Canicross will make my dog pull on the lead ... won't it?

When it comes to walking equipment for dogs, the choice between a harness and a collar can have a significant impact on their behaviour. Understanding how each type of equipment signals different behaviours can help us better comprehend why a harness can be seen as a signal to pull, while a collar can be a signal to not pull.

A harness is designed to distribute the pressure or force exerted by a pulling dog over a larger area, typically through the chest. This design allows for more comfortable and controlled pulling, making it suitable for activities like canicross or sledding, where dogs are encouraged to pull. When a dog wears a harness regularly during activities like canicross, it becomes associated with the behaviour of pulling. Over time, the harness can act as a signal to the dog that it is appropriate to exert force and pull when wearing it. This is because the design of the harness allows the dog to engage their natural instincts to pull, satisfying their desire for physical exertion and mental stimulation.

On the other hand, a collar serves a different purpose when it comes to walking dogs. A collar, typically worn around the neck, is primarily used for attaching identification tags and a leash. Unlike a harness, a collar doesn't distribute force across a larger area, which means that any pulling or exertion is concentrated on the neck. A collar can be seen as a signal to not pull when an association between the collar and the behaviour of not pulling is created. This association helps create the desired behaviour of walking calmly on a lead without pulling, when attached to a collar.

While the equipment itself can signal different behaviours, it's important to note that training and conditioning play a vital role in reinforcing the desired behaviours associated with each type of equipment. Dogs need consistent and positive reinforcement to understand the expectations and learn how to walk (or run) appropriately in different types of equipment.

It's important to remember that training and conditioning, along with the choice of equipment, are crucial in teaching dogs the appropriate behaviours and creating enjoyable adventures for both the dog and the owner.