Dog harness front hook vs back hook?

Nu

I have an almost 3 year old black lab. My biggest mistake as a dog owner has been not teaching him leash manners at a young more manageable age. He is HORRIBLE on a leash, just drags me straight down the road with him. If we got him a new harness with a hook on the front would it help the pulling issue? Luckily we have a huge yard so he is able to get exercise still but I'd like to be able to take him on the cement to help his nails grind down without clipping them as often.