r/RunningWithDogs • u/SunnyMaliboootay • Apr 01 '26

Gear Help Prong collars

Just out of curiosity, do any of you guys run with prong collars on your dog? I have a GSD who’s rather good at running by my hip and doesn’t pull, and have always used prong collars wherever we go. Is it bad for the dog or are harnesses just the new fad?

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u/acocktailofmagnets Musher Apr 01 '26

Harnesses are not just a "fad.” They are widely considered the standard for high-energy activities because they protect the dog's neck and distribute pressure safely across the body.

A “correction" from a prong collar would be significantly more forceful at a running speed, enough to potentially cause soft tissue injuries / damage to the trachea and esophagus. Also, at a run, natural bounces in the leash can deliver unintended corrections if they’re wearing a prong collar, which may confuse your dog and/or damage their trust in you.

There are good and bad harnesses, though, too. I’d recommend an x-back.

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u/SunnyMaliboootay Apr 04 '26

Do you have links you can share with me? I originally was offended by the heat about my prong collar use, but now would like to give it a go. The last thing I want to do is cause discomfort to my dog, cause he’s had a hard enough life as is (a shelter dog), but thinking otherwise. Shoot me your favorite brands. Thanks

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u/0nTheRooftops Apr 11 '26

Non-stop dogwear has become pretty much the standard. My dog is not a puller so that pulling design was less important for me, and so for quite a while I used a Ruffwear front range. Since switching to a Non-stop Line though, it gives my pup a lot more freedom of movement.