In this article, I talk about how to manage a dog that pulls on the leash. In answer to a question, How can you walk a dog that has not learned to walk on a leash?
I have written several articles about teaching dogs how to walk on a leash. But what if your dog can’t read? Okay, more to the point, what if you haven’t started training or are part-way through your training?
There will be times when you need to walk an untrained dog. And it pays to avert danger before it arises by knowing how best to manage this scenario for the health and safety of you, the dog, and others.
Walk Smarter Not Harder
In many instances, owners can manage the dog with brute strength when they lunge and pull on the leash. But not always.
And that’s where the use of restraining and anti-pull devices is appropriate, as a short-term solution only, in my opinion. The long-term solution is to teach the dog to walk on a loose leash.
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Watch a short introductory video about the Online Dog Trainer Leash Pulling Course.
Restraining and Anti Pull Devices
There are three types of anti-pull devices:
- Head Collars
- Body Harnesses
- Choke Collars
However, I must point out that none of these can guarantee that your dog will not pull or lunge at all. Instead, an anti-pull device will significantly reduce the amount of force exerted by the dog.
So you could say that anti-pull devices will give you more control over the dog’s movements – in most cases!
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Headcollars
Headcollars may not be suitable for all dogs. However, they can effectively reduce pulling by all-size dogs – depending on temperament and breed.
Most headcollars prevent pulling on the leash by gently steering & guiding your dog’s direction.
The Halti Headcollar was the world’s first no pull dog headcollar, it is one that I have used, and is a favorite amongst dog owners and trainers alike.
I like the design, which doesn’t interfere with the dog’s ability to pant, eat, or drink. I bought mine on Amazon; they have several sizes and colors and are often on special. Here is my affiliate link to the Halti Headcollar for your convenience.
- STOPS PULLING: The Halti Headcollar prevents pulling on the leash by gently steering and guiding your dog’s direction.
- KIND & HUMANE: Made from strong but lightweight nylon webbing, the Halti Headcollar is designed for comfort with a padded neoprene nose band and won’t interfere with panting, eating or drinking.
- REFLECTIVE & SAFE: Every Halti Headcollar has reflective accents for improved visibility in low light and a safety link that attaches to your dog’s collar for complete peace of mind.
- 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE: creators of the world’s first headcollar for dogs, Halti and Dr Roger Mugford have been solving leash pulling problems for over 40 years!
- BETTER TOGETHER: To get the best no pull training experience, use the Halti Headcollar with our double clip Halti Training Leash.
I haven’t had a problem using headcollars. However, they are known to cause some dogs distress. The dogs don’t like them.
If you find that your dog becomes distressed with a headcollar, I suggest that you look at one of the other options.
However, I also suggest you keep your dog as calm as possible – the less stressed they are, the calmer they will remain – and ensure that the headcollar fits comfortably.
Also, remember that using headcollars is a short-term solution and should not be used as the norm. It should not be used while training a dog to walk on a leash.
Body Harnesses
Body harnesses have become very popular in recent years, so the chances are that you have one already – or at least your dog does.
Body harnesses are more dog friendly because, unlike dog collars, which tend to strain a dog’s neck, harnesses evenly distribute the pressure around the chest to prevent any choking.
Dog body harnesses are perfect for puppies, and as the dog is used to wearing a harness, it makes sense to keep using harnesses as the dog gets bigger.
The ultimate dog accessory, dog body harnesses come in many different designs, styles, sizes, and colors. Once again, you can find a wide selection of dog body harnesses on Amazon.com.
- Large Dog Harness – Recommended Breeds: Medium to Large Dogs, such as Golden Retriever, Siberian Husky, Labrador, German Shepherd, Akita, Chow Chow, Schnauzer Giant etc. Please measure your dog’s neck and check girth carefully before purchasing this present for your puppy. Make your puppy stand out with this Classic Black Harness
- No Pull, No Choke – Our non-pulling dog harness is specially designed with 2 metal leash rings for safer dog walks. Use the chest attachment clip to stop your dog from pulling on walks, perfect for dog training or dogs who tend to pull. The back one is great for casual walks, jogging, hiking, etc
- Easy to Use – This hassle-free overhead harness is easy to put on and take off with its 2 fast-release buckles. Slide the harness over your dog’s head, buckle it up, adjust the straps, and here you go! Grab the top handle for additional control. Lightweight and easy to clean
- Fully Adjustable – This adjustable harness features 4 easy adjusting straps around the body. You can use its 2 neck straps and 2 chest straps to create a perfect fit for your dog with some room of growth. No worries about slipping out or choking
- Safe and Comfortable – Your dog will enjoy the daily walk in this comfort dog harness! Made of sturdy nylon oxford and padded with soft cushion to protect your dog’s skin. Breathable air mesh keeps your dog cool during outdoor activities. Super bright reflective strips ensure a safe walk both day and night
Choke Collars
Let’s be clear: I hate choke collars!
However, I also agree that they can sometimes be the only solution, albeit on rare occasions where nothing else works, such as when you need to manage a dog that pulls on the leash.
Choke chain collars are designed to tighten around the dog’s throat as the dog or the owner pulls. This creates a choking effect that, as you can imagine, is very uncomfortable for the dog, thereby acting as an anti-pulling device.
There are numerous health and behavioral risks of using choke collars. Using a choke collar to train a dog can not only harm your dog but also negatively affect your bond and training.
You might be interested in another article I wrote, Choke Chain Collar | Are They Safe For Dog Training
Or you might be interested in watching a short video on Leash Training A Dog in Less Than 4 Minutes
Summary: Manage a Dog That Pulls on the Leash
The use of anti-pulling devices to manage a dog that pulls on the leash should only ever be a short-term solution!
The ultimate goal of all dog owners should be to have control of their dog/s at all times without the need for cruel controlling devices, such as choke collars.
However, there are times, mainly while a dog is in the process of being trained to walk on a leash, that anti-pulling devices can be beneficial.
NOTE: that is before the dog has completed its training, not while being trained. You do not use an anti-pulling device during training sessions teaching a dog to walk on a leash.
For example, you can use an anti-pulling device to walk your dog to the training area and back, but not during the training session.
I prefer the dog harness as it tends to be comfortable for the dog, and I feel that I have a greater level of control than a collar.
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