Gentle Leaders - Our dogs were fine with them but now they are scratching at them.?

Question

I love the control I have with them as we have a very independent husky and curious beagle but they are now scratching at them every few steps. It is taking all the fun out of walking them and I don't know what to do. We have adjusted the fit and know it is correct. Any other ideas?

Answer 1

Gentle Leaders are definitely a great product. There could be a number of things that aren't working right now. First, because it is summer the dogs might be in the water or could have moisture built up under the collar. This would cause it to irritate them so they would want to take it off. So, just make sure it's nice and dry.

Second, I know the Gentle Leaders that I have worked with did not come with any sort of padding. You may want to sew some pieces of felt on the underside of the Leader where it rests on the dogs' face. That will prevent irritation and chaffing.

Third, you may need bigger sizes. I know you mentioned that you had adjusted them but have your dogs grown since you bought them? They may fit in one spot but be unfortable in another spot.

Finally, some dogs just hate having things on their face. You will either have to be firm with them and teach them to accept the Leader or you will have to try a different product like a Martingale collar, a body harness, or a Halti (similar to the Leader but slightly different concept). Don't go the choke chain method, not only is it cruel but it has a very low success rate.

Good luck and I hope this helps a bit.

Answer 2

Try placing strips of moleskin (available at drugstores with the foot care products) on the inside of the nose straps so that they don't rub as much.

Or, reward the dogs with treats, praise, petting (whatever they really like) when they walk without fussing at the GLs.

Answer 3

Martingale collars. A lot cheaper than the gentle leader.