12/05/2026
This morning was a reminder of how important the right walking equipment really is.
We passed a large Labrador who became reactive and lunged so hard that, despite the owner physically restraining him, his collar snapped and he charged towards us. Thankfully nobody was hurt, but situations like this can very quickly become dangerous for dogs, owners, walkers and the public.
Not all collars and harnesses are created equal. Different breeds, sizes and temperaments need different equipment. A small calm dog has very different strength and handling needs compared to a powerful Labrador, Mastiff, Bully breed, Shepherd or reactive rescue dog.
If your dog is strong, prone to pulling, lunging or reacting, it’s so important to use equipment that is:
• Properly fitted
• Suitable for your dog’s size and strength
• Made with durable hardware
• Designed for control and safety
Many reputable companies now strength-test their collars, harnesses and clips under controlled force testing. Some buckle systems and reinforced harnesses are designed to withstand significantly higher forces than cheaper snap clip designs.
Research also shows there is no “one size fits all” option when it comes to collars and harnesses. The best choice depends on the dog’s breed, behaviour and walking style. For dogs that pull, well-fitted front-clip or supportive harnesses can help provide safer control and reduce pressure on the neck.
Equipment failure isn’t just inconvenient - it can put lives at risk. Cheap clips, worn stitching, weak plastic fasteners or poorly fitted collars can fail under sudden force.
Please regularly check your dog’s walking gear for:
• Fraying
• Cracks in clips
• Weak stitching
• Loose fittings
• Signs of wear and tear
And most importantly, choose equipment based on safety and function first - not just appearance or price.
Your dog’s gear should be strong enough for the dog at the end of the lead. For everyone’s safety. 🐾