Dog training tools: Gentle Leader head collar!

 

Does this sound familiar? You come home from a long day at work and Fido is all excited because he knows it is time for his evening walk. You happily retrieve his leash, throw on your coat and head out the door. Only to return a short time later frustrated and angry because Fido thought you we’re a sled and decided to drag you around the block.

Until your training has progressed to good control with no distractions, attempting to leash train an unruly dog can be frustrating. Most people just head out the door and expect Fido to just listen. When he doesn’t they immediately blame him for the problem.

Whether you are ready for distraction training or not, using the proper tool can save the day, and many days thereafter. The Gentle Leader head collar is just such a tool. It is safe, humane, and most of all effective. It is simply a collar designed to fit around Fido’s neck and muzzle to provide control when Fido tries to pull or run. It is similar in approach to a horse bridal. It’s based on the idea that if you control the animal’s head you control the body. It works for a half-ton horse so it certainly will work on Fido.

Follow a few simple rules and start to enjoy walks with your best pal. Make sure you properly fit the collar. Both the muzzle and neck sections are adjustable. Make sure they are slightly snug fitting. The muzzle strap runs around the back of Fido’s muzzle and does not interfere with drinking, or biting. Do not perform corrections or pull on the leash while using this collar. Only allow Fido to pull. As he does, his head will be turned so he is no longer looking forward.

While this is a great training tool remember that it is exactly that, a training tool. It is not necessary to use it forever. You should be actually training Fido to walk correctly in a heel position, simply walk gently, and then going back to a standard collar.