Tools of the Trade (Pt. 3)
A note: Each dog is an individual with their own genetics, history, environment, and patterns of behavior. While there may be stigma for some of these tools, we’ve tried to present a fair and accurate depiction of each tool and its uses. You should consider your situation carefully before choosing a tool for your dog. It is always a good idea to work with a trainer and to desensitize your dog to many tools as you work to find the right one
Harnesses and Other Tools
Harnesses
Harnesses come in many shapes and sizes to serve a variety of needs. Harnesses should be used for puppies under 6 months, dogs with certain health issues, and short legged or brachycephalic breeds like Dachshunds and French Bulldogs. The fit of some harnesses can encourage pulling or cause damage to joints. Harnesses can be easier to escape than some collars, so make sure yours is properly fit and you have a backup attachment point like a collar. All harnesses should have a wide chest strap and put minimal pressure on the shoulders. Harnesses with extra straps around the stomach are the hardest to escape.
Step in/Back Clip: these harnesses (linked is a Kong harness we love) go around your dog’s chest, usually with a strap between the front legs. The clip goes on the dog’s back. These harnesses will usually be made of straps or mesh. This will be the most difficult style of restraint to train leash walking, as well as being relatively easy to slip/escape.
Front Clip: These harnesses can have a variety of shapes and sizes. They will all have a ring in the front that you can connect to your leash. The linked harnesses above have a front clip, but this is the most popular style. The front connection makes leash pulling uncomfortable. These are one of the easiest styles for escape.
Tightening: Tightening harnesses can be a variety of shapes and styles, but will have a martingale style closure where the leash connects. The connection can be on the front or back, or both. These are the most appropriate for training and among the hardest to escape. We recommend two styles, our favorite and another style here.
Vest: Vest style harnesses will be the most comfortable and the most appropriate for working or well trained dogs. The extra material along the top and sides make them easier to escape. They usually have a large handle attached somewhere. These are the most popular choice for trained service dogs (note: ESA’s are not service animals, so they do not require any special harnesses or gear).
Extra Strap: Purported to be the most escape proof harness, this harness comes with an extra strap around the stomach. We don’t have much experience with these, so we can’t say for sure how well they work.
Mobility and Support
Dogs with mobility issues or other health concerns may need one of these harnesses. They will have extra straps past the neck and chest, extending to the stomach or even back legs and a large handle in the middle of the back. These help with limited mobility and are especially helpful going up and down stairs. We’ll link several options below:
Gentle Leads
Head Halter: head halters or ‘haltis’ are a style of head collar that may help with excessive pulling on leash. Head halters may be a full head halter, or a collar with a nose strap. Most dogs will need to be trained to wear a head halter, as the face straps are generally invasive and uncomfortable at first. Dogs who are prone to lunging or sudden bursts of movements shouldn’t use a head halter as these can lead to neck injury. You should consult a professional to make sure the halter is fit and used properly. Your dog should be able to pant and drink water without struggle.
