There is a difference between halters and gentle leaders, even though they may look similar. Each of these alternative leashes has several key differences. Here’s a quick rundown:
Halters fit more loosely. Many dogs tolerate these head collars better for this reason. However, this also means that halters are easier for your dog to escape than a gentle leader. If your dog is a bit more rambunctious, then you may want to consider a gentle leader over a halter.
Gentle leaders are more adjustable. Halters are much harder to adjust and may not fit all dogs. However, gentle leaders are far easier to use and adjust. You can usually get them to fit most dogs pretty easily.
Halters have different ring locations. Halters have a ring right under the dog’s chin, which makes it easier to control the dog and prevents the risk that you’ll turn their head too sharply, which can cause injuries. In other words, halters are safer in this regard.
Gentle leaders are more varied. This type of head collar has been around forever, so there are a lot more different options available than head halters. For this reason, there is a higher likelihood that you’ll find the right product for you. Furthermore, there are also more training resources available, which is vital for proper use.
Gentle leaders are easier to get off and on. They are designed with easy buckles and can be slipped on and off easier. Therefore, even if your dog doesn’t love these head collars, they are much easier to utilize.
Gentle leaders are (surprise!) more gentle. While they don’t provide you as much control over your dog’s movements, they are much gentler and less likely to cause injury. Therefore, they are better for those that don’t want to spend much time learning how to use them. Unlike a halter, they aren’t likely to cause injury when used incorrectly.