Question for other large/strong dog owners… I have two Alaskan Malamutes. Both around 100 lbs I’d guess. …Neither sits nicely on the scale at the vet’s, so we do the best we can. Can anyone recommend a good harness/lead allowing me to walk them both?? …and without being concerned that the harness or lead might break. Malamutes are natural explorers – and neither of mine would think twice about leaving me and going for a run. Perhaps a brand name? Or, an online website I can visit?
Hello Dave, welcome to Breedia to you, Goliath and Bathsheba I have never owned a large dog but I like both the following harnesses. I used the Ezydog Quick-Fit™ harness on a 20+kg dog although sizes go up for much bigger/heavier dogs. Their Convert™ Harness [similar to the Julius-K9 Harness] is one I think I would have used had I had a large dog. The quality of their harnesses and collars is excellent. https://store.ezydog.com/categories/dog-harnesses/ The harness [and collar] shown on the dog in my avatar is similar to the Ezydog Quick-Fit - it is a Comfort-Flex Sport harness which also has sizes for larger dogs. Clean Run also sell the Julius-K9 harness. Again the quality of both harness and collars is excellent. https://www.cleanrun.com/category/dog_supplies/dog_harnesses_and_dog_halters/dog_harnesses/index.cfm I preferred the Comfort-Flex over the EzyDog Quick-Fit but that was just a personal preference. I cannot advise about leads though as I used a chain lead attached to a mobility scooter. Hopefully someone else can advise you about leads - and possibly give their preference regarding harnesses.
I am not a fan of harnesses for large breeds. Think Malamute, think heavy sledding! If your preference is for a harness, pick one with a front attachment which allows you to turn your dog, rather than have to pull against him. Personally I would go for a 6 foot double-ended lead, attaching one end to a harness or a half-check collar, and the other to a headcollar. Check the forward pull using the harness or collar, and direct, (never jerk), the head and neck using the headcollar.
Missed the edit window but wanted to add. Remember to always give clear commands, and give calm encouragement when your dog does walk without pulling.
