As dedicated dog owners, we instinctively want what’s best for our furry friends, often leading us to explore various accessories that promise a happier, more controlled walking experience. One common dilemma arises when a dog consistently pulls on its leash: should we opt for a harness? A reader, I.B. from Somerset, recently shared her struggle, noting, “Whenever I take my young, but strong, Labrador for a walk, he pulls like a train. I’ve been recommended to use a harness, but my dog is still difficult to control. What am I doing wrong?” This question delves into a crucial aspect of dog training and equipment, particularly concerning the effectiveness of a leather dog collar and leash versus a harness.
From an expert perspective, the core of successful dog walking lies not in the equipment itself, but in fundamental training. Dogs should ideally understand and execute the “heel” command, which dictates walking politely beside their handler’s left leg, regardless of environmental distractions. This command fosters focus and control, essential for safe and enjoyable outings. However, the choice of equipment—specifically a Dog Harness And Lead—can significantly influence how quickly and effectively this training progresses, or conversely, how much it impedes true control.
The Misconception of Harnesses for Control
The very design of a harness, in many ways, works against the goal of teaching a dog not to pull. Historically, harnesses were developed for tasks requiring pulling power, such as enabling horses to draw carts or facilitating weight training in humans. When we apply this logic to a dog that already pulls excessively, a harness often exacerbates the problem rather than solving it. By distributing the pulling force across the dog’s chest and shoulders, a harness can inadvertently empower the dog, making it feel stronger and more capable of moving forward with force.
Instead of providing control, a harness can give a dog leverage, turning a simple walk into a constant tug-of-war. Owners may find themselves pulled harder, struggling to manage their dog’s strength, especially with larger, more powerful breeds. The common belief that a harness is inherently safer or offers better control is often a misunderstanding of canine biomechanics and training principles.
Potential Health Implications of Harnesses on Developing Dogs
While one perceived advantage of a harness is its ability to reduce pressure on a dog’s neck, the force doesn’t simply disappear. Instead, it is redistributed, often placing significant strain on the dog’s shoulders and hips. This can be particularly concerning for young, rapidly developing dogs, especially large breeds like Labradors, which are already prone to hip and joint issues. Dogs pulling strongly in a harness often drive forward primarily with their rear legs, with their front legs barely touching the ground. This unbalanced force can put immense pressure on their hips and shoulder joints.
Considering that young dogs are often on high-protein diets to support rapid growth, it’s crucial to question whether this sustained pressure on developing joints could hinder proper skeletal and muscular formation. Discussions with numerous veterinarians suggest a growing concern about this issue, particularly for larger dogs that habitually lean into their harnesses. Protecting a dog’s joints and overall musculoskeletal health is paramount, and equipment choices should reflect this long-term view. Responsible pet care extends beyond immediate control, encompassing the sustained well-being of our companions, which also includes considering their diet and supplements like best oils for dogs skin for overall health.
A focused dog maintaining eye contact with its handler during a training session with a loose lead.
The Efficacy of Slip Leads with Proper Training
In contrast to harnesses, many expert trainers advocate for the correct use of a slip lead as part of a comprehensive training approach focused on the “heel” command. A slip lead, when properly fitted and used, sits loosely around the dog’s neck. Once a dog has been taught to walk to heel correctly, the lead exerts minimal, if any, pressure. The key here is not the lead itself, but the underlying training that ensures the dog understands its position and responsibilities during a walk.
With a slip lead and proper heel work, a dog walks in a balanced, upright “square” position, utilizing all four legs equally without favoring the front or back. This natural gait promotes healthy bone and muscle development, avoiding the unnatural strain and forward-driving force associated with a pulling dog in a harness. The gentle feedback from a slip lead, when applied correctly as a training aid, encourages the dog to maintain its position without constant tension, making it a far safer and more effective tool for nurturing sound physical development and good walking manners.
A dog walking calmly on a loose slip lead, maintaining a balanced and upright posture.
Mastering the Heel Command: The Foundation of Good Lead Manners
Ultimately, the most effective solution to a dog pulling on its lead lies in teaching the fundamental “heel” command. This foundational skill ensures that your dog understands its role during walks and remains focused on you, regardless of distractions. Investing time in positive, reward-based training methods, such as those developed by Ben Randall, can transform your walking experience.
These methods emphasize clear communication, consistency, and positive reinforcement, guiding your dog to willingly walk beside you. With proper training, the choice between a dog harness and lead becomes less about controlling undesirable behavior and more about selecting comfortable, appropriate equipment for a well-behaved companion. The goal is to develop a dog that walks calmly and attentively, making every outing a pleasure for both of you.
A dog walking obediently alongside its handler, demonstrating proper heel command.
Conclusion
The debate between using a dog harness and lead for a pulling dog highlights a crucial distinction: equipment can assist, but it cannot replace proper training. While harnesses might seem like an intuitive solution for a strong puller, they can often reinforce the behavior and potentially lead to long-term health issues by distributing pressure incorrectly. Expert trainers often recommend focusing on teaching the “heel” command and utilizing tools like slip leads, which, when used correctly, promote balanced posture and minimize undue physical strain. By prioritizing foundational training and understanding the biomechanics of our canine companions, we can foster a healthier, more controlled, and enjoyable walking experience for both dog and owner. For further guidance on training methods, always consider consulting certified dog trainers or reputable online resources.
