Dog Harness vs. Slip Lead: When to Use Which Tool
If you’ve worked or volunteered in an animal shelter, you’ve probably come across slip leads and dog harnesses in the day-to-day hustle and bustle. Though both a slip lead and a dog harness perform the same basic function, they are not necessarily created equal. Let’s talk about the difference between a slip lead and a dog harness, evaluate the pros and cons of both tools, and decide when to use each one.
Dog Harnesses and Slip Leads: the Difference
In a survey of dog owners in Ireland and the U.K., 82.7% of owners reported that their dog pulled on the lead. In fact, lead pulling is one of the most commonly reported struggles that owners face post-adoption. When using a slip lead, leash pulling can be dangerous, so it’s best to carefully consider when a slip lead is and isn’t appropriate.
A slip lead is a type of dog leash, often made of nylon rope or fabric, that has two loops on either end. One loop is held by the handler while the other loop slips over the dog’s head like a collar. Slip leads are able to be tightened to fit any given dog’s neck size, which is quick and convenient for short-term use. However, slip leads will tighten indefinitely when pulled, so they have the potential to cause pain and injury when used improperly.
Dog harnesses, on the other hand, are strapped to a dog’s torso and attached to a leash on either the front or back. Harnesses cover a large surface area, so any force exerted on the lead is evenly distributed throughout the chest area. This even distribution of force makes dog harnesses more comfortable and less likely to cause injury.
Slip Lead Pros
Eliminate the need to carry a specialized leash/collar/harness for each dog
Provides a safe way to move a dog who doesn’t have a collar
Can be slipped quickly onto a dog’s neck in emergency situations
Can be put on without getting close to a dog’s face, which is helpful when you don’t know a dog’s history or level of reactivity
Slip Lead Cons
Becomes tighter when pressure is applied
Pressure is localized to the neck, which can cause trauma and pain
Because slip leads can restrict blood and lymphatic flow to the head area, they may increase pressure in a dog’s eyes
A dog’s thyroid gland is located in their neck area, so slip leads can cause thyroid issues when tightened
Tightened slip leads can cause nerve damage
Tightened slip leads may injure salivary glands
May cause discomfort, leading to increased reactivity and behavioral struggles
Dog Harness Pros
When properly sized, pressure is evenly distributed throughout the chest and body
More comfortable for the dog, following Five Freedoms guidelines
Decreased likelihood of injury and back pain
When clipped in the front, dog harnesses may decrease pulling
Dog Harness Cons
More difficult to put on and take off, especially for dogs with handling sensitives
May require more physical strength from handlers
When improperly sized, dog harnesses may pose a risk of escape and/or be painful
When clipped in the back, dog harnesses may encourage pulling if not paired with training
When to Use a Slip Lead
Though many experts recommend dog harnesses over any type of neck collar, slip leads can be really useful in an animal shelter environment. During emergency situations, like a dog fight or escape attempt, a slip lead can help to quickly contain a dog and transport them to safety. They can also be convenient for short-term use when transporting a dog over a short distance.
When Not to Use a Slip Lead
Slip leads should never be used on dogs who exhibit high-pulling behaviors, as any pulling on the lead will cause it to tighten around the dog’s neck. Slip leads should also never be used as a punishment to discourage a dog from pulling. When using a slip lead, it should never be so tight that you can’t slip 2-3 fingers between the loop and the dog’s neck. It also goes without saying that you should never jerk on the lead.
When to Use a Dog Harness
Though they may be a bit more inconvenient, harnesses are great for longer outings, like on-lead walks. They’re also helpful tools for dogs who exhibit high-pulling behaviors, since slip leads are unsuitable in those instances.
When Not to Use a Dog Harness
You need to be able to react quickly in emergency situations, so it’s best not to use a harness when you need to act fast. You should also be careful about using ill-fitting harnesses, as they may pose an escape risk and cause pain or discomfort. And, since some dog harnesses cover a larger surface area, they have the potential to accelerate overheating, so be mindful when using a harness during the summer.
Slip lead wraps should only be used in special circumstances. This dog was pulling very strongly on leash when being walked at an emergency shelter. The handler (Laurie) combined two slip leads to make a make-shift harness and take pressure off the dog’s neck, by wrapping the leash around the chest, distributing the pressure. While the slip lead being used as a harness can relieve pressure around the neck, it does ass pressure to the rib cage. Handlers must use discretion and properly fitted equipment, when available, should always be prioritized.
Looking for Help With Decisions Like This?
If you’re looking to learn how to best serve the animals in your care, consider working with an animal behavior consultant. Laurie Lawless has 13 years of experience working with dogs as a shelter advocate and dog trainer. Today, she’s putting her experience to use by helping animal shelter employees to learn about the rescue dogs in their care and better meet their needs. To learn about Laurie and access her consultation services, check out the Laurie Lawless Shelter Behavior website.
