It can be overwhelming the sheer variety of different equipment aimed for walking dogs, especially those that pull on a lead. There are different types of collar, leads and harnesses. Some are plain, some tighten a little, some tighten a lot. "How can I know what to use? Which ones will solve the issue I'm having with my dog?"
The most important thing to remember:
No tool or equipment should be used instead of training.
"If a tool or equipment doesn't replace training, then does it actually matter what I use?" The answer to that is yes. It is vital that we ensure any equipment we use won't cause discomfort or negative feelings to your dog, especially while training. Anything that is designed to tighten will cause discomfort and so it is important that we only use equipment that is flat, well fitted and doesn't tighten. "Is it wrong to not use a harness?"
If a dog pulls a lot on lead, then it's best to use a harness. This will prevent your dog choking themselves or damaging their neck while pulling. If your dog walks on a loose lead, then flat, non-tightening collars are fine to use - provided they aren't likely to suddenly lunge at something such as a squirrel. Regardless of whether or not you walk your dog with lead attached to a collar or a harness, it's important that you ensure your dog has an ID tag with up to date details that is easily visible.
It is vital to be certain that a harness is well fitting. A harness that doesn't fit well can cause discomfort by rubbing, restricting leg movement, being too tight or risk your dog escaping because it is too loose. Regularly check the fit of your dog's harness throughout a walk to see if it is rotating around their body or causing any rubbing to the fur. Anti-Pull equipment usually only works for a short while before your dog then pulls through the equipment - landing you straight back at square one. Instead of purchasing Anti-Pull equipment for your dog, look for a good positive trainer to help you teach your dog how to walk on a loose lead. With training, our aim is to figure out WHY your dog is pulling to begin with and work on training your dog to walk with a loose lead. Loose lead walking is not necessarily walking to heel and the methods to achieve loose lead walking vs walking to heel may differ. I'll soon write a blog looking at these training methods (and associated tools) to achieve the goal of not pulling.
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