How to fit and get started with the Halti Headcollar

Step 1: To select the right size Halti Headcollar for your dog, we always recommend measuring your dogs’ neck and nose circumference and then referring to our sizing guides found on this page.

Initially your dog may object to wearing the Halti Headcollar, so it is important to introduce the headcollar to your dog slowly and ensure there is a positive association with it. Show them the Halti Headcollar and if they come forward to investigate it, verbally praise them and give a food treat. Hold the headcollar at the top of the noseband in one hand and with a food treat in the other hand, lure your dog’s nose through the loop and allow them to eat the treat. Once your dog is relaxed about doing this, gently place the noseband across their nose and give another treat. Gradually extend the amount of time your dog has the noseband on their nose before releasing the treat.

Tip: keep the hand that is holding the noseband still and only move the hand that you are luring with.

Step 2: Once accepted, you can secure the neck strap so that is it snug, but not too tight (see step 3 for further guidance). Remember to continue to treat your dog whilst wearing the headcollar. When you remove it, be offhand for the first few moments, so that all the praise comes whilst wearing the headcollar.

Repeats these steps, steadily increasing the time the headcollar is on the dog.

Step 3: Use the slider to adjust the neck strap fit, you should be able to get 1-2 fingers between the strap and your dog's neck. The noseband should sit halfway down the nose, away from the eyes, and without pressure on the dog’s chin allowing them to open their mouth fully.

Step 4: Use the slider to adjust the neck strap fit, you should be able to get 1-2 fingers between the strap and your dog's neck. The noseband should sit halfway down the nose, away from the eyes, and without pressure on the dog’s chin allowing them to open their mouth fully.

Step 5: We always recommend using a Halti double clip Training Leash for the best no-pull training experience. Attach the small clip on your leash to the ring under your dog’s jaw and attach the larger clip on your leash to your dog’s collar or harness.

Step 6: Take your dog to a quiet place and whilst holding the leash with both hands practice walking around using the headcollar. You should only engage the headcollar by gently pulling on the leash connected to the ring under their chin when your dog is actually pulling. Its unique patented design works by gently steering the dog’s head in the direction the owner wants to go in because by pointing the head in the desired direction the body has to follow. Continue to reward your dog when they are walking without pulling.

In the early stages of no-pull training, you may notice your dog trying to remove the headcollar if they are not fully acclimatized to wearing it. Be sure to distract your dog from doing this with treats or their favorite toy. This will reinforce the positive association and experience with using a headcollar.