Some dogs require the use of a harness. This is strapped onto the dog’s body across the chest and around the ribcage. There is a ring on which you can attach the dog’s leash at the top, between the dog’s shoulder blades. A harness doesn’t allow you to direct your dog’s body, nor can you give correction when it is on. Your dog can pull when he feels like it and if he is a northern breed, this can be often. They were bred for the specific purpose of pulling a sled. This can cause pulled muscles and tendons in your arms if your dog decides he’s going to pull in excess. A harness is recommended only for dogs that have a medical problem of the neck.
Caution
Neverchain a dog who is wearing any type of collar other than a buckle collar. Tying a dog on a chain that is wearing a choke or slip collar is sentencing him to certain death. When you and your dog have finished a training session or walk, remove all training aids except his buckle collar, which he should wear at all times.
All collars should be fitted properly in order to be an effective training tool and to keep your dog safe. If your dog is a puppy, you will have to buy a new collar several times over the next few months, as he will rapidly outgrow them. An adult dog’s collar will last for months, but should be checked often for signs of wear and replace as needed. This will ensure that your dog will not get loose to run in city streets or get hit on a busy country highway. After all, you want your dog to be safe and assuring his collar is the right one for his breed will allow you to meet that goal.