I’m new to the forum and just joined because it seems like a great place for advice, especially for new dog owners like myself.
I have a 5-month-old Goldendoodle who is growing very fast (currently 22 kg). I’m looking for recommendations for a strong harness and leash, as he has already broken one and is putting pressure on the second one. He’s generally good on walks and stays by my legs most of the time (we’re still training). However, when he sees something exciting (like another dog or a leaf blowing across the road), he does sudden jerks and jumps that put pressure on the harness. When I pull him back to go ‘easy,’ I can feel the strain as well.
He’s doing well overall, and with more consistency and perseverance, he’ll be fab! But I need a strong harness and leash I can trust because I’m terrified he’ll break away again, possibly in front of traffic or something dangerous.
Henry and I would appreciate all advice to help him out.
Wow, that’s a big pup! He’s almost as heavy as most Great Dane puppies at that age!
I won’t recommend specific brands since they might differ from what’s available to you, but here are some general tips:
Personally, I don’t like Y-shaped harnesses because I can never seem to find one that fits comfortably, and they don’t seem to be the best for strong pullers. A dual-clip harness might be a good option. It will turn him around rather than letting him pull forward and has two points to clip onto for extra security, so it might be worth a try.
When I volunteered at a shelter, we always walked dogs with two leads—one attached to the harness and one to the collar for extra security. The harness leash was always shorter, so if the dog lunged, it would hit the end of the harness leash first rather than pulling on both the collar and the lead. This worked well, but it’s not something I do with my own dogs, who are now well-trained adults who walk nicely on a leash.
I absolutely love Haqihana harnesses! Our dog has been wearing one for about 3 to 4 years now, and it’s still in excellent condition. He weighs 38 kg, though he used to be 46 kg for a while, and he’s reactive, but his outbursts are minimal. I saw the Perfect Fit harness recommended, but after just six months, the stitching for the attachment ring came undone, so I’m not a big fan. It might just be an issue with our specific harness, though.
When it comes to leashes, I prefer leather ones for big dogs. I like leashes made from a single piece with attachment rings secured by rivets (if that’s the right term) rather than stitched on. Stitching weakens the material, whereas rivets do not. We had a leather leash break on us once because of this.
While you’re looking for a better collar and leash, work on your dog’s reactivity. This will also help to alleviate the overall condition. Still a puppy, but will probably make good improvement.
2 hounds. Freedom Harness supports two points of connection and has received positive feedback.
I’m from Poland, and leashes and harnesses are printed with diverse patterns that seem distinct. I’m wondering if you like this idea because I’m thinking about launching a firm that uses sublimated webbing from Home - Dario Nadruki and hardware from this site. Metal Side Release Buckles | Pet Hardware® What are you thinking about this?
Icefang’s 3/4-length ones are my personal favorite. Extremely durable and reliable. We have had these for a few years and they are still holding up without any indication of wear… well, except for some deeply woven strands of dog hair that will probably never come out .
They’re not extremely lightweight, so keep an eye on the weather before going too far in them… but they’re totally worth it.
I have also found Icefang’s leashes to be equally reliable.
I am in the same boat. My 98-pound girl is an American bully who is quite strong. I’m also searching for a solid, sturdy harness with metal clips rather than plastic ones. The leather harness would be useful, as would any guidance on pulling; but, if I hear anything, I will get back to you as well, but you are not alone. I am in the same boat.
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