The Regulations implementing the Dog Control Act came into force this winter. Among the different provisions found there, dogs weighing 20 kg and more must now wear a halter OR harness when walking.
Besides in a dog park, it should be noted that your dog must at all times be on a leash, harness or halter when you go out. Consider that many owners do work on their dog's behavior when they are outside since the stimuli are so much more numerous and different. An unknown, loose dog that appears between an owner and their dog can be a significant enough stressor for a trigger reaction to take place. Therefore, make sure you always have full control of your dog, out of respect for him and others. Your dog is not unhappy being held on a leash. That being said, let us explain the differences between a harness and a halter so that you can choose the tool that will work best for you both.
The harness
A harness helps distribute the shock when your dog pulls. It promotes comfort and provides sufficient movement space for the front legs. The harness helps avoid pressure on the trachea which sometimes causes lesions for dogs with a more fragile neck and shorter breathing, such as dachshunds or French bulldogs, for example.
Several choices of harness are available to you, depending on your dog's temperament and the type of activity you do with him. If your dog does not tend to pull and walks without being distracted by his environment, you can opt for a harness, which attaches to the back.
However, if your dog pulls or has poor control in the presence of other animals or humans, a harness with a front clip will be more suitable to maintain greater control over your dog. It helps destabilize your dog by easily distracting him from distractions and focusing his attention on you. When your dog pulls when faced with any stimulus, he will have no choice but to naturally turn towards you.
The halter
The halter provides very effective support for the most recalcitrant dogs. The Slip N' Go halter is appropriate for a dog's appearance. It is easy to put on and stays in place. No buckles to adjust or smelly nylon to rub the dog's sensitive nose.
However, be sure to introduce any new tool gradually into your dog's life. Put it on him first for a short period of time while you are indoors, walk around your home with him, and reward your dog when his attention is on something other than his harness or halter. For the halter, your dog's first instinct may be to try to remove it with his paws. Without forcing him, you must then persevere and teach him that the halter is associated with something positive like a reward. Show your dog that wearing a harness or halter is associated with pleasant activities for a walk or outing in the yard. He will thus make positive associations.
Additionally, know that it is easier to work on a new behavior with a new tool. Does your dog pull on his collar a lot? Consider introducing a harness or halter when trying to modify his behavior.
Finally, spring is a good time to reconnect with long outdoor outings. Send us a photo of your doggie with his new harness or halter via Facebook or Instagram .
Good walk.
The social team 🐩 🐾