Does your furry friend pull on his leash when you’re out for walkies? If so, this can transform your daily walk from a therapeutic bonding experience into an ordeal.
The best dog collars for pulling can put an end to this and keep you and your dog safe when you’re out for a walk. Picture the consequences of your dog pulling on the leash and breaking it while you’re walking along a busy street and consider investing in a suitable collar to mitigate this issue.
It is worth pointing out that you do not need a corrective collar like a prong collar or spike collar. These choke collars are not universally accepted, and they must be used with the utmost care to prevent injuring your furball. These tools are purely coercive whereas the most effective training always incorporates positive reinforcement.
If you have never thought about buying a dog collar to prevent pulling on the leash, consider the following pointers before you whip out your credit card:
Keep these elements in mind when comparing the dog collars we review below and you should easily find the most suitable solution.
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The 9 Best Dog Collars for Pulling
1. Our Pick PetSafe Dog Harness
Features
First up and our favorite of today’s dog collars for pulling comes from industry specialist PetSafe.
You first need to choose from a wide range of striking colorways to suit the temperament of your pup. Next, consult the size guide and pick the most appropriate sizing for the breed of your dog. This large harness is intended for dogs with chests from 16 to 21 inches, weighing from 65 pounds to 90 pounds.
The collar is made from a hardwearing but comfortable nylon, ideal for most dogs except those prone to chewing heavily. We liked how easy it is to slip this collar onto your furball, and you can adjust it when it’s in place to get the snuggest possible fit.
The harness is lightweight and breathable, enabling you to accomplish your training goals without burdening your pup. Perhaps the key selling point is how easy it is to put this harness onto your hounds. This is especially valuable for pet parents with busy lifestyles who don’t have time to mess around with intricate straps and closures.
This brand backs up its products with responsive customer care. If you buy the wrong size or your dog chews through the harness, reach out to U.S.-based customer care for seamless replacements.
2. Hounds No-Pull Dog Harness
Features
2 Hounds is a young brand that produces design-driven pet products at affordable prices. What’s not to love?
This collar is not the cheapest on our shortlist, so if you’re looking for a budget dog collar for pulling, this is not for you. If you have a more fluid budget, what do you get for your money?
You first need to choose from a variety of bright colorways. Next, double down on sizing. This variant is sized medium and measures 1 inch across, ideal for dogs weighing from 40 pounds to 60 pounds. 2 Hounds suggests that this collar is suitable for pit bulls, basset hounds, standard poodles, and Australian shepherds.
There are twin connections on this collar, giving you more control over your dog without causing him any harm.
The main drawback of this collar comes if you have a dog with long hair. This may get snagged on the collar, so we would recommend exploring some of the other options we showcase below.
This collar is backed by a robust chewing replacement warranty, giving you peace of mind at the point of purchase.
If you want to avoid using coercive correction collars but you still want to stop your pooch from pulling on the leash, what are you waiting for?
3. rabbitgoo Dog Harness
Features
rabbitgoo might not be the first name that springs to mind when you think of pet gear, but this nylon and polyester collar is well worth popping on your shortlist if you want to put a stop to your dog pulling on the leash.
One of the primary benefits of this harness is the fact it is super-simple to slip on and remove.
You’ll get a choice of 14 different colors to suit. There are 4 sizes, including this large harness. This version is designed for medium and large breeds like Labradors, golden retrievers, German shepherds, and akitas.
Assuming you purchase the right size harness for your hound, you will then benefit from excellent adjustability. Proper fitting can mean the difference between a successful training session and your dog slipping the harness and creating mayhem. There are 4 different adjustment points around your dog’s body to guarantee the perfect fit.
The harness should give you plenty of faithful service when walking your furball, while the padded nature of construction means that your dog won’t be uncomfortable as you’re teaching him not to pull on his leash.
If your dog is prone to escaping when you’re taking him for a walk on a leash or harness, we would advise against this model. If your dog is not notorious for Houdini acts, we can’t recommend this model highly enough.
4. Embark Dog Harness
Features
The urban dog harness from Embark is keenly priced without compromising on quality. How does it shape up, then?
You don’t get much choice when it comes to colors, and the designs of all harnesses in the line are quite busy. That said, if you have a fun-loving dog, the aesthetics may appeal.
This is the smallest of the 4 harnesses in the range. It is suitable for dogs with chests from 18 to 25 inches, although it is not suitable for toy breeds weighing less than 14 pounds.
The Oxford cotton construction is hardwearing while still providing Rover with a comfy collar that won’t chafe his skin.
The straps on the collar are long and very adjustable, allowing you to get the snuggest possible fit.
There is a D-ring on the front that you can use to bring your dog to heel and to dissuade him from pulling on the leash as you walk. This method of training can be just as effective as using inhumane corrective collars. Always incorporate positive reinforcement into your canine training for best results and a happy hound.
The lightweight construction means your dog can wear this harness for extended periods without feeling weighed down.
Although this is not the most effective anti-pulling solution for dogs prone to escaping or slipping the leash, it is a solid all-round performer ideal for more obedient and compliant dogs.
5. BABYLTRL Big Dog Harness
Features
BABYLTRL may not be the most recognizable brand in the pet gear space, but this harness intended for medium and large breeds deserves a place in today’s roundup.
This large harness is designed to meet the needs of breeds like American pit bulls, golden retrievers, Labradors, or German shepherds.
The intelligent design of the harness promotes even distribution of pulling pressure, preventing both pulling and choking. Always remember to give your dog lots of affection and the occasional treat to reward compliance during training. This is much more effective and also more humane than using punitive training methods.
You can tweak the harness to fit using some easily adjustable straps. Although most of the hardware on this harness feels solid, we can’t say the same for the buckle. We feel that this weak point means it is difficult to recommend this harness when there are similar models available without this glaring weakness.
The harness is light enough that it shouldn’t burden your dog. If you head out for a walk after dark, you will appreciate the reflective strips on the harness and your furball will stay seen at a distance.
6. SPORN Mesh Dog Harness
Features
SPORN has a reputation for producing high quality pet gear that is also very keenly priced. How does this dog harness stand and fall?
Firstly, you’ll need to choose the right size harness for your hound. This iteration is intended for large breeds weighing 100 pounds or less. Breed recommendations include great Danes, Labradors, and shepherds. If this makes the right fit, read on. If not, consider the other sizes available from SPORN.
The nylon harness is comfy enough that your dog won’t resist training sessions or walks. The fit and finish is impressive, too, so you should get plenty of use out of this harness when teaching your dog not to pull excessively. All hardware is nickel-plated for improved lifespan.
The harness features elastic webbing that will stretch as your dog moves, letting you take control while your dog is relatively unencumbered by the harness. There is also sufficient padding to prevent any injuries while training.
Thanks to the seamless one-piece construction, you can slip the harness on or off with absolute ease.
Overall, this is a highly effective training device if you have a large dog prone to pulling aggressively on a leash.
7. SPORN Training Halter
Features
Next in line is another entry from the SPORN stable in the shape of this efficient and comfortable training halter.
This medium harness is ideal if you have a medium breed weighing from 20 pounds to 50 pounds with a neck measuring from 12 to 17 inches. If this sounds like the perfect fit for Fido, what do you get for your money?
It is worth pointing out immediately that this harness is backed by a lifetime warranty. This shows how much confidence the manufacturer places in the build quality of this training tool.
Another huge benefit of this harness is the way it is so easy to fit or remove. Slip it onto your dog in seconds and remove it just as easily, eliminating all of the fuss from walking your dog.
The key selling point with this harness is the way it uses the patented SPORN effect. If your dog starts pulling, restraints that fit under his legs should promptly stop the pulling.
Note: this harness is only designed to be used when walking or training your dog. You should not leave the harness on when Rover is unattended.
8. PetSafe No-Pull Dog Collar
Features
As we near the end of our roundup of the best dog collars for pulling, we have time for another model from the ever-reliable PetSafe.
First, check that this large leader headcollar is suitable for your dog. This model is intended for large breeds weighing 130 pounds or less.
Recommended by vets and trainers although perhaps unsuitable for anxious dogs, this collar places pressure on your dog without choking or coughing. The points of contact are intended to cause your dog mild discomfort not pain. Pressure is applied by a padded neoprene loop that places pressure on the back of your dog’s neck rather than the more vulnerable throat.
Unlike some collars in this class, this model is reasonably straightforward to fit and remove. All you need to do is adjust the nose loop then tweak the neck strap and you’ll be ready to train your dog against pulling on the leash.
While there is not much we could knock about this collar itself, this brand has a reputation for poor quality control, so check the contents of your delivery carefully.
9. YOOGAO Dog Harness
Features
As we round out our reviews of the best dog collars for pulling, we have time for a model from the YOOGAO stable, but is it any good?
Well, if you are an owner of a large or giant breed, this could be just the harness you have been looking for. Intended to fit dogs with chests measuring up to 47 inches, breed recommendations include St. Bernards and Great Pyrenées.
If you are walking one of those super-sized hounds, you will appreciate the extendable handle on this setup. This arrangement can mitigate pulling and reduce the risk of being injured by a larger dog pulling uncontrollably on the leash.
The harness features impressive padding, allowing you to control your giant breed without causing him any discomfort or resorting to a coercive correction collar.
Quick-release straps make this harness a cinch to fit or remove.
The construction is weather-resistant and waterproofed. For pet parents who enjoy nighttime walks with their furry friends, the reflective stitching on the harness is a welcome bonus.
While only suitable for a select few pet owners with towering dogs, the harness is one of the best in its class for this purpose.
FAQ
1) Which type of collar works best for a dog that pulls?
A front-clip harness, a head collar, or a martingale collar are typically recommended for dogs that pull.
2) How can I tell if a collar is the right fit for my dog?
The collar should be snug but not too tight. The collar should not easily slip over your dog's ears or head.
3) Can a collar harm my dog?
A poorly fitting or improperly used collar can cause injuries to your dog. It's vital to choose the right type of collar and to ensure that it fits your dog snugly.
4) Can I use a collar to train a dog not to pull on walks?
Yes, a collar can be used in conjunction with training techniques for this purpose.
5) How often should I check the fit of my dog's collar?
It's a smart idea to check the fit of your dog's collar regularly, especially if your dog is still growing or if you notice that the collar is becoming loose.
6) Can I use a collar to train my dog to walk on a leash?
Yes, a collar can be used in conjunction with positive reinforcement to teach a dog to walk on a leash.
7) Is it necessary to use a collar on a dog that does not pull on walks?
It depends on your preference, but it is not essential to use a collar on your dog if he does not pull on walks.
8) Is it safe to use a collar on a puppy?
It is considered generally safe to use a collar on a puppy, but it's important to choose a collar that is the right fit and size for your puppy and to monitor them closely while they are wearing it.
9) Can a collar be used to stop a dog from barking?
No, a collar is not typically used to stop a dog from barking. Instead, training collars or bark collars are used for this purpose.
10) Is it safe to use a collar on a small dog?
Yes, a collar can be used safely on a small dog, but it is crucial to choose a collar that fits your small dog properly. You should also monitor them closely while they are wearing it.
Conclusion
Choosing the right collar is vital for the comfort and wellbeing of your furball. It can also make the difference between walkies with Rover being a relaxing bonding experience and a headache marred by leash-pulling.
We strongly recommend using a collar or a harness rather than a coercive training tool like a choke collar or spike collar. As outlined above, you should only consider those types of collars if you engage the services of a professional dog trainer to learn how to use them safely. Stick with any of the no-pull collars and harnesses we review today, and you can buy with your eyes wide open.
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