Introducing the PupSensei Head Collar—your new best friend in gentle and effective dog training! This guide will walk you through fitting the head collar, helping your dog get comfortable with it, and using it to its full potential.

Why the PupSensei Head Collar Works Effectively

The PupSensei Head Collar is designed to give you gentle yet effective control over your dog. Unlike a regular collar or a harness that attaches lower on the neck or around the chest, the head collar attaches at the highest part of the neck and around the nose—areas that are naturally less powerful than the lower neck or chest. This placement allows for more subtle guidance with less force, making it easier to redirect your dog’s movements without causing strain. By guiding from the nose, you encourage smoother walking behavior while helping your dog learn to follow your lead comfortably.

How to Fit the PupSensei Head Collar

Prepare the Head Collar: Hold the head collar open, ensuring the nose loop hangs down like a "T."

1. Position the Neck Strap: Place the neck strap high on your dog's neck, just behind the ears. Gently adjust any loose skin and coat from under the strap.
2. Check the Fit: The neck strap should be snug, so that only one finger can fit under it. Ensure the strap doesn't rotate around the neck. If it does, adjust it to avoid chafing.
3. Adjust the Nose Loop: Remove the neck strap and slide the nose loop through the center ring. Tip: Have some treats ready to make the process enjoyable for your dog.
4. Encourage Your Dog: Hold the nose loop open and reward your dog with a treat as they place their nose through it. Then remove the collar, and repeat this action a few times until your dog associates wearing the collar with a positive reward.
5. Secure the Collar: Snap the neck strap back in place. Make final adjustments by sliding the snap clamp up for the perfect fit. The nose loop should be positioned so that if gently pulled forward, it reaches just to the start of the wet part of your dog’s nose, without extending further. The loop should fit securely without being able to slide off. If it does slip off or move too much, tighten the snap clamp slightly for a secure, comfortable fit.
6. Final Adjustments: When properly fit, the head collar forms a "V" from the side, with the center bar over the tracheal area.

When Walking: When using the head collar during walks, there should ideally be no tension on the collar. The leash should hang down in a relaxed "J" shape. If your dog begins to pull, gently redirect them sideways rather than pulling up or back, ensuring a calm and controlled response.

Getting Your Dog Comfortable

Using a PupSensei head collar might be new for your dog, so gradual acclimatization is key. With patience and consistent positive reinforcement, your dog will soon associate the head collar with fun outings. Eventually, whenever you bring it out, they should get excited to wear it because the head collar means it's time for enjoyable walkies!

• Start Slow: Allow your dog to wear the collar for short periods while engaging them with positive activities. Don't go for a walk the first time your dog wears the head collar.
• Use the PupSensei Lick Mat: Apply peanut butter or yogurt on the lick mat as a treat after fitting the head collar. This distracts them and creates a positive experience. Remove the collar once they are done enjoying their treats, to end the experience on a positive note.

• Reward and Praise: Continuously reward your dog with treats and praise as they get used to the collar. Once you notice they get excited when they see the collar, it is time to go for your first walk!
• Be Patient: It's natural for your dog to initially resist the head collar, as it prevents them from pulling and freely roaming as they please. The purpose of the head collar is to gently redirect their focus and take control of their movements. With patience and consistent use, your dog will gradually adjust to this change and learn to walk calmly on a leash without pulling.

 

Effective Use of the PupSensei Head Collar

Once your dog is comfortable, it's time to put the head collar to good use:

• Gentle Walks: Use the head collar to guide your dog during walks, reducing pulling and increasing control.
• Training Sessions: Incorporate the head collar in training sessions to reinforce good behavior.
• Behavior Correction: If your dog tends to jump or lunge, the head collar helps in redirecting their attention without strain.

Final Thoughts

Fitting and using a PupSensei head collar correctly can transform your training experience. Remember, patience and positive reinforcement are key to your dog's success. By following these steps, you'll ensure a safe, comfortable, and productive experience for both you and your pup.

Explore our PupSensei Lick Mat for an enjoyable training session, and discover the full range of PupSensei products designed to enhance your dog's life!