PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar, Medium, Black

The PetSafe Gentle Leader is a head halter: a padded loop over the nose and a strap behind the ears, with the leash clipping under the chin. When the dog pulls, its head turns back toward you. This pick is the Medium in black.

Who it suits

Owners of strong pullers, roughly 25 to 60 lb, who want more control than a harness gives and are willing to spend time teaching the dog to accept something on its face. It is not a good fit for flat-faced breeds.

Key facts

• Turns the dog’s head toward the handler when it pulls (PetSafe)
• Padded neoprene nose loop with quick-snap neck strap (PetSafe)
• Dog can still eat, drink, pant and carry a ball (PetSafe)
• Medium is for dogs about 25 to 60 lb (PetSafe)
• Neck strap sits snug behind the ears with one finger of space (PetSafe fitting guide)

What reviewers say

VCA Animal Hospitals notes that a head halter like the Gentle Leader gives more control than a collar or harness, but says to introduce it slowly with treats, never snap the leash, skip long lines and retractable leashes, and keep a collar or harness on as backup. Whole Dog Journal sees head halters as a painless way to manage strong dogs during reward-based training, while warning that some dogs dislike them, they can slip off, and jerking could hurt the neck.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Strong control with little effort
• Pro: Dog can pant, drink and take treats
• Pro: Padded nose loop
• Con: Needs gradual conditioning
• Con: Some dogs never accept it
• Con: Not for short-snouted breeds

Cautions

• Condition your dog to it gradually with treats before the first walk (PetSafe).
• Never jerk or yank the leash; if the dog pulls, hold steady and stop (PetSafe).
• Remove it between walks and never leave the dog unattended in it (PetSafe).
• Avoid retractable leashes and long lines, and keep a collar or harness on as backup (VCA).