Hey Wayne!
You & I are in the same boat....new puppy time! For me it's my 5th Lab retriever.
I have never "forced" a young dog(less than 6mos.) to heel. Use a simple leather collar with 3FT leather or nylon leash w/swivel hook to collar. Let the pup just get used to wearing it at the start while walking with the dog. After 6mos old, start "nicking"(sharp but short tug) the dog back to your side if he begins to leave forward. Stating, "heel" at each tug. Be firm with the command. But always use much praise when your dog does what you ask of him/her. And always remember, your dog is "man's best friend"! Treat your dog so, and you will never be discouraged with the animal.
I will pick my yellow Lab out of 4 yellow females in March. I have been training Labs since 1963 and will always learn something new while training each dog. RESPECT, & LOVE towards your dog goes a very long stride!
BEST OF LUCK WAYNE!
"LAB-MAN"