I don't think you should search for alternatives of the collar because there are various kinds of collars are available in the market and most of them are very comfortable to wear such as Homemade cone collar or soft collars. I usually prefer collars as the best [url]alternatives to a cone of shame[/url] especially to keep him avoiding to bit or lick his neck after surgery. I think you should go with inflatable or soft collars as most of the puppies feel uncomfortable while wearing a harness but it could also be a better choice to wear as compared to a hard collar.

The kind of dog that you're keeping as a pet will determine if it's a must to use a harness. For instance, I'm keeping a bulldog as a dog pet. He's very aggressive which is why he needs to be on with a harness all the time. 

I have in the past and I know family members in the past have used a collar and a harness. They never really had any issues using a collar and I can't say I have myself but I understand the worry of using a collar. 

A harness is something I would say is safer for your dog, especially if they have a habit of pulling when you are out walking them.