Comments on: Head Halters: Gentle Leader vs. Halti

By: pawsitivedog

pawsitivedog — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 16:08:58 +0000

Hi Jane,
Either one will work as well if you learn how to use it properly. I prefer to always use a double-ended lead with a head halter. With one end clipped to the head halter and the other end to a flat collar or harness you will have much more control over your dog with less risk of injury. Remember to keep the leash loose when he is walking nicely. If he lunges, use both leads to catch him, turn slightly, let his feet come back to the ground and gently release the pressure of the leash. If you keep your arms slightly bent but relaxed, you will be prepared to catch him should he lunge. Also work to praise and reward him each time he makes the choice to keep his feet on the ground when he is excited.

By: Jane

Jane — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 04:12:37 +0000

Is a halti or gentle leader more effective for a dog that jumps? My dog likes to lunge and jump after people (mainly joggers and bikers) on walks–he doesn’t pull much actually. It’s not aggressive, just overly friendly. I just worry about neck injury, but I’m also worried about him hurting someone if he manages to jump when my guard is down (that has happened when I was talking to someone and my dog was trying to jump on someone on the other side of me going by. He is in obedience classes, but he forgets his training when he sees someone he wants to jump on.

By: pawsitivedog

pawsitivedog — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 05:23:01 +0000

Hi Mary Ann,

You may use the Halti as long as you feel it is necessary. Ideally, you will eventually try to wean your dog off of it, but she is still young and there may always be situations where that bit of extra control comes in handy. If she is relaxed and comfortable wearing it, that can also help her relax in those challenging situations. It becomes valuable to her as well as to you. I wouldn’t rush to get her off of it. Used correctly (and preferably with a double ended leash), it is safe for long-term use.

By: Mary Ann

Mary Ann — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 01:42:00 +0000

I’ve been using a halti on my 1 year old Kelpie, she is adjusting, and training is going well. How long should one use a halti? Is it meant to be used just for the training period? This puppy is very spirited, my concern is, can it hurt their sinuses? I have a proper fitting one that gives complete freedom in the mouth area etc. I notice that she snorts sometimes when she pulls.
Please give me the scoop!
Thank you.