Glossary

Head halter

A strap that fits around a dog's nose and neck so that the leash gently turns its head, used to manage pulling.

Also called: head collar, Gentle Leader, Halti, headcollar, canine head halter

A head halter fits around the dog's muzzle and behind its ears, with the leash attached under the chin. Because a dog's body follows its head, a gentle pull turns the dog's face toward the handler and reduces pulling. Well-known brands are the Gentle Leader and the Halti.

It is not a muzzle. The dog can still pant, drink and take treats with most designs. Many dogs dislike it at first, so introduce it slowly with treats before using it on a walk, and never let the dog lunge to the end of the leash, which can jerk the neck.

It is a management tool, not training, and does not teach loose-leash walking. Dogs that are very reactive may need extra care. Ask a trainer to check the fit.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Loose-leash walking Walking with a dog beside or near the handler on a slack leash, without the dog pulling. Prong collar A collar of metal links with blunt prongs that pinch the neck when pulled, used for leash corrections and widely debated. Desensitization and counter-conditioning A training plan that exposes a dog to a fear trigger at a level it can handle while pairing it with something good, to change how the dog feels. Force-free A training approach that avoids pain, fear and intimidation and teaches dogs with rewards, patience and good management.