Head Halters and Your Dog

Head halters are becoming more popular as a methodwill prevent the dog running at a faster pace than you
of restraining big dogs rather than using a choke chain.are able to manage and prevent you being knocked
The head halter was developed in much the sameoff your feet with the dog dragging you behind him.
way as the horse bridle and is put to similar use. TheAlthough this piece of equipment is not designed to
dog head halter fits around the dog's head and youstop your dog biting, like the muzzle, it will provide some
are then able to lead your dog in the direction youassistance in managing some aggressive behavior.
want to go.Head halters are widely available for purchase in pet
Many dogs will take to a collar very quickly so if youshops, some veterinary clinics and on the internet.
add a choke chain your dog will not react adverselyThey come in different sizes, are adjustable and very
because he is used to wearing his own collar.economical to buy. You don't have to take classes in
However, a head halter is an entirely different piece ofhow to use them but be careful when using them
kit. If you had never worn anything around your headbecause if you are too forceful, you might cause
or across your nose, it's possible your reaction woulddamage to your dog's neck muscles or his head.
not be too favorable the first time someone tried toGentle leading and tugging is much better than forceful
impose this on you. You dog will not like it either,pulling back.
especially if he has never worn a muzzle. It takesDon't rely on the head halter as the sole training aid
around the same time for a dog to becomewhen teaching your dog commands. You need him to
accustomed to his head halter, as it does for a horseassociate commands with words and your voice and
to get used to the bridle.not by actions taken with the head halter. If your puppy
If your dog is overly boisterous and energetic, the headonly learns via the action taken with the head halter
halter is an excellent method of restraining andyou will never be able to use a normal leash, collar or
controlling him. It is also a far better method than usingchoke chain, so make sure to use the head halter in
the choke chain which could damage his esophagus orconjunction with voice commands.
cause whiplash due to yanking the dog backTalk to your vet to ascertain the suitability of a head
constantly. If you are a small person with a large dog,halter for your dog. There may be reasons why it
the head halter will provide you with much more abilitywould not be advisable to use one especially if your
to keep control of your dog than a collar and leash. Itdog has ever suffered a neck injury.