Why Labradors Need a Harness: Benefits for Training and Walking

If you’re a Labrador owner, you already know how energetic, playful, and, let’s not forget, strong these pups tend to be. Whether your Lab is still a curious puppy or a full-grown (bowling) ball of muscle, finding the right tools to walk and train them is essential. A harness can make a world of difference when it comes to control, comfort, and safety for both you and your dog. In this blog, we’ll explore why Labradors need a harness, the key benefits for training and walking, and how to pick the perfect harness for your four-legged best friend.

Why Harnesses are Best for Labradors 

Labradors are naturally strong and excitable, which can make controlling them on a leash a challenge, especially during training or on walks. Collars can cause strain on their neck and lead to discomfort or injury, particularly if they haven’t yet learnt not to pull. This is where a harness comes in, offering several key benefits:

• Even Pressure Distribution: A harness spreads the force across your dog’s chest and shoulders rather than concentrating it around the neck, reducing the risk of injury.
• Better Control: With the harness’ design, you have more control over your Labrador's movements, which is crucial for a dog that can easily get excited or distracted.
• Preventing Pulling: Many harnesses, especially no-pull designs, are specifically engineered to discourage pulling by gently guiding your dog back to you when they pull ahead. This makes it easier to train your Lab to walk calmly by your side.

The Power of a No-Pull Harness

A no-pull harness is a fantastic option for Labradors, particularly during training. Labs, with their boundless energy, can get ahead of themselves—and you—when walking. A no-pull harness is designed to stop this behaviour without causing harm to your dog. These harnesses typically feature a front clip, which redirects the dog's motion toward you when they try to pull, helping teach them proper leash manners over time.

Harnesses like our no-pull designs are ideal because they not only provide better control but also make walking more enjoyable for both you and your dog. Combined with the Hands-Free Leash, you’ll find walking your Lab becomes a much more relaxing experience. This leash allows you to keep your hands free, which is perfect for joggers or for those who like to multitask on their walk (hello, coffee lovers!). It’s also adjustable and ergonomic, making sure both you and your dog are comfortable, regardless of where your adventure takes you.

How-To Accurately Size Your Labrador for a Harness

When it comes to harnesses, sizing is everything. A harness that’s too tight can cause discomfort, while one that’s too loose won’t provide the control you need, and your dog could possibly slip out of it. 

Here’s a simple guide to properly size your Labrador for a harness:

1. Measure their Chest: Use a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs. This is the most critical measurement. Ensure you have 2 fingers under the tape measure so it’s not measuring too tightly.
2. Measure their Neck: Measure around the base of the neck, where a collar would naturally sit.
3. Always Allow Room for Comfort: Ensure you can fit two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body. It should be snug but not too tight. 

At ST ARGO, we offer a variety of harness sizes designed to fit dogs of all shapes and sizes - from XS (dogs under 4kg) to XL (dogs over 20kg). All harnesses are adjustable at the chest, so even if your Labrador is still growing, you can find one that will grow with them.

Struggling to size your pooch? Check our handy size guide.

Materials Matter: Choosing the Best Harness for Your Labrador

The material of the harness is also an important consideration. Labradors are active dogs that love to run, swim, and get into all sorts of messy fun, so durability and comfort are key.

• Nylon or Polyester Webbing: These are strong, durable materials that can handle daily wear and tear, making them ideal for Labradors who love the outdoors. They’re also lightweight, which ensures your dog’s comfort.
• Breathable Mesh: For warmer climates, look for harnesses that feature breathable mesh. This keeps your dog cool and comfortable, particularly during long walks or summer activities.
• Padding: Harnesses with padding offer extra comfort for your Labrador, ensuring there are no uncomfortable rub points, especially around the chest and shoulders.

The ST ARGO harnesses are made from premium vegan leather with strong nylon backing. The vegan leather is supple to mould to your dog’s unique shape, whilst the backing supports the rough and tumble active lifestyle of a Labrador. 

Training and Walking Support: Puppy Classes and Resources in Australia

Harnesses, especially no-pull designs, are great for training your Labrador. However, if you’re looking for professional guidance, enrolling your pup in a training class can be invaluable. Many puppy training schools across Australia offer excellent programs specifically designed for high-energy dogs like Labradors. Here are a few you might want to check out:

• Melbourne Dog Trainers: Known for their positive reinforcement techniques, Melbourne Dog Trainers offers puppy classes that focus on the basics, including walking etiquette.
• K9 Centre (Brisbane): They provide a range of classes, from puppy preschool to advanced obedience, perfect for Labs who need structured guidance.
• Hanrob (Sydney): Offering everything from puppy classes to more advanced obedience training, Hanrob specialises in helping dogs develop good habits early on.

Why Your Labrador Needs a Harness

A harness is one of the best investments you can make for your Labrador’s comfort, safety, and training. Not only does it help distribute pressure more evenly, but a no-pull harness can also aid in teaching your dog better leash manners. When paired with tools like the ST ARGO Hands-Free Leash, you’re setting yourself up for enjoyable, stress-free walks with your beloved Lab.

So, if you’re gearing up for your next adventure with your Labrador, make sure they’re outfitted with the right harness and leash combo—both for their comfort and your peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should I start using a harness on my Labrador puppy?

• It’s generally recommended to start using a harness once your Labrador puppy is 8-10 weeks old, so they can get accustomed to wearing it early on.

Are back-clip harnesses or front-clip harnesses better for Labradors?

• Front-clip harnesses offer more control and are ideal for training, while back-clip harnesses are good for general walks but offer less control for strong pullers like Labradors.

Can a harness cause discomfort for a Labrador with sensitive skin?

• Labradors with sensitive skin may benefit from harnesses made with soft, padded materials or breathable fabrics like mesh to prevent chafing and irritation. ST ARGO harnesses are crafted from premium PU vegan leather, combining durability with a soft, comfortable feel to ensure your dog's comfort is always our top priority.