Gentle Leader Directions

If you own a dog that pulls on its leash or needs to polish its leash manners, the Gentle Leader may be the right training product for you. Co-developed by veterinary behaviorist Dr. R.K. Anderson, the Gentle Leader is based on the same concept of a horse's head halter. To put it simply, it is much easier to control a big animal such as a large dog or horse by putting pressure on the head rather than around the neck. If you decide to purchase a Gentle Leader, you must find the correct size and then learn how to use it properly.

Things You'll Need

  • Gentle Leader
  • Leash
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1
      Weigh your dog for proper sizing.

      Weigh your dog. In order to purchase the correct size Gentle Leader, you need to know your dog's weight. Dogs weighing less than 5 lbs. need a petite, whereas dogs weighing between 5 and 25 lbs. need a size small. Dogs weighing between 25 and 60 lbs. can go with a medium, and dogs from 60 to 130 lbs. require a large. If you own a giant dog breed weighing over 130 pounds, go with an extra large.

    • 2
      Greyhounds have quite slender heads.

      Look at your dog's head. If your dog has a slender head like a greyhound, you might need to choose a smaller size than other dogs of the same weight. If your dog has a large muzzle like the American Bulldog, you might need a slightly larger size. It is best to go with the larger size if in doubt. Keep receipts handy for a possible return.

    • 3

      Fit the Gentle Leader. Position the neck strap so that it is high on the dog's neck right behind the ears. The underside must be right above the Adam's apple. The nose loop must rest close to the dog's eyes and behind the corners of its mouth. The Leader should not be so tight that it impedes opening the mouth, nor so loose that the dog can take it off.

    • 4

      Take a step back and observe the side of the collar. When fitted properly, the Gentle Leader collar looks like a letter ''V''. If the nose strap is too loose, you will see an ''L'' instead. If this is the case, you should be able to see a ''V'' once the nose strap is tightened correctly. Do not over-tighten; this may create friction on the nose.

    • 5

      Allow your dog to get used to the sensation of wearing the head halter. Many dogs will paw at the halter, while others will rub their heads on the floor and other surfaces. Distract your dog by inviting it to play a game, or attach the leash and try to walk your dog a few steps. Give treats for every two or three steps so your dog associates wearing the Gentle Leader with something positive.

    • 6
      More relaxed walks are coming your way...

      Attach the leash to the Gentle Leader's ring found under the dog's chin once your dog seems comfortable wearing it. Most dogs will enjoy wearing the Gentle Leader once they realize they go out for a walk afterwards. Reward your dog for walking by your side, and if your dog walks ahead of you, stop walking. Your dog will feel pressure on his nose and will learn that when he walks next to you he gets treats, but when he walks ahead of you he gets a correction. This will result in better leash manners and relaxed walks that you both enjoy.