Head collars for dogs have become an increasingly popular dog training tool in the past couple of years.
Let's dive right in.
Training With Head Collars For Dogs
Two of the most well known brands of head collars on the market are the Gentle Leader and the Halti.
But there are many other brands that incorporate the basic head collar concept.
Easier
Many people find the Gentle Leader easier to fit that the Halti and in addition the Gentle Leader is designed to fasten around the dog’s neck.
The advantage of this design is that even if the dog is somehow able to wriggle out of the muzzle it is still wearing a collar.
This safety feature is very important, especially during training outside or in novel situations.
Better Control
On the other hand, the Halti offers better control of the dog.
For this reason it is often favored when working with very aggressive dogs.
Training a dog with a head collar has a number of advantages over training with a traditional or training collar.
For one thing, head collars for dogs are often easier to use for beginning dog trainers than training collars.
Preventing
Head collars for dogs are also quite effective at preventing dogs from pulling or controlling and retraining dogs that tend to pull.
These collars can also be quite effective at controlling dogs in difficult situations. Such as controlling a dog that wants to be with other dogs.
Most owners know of some situations in which their dogs are difficult to control. Head collars can be quite effective at controlling these volatile situations.
Distractions
Head collars can be excellent for controlling dogs that are very strong or for working with a dog in an area that contains a great many distractions.
For instance, a head collar is great for when your dog is on an outing. Or in an area where there will be other dogs and other distractions.
Replacement
Even though a head collar can be a great tool it should not be used as a replacement for effective dog training.
Head collars for dogs are most effective when they are used in combination with strong and sensible dog training methods.
Such as reward training and other forms of positive reinforcement.
Disadvantages of Head Collars for Dogs
Even though a head collar has many advantages, they have some distinct disadvantages as well.
For one thing, head collars tend to make many dogs dependent on the equipment.
And they quickly learn the difference between their regular collar and the head collar. Then adjust their behavior accordingly.
Dislike
In addition, some dogs, particularly those not accustomed to wearing head collars, dislike wearing it and paw at it, try to rub it off or pull excessively.
If your dog exhibits this behavior the best strategy is to keep it moving until it learns to accept the collar. A good alternative is to have the dog sit by pulling up on the dog’s head.
Reaction to Head Collars for Dogs
Another disadvantage of head collars for dogs is the reaction that many people have to it. Many people think that head collars are muzzles and react to the dog as if it may bite.
While this is not necessarily a defect of head collars many people do find it troublesome.
In conclusion, training with head collars is much like training with a training collar or any other equipment.
Appropriately
While head collars for dogs can be an important and useful tool, it is important to use them appropriately.
You do this by following all package instructions and combining their use with solid training methods.
Goal of Head Collars for Dogs
The eventual goal of dog training with head collars for dogs should be to have the dog behave as well with a regular collar as it does with the specialized collar.
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