[alaskayorkie]

I use a collar on one of my guys because he doesn't pull at his leash at all. The other guy pulls and gags with a collar, so I haven't used one on him in a couple years. I sometimes wonder if he was injured during the year I let him use a collar because he gags frequently when it's on.

I'd say let that be your guide. If your dog never pulls, even when he wants to get a cat or other dog or favorite person, then you can probably get away with a collar. If there's any danger of pulling, get him used to the harness.

I believe there are some harnesses out there meant to immitate a collar with the ring up by the neck. You might check around.