Halti is a brand of head collar for pets. Head collars are often recommended by veterinarians and trainers as a gentle alternative to choke chains and pinch collars. A head collar helps control a dog on a leash, because it controls where his head goes. It's often recommended for strong dogs who pull on the leash. With a Halti, the dog's nose will turn to the side as he pulls ahead, and it's difficult for him to keep charging forward if his head is turned to the side. Because they fit over the muzzle and the head, some dogs dislike head harnesses at first. A careful and patient introduction is essential for success.
Instructions
Take your time and keep it positive. Trainers recommend a gradual introduction period lasting a week or two. Spend a little time each day, and don't expect to clip on the collar and take the dog to the park right away. Trainer Lyn Richards says it's important to make sure your dog has only positive experiences with anything new you introduce, so have plenty of treats on hand, work in a calm environment and use a gentle and happy tone of voice.
Introduce the head collar to the dog. Start by holding the Halti in your hand while giving your dog a treat from the same hand. Use one hand to hold the loop open and put it in front of your dog's face, said trainer Lyn Richards. Slip the loop partially over your dog's muzzle while using your other hand to feed a treat through the loop. Pull the harness away. Repeat that step several times until you feel ready to clip the harness all the way on. The dog will learn to like the head collar if it's always accompanied by treats and happy talk.
Attach the head collar. The Halti has one loop that fits over the muzzle. The loop has a metal ring at the bottom where the leash attaches. A second strap fits around the head and latches just behind the dog's ears. Hold the loop open with the metal ring facing down. Slip the loop over your dog's muzzle and give him a cookie. As the dog munches on the cookie, bring the straps together in the back and clip them closed. If the dog paws at the collar, distract him by playing with him, squeaking a toy, or offering another treat. The Pets First website warns against removing the collar while the dog is pawing or scratching at it -- you'll inadvertently be rewarding the behavior. Play with your dog for a couple of minutes, offering a favorite toy or some more treats, and remove the collar and continue playing. Don't attach the leash just yet. Repeat these steps for several days.
Adjust the Halti for a good fit. Through these many practice runs, you'll be able to adjust the straps and recheck it for proper fit. Be sure the straps are loose enough to allow you to slip a finger or two underneath. This not only assures a comfortable fit for your dog, but also allows you to avoid pinching your dog and creating a negative experience. Each time you attach the collar around your dog's head, slip your fingers under the buckle as you clip it closed. This prevents any painful hair-pulling or skin-pinching that could make your dog afraid of the collar.
When your dog is happy and calm about having the head collar on his head, it's time to attach the leash. As with any new step, go slowly and offer an abundance of praise and rewards. Your first walk should just be around the house or the yard, where you won't have unexpected distractions. Practice a few times before you venture from home.
Once you and your dog are accustomed to the head harness, you can learn the finer points of using it. For example, pulling straight up on the leash will close your dog's mouth and interrupt him if he tends to bark at other people or dogs. Head harnesses also require gentle corrections, so if you've learned the old snap-and-jerk leash corrections, you'll want to use a lighter touch to avoid painful and possibly dangerous jerks to the dog's head. Manufacturers include written instructions and DVDs with their collars, and they offer training tips.