3 Best Head Halters for Dogs that Pull
I’ll be honest… I’ve never needed a head halter with my Staffies. A front-clip harness was enough to stop them pulling. But at puppy training class, another Staffy owner showed up with a Halti and told me how it completely changed their walks.
When they were pups, people would shrug off the jumping and pulling. But as dogs get bigger, attitudes change. Walking became stressful, and they started taking the car to quieter spots instead of braving busy streets. A head halter turned that around.
With that in mind, for those of you who need to put a halt to pulling on the lead, here are…
3 Of the Best Head Halters for Dogs (Even the Strongest of Pullers)
1. Beaphar Gentle Leader Head Collar for Heel Work Training
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to use for puppies and small dogs.
- ✅ Helps teach proper heel work and leash manners.
Best for: Puppies and small breeds (or small dogs still learning leash manners)
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Helps train dogs to walk by your side
- Padded nose loop for comfort
Cons:
- Not as secure for very strong pullers
- May require patience for initial introduction
Why it stands out:
Whenever I see ‘patented design,’ it always piques my curiosity… so I did a little digging. What I found was interesting.
The Beaphar Gentle Leader is based on the original concept by Anderson and Foster and patented by pet behaviourist Roger Arthur Mugford (USD664309S1), licensed from The Company of Animals Ltd.
This, I reckon, is why it’s the head halter of choice for trainers and vets.
Here’s a critical point to note: it’s a training aid, not just a “stop your dog from pulling” device. Its real strength is teaching proper heel work and walking manners. To get the best results, sizing is important. Just like a collar, you should be able to fit a finger under both the collar and the dog’s snout.
2. Canny Collar for Extremely Strong Pullers
- ✅ Ideal for strong pullers, stubborn, or reactive dogs.
- ✅ Padded and comfortable for longer walks, distributes pressure evenly.
Best for: Strong pullers, stubborn, or reactive dogs
Pros:
- Secure fasteners on the collar prevent slipping
- Designed for maximum control
- Durable construction for daily walks
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier than minimalist designs
- Might take time to fit correctly, as the nose strap has a tendency to slip (not the collar though)
Why it stands out:
A Scotsman invented it (and I’m Scottish, so hear ye’) to get his daughter’s boisterous dog under control. Interestingly, it was originally designed for his Stallion, then scaled down for her dog. Since then, it’s gone global, helping over a million people finally take their dogs for a walk instead of the other way around.
The main difference from the Beaphar Gentle Leader is the lead attachment. On the Beaphar head collar, the lead clips to the nose ring, so when the dog pulls, its head is pulled sideways. The Canny Collar attaches behind the head, applying pressure evenly across the nose.
With additional padding, it’s more comfortable, distributes pressure evenly, prevents chaffing, and feels less “punitive” on the sensitive noses of strong pullers. It’s versatile and easier to introduce gradually.
Click here to see size charts, current prices, and pick a color that matches your dog’s personality.
3. GoodBoy Dog Head Halter with Safety Strap for Modest Pullers
- ✅ Padded neoprene nose loop prevents chafing and adds comfort.
- ✅ Safety strap adds extra security for dogs that still pull.
Best for: Medium-sized breeds that pull, especially those that still try to pull with a halter
Pros:
- Padded neoprene nose loop prevents chafing
- Safety strap adds extra security
- Quick and easy to put on
Cons:
- Limited sizing options
- Stretchy design means a poor fit can make it easier for dogs to paw off
Why it stands out:
The GoodBoy dog head collar feels like a step forward from the Beaphar Gentle Leader. The brand listened to common complaints and addressed them… swapping the side-loop leash connector for an under-chin ring (which gives you better steering control), and adding neoprene padding to reduce chafing on the nose.
It sits comfortably in the middle ground: more secure and humane than a minimalist halter, but not as heavy-duty as the Canny Collar. For strong pullers that still test boundaries, it strikes a balance… comfortable enough for the dog, but with the extra control you need on walks.
Click to check the latest deals, size availability, and colour choices.
A Buyer’s Guide to No Pull Dog Collars
Material:
Nylon is the toughest and most durable…. that’s what you’ll find on the Beaphar Gentle Leader and Canny Collar. Neoprene, used in the GoodBoy halter, adds comfort and weather resistance but can stretch slightly, so the fit needs to be snug. If you want a balance of strength and comfort, padded nylon (like on the Canny) is the best of both worlds.
Padding:
Padding makes a big difference for comfort. The Beaphar Gentle Leader has very little, which can rub on sensitive snouts if used too long. The Canny adds foam padding, spreading pressure evenly and cutting down on rubbing. The GoodBoy goes further with neoprene padding, which most dogs find softer and less irritating.
Security:
The Canny is the most escape-proof thanks to its behind-the-head lead attachment and built-in collar. The Beaphar Gentle Leader gives good control but can slip if not fitted exactly right, so a backup clip is smart. The GoodBoy adds a safety strap that clips to your dog’s regular collar… a useful safeguard, though not quite as escape-proof as the Canny for very strong pullers.
Measuring, Sizing, and Fitting:
Measure both your dog’s snout (just below the eyes) and neck for the best fit. The Beaphar Gentle Leader has the most sizes but demands precision. The Canny is the easiest to size, thanks to its adjustable nose band that works on a wide range of head shapes.
The GoodBoy is straightforward but limited in options, so double-check the chart before buying. Whatever you choose, make sure the fit is snug enough to remain at least a half-inch away from the dogs eyes.
Conclusion
For pups or even just modest pullers that just need a nudge to reign them in now and then, the Beaphar Gentle Leader strikes a good balance. For stronger pullers that pull even with a halter, the GoodBoy head halter is a step-up with its under-chin leash attachment and anti-chafe neoprene padding. For the strongest of pullers, the Canny Collar is the ultimate in no-pull collars that’s comfortable and humane to tame your dog on walks.
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FAQs
Are head halters safe for dogs?
Yes, they are safe for most dogs. Avoid them for dogs with neck injuries or chronic neck pain.
Are there any breeds that shouldn’t use head halters?
Yes, brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds should not wear these. No pull harnesses are better suited.
What is the best head halter for a dog that pulls?
For strong pullers, the Canny Collar is generally the most secure and effective option, if you only want a collar. A front-clip harness can address pulling behaviour too.
How long does it take for a dog to get used to a head halter?
It varies, but most dogs adjust within 1 week to 1 month with regular, short indoor sessions (about 5 minutes at a time) using treats and positive reinforcement.
