is has warm, plush fleece inside and cozy corduroy on the outside. Not only is it very stylish, it can help keep your Shih Tzu warm on chilly days (for cold, snowy days, see options below). This Voyager is easy to put on and off and it starts at size XS and goes up from there. And there's some great color options.
#2: Winter Waterproof Fleece Harness Dog Coat by Gyuzh.
This is a full-on winter coat with a waterproof shell and a warm fleece inner lining, along with a built-in harness. Since it's best for clothing like this to be quick to put on and off, it's design well, with a zipper. An added plus is the reflective stitching for safety. It starts at size small, so it's best for adult Shih Tzu dogs.
#3: Puppia Mountaineer Winter Dog Coat with Harness.
Though not for those on a strict budget, this is for serious outdoor adventures for both Shih Tzu puppies and adult dogs; it starts at size small (for pups around 3 pounds) and goes up from there. It's a winter fleece vest with an integrated harness and a backside zipper specifically designed to prevent snagging for dogs with long hair. And it comes in 9 different colors.
AllShihTzu Members' Models
Check out this slideshow of some stylish Shih Tzu pups and adults showing off their harness vests:
Harness FAQ
How do you transition a Shih Tzu from a collar to a harness?
Transitioning a Shih Tzu from wearing a collar to a harness can be a smooth process with patience and positive reinforcement. Here's how to do it:
- Introduction to the Harness: Start by letting your Shih Tzu sniff and explore the new harness. Place it near their sleeping area or feeding place to create a positive association.
- Dress Rehearsals: Without fastening the harness, gently place it over your dog's head or around their body, depending on the style of the harness. Praise and treat for calm behavior and slowly increase the time they wear it unfastened.
- Securing the Harness: Once your Shih Tzu is comfortable with the harness being placed on them, begin to fasten it. Ensure it's snug but not too tight, allowing for two fingers to slip comfortably underneath the straps.
- Short Sessions: Start with short periods of wearing the harness indoors. Gradually increase the duration as your little guy or gal gets used to it.
- Walking Indoors: Before heading outside, take short walks in the house with the harness fully buckled and the leash attached.
- Outdoor Adventures: Transition to short outdoor walks in the harness. Over time, as your Shih Tzu gets more comfortable, you can increase the duration and distance of walks.
Remember, every dog is different, so they might take to a harness quickly or may need a little extra time and encouragement. With consistent and gentle guidance, your Shih Tzu should be happily wearing their new harness in no time.
Should you take a harness off a Shih Tzu between walks?
Leaving a harness on a Shih Tzu between walks can be acceptable under certain conditions. If the harness is lightweight and designed for prolonged wear, and if your Shih Tzu appears to be comfortable with no history of chafing or skin irritation, it is generally fine to leave the harness on during the day. Observing your little guy or gal's behavior is key; if they seem at ease and free-moving with the harness, it can remain on.
However, if at any point your Shih Tzu shows signs of discomfort, or if there has been any chafing, it's important to remove the harness to allow their skin to breathe and have a break from the harness vest. It's also a good practice to remove the harness at night to give your Shih Tzu a chance to relax fully and ensure a comfortable night's sleep without any constraints.
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