Head Collars

Is that a muzzle? Does that dog bite?!!

Many of our dogs wear a head collar called a Promise collar or a Halti. Often people ask us if dogs wearing these collars bite or if the collar is a muzzle. Head collars are not muzzles at all. They are designed to aid in training and controlling dogs. Dogs are free to open their mouths, pant, get a drink, and yes, they could bite if they were so inclined.

How do head collars work?

Head collars loop around the dog's snout and the leash is attached to the collar underneath the dog's jaw. When the dog pulls on the leash, the dog's head is pulled downward which stops the dog from pulling. Additionally, when walking a dog you can easily control the direction of your dog's movement. A little tension on the leash moves the dog's head which easily and effectively changes the dog's direction.

What are the benefits of using a head collar?

• Head collars are more humane. They do not pull on the dog's throat, as do other training collars. Nor do they work by causing pain to the dog. The dog will not damage his throat or choke himself when he pulls.
• Head collars allow people to have better control of their dogs. When wearing a different type of collar, strong dogs are able to yank the leash, sometimes pulling away from or dragging their owners, simply because they are stronger than their owners or they outweigh them. With a head collar, the dog is unable to pull away because he is pulling against his own strength.
• Head collars are self-correcting. When the dog pulls on the leash, the dog's head is immediately pulled downward. You do not need to yank (or "pop") the leash to correct your dog. The immediacy of the correction from a head collar helps the dog learn more quickly.
• How long does it take after your dog pulls on his leash before you correct him?
  Head collars correct immediately.
• How many times does your dog pull and you do not correct him?
  Head collars correct the dog every time he pulls.
• Head collars offer you peace of mind and more peaceful walks. You have better control of your dog so you can relax and enjoy taking Rover for a walk.

What types of dogs would benefit from using a head collar?

• Large dogs.
• Strong dogs.
• Dogs that are highly excitable, that jump about and pull while on leash.
• Dogs whose owners have difficulty holding and controlling them on leash.
• Dogs that pull when on leash.

What types of dogs are not appropriate for a head collar?

Most dogs do benefit from head collars. The following are examples of dogs for whom the head collar might be unnecessary or not beneficial.

• Dogs that are exceptionally well trained do not need head collars.
• Dogs that walk slowly and do not pull might not benefit from a head collar.
• Dogs that are small and are easily handled due to their small size. Note that a head collar might benefit them in terms of walking more calmly with less pulling, but due to their small size their pulling and yanking on the leash does not cause a problem in terms of controlling the dog while on leash, regardless of what collar they wear.

Where can I get a head collar?

Head collars are relatively new and are not carried in all pet stores. Locally in Greensboro you can purchase head collars at All Pets Considered (ask for a Promise collar) or at PetsMart (ask for a Halti). Other pet stores in Greensboro may carry them as well. Haltis are the more common brand of head collars sold in stores, but the Promise collar is available in a variety of collars. Be sure to bring your dog with you so that you can get the right fit.

Disclaimer: Animal Rescue & Foster Program does not benefit from the sale of these collars. Although we do feel that head collars are an extremely helpful training device, we do not offer any type of warranty regarding the use of a head collar. We recommend that you consult a dog trainer who is knowledgeable in the use of head collars for more specific information regarding training with head collars or any other type of collar.