My lab is a puller, I got him a Quickfit harness to use on walks and it's been a big help: Dog Harness http://store.ezydog.com/categories/dog-harnesses/

That said, he's a tripawd, so that might have something to do with how much it helps!

I agree. It lets dogs do what dogs do. Run around, sniff, chase birds......meet and greet. In short, let them be a dog.

If they are on a lead all the time they just the exercise you get. But several times that if they can trot or gallop at their own pace.

But I accept that you need the space to do it.

Personally after more than 30 years of training others and my own pups/ dogs I only use buckle collars fitted high up the neck so that it doesn't cause choking and a shortish lead. Start with the dog sitting close to your heel, left or right hand side and use some yummy treats for good position using your sound for heel or close. Only do short walks to start with incorporating sits.

I'd recommend a no pull harness. These are the ones with an attachment point at the front of the chest. This stops them from pulling because when they do, it makes them spin around.

If it helps, we got one from a company called Embark Pets and it's brilliant. Our golden retriever when we first got her was young and full of energy. With training and this harness, she's now stopped pulling.

If you do decide on a harness.

Julius are very good.

As others have said, there are alternatives though.