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Q: Can my dog's leash pulling hurt his throat?

by Dr. Lauren Brickman

My Westie pulls on his leash. I read this can damage the esophagus. How could this be tested for?

Q: My Westie pulls on his leash. I read this can damage the esophagus. How could this be tested for?

 

A: If your Westie is eating, drinking, and swallowing normally his esophagus is probably ok.  If you are concerned for any reason, your vet can perform a physical exam to determine if any harm may have been done. 

 

Since your dog pulls so much I would recommend a different kind of lead.  There are special leads that slip over the nose to prevent them from pulling.  A harness may be another good option for your pet since it does not put as much pressure on the neck region. Harnesses also tend to be better for your pet's back.  

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Dr. Lauren Brickman Dr. Brickman started as a veterinary technician at Garden City Park in 1997 and went on to…

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Comments (3)

Anonymous (Unverified)
Added 07-31-2011 05:35pm

I totally agree with you, Kerry. When I read the suggestion to get a harness I was astonished. Sure, it's great for the dog back, but what about mine? Until I properly trained my dog he was dragging me down the street.
TRAIN THE DOG!!!

Kerry Omerza (Unverified)
Added 02-20-2011 09:28am

And harness promote pulling. That is what they were made for. Horses that pull carriages wear harnesses, sled dogs wear harnesses. It makes it more comfortable for them to pull harder.

Kerry Omerza (Unverified)
Added 02-20-2011 09:25am

How about just training your dog to walk next to you, leash or no leash? I am taken back that a professional dog trainer like myself would suggest that, instead of just teaching the dog to walk next to you.

Anonymous (Unverified)
Added 08-07-2011 07:24pm

how can you be so appalled and yet, no one has offered any suggestions about how to train the dog to walk with you? is it because you want owners to pay for your services or some book you recommend? if you want to help dogs, offer the information

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