There is clear evidence that the use of choke collars can cause a variety of injuries to dogs from head to tail. Similarly, dogs who pull against a lead attached to their collar are at risk from injury.
A dog has seven cervical vertebrae and other critical structures in the neck. The vertebrae protect the delicate spinal cord which carry’s signals throughout the body. A chiropractic study* of 400 dogs thought to be healthy found that 63% had back or neck anomalies and over half of these dogs were reactive or aggressive.
In addition to skeletal damage, lead pulling restricts the blood and lymphatic flow to and from the head causing problems with vision and hearing. It may also impinge the nerves supplying the front legs and lead to abnormal sensation in the feet and subsequent chronic paw licking.
So, what should an owner use? There are many excellent harnesses on the market and lots of advice as to how to teach your dog not to pull using positive reinforcement.
I have a female 60 pound Boxer who is 14 months old. I got collar, lease, harness coat to try to walk her. However, she is stubborn and fights me all the time. She over powers me. I am 70 years old female and it is a struggle for her not to take me down. I would like her to calm down but she is hyper. What do I do??
Many thanks for your comment. I would suggest that you look at increasing her mental stimulation – food toys, training in the house, scent work will all help. A good trainer will show you how impulse control exercises can help with her hyperactivity. Finally, teaching her how to walk on her lead calmly and without pulling should be undertaken in an environment that isn’t so exciting for her – e.g your house if you have the room, and in your garden. Keep these sessions very short – no more that 5 mins to begin with and make sure you are using treats that she will work for. I hope that points you in the right direction.
Best wishes
Valerie