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BASIC TRAINING

The Head Collar / Halti

ONE OF THE MOST USEFUL TRAINING AIDS.

The Head Collar or Halti can stop a dog pulling, when everything else has failed. BUT only if used properly!

The head collar/Halti needs a long training lead, and the lead should be kept LOOSE and I STRESS LOOSE.

Many times over the years have I seen pet dogs strung up at the side of their owners. Their heads twisted at a ridiculous angle!

This can lead to back and neck problems, you only have to see these dogs walking in the street to understand the damage that can be done.

The dogs cannot see properly, they cannot put their heads down into a relaxed position. They cannot sniff, they cannot even cock their leg!!

Owners then wonder why when they do try a collar, the dog goes absolutely mad, dragging them everywhere. SUCH FREEDOM!!

There is nothing wrong with the product BUT everything wrong with the way it is USED.

HOW THE HEAD COLLAR / HALTI WORKS

The Head Collar / Halti works on the same principle as the Halter used on horses. The Halter can hold a Shire Horse. If you control the head, then you control the forward movement. This works with the dog. The problems arise because the dog is smaller than a horse, so we tend to pull upwards, instead of holding.

Halti - with link

Halti -
dog's mouth held closed

Halti -dog's head and mouth free

A dog likes to have all round vision. He likes to see behind him and to be able to see to the sides and forward. German Shepherds in particular like to be in front. This is something to do with their protective instincts. They like to be able to see what is approaching, especially at night.

HOW TO FIT THE HEAD COLLAR.

To start with you have to get the dog used to the feel and the sensation of the collar. The collar can be rather like wearing a pair of glasses for the first time, all you can see is the bar on the end of your nose. The same rule applies to the dog.

Some dogs can get quite distressed when the collar is first fitted. They will scratch at their face and try to get the collar off.

The best way to fit the collar is first make sure that you have the right size for your dog! Then clip the collar on to the dog, and have plenty of treats to distract him. Or feed the dog with the collar on. Or play ball, anything to keep him occupied and to stop him focusing on the collar.

Only when the dog is comfortable with the collar, and I STRESS ONLY then do you attach the lead.

The dog will walk forward until the lead actions the collar, which stops the dog going any further.

The best place to try this is in the garden, have plenty of treats with you, and keep your dogs attention on you and get him used to the lead.

At first the dog will try to fight the collar, keep the lead loose, I repeat LOOSE.

The dog will soon start to settle down, and learn to respect the collar and lead.

If the dog pulls on the head collar, then use your steady command, and gently guide the dog towards you and immediately loosen the lead again.

The lead must be loose at all times for your dog to enjoy his walk. Freedom of head movement is crucial to the dog's health and well being while out with you and your family.

A qualified trainer will help you with any problems, although some trainers do not advocate the Head Collar. © Janet Wesley

Please do not hesitate to E-mail me for advice. Training@worldofdogs.cc

Contact Details: Janet Wesley
Tel: 0115 8462031

email:jJanetWesley@worldofdogs.cc

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