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Using A Dog Head Collar Or Harness
from: Kyle BesserMany dog owners want to use an alternative to a collar, especially when they have a dog that pulls. They often don't want to use a choke or spike collar. There are several alternatives that dog owners may try.
Dog Head Collar
Millions of dog owners are using dog head collars, also called "gentle leaders." These are not muzzles. A muzzle completely covers the dog's nose and mouth, and the dog cannot drink, bark or bite. A gentle leader or head halter allows the dog to pant, drink, bark and even bite. A gentle leader or head halter is used as a training aid and many think they work wonderfully.
Essentially, the head halter puts steady pressure on the back of the dog's neck at the scruff, which is the way his mother would discipline him when he was a young puppy. Pressure at the scruff of the neck and the muzzle is a correction method that a dog understands. Another type of head collar is called a "Promise Halter." These are very similar to the gentle leader and are safe for your dog when used correctly.
The manufacturers of "gentle leaders" claim they are "gentle" and safe, but when they are attached to a retractable leash, they can be downright dangerous. Most dogs will not pull while on a head halter. The way these devices work is to pull the dogs head towards the owner if it attempts to pull. This is uncomfortable for the dog and it will often keep the dog from pulling, but if the dog becomes extremely excited and hits the end of the leash as young dogs will often do, the dog's head and neck could be snapped back with enough force to cause injury.
Dog Harness
Some dogs require the use of a harness. A dog harness is recommended for dogs that have a medical problem of the neck, as a harness is strapped onto the dog's body across the chest and around the ribcage. There is a ring on which you can attach the dog's leash at the top between the dog's shoulder blades. A harness doesn't allow you to direct your dog's body, and you can't give correction when using it.
Dog Muzzles
Muzzles are designed to prevent dogs from using their mouths. A dog muzzle is attached to the dog's head with a strap behind his ears. Some muzzles are designed to keep a dog's mouth fully closed while others allow the dog to pant, bark, and drink water through small holes or a wire basket-style face containment. Veterinarians and dog groomers often use the style of muzzle that keeps a dog's mouth fully closed.
Dog owners who need to control aggression in the home usually choose the basket style that allows their dog to drink and bark. The basket style is used when the muzzle will be on a dog for a number of hours to allow the dog to pant as a means of sweating. Muzzles are a great tool to help reduce a tough dog's overall attitude and to prevent destructive behavior when used in conjunction with training.
Muzzels come in a variety of types and sizes and can be made of leather, nylon, or coated plastic or steel. A muzzle should never be attached to a leash or used as a training aid.
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