The Pros and Cons of Using a Head Halter on Your Dog
Dog owners with hard to control dogs use head halters in an effort to control their dogs without having to resort to harsh pinch and choke dog training collars. Head halters are similar to halters used on horses and the halter fits around the dog’s head and works on the assumption that if you control the dog’s head, you control his body as well.
Dogs will accept a pinch or choke collar easier than a head halter. This is because dogs are used to wearing a collar around their necks but the feeling of the halter around their head will be a strange and unfamiliar experience. Your dog may even throw a mini temper tantrum and put up a fight, so make sure you are very patient and calm during this crucial time.
Once your dog has begun to accept the head halter, you will find that it provides you with surprising control over your pet. Halters also eliminate the risk of windpipe damage on dogs that are strong pullers. Head halters are a good option to try on larger sized dogs and they can be a good tool to use on dogs that bark incessantly or who are very aggressive.
Head halters can be found at most pet shops as well as online, and they are usually very affordable and require no special training in order to use them. While no training is required for their use, you should be careful when using a halter on your dog so as not to cause serious injury to your pet.
You should think of the head halter as a transitional tool to help you train your dog while you’re teaching him basic obedience. Use voice commands while your dog is wearing the head halter to enhance his training and soon you can move to a regular collar once your dog has learned to obey your verbal commands.
Make sure you discuss your plans to use a head halter on your dog with your veterinarian. Your vet may decide to check your dog for any neck problems before you begin using a head halter to determine if it is safe to use on your dog. Always practice common sense when dealing with your dog and do everything in your power to protect your dog from injury and harm. Your dog depends on you for his life.