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August 01, 2025

My 3 month old puppy pulls very hard on a harness, is it time for a prong collar?

Full Question:

I have a 3-month-old, 30 pound Doberman with whom we have used a harness and 6 foot drag line except when he is in his crate sleeping for the night (he also has a pen for daytime use when we are not directly training or playing with him). Over the past 10 days, have noticed that he will pull hard against the 6-foot line when I'm with him outdoors (as well as jump on my legs and try to bite) but not when I'm using the 20 foot drag line. Wonder if the amount of pressure exerted by the line makes a difference? I can redirect with food and make him sit or put him in his pen when he is getting worked up; he will calm down in that situation. Second question: Is it time for the prong collar? If so, what size should I get? We are not training for sports, just want a very obedient dog to live with us on our ranch.

Cindy's Answer:

Putting pressure on a flat collar or harness can certainly create frustration and opposition is some puppies and dogs.

I think for such a young puppy I might go with a slip lead or slip collar and teach leash pressure first, then would switch to a prong when he's just a bit older. 3 months is a bit too young -maybe wait until 4-5 months depending on how it goes with the slip collar or lead. I would start with a small link prong when he's finally ready for it.

I'd suggest the Loose Leash Walking course for how to teach leash pressure and loose leash walking

User Response:

Cindy, thank you so much. Your advice is always spot-on. Will enroll in the Loose Leash Walking course for sure.

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