At 8 weeks old he should not be taken out and walked in public or where other dogs have been. Carry him in your arms or in a rucksack. Get him used to wearing a collar for a few days and then teach him how to walk on a lead around your house and yard.
A large dog like a mastiff should always be handled with a "collar" and lead. Unless its being taught tracking, in which case a tracking harness would be used.
Once your pup is vaccinated, you can go where other dogs have been, as has been mentioned. Generally, I prefer harnesses for dogs, even large ones, because I personally feel that I not only have better, fuller control of the animal, who is still learning, but even if the dog pulls it will not accidentally injure its windpipe or choke itself. Just be aware that there are a few different types of harnesses and it'll depend on what fits your dog best.
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