When your dog pulls like a locomotive during walks, it’s natural to wonder if a harness might be a good alternative to the traditional lead. After all, a harness is designed to reduce neck strain and give better control over your dog’s movements—right? The question is: Should I Use a Dog Harness Instead of a Lead?
But is it always the best solution for controlling a pull-happy pooch? Renowned dog trainer Ben Randall shares his professional insights into the pros and cons of using a harness versus a lead, explaining when each might be beneficial—and when they might not. Learn more about the unique double-layered coat of an Anatolian Shepherd and how to care for it effectively.
The Question: Should I Use a Dog Harness Instead of a Lead?
“I have a strong, young Labrador who pulls constantly when we go out for walks,” writes I.B. from Somerset. “I’ve been told to try a harness, but my dog is still difficult to control. Am I doing something wrong?” This is a common concern among dog owners, especially those with breeds prone to pulling.
Ben Randall, who has spent nearly two decades perfecting his dog training methods, takes a deep dive into this issue. His perspective might surprise you, especially if you’ve been relying on a harness to manage your dog’s pulling. For insights on whether Pomeranians should wear a collar, including considerations for safety and alternatives, check out this informative article.
Option 01: Harnesses (A Misunderstood Solution)
While many people recommend harnesses as a solution for dogs that pull, Ben Randall isn’t convinced that they are always the best answer. “I believe that putting a harness on a dog that pulls can sometimes make the situation worse,” he says. “It can encourage the dog to pull even more and can place unnecessary strain on their shoulders and hips.”
This is particularly concerning for large or fast-growing dogs like Labradors. “A harness may not only allow your dog to pull harder but can also cause long-term issues like joint strain or even hip problems, especially in puppies who are still developing their bones and muscles,” Ben explains. “When a dog is pulling hard, the force is coming from the rear end, and their front legs are almost lifted off the ground—this can lead to improper physical development.”
Ben has witnessed firsthand how this can affect dogs. “Labradors, in particular, can develop early-stage hip problems if they are forced to pull against a harness regularly,” he warns. Over the years, Ben has discussed this issue with several veterinarians, and they share his concerns, especially with larger breeds that rely heavily on harnesses.
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The Pressure on Your Dog’s Body
Harnesses are designed to distribute pressure more evenly across a dog’s body than a traditional collar, which focuses pressure on the neck. While this might seem like a better alternative for dogs prone to neck injuries or respiratory issues, Ben argues that the excessive force placed on a dog’s chest, shoulders, and hips may have a negative impact in the long term.
“Many harnesses are designed with the idea that they will reduce pressure on the neck, but they can create new issues elsewhere,” Ben explains. “If your dog pulls with a harness, they may develop muscle imbalances. Rather than engaging the body in a healthy way, the dog might be using only their back legs to pull, leaving their front legs nearly inactive.”
Option 02: Leads (A Better Option for Training)
Ben Randall recommends using a slip lead as an alternative to both a collar and a harness. The slip lead is a versatile training tool that can help address pulling while also promoting proper walking posture.
“The beauty of a slip lead is that once your dog learns how to walk to heel correctly, it sits loosely around their neck with very little pressure,” Ben says. “When used properly, a slip lead encourages the dog to walk in a square, upright position, with all four legs moving evenly.”
This balanced movement helps build muscle and bone development in a natural way. According to Ben, a slip lead is far safer for a dog’s growth than the force exerted by a harness that might encourage them to pull harder. Discover if the American Eskimo is a guard dog and learn about its suitability for protecting your home.
Ben further explains that the slip lead is especially effective for training because it provides a gentle correction when necessary. “Once the dog has learned to walk to heel, the slip lead doesn’t pull tight; it’s loose, and there is minimal pressure on the neck. It helps guide the dog without harsh jerks or discomfort.”
For Ben, the key to successful lead walking is not relying solely on equipment but focusing on training. “You must teach your dog to walk to heel and remain focused on you, even in distracting environments. Heel-work is not just about equipment—it’s about building trust and communication with your dog,” he says.
The Benefits of Heel Training
The benefits of teaching your dog to walk to heel extend far beyond simple walk-time convenience. Proper heel training helps build a bond between you and your dog while promoting calm and controlled behavior during walks.
Ben’s training method, which he calls the BG (Beggarbush) Foundation, focuses on building positive, reward-based behaviors. Over the course of nearly 20 years, he has refined his approach, and he is an advocate for consistent, positive reinforcement. “If a dog understands the heel command, they will walk calmly by your side without pulling or getting distracted,” he explains.
Ben emphasizes that training isn’t just about controlling the dog—it’s about creating a relationship based on mutual respect and understanding. This approach benefits both the dog’s mental and physical well-being. Learn about the size collar for an American Eskimo to ensure a perfect fit and comfort for your dog.
End: It’s About Balance
While a dog harness might seem like a quick fix for a dog that pulls, Ben Randall’s professional advice suggests that it might not always be the best long-term solution. For dogs prone to pulling, a harness could inadvertently exacerbate the problem and cause physical strain in the wrong areas of the body. Instead, focusing on heel training and using a slip lead once your dog has learned proper walking technique can help achieve better results.
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If you’re struggling with a pulling dog, Ben’s advice is clear: “Invest time in training your dog to walk calmly to heel. Use the right tools to reinforce the behavior, but remember that training is what truly makes the difference.” Now this is answered: Should I Use a Dog Harness Instead of a Lead?
For those who are willing to invest in training, Ben’s BG methods provide a path to a more controlled and rewarding walking experience for both dog and owner. Information sourced from: countrylife.
