Risks of a collar and the biomechanical advantage of a brace
A dog's neck contains vital organs such as the thyroid gland, vocal cords, esophagus, and large carotid arteries. Research from Nottingham Trent University shows that when a collar is pulled, all the pulling force is concentrated on a very small area, creating a dangerously high peak load on the cervical vertebrae and larynx.
Such constant or sudden pressure on blood vessels significantly increases intraocular pressure, which is especially dangerous for breeds with eye diseases or short muzzles, or brachycephalic breeds. However, well-fitting braces distribute the force of pulling evenly across the dog's strong ribcage and sternum, sparing the delicate neck area.
T-shaped braces and limited range of motion
The widespread T-shaped braces, with a horizontal strap running directly across the dog's sternum and upper arm, are under close scrutiny by veterinarians and physical and exercise therapists.
3D motion analyses conducted at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna showed that a horizontal strap running across the sternum mechanically limits the protrusion of the scapula and the extension of the shoulder joint. In order to avoid the uncomfortable pressure of the strap against the upper arm, the dog unconsciously shortens its stride by up to 15 percent. Long-term changes in the gait pattern and limited range of motion create chronic tension in the muscles of the scapula and can lead to premature wear of the joints.
Particularly dangerous are anti-pull T-braces that attach to the chest strap and turn the pulling dog's body unnaturally to the side. This constant turning changes the dog's center of gravity and causes uneven twisting of the spine and hip joints.
Y-shaped braces and natural freedom of movement
According to scientists, Y-shaped or so-called ergonomic braces primarily support the ergonomics and physiological needs of animals. The straps of Y-braces run from the neck to the sternum and form a Y when viewed from the front, leaving the shoulder joints and shoulder blades completely free.
Movement studies confirm that a well-fitted Y-braces preserves the dog's natural range of motion and stride length at walk, trot, and run. Because the straps do not press on the upper arms or cut into the neck, the dog can move exactly as they would without the braces.
How to choose the right Y-braces?
Researchers and physiotherapists emphasize that even with Y-shaped braces, the correct size and fit to the dog's body are critically important.
The front joint should be located exactly on the sternum. If the collar straps are too loose or wide, they can shift onto the throat and still press on the windpipe when pulled.
The abdominal strap should be a sufficient distance behind the front legs. The sacrum and abdominal part of the brace should be at least 3-4 finger widths away from the armpits of the front legs so that the straps do not cut into the sensitive underarm tissues and lymph nodes during movement.
The width of the leashes should match the size and strength of the dog. Too narrow leashes can cut into the dog when pulled, while too wide and stiff leashes can inhibit the free movement of a smaller dog.
From sources
The article is based on research published by the Biomechanics Laboratory at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna ( Veterinärmedizinische Universität Wien ) and the Animal Physiology and Behavioral Sciences research groups at Nottingham Trent University in the UK.
