Is A Gentle Leader Better Than A Prong Collar For Stubborn Dogs?

[@McCannDogs]

This video is generating lots of great discussion on a few different platforms, and that is exactly what I hoped it would do! I want to thank each and every one of you who clicked to watch, and I hope you can take away some value for your own dog training! If you'd like to see the playlist we created for our Grade 1 students, you can click HERE: kzbin.info/aero/PL7BBgLulherklS42-x1r-a30DcpQhP3X2 See you in the next video! ~Ken

[@paullesieur147]

This is glorious, I've been looking for "techniques to train your dog" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Ever heard of - Diyadison Genia Equalizer - (do a google search ) ? Ive heard some unbelievable things about it and my brother in law got amazing results with it.

[@whyyouwannaknowmyname4598]

What are your thoughts on harnesses?

[@adom7071]

I use a prong on my dog who is working through her problems with reacting and lunging at other dogs. I considered a gentle leader before the prong I use, but if she were to lunge and hit the end of the leash wouldn’t her head snap sideways? I’d rather use my prong than have my dog give herself whiplash.

[@seanmiller292]

Prong collar was a lifesaver!

[@kevster6654]

slip lead has worked perfectly for my rhodesian atm, it gives much clearer instructions to your dog while giving both your dog and you as a owner a calm walk without a knot in your stomach❤️🐾

[@Flask-l1b]

I’m not sure what video he was watching, but I was watching another dog trainer and he was using a prong collar to train his dog to walk loose leash in 15 minutes. It worked for me. It only took about a half an hour so about 15 minutes more and now a couple days later it still works. I don’t even need the prong collar anymore

[@thunderdragon8341]

The gentle leader was a miracle for my dog it calms him down

[@hudasyou3801]

Cant agree more... gentle leader/halti change my dynamic with our walks... i did return back to a martingale when he didnt pull anymore. Never on prongs.. cheers from Canada

[@chiosrandomchannel8055]

Thank you this is very good information! New subscriber ! We have a husky about 7 months old and we have difficulty leash training her I ordered mines and let me tell you.. its amazing my husky is 7 months old and we could t get her to stop pulling us when we walk her. Since im pregnant its harder for me and i took the chance to buy this gentle leader leash from amazon one that cost 14 bucks. And it worked so good. She did try to take it off 2 times while we went to walk but soon got used to it. It changed her completely im amazed at how fast she cooperated. It isn’t harmful i made sure to put it on her as instructed with one finger space between her head and the leash. Same n the snout part. I highly recommend it.

[@dainaclark3522]

I agree that any training tool can be dangerous if not used properly. I only use choke chains, prong collars, slip leads, e collars and flat collars that are fitted high on the neck at the base of the skull. When you think about it, dogs correct each other with an increasing level of force, not treats to gain the other dogs respect. I used to use a gentle leader with my dog but did not get any results. My dog works better on a prong collar but every dog is different.

[@saltyk9561]

E collars?? Dog training is meant to be positive and reward-based. By shocking your dog, you’re only invoking fear and confusion. You’re never actually training them how to behave, only how to be scared when they misbehave. Terrible

[@thatonedog819]

@@saltyk9561 with Balanced training, it's 95% positive and 5% correction. It is reward based.

[@dp1569]

@@saltyk9561 Salty, I used to believe the same like you. After doing more research on e-collar training, I had to change my perspective. For one, there is a distinct difference between a "shock" collar and an "e-collar". Standard "shock" collars are absolutely inhumane and should never be used. E-collars use TENs, Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, which delivers a low level electrical pulse (below 50 hz). This does not hurt the dog when applied correctly. E-collars are very effective training tools in the hands of a skilled trainer. Misuse of ANY type of "negative reinforcement" tool such as physical/verbal punishment will invoke as you said "fear and confusion". When used correctly, e-collar gives clear and instant correction which the dog easily understands. Furthermore, the "all-positive" training method is always less effective than a balanced approach to training which uses negative reinforcement and positive punishment in a humane and compassionate way. Raising a dog this way yields a more connected, intelligent companion that will require far less correction throughout the course of its life and that is the goal of training. We don't hesitate to discipline children when they directly disobey the rules, unless we intend to raise brats who only listen when they feel like it...

[@nandhinisundararaj1177]

Well we r not dogs but humans.. and have more positive training options available if only we are willing to learn and have patience.. i have a very reactive dog and i wil never use such things on her.. im learning everyday to train her in a positive way.

[@riojimatsuoka]

@@saltyk9561 you don't shock the dog, it sends a vibration, sound, or pulsation. I prefer the pulsation. The beauty of it is that the dog thinks the collar is correcting him, not the handler provided you don't show him the controls. This allowed my dog all the freedoms he wants.

[@cadizwilmo9687]

The gentle-leader worked great for my Great Pyrenees for 2 weeks. Now he walks by my side at my pace just using a simple slip leash.

[@lysippe444]

I combined one with a flat collar today and I liked it. I'm trying to stop using the prong because it's actually making frustration related reactivity worse. Every dog is different. Explore your tools and use them mindfully!

[@avasmith2274]

I use a prong collar it distributes pressure and it works without having to put holes in your dogs neck. They also mimic the correctional nip of their mother and they understand better

[@leegrass6954]

As a trainer since 1980, I want to commend you for using the Gentle Leader! It’s the best tool I’ve ever used -this particular head collar is the best of all for the very reasons you have given! Congratulations for that and thank you very much for these helpful videos!❤️🙏👍

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there, Lee! We agree on the effectiveness of the Gentle Leader. It's a great tool to give each dog just a little more good information. The best part is that it's also a straight forward process to wean off the Gentle Leader. So you don't have to depend on it! Thanks for watching! ~Ken

[@astallings5360]

I use a prong. I found for that many dogs the head collar stresses a dog out even when properly conditioned to it.

[@minecraftmadison462]

I prog collar can hurts the dogs neck and make it harder for them to breathe

[@astallings5360]

@@minecraftmadison462 it can hurt if you yank it extremely hard but it hard to choke a dog out on one because the have a stopper so you can’t tighten it indefinitely like with a slip lead or choke chain

[@minecraftmadison462]

@@astallings5360 ok just don’t use the sharp ones

[@astallings5360]

@@minecraftmadison462 no prong collars are sharp

[@astallings5360]

@@minecraftmadison462 maybe a extremely cheap one but it’s common sense not to go cheap when it comes for equipment for your dog

[@CharmingHoran]

I got a gentle leader for my puppy, it’s really stressful because she jerks her head around violently to get it off, if i give her a loose leash she instantly starts pawing at it and will fall forward on the cement, so I have to literally keep the leash room extra short, this gives her tension at all times, and with her head bashing I feel like it’s damaging her more than the pulling on the flat collar. I have tried all the methods and I’m thinking prong might me the last resort when she’s old enough.

[@zelina6595]

I wouldn't use a gentle leader on a dog that as the kind of reaction to it that yours has to that tool. Even with proper conditioning some dogs can't stand the pressure on there nose. You could try using a martingale collar or slip collar if you haven't already and see if your dog responds to that (obviously research the tool and know how to use it prior to putting it on your dog. If you do decided to use a prong collar, use a Herm Sprenger as they are the best brand of prong collar that you can buy, and do research on how to use one properly. Anyways, best of luck with your puppy

[@goliard84]

I use slip leash for training and martingale on walks but the thing is not equipment but technique: directional changes work better than leash pops this’s why I’m not using the prong. My idea is to not let the dog choke himself on a collar but to redirect him to the side and behind me. I’d consider gentle leader on a otherwise calm dogs because putting it on can be dangerous with some specimen.

[@kanegsd1705]

There are many ways to rome, Prongs are good tools to. What ever tool ore methods works for you is what you should use.

[@STWLandO]

Im going to judge by your spelling you've done little or no research into the topic

[@kanegsd1705]

@@STWLandO so by your logic, everyone who is not good at your language are not able to do research? It is safe to say your comment is showing your intelligence.

[@thatonetransguy2297]

I use a prong collar with my dog, but I'm in the process of training out of it, but when I tried out the head collar she became aggressive/reactive on walks. She had never been reactive before and only tried to lunge at dogs when she had the head collar on.

[@bjflips]

Same with my dog, it seemed like he felt embarrassed

[@dp1569]

Why are you trying to train him out of it? Just curious.

[@minecraftmadison462]

......... THAT’S ANIMAL ABUS- 🤭 Check out Is It Me Or The Dog’s prong collar vid

[@kweenjade01]

Switch back for you and your dogs safety. Not all tools are effective for the same dog and the situation. Head collars aren't for all dogs, prong collars are definitely not for ALL dogs BUT you have to do what works for u.

[@BlizzardxThexWolf]

@@minecraftmadison462 Positive reinforcement only training is boosh. Balanced training is much better.

[@janewatson1457]

Thanks for your advice I use all the same training words you have suggested. I use touch and she is very good at it. I will give it a go. Thank you once again I appreciate you taking the time to write a response. Glad i am not the only one facing these challenges. I have just ordered the next size up to see if that helps. 🐾

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there, Jane! You should try putting the Gentle Leader on then feeding her, and taking it off. Put the Gentle Leader on and play a game of tug, then take it off. Building a positive association with having a head collar on will be helpful. After she’s had a few sessions wearing the GL just to do rewarding things, then try a training session. Remember to only put the GL on when you are working on a skill, or rewarding for the reasons I mentioned above. Persistence with your walking exercises will speed up your progress. Using your voice to support between rewards will also be helpful to keep her moving! Happy Training! ~Ken

[@suterfire]

Random: I walk my medium-sized bully-shepard-hound- Chihuahua mix with the gentle leader. Yesterday, we encountered a lose dog on the walk. The gentle leader gave my dog a lot of freedom of motion which made the encounter with the lose dog less stressful for her. Luckily, I had a of treats on hand, and the encounter turned out positively for both dogs.

[@PowderyloveASMR]

Gentle leader did nothing for my dog. In fact she went crazy on our walk when she saw a group of dogs and rubbed the skin/ fur off her nose...

[@yeeluvspizza]

If your dog isn't giving you complete respect in thresholds/doorways... no need to rush to walking.

[@Chirpingcherub]

Prong collars are illegal where I live but I don’t think they should as any equipment can hurt a dog I have seen people yank their dogs with a head halti the dog squeal in pain it’s just sad.

[@thatonedog819]

I've seen that with a flat. Hell, my dog ran to the end of her leash on tile and she flipped over and landed on her back.

[@minecraftmadison462]

Bruh prong collars hurt with the slightest yank

[@magical_spirit_wolf]

@@minecraftmadison462 you know whats worse? the dog pulling really hard on any collar for a long period of time vs a short correction that lasts less than a second and interrupts a dogs high excitement state of mind? Dogs necks have been injured even with a flat collar. Any collar is dangerous. Its really just long pressure vs short correction. You decide what is worse.

[@minecraftmadison462]

@@magical_spirit_wolf you know you could just teach it not to not poke it

[@mirameyer9118]

@@magical_spirit_wolf THANK YOU. first time i've seen this explained correctly in the whole damn comment section. prong collars are like the pitbulls in the collar world it seems. too many sensitive and uneducated people.

[@MsPhillyG]

Thank you,. I've always thought the gentle leader was the besr. My American bulldog is 108lbs and she is solid muscle and she is a bull while walking or bucking.

[@McCannDogs]

Wow, she’s a big Bulldog! Being able to control her head is so helpful I’m sure. The Gentle Leader does a good job of being able to guide her with very clear directions. Glad you enjoyed the video. Happy Training! ~Ken

[@MsPhillyG]

@@McCannDogs Thank you so much for responding. I've stopped walking her because she is so powerful. Every time I go near the door she rushes me so I mainly have to sneak out when she's not looking. I'm going to try first in my backyard before venturing out. Also my Male Pit bull is a huge strong dog. He is dog aggressive so I use a choke chain and the no pull harness at the same time and it works. So I walk him with two leashes and it works until he sees another dog. Any suggestions?

[@McCannDogs]

@@MsPhillyG If you're finding that you are having that much trouble walking her, ten it may be time to look for a trainer to help with both of your dogs. Look for a professional behaviorist in your area with the aggression issue with your male. Someone who has lots of experience with a variety of different dogs and a good history of success. In regard to your door dashing issue with your female, here is a link to a video we recorded a while ago that will help you train through that issue: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qF7FqYaXlJmVaKs Happy Training! ~Ken

[@MsPhillyG]

@@McCannDogs Thank you so much for your help. I will definitely watch the video and look for a trainer. He is almost 3 and a pretty hefty boy. My Alpha female Shepherd/ Pitty mix passed lastyear and he stepped up in her spot but not in a good way. I will definitely start looking.

[@janewatson1457]

Thank you the feeding idea is brilliant - oh why didn't I think of that - what a numpty ( just to clarify me not you.) Tried walking her today again with great gusto prior to your response - let's just say I gave my neighbours great pleasure observing her antics and mine trying to look in control. I'm too old to end up on the floor however I can see it happening. Thank you all advice greatly appreciated again I will action all your advice.

[@McCannDogs]

Glad to hear I have sparked some gusto in your training, now just make sure to be careful;) Happy Training! ~Ken

[@e_miguel_8317]

I tried a gentle leader dog collar for around 2 months and I could control the dog but she would still pull slightly the leash would always have tension and she would always try and take it off. I switched to a prong collar 12 days ago and the dog has behaved well ever since it doesn’t hurt my dog she stopped pulling and it doesn’t irritate her like the gentle leader collar. Every dog is unique tho but I’d like to say for my German shepherd the prong collar was just a better fit and I see prong collars being used with k9 dogs way more than any other for training.

[@ranrachvl]

I switched to an e collar with my staffy. It was a miracle worker.

[@moirhann]

Great subject :) Thank you .

[@McCannDogs]

Thank you, moirhann! I’m glad you enjoyed it. Happy Training! ~Ken

[@tgd412w4]

I did not understand, why was the prong collar excluded as a solution?

[@joanstanley6183]

Great information, but the background music is really distracting.

[@labrakadabra9026]

I trained my dog not to pull with a standard harness it just takes time and patience. Each time she would pull in the other direction and get distracted I would pull in the opposite direction. So now she knows when she pulls she really isn't going anywhere.

[@JSPaek]

👍that's pretty much how you train a dog to walk nicely on leash regardless of which tool/collar you use.

[@ezzaSD]

I have tried halters, flat collars, harnesses and front clip harnesses. None of them have reliably worked to teach my dog to stop pulling along with positive reinforcement training. The halter worked best but even after a year of using it, my dog hated it being on her face even if a leash wasn't attached. More recently I moved to a martingale since my dog can slip normal collars and its helped a little but when she does pull, it will likely cause damage to her throat which I don't want. I have a prong collar arriving tomorrow and I'm going to see how well she takes to it and if it's the right tool for us. It doesn't cause harm to the throat or neck which is a huge plus and allows me to give very precise 'yes' and 'no'. Obviously I wont just throw a crappy, oversized one on her and hope for the best as that will likely cause damage. I'll continue to use positive reinforcement as I always have along side positive punishment, Negative punishment and negative reinforcement. What I don't understand is why people are against the use of these tools when they don't cause damage when used correctly and are training tools, not quick fixes. Wouldn't you rather teach people how to use these tools correctly other than saying they're bad and if a person continues to use them, end up using them incorrectly?

[@ranrachvl]

I tried everything with a very strong willed rescue staffy. Then I found an e-collar. The mini educator. Wow, I absolutely love my dog's behavior now. She is absolutely perfect on walks, off leash walking, etc. I can take her anywhere. It's wonderful. When you find the tool that works for YOUR DOG. it is a total breakthrough.

[@Smuvbee74]

I agree with everything you said. My dog pulls so hard on the martingale collar she chokes herself. I ordered a HS prong collar and hope this works for her. I want to eventually go to the e collar. I have been researching both heavily and think they are the right tools for my dog. I contacted a trainer yesterday and he advised me for the 1st week to just introduce it to your dog and give her treats and food around it. That way it’s a positive thing and she will grow to love the collar. He has a few videos on KZbin under House of K9 and he shows you how to really properly fit the collar on your dog. It’s not like what you would thing. He also shows you how to do the fist few training sessions with your dog to introduce them to the collar in the right way. I think his method is best over all the trainers I have watched. All the rest just slap it on the dog and begin training. That seems rushed to me.

[@chillyforest69]

I know I’m late but I just want to say when I got a head collar my dog got rashes and infections and became VERY reactive until I used a prong collar I’m not at all saying you shouldn’t use one but I’m also saying that sometimes these aren’t the best options sometimes prong collars aren’t and sometimes head collars aren’t however I just wanted to say how well it worked for me

[@zoecachola8322]

Yep i have a similar experience like this, since i own a doberman and he is such a hard puller. I have tried using the head collar and after awhile, i started to see some wounds around his snout area where i place the head collar. Now i am trying to look into the prong collar since they say it actually works.

[@chillyforest69]

@@zoecachola8322 it does work although it does take training along with it I recommend you look into herm springer prong collars they have a website and I recommend stainless steel it’s a bit pricey but it works for the long run

[@minecraftmadison462]

Prog cooler hurt the dogs neck try putting it on your’s

[@chillyforest69]

@@minecraftmadison462 I already have doesn’t hurt at all

[@minecraftmadison462]

@@chillyforest69 ohh you must have the rounded one

[@medline5140]

You are exactly RIGHT!! I have used the prong collar and it worked in the beginning but as my German Shepard is aging the collar DOESN'T work! I noticed my dog has skin sensitivity issues with the prong collar and It was ultimately hurting her than helping me. I recently purchased the Gentle leader and I can't wait to give it a try. I really want the pulling to stop so that I can walk her with ease.

[@thatonedog819]

There are prongs made of materials to help with allergies

[@minecraftmadison462]

@@thatonedog819 it’s not allergies it’s stabbing the dogs neck

[@minecraftmadison462]

Yes

[@thatonedog819]

@@minecraftmadison462 no it's not. A quality prong has rounded edges and you should not be using enough force to stab a dog in the first place. If you are, you shouldn't own a dog in the first place. I've seen dogs hung by a prong (VERY WRONG and should never be done with anything other than a special harness designed for lifting a dog) and it still never pierced the skin.

[@minecraftmadison462]

@@thatonedog819 I have only seen the sharp ones sorry lol

[@argentinamausten9912]

Great video!

[@becsap9151]

They're both harsh... The dog should have a collar that matches it's weight distribution and allows the handler to safely stop in place. They should not pinch, poke, shock, or displace the dog's natural postures. A collar is for guidance, not for dicipline.

[@ratsinyourwalls]

Just let people do what they wamt

[@joylane5560]

We both need to be safe, and that is hard when your new rescue is lovely at home, but you cant walk it safely.

[@tdavey5599]

my dog doesnt pull--he is NUTSO, and I do mean NUTSO

[@lorihoffman6150]

Ok so do sell the snap around collar? I’ve never heard of it? Where to get it? Does it tighten up like a martingale collar? Do you ever use those? Or slip leads? You don’t like those? What is your view on prong collars? And slip leads?

[@janewatson1457]

Thanks for this video. Tried my 6 month old Doberman on a halti and she struggled with it. So purchased the gentle leader. Went through correct fitting high behind the ears allowing you to place 1 finger under. Nose strap to the end of the nose forming a V not an L on the head. Been using it for a week and going nowhere fast. She pulls backwards then forward swings her body out. Tried giving her a loose lead but no chance she then pushes herself through my legs from the front and back. Have you any suggestions please I am at a loss. I have used a head collar for years on my Danes and never never had this behaviour. I give encouragement and also tried firmness nothing appears to help. I would have thought she would have settled down by now.

[@kabish0603]

My dog will do the same thing from time to time, especially with strangers after they start to pet him. The biggest thing I do is to get him into a sit and then a look at me/focus. He's also trained for the word "settle" which I use when he gets too crazy or over excited. Once I get him focusing on me "normally" we can go about our business and keep walking. I always use "touch" as well when I start training sessions, kind of just lets him know that its training time and gets him more into that mode. So if a sit and focus don't seem to work I'll try doing touch (where he just touches my hands with his nose) or I'll have him do a shake or something of that nature to get his mind off the halter. Just my two cents and what works for me and my 11mo old.

[@malinataylor9184]

The martingale is another great tool to use!

[@BlueSky-di2gw]

Nice tips ty👍👍👍👍👍

[@McCannDogs]

Thank you, Blue Sky! I'm glad you enjoyed it, Happy Training! ~Ken

[@ferreribabe94]

Hate to tell you this, but my last service dog hated head collars, no matter much I tried conditioning him to wear it. On the other hand he was more than happy and enthusiastic to work/train in his herm sprenger prong collar. Keep in mind any training tool can be dangerous if used incorrectly, yes that includes flat buckle collars and head collars.

[@McCannDogs]

That’s a good point, KigerMustangLover94! Any piece of equipment can be dangerous if it isn’t used correctly. Much like a new pair of glasses, a head collar can feel uncomfortable at first. There are lots of things you can do to get your pup used to the head collar that have little to do with training. A prong collar is a more difficult tool to transition off of. Which makes it a strange choice for a “service dog” who will require independence. I have used prong collars in the past. The most important thing I learned is that they don’t fix anything. You still need to work on your timing, and the praise and rewarding of your dog when they’re making a good choice. The prong simply applies a negative stimulus when the dog makes a mistake. That’s such a tiny part of the training process. Don’t let that fool you into thinking your dog will have reliable skills in a variety of environments when they’re off-leash. It’s just not the case, and I don’t want you to put you or your dog in a dangerous situation! Thanks for watching! Happy Training! ~Ken

[@ferreribabe94]

@@McCannDogs I'll take that with grain of salt. I've tried everything for months to get my dog used to it. He was real sad when I put the head collar on and it affected his service dog tasks. Not every tool works for every dog. And if you really know how a prong works and how its designed you'd know that it designed to simulate a dog's mouth/teeth. In nature thats what they use to correct other dog/puppies for inappropriate behavior.. So naturally a correctly used prong collar speaks a language that most dogs understand more easily. They aren't painful when used correctly. I'll admit, just like any other training tool they aren't for every dog. Depending on the dogs disposition and personality. But I firmly believe they are a safer tool to use than most other training tools because they distribute pressure around the entire neck evenly and require very minimal correction when used. I think using this tool in combination with a reward can create a nice balanced dog like it did with my last service dog.

[@servicedogonabudget180]

Agreed if you have a service dog then it's actually better for your dog to be on a prong rather than a head halti. While the head halter did "work" for my last sd she actually could NEVER be transferred to a normal flat collar. I tried this several times and thought that it was my fault that i was doing something wrong untill I got my current SD. I used a prong with her and still do occasionally but the transfer from prong to flat was so much easier. Shes 6 months old and has a almost perfect heel and while working on a flat collar all i have to do is shake my leash to give her a nonverbal cue to stop doing whatever it is shes not supposed to, she focuses back on me and actually loves her prong. It has deepened our relationship and if you get the right one like you said the spensor one made in Germany(i cant remember the name) it has no negative effect. Also i have found that with my first sd's head halter on she will not task at all. She cant alert me anymore and it has basically ruined my dog. Yes i did use it right behind the ears on the base of the neck, little pressure if she messed up, but there are limitations on it i have found that you can only really teach heel with it, you cant really correct anything else, like if i wanted her to lay and she didnt then gentally pulling on her collar would cause her to stand, where with a prong i can do a quick correction and my other dog will lay, sit, heel, or anything i need her to do. Also it helps with them backing up, my dog on the halti will turn around instead of backing up, while my dog on a prong will back up just as she was tought. I have given both of these dogs similar training and as i know they are different dogs I still expect them to be able to do the things i taught them with or without training tools. Before the head halter my first service dog was good (tasked on and off leash but we had trouble with heeling she lagged behind me a bit)and i wish that i had never gotten a head halti for her. As soon as i took it off and slowly started to transition to a flat collar she actually got worse with her heeling( she became dependent). It was a video like this that got me to get one to. Now my 6 month girl can wear a muzzle. For her safty shes a pittie mix and I'm not going to let anyone try to say she bit them for any reason. She still tasks in it and only finds it slightly uncomfortable but is almost completely acclimated to it. Also head halters are ment to redirect sort of like a prong and since the bridge of a dogs nose is sensitive any pressure on it is extremely painful to them, no dog is completely predictable and if the collar is no longer tolerable then they might try to get it off violently and hurt themselves. You can let go of the leash but as long as that strip is across there nose then they will keep fighting where with a prong and you have a problem you can drop the leash and wait as long as your in an enclosed place. Also a head halti isnt teaching heel its just giving a temporary thing where you can reward in heel and give good things so the dogs know where their supposed to be. But as soon as that nose strap leaves so does the training. Im sure some people can make it work but if it affects your dogs training negativity then its not a good training tool for you. You cant act like this will work for everyone and is the perfect. Some dogs work good with prongs, others with e-collars, and some with head halti's but it depends on whats right for your dog. Dont force your dog to use something that is going to cause them discomfort if you can avoid it with a differnt tool and still get good results.

[@jesuisunepommedeterre4662]

Service dog Sapphire I have to agree with you wholeheartedly. I had used a head collar on my oldest GSD when he was young to start him out on his basic leash manners. They were becoming pretty popular and I wanted to see if they were really more humane than a prong. I didn’t think so. My poor dog would pull right through it, no matter many training sessions I did with him. It was embarrassing to be walking this poor dog that was snorting and coughing due to the way the pressure was applied on his face. And I hated that it took so long for the pressure to completely release if he pulled or turned his head. I felt I was just giving my dog mixed signals and setting him up for failure. So I went back to the trusted prong to build a solid foundation for off-lead walking and work. I’ve personally found its MUCH easier to transition dogs from a prong to flat collar/harness than any other training device. The pressure and release is quicker. It’s a very clear correction to the dog. Honestly, for the average dog owner, I feel the head collar just becomes a crutch for them. They never really transition a dog to a flag collar because they just feel the head collar works so why move beyond that? Personally, I chose to stick to the prong for my working dogs because I see great results with my dogs without breaking their spirits. However, is it for every dog? No. Some dogs are incredibly sensitive and might benefit more from a head collar.

[@servicedogonabudget180]

@@jesuisunepommedeterre4662 I think the bigges thing is the nose strap. Its nothing like a flat collar, it sits high up and on the nose and if you correct then its from the front. While a flat collar sits relatively low and corrections come from the side or back. This is a hige difference for a dog and while a prong or choke sits high up they are relatively the same and the corrections are similar. Transition takes less time and is doable. I'm afraid that if a owner with a reactive dog gets one of these then when the dog lunges forward quickly then it could break its nose

[@Silverbrze]

I've been looking for a head collar for my Old English Bulldogg, can you recommend one if they do have them for large short snout dogs?

[@joylane5560]

Hi, I am The 4th owner of my rescue golden retriever, who has now come from a farm. She is not leash trained and knows she is stronger than me. She is not interested in treats, just pulling me in all directions. I have had 4 big lovely dogs who lived happily with me to be old dogs, but this one is a real challenge to train, and walking her is unsafe for us both. Help please.

[@ricardourroz9322]

Hi ken. I have an unusual situation I think. I have a really sweet rescued Doberman. I don´t know if this is entitled as a puller but he walks a few feet in front of me and when he feels the tension he will not pull (maybe on rare occasions with a dog) so would that be a puller or what? He loves sniffing and exploring and I love him to do so, I do think that´s he´s highlight but I´d love him to do it in my sorrounding, not every time in front of me and have him wait for me. Would you recommend the gentle leader? Or how would you approach this?

[@ricardourroz9322]

And so a retractable leash is not a good idea ? besides the absurd negative reviews on them?

[@janetweeks5069]

Isn’t there a chance that if the dog jerks in an opposite direction hard and fast, that it could break the dog’s neck?

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there, Janet! The Gentle Leader should be used when your dog is on a 6’ leash. This will help you avoid your dog going so fast that the leash could cause them any harm. It is not to be used with a long line. The collar was designed by veterinarians who were looking for a pain free option that offered more control! Thanks for watching ~Ken

[@roqk6618]

See, thats where your sort of wrong. Dogs can snap their necks if they lunge in the other direction, because their heads pull around, and I bet that isn’t uncomfortable mate.

[@dainaclark3522]

I have seen more dogs be afraid of the gentle leader because they have had spinel injuries then be scared of a prong collar.

[@reagankrolczyk2498]

What brand of gentle lead is this?

[@tdavey5599]

walking my dog is not exhausting--it is IMPOSSIBLE...

[@-venus1027]

The gentle leader is really good but it creates scabs and scars below his eyes. Help :(

[@eileenneal3899]

I have the same problem!! He still pulls and gets a red line on his face:(

[@CKM1109]

I wrapped Teflon tape around the nose loop

[@-venus1027]

@@CKM1109 good idea! Thank yiu

[@andresmethusalem8556]

The guy does not explain how does the GL work. If it only redirects then its not adressing the problem and will NEVER fix the problem. All the best dog trainers in the world use pronge and ecollars. M. Ellis, B. Bellone, I, Balabanov - all world chapions in IGP sport use pronge and or e collar. Now why is that?

[@adriannalawrence5076]

Hello I get a lot of different answers for this like harness only etc ...What is your suggestion for a English bulldog puppy? And into adulthood

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there, Adrianna! A flat buckle collar is the best starting point for your training. It’s the kind of collar that your dog can wear every day and it is a good collar for training. If you need to have more head control, or you find you’re struggling with your “walking on a loose leash” training you can choose a collar that gives you a little more control. I talk about that idea in this video: Dog Collars For Training - kzbin.info/www/bejne/fmmThHZri6egl5Y Thanks for watching! ~Ken

[@adriannalawrence5076]

Thank you !!

[@minecraftmadison462]

Flat collars can hurt a dog and make it hard for them to breathe

[@mindheartmatrix2151]

My dog hates the gentle leader. He just rolls around and paws at his face and runs in circles trying to get out of it. So it's more annoying than the pulling!!!

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there, Mind Heart Matrix! This video will be helpful: I Tried A Gentle Leader To Stop My Dog From Pulling On The Leash kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5qbdmCGrKutbaM Happy Training!

[@calypsouchiha110]

this is a wonderful my mom thought me this stuff this is the best and I need your help I know how to use that stuff but one thing I am at my ant's house for a month cuz my grandmother needed my help with the 3 dog's and but I only need help with one my ant Barbra said that callie is not a puller but she is a hunting dog/ weimaraner and weimy's are smart but she did not bother training her so I knew she was lying and the dog has had no training and once I started training her she was wonderful but one thing she is a huge puller she has a half checked collar witch is a good choice but the leash witch is a leash that the a dog that does not pull and chase thing's should have witch is a retractable dog leash I told her that a dog that is not been trained should not have that kind of leash cuz they think their the boss she's also a launcher I could keep control over her but even I've almost lost control of her and when my grandmother took her out on a leash she almost took her in the water to get a bird luckily she's okay but I need help with this and their is no harness for her I looked for one but nun for her I would of had better control over her had she had a harness but their was nun PLS HELP ME WITH THIS 😭😭😭😭😭

[@calypsouchiha110]

and people's PLZ DO NOT USE A PRONG COLLAR IT IS BAD FOR YOUR DOG

[@FestivalFluter]

This is a terrific video, but the background music is terribly distracting. It adds less than nothing to your presentation!! Nails on a blackboard....

[@cafilornia3]

After two walks with the Gentle Leader collar, being very exact in its fit and being aware of keeping a loose leash except when doing quick corrections, my dog hates that collar with a passion; I absolutely cannot get it on him anymore regardless for treats or anything. I loved how much it helped! What do I do?

[@Mars-nd6wy]

Do some research maybe even contact a BALANCED trainer and get your dog fitted for a Herm Sprenger that thing will save your life

[@dp1569]

@@Mars-nd6wy I second this.

[@ranrachvl]

Or an e-collar, it was a life saver.

[@hailymaree4965]

Ya that just won't work I'd rather keep my dog happy she gets too stressed with that on.

[@diamondcb2728]

Not rrelated but if you don’t mind can you please give me a suggestion. My 80lb baby has become very aggressive. I feel strongly it is medical he has a bump on his head and has not been eating very much lately. His vet was unable to test the bump because he was too aggressive we have to go back when he’s on a sedative. She states she does not feel it’s medical at all she said he’s just an aggressive dog. She said he does not need a trainer but she is highly suggesting a behavioral specialist she says he has anxiety. No suggestions for me at this time to keep my one child safe that he has become aggressive toward no one else in the home however he is aggressive to 1 neighbor and his vet. People have suggested gentle leader or shock collar. I would appreciate your thoughts thank you for your time. My heart aches I have to protect my child more than anything but I don’t want to get rid of him I am in desperate need for help. My child is older we think he may be having jealousy issues when it comes to my child she hangs out at another house where there are other dogs. Of course we don’t know though.

[@lucypink6814]

Diamond Cb I’m not a trainer but that breaks my heart. Idk how much obedience you have done with him but working on that, being able to do duration downs first in the home and then in public and then into more crowded areas, once he is aware of what you expect from him you could introduce some kind of punishment for actively disobeying your commands, for example breaking the down without your consent. This is where not a shock collar but maybe a e-collar comes into play, one that offers a stimulus or vibration to regain focus to be able to guide the dog without physically touching the dog which could further escalate the situation, by giving him clear boundaries in a completely binary way you set him up for success and eliminate the chance of miscommunication. Best of luck !

[@joshuas637]

Your vet sounds like an ABSOLUTE MORON... take you dog to a new vet and make sure you specify with them that you dog will need to be sedated

[@nicolecampbell3780]

What is your opinion on martingale collars.

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there, Nicole! I like the martingale collars. I only use them once a dog understands not to pull on leash though. Using a flat buckle collar or snap around collar is a better option to use during training because it allows you to give your dog very specific information. This can really help your dog to learn that the pressure is either “on” or “off” with no grey areas in between. The width of the Martingale collar and the dynamic action aren’t nearly as effective for communicating that leash tension. Thanks for watching! ~Ken

[@janetweeks5069]

I am afraid of the gentle leader leash.

[@hannahhyslope7254]

My dad used to make me use a prong collar on my heeler Lucy who had fear aggression but I found that it was making it worse so I trained her on the gentle leader and she’s slowly getting more confident when on walks

[@lucypink6814]

Correcting a fearful dog is likely to send the dog further into a state of fear, when the main goal for fearful dogs is building confidence not knocking them down with correcting. But a prong collar can be a great tool for SOME dogs, for example a dogs that is very intense and has reactivity issues the prong would be a great way to break the fixation and re-engage with the dog to guide them into the proper behaviour. Using as gentle leader for a really intense dog you would be able to pull the dogs head but not necessarily break the fixation which could leader to further frustration so making the problem worse. But every dog is different and will require a different level of pressure to guide them, imho x

[@emmamemma4162]

What about using a harness?

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there, Emma! Really good question! We use harnesses on dogs after they’ve been trained to walk on a loose leash. Harnesses are great for getting on and off of the dogs quickly. But a harness doesn’t give the dog good information when you’re teaching them to walk without pulling. You also don’t have control of the dogs head if you want to turn them quickly for one reason or another. Lots of people use harnesses far too early in their dog’s training and it makes it harder for their dog to understand that keeping the leash loose is what gets them rewarded. You’re able to reward the dog easily, but they don’t feel the tension on the leash when they’re out of position. We always want to give our dogs in training very clear information, and we need to be consistent about it. So a collar is a better choice to do that! Thanks for watching! ~Ken

[@arseequem9326]

instead of talking to much,we need demonstration.

[@lorihoffman6150]

I just researched the snap around collar from paw mark. Is it similar or the same as a dominant dog collar and like a slip lead ? If not what’s the difference? Thx

[@po32007]

Hello Ken. Is there a way to see that Tuesday live stream again. I didn't get a chance to see part 2 and wanted to see part 1 again to work on a couple of things Kayl was showing?

[@McCannDogs]

Hey Darrel po32007! Check out our Twitter feed www.Twitter.com/mccanndogs I just posted a link to the replay for Part 1 there. You should see a card and an Endscreen link at the end of Part 1 to watch part 2! Thanks for watching! ~Ken

[@servicefrenchiexo7257]

I have a French bulldog that I’m training,so I can’t use a head halter or anything like that,what would you recommend?

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there! I would always begin training with a flat buckle collar. It's the kind of collar that you ultimately want to be using when your dog is listening well, and it can also be the most fashionable with an adorable Frenchie;) If you find you need more control than a flat buckle offers, you can certainly use something like the snap-around collar as mentioned in this video. Happy Training! ~Ken

[@maxepad3918]

If they pull like mine did you can use a no-pull vest, it picks their legs up so you can teach them control.

[@Angelpawsofautism]

What would be the best collar for a dachshund mix? She has a long neck but pulls like crazy. We have her in a harness out of fear the collar is choking her when she does choose to pull. She could be described as a reactive dog. Would a gentle leader be the best option for her?

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there, Brooke Barnes! Using a flat buckle collar is always a good starting point, even for dogs with a longer neck. But if you feel like you need to have more head control, then using a gentle leader would be a great way to work on some of that loose leash walking! Thanks for watching! ~Ken

[@ellamay6405]

sorry but i will never use a halti or gentle leader on my dogs. they respond perfectly to a prong collar or slip lead. they get excited when i put their prong chains on, whereas the dogs at the daycare i work at - they're all so opposed to having a halti on them that we use them to stop the dogs from excessive barking. (it was not my idea at all, that's just how the daycare is) but regardless, i have never seen a good solid long term outcome from a gentle leader or halti style contraption. do schutzhund trainers need gentle leaders to get that perfect heel? no, because the dog is never on a loose leash with those. big thumbs down for this, especially using a flat collar on a dog that pulls - all the pressure is on the trachea.

[@saskiamalminen]

I can't believe prong collars are legal in some countries

[@thatonetransguy2297]

When used correctly it can be a great training tool, the problem is when people don't use them correctly. When used/fitted incorrectly they can be harmful.

[@McCannDogs]

Hi there, Allison! What’s important is that there are better options. Specifically, there are collar options that are much easier to transition off of. Ultimately we want to have the freedom to have our dogs listen whether they’re on leash or off. Using these other collar options make that process easier when progressing through your training. Thanks for your comment, and thanks for watching! ~Ken

[@roqk6618]

lmaooo. the prong collar is best in my opinion. Flat buckle, snap thing, both chokes and causes damage to the trachea. The head collar can snap a dogs neck, prong collars are best, I should know.

[@kedamono8616]

@Savannah Scott what? Why?

[@queendarkness124]

BS

[@wookehdookeh]

You failed by not accepting how to properly use prong collars. Gentle leaders/haltis can snag and rip fur out even if properly closed under dogs snout. This gave me a huge laugh. Try walking a strong dog that weighs 50-150 pounds. You will fall badly.

[@McCannDogs]

Hey Lissa! We do it every day😉. This will help you understand: Using A Gentle Leader To Stop Your Dog From Pulling kzbin.info/aero/PL7BBgLulherm_nlYgPdHWgfFBmFgLUfz4 Happy Training!