How to use a figure 8 dog lead — Long Post Alert! The headings are clearly marked, please choose the section that most resonates with you.
Buy the DREAM WALKER (Best Option)
Buy the SIMPLE LEADER (the one without integrated dog lead)
Buy Luxury Figure 8 Lead (head collar and lead in-1, fully padded)
Buy Plain Figure 8 head collar lead
What is a Figure 8 Head Collar?
The figure 8 dog lead headcollar derives its name from its shape, resembling the number “8” when laid flat. When properly fitted to your dog, it forms a loop around the muzzle, crosses under the chin, and extends upward on both sides of the head, eventually meeting at the top behind your dog’s ears. This design allows for a tightening effect when the dog pulls on the lead, helping to discourage pulling behavior and providing better control during walks.
How to use a figure 8 dog lead — Long Post Alert! The headings are clearly marked, please choose the section that most resonates with you.
Buy the DREAM WALKER (Best Option)
Buy the SIMPLE LEADER (the one without integrated dog lead)
Buy Luxury Figure 8 Lead (head collar and lead in-1, fully padded)
Buy Plain Figure 8 head collar lead
Call me to chat (07947 197713) about the best head collar to use to stop your dog pulling on the lead, we can help you chose and take an order over the phone.
What is a Figure 8 Head Collar?
The figure 8 dog lead headcollar derives its name from its shape, resembling the number “8” when laid flat. When properly fitted to your dog, it forms a loop around the muzzle, crosses under the chin, and extends upward on both sides of the head, eventually meeting at the top behind your dog’s ears. This design allows for a tightening effect when the dog pulls on the lead, helping to discourage pulling behavior and providing better control during walks.
This is a fantastic option for excitable dogs. Simple, yet highly effective, it often produces instant results and leads to calmer walks. The transformation it brings to your dog walking experience is remarkable.
Our figure eight leads have received excellent reviews from satisfied customers. Unlike harsh rope slip leads, our figure eight leads offer a gentler approach, ensuring your dog’s comfort and safety.
Remember, regardless of the type of head collar used, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Always pair it with a safety link for added security during walks.
Buying a figure 8 dog lead
Purchasing a standard or simple figure 8 lead is a breeze, as numerous online stores offer a wide selection of figure 8 head collar leads. However, our figure 8 leads stand out from the rest, as they are carefully handcrafted in the UK using premium materials.
Each lead is meticulously assembled with top-quality nylabond tkt 40 thread, ensuring superior durability compared to ordinary domestic thread. The use of cushion webbing and sturdy fittings further enhances the lead’s reliability and performance.
We take pride in the quality of our products, which is why we offer a lifetime stitching guarantee. In the unlikely event of a product failure due to a stitching fault, we will gladly replace the lead free of charge. You can trust in the long-lasting and dependable performance of our figure 8 leads.
Fitting a figure 8 dog lead
This particular type of dog lead forms a figure 8 shape when laid out on a surface. The figure 8 consists of two loops, one for the dog’s nose and the other for its head/neck. The lead is attached to the neck loop, allowing you to guide your dog comfortably.
Although it may appear that the lead is designed for leading in one direction, it is entirely versatile. You can lead your dog from either the left or right side of you, or even switch sides based on how your dog prefers to walk. This flexibility ensures a pleasant walking experience for both you and your furry companion.
How tight should a figure 8 dog lead be?
Proper fitting of any dog equipment is crucial for achieving the desired results and ensuring it functions correctly. This is especially true for headcollars and harnesses, where a snug fit is essential to achieve the intended outcome.
For headcollars, a proper fit is neither too tight nor loose. As mentioned earlier, they will not work effectively unless they fit snugly.
In the case of a figure 8 type headcollar, if a dog continues to pull, it will tighten, leading to discomfort and possible rubbing, depending on the material used.
To address these concerns, I offer a range of soft headcollars that are less likely, if at all, to cause any rubbing on your dog’s face. Harsh webbing, commonly found in headcollars, can easily cause injuries to dogs that persistently pull, even with a headcollar on. My soft headcollars aim to provide a more comfortable and safe alternative for your furry companion.
The anatomy of a basic figure 8
In the image above, you will notice the bottom loop designed for the dog’s nose, while the top loop fits around the dog’s head/neck. It is crucial to position the lead at the back of your dog’s ears, rather than low on the neck like a collar.
The webbing section that crosses over is intended to rest under your dog’s muzzle area, and the ring ensures that the webbing stays in place. The top ring allows the lead section to move up and down, while the black tri-slide keeps the ring in the correct position to prevent the headcollar from becoming loose.
Figure 8 dog leads offer an affordable and effective solution for dogs that tend to pull on the lead. My figure 8 dog leads, in particular, have become best sellers, catering to various pulling on the lead issues. The standout feature of these head collars is the soft padding I incorporate, making them exceptionally comfortable for dogs. As a result, even dogs that were previously averse to wearing head collars often become more tolerant due to the comfort provided by my figure 8 dog leads.
Training your dog to wear a figure 8 head collar
This section of the article serves as a comprehensive guide to train your dog to wear a head collar. If you’re in the process of researching headcollars or have recently purchased one and feel unsure about how to use it, don’t worry; we’re here to assist you.
When using the headcollar, focus on encouraging positive behaviours in your dog. When your dog displays the desired behavior, provide enthusiastic feedback using your voice and occasional treats. Remember, the key is to set up your training sessions in a way that increases the likelihood of your dog getting it right, making the whole experience enjoyable and rewarding for both of you.
This section includes a wealth of information, covering topics such as:
- Training your dog to wear a head collar.
- Utilising a headcollar for lead training.
- A general guide on headcollars.
- A buyer’s guide to help you make the right choice.
This article is ideal for you if:
- You are in the process of researching to buy a headcollar.
- You have concerns about purchasing or using one.
- You’re unsure about how to properly use or fit a headcollar.
- You want to introduce a headcollar to your dog in the best way possible.
For the training process, you’ll need:
- An open mind, being open to learning and trying new methods.
- Some treats or a favorite toy to reinforce positive behavior.
- A well-charged and powerful positive reinforcement marker, such as saying “good” or using a clicker.
- A quiet and distraction-free area for training sessions.
- Patience, as training requires time and consistency.
This article will guide you step by step, ensuring you and your dog have a positive and successful experience with the headcollar. Let’s get started on this exciting journey of training and building a strong bond with your furry friend!
Training your dog to wear a headcollar.
During the initial days of training with the head collar, it’s important to refrain from taking your dog on walks with it. Instead, focus on conducting a series of dedicated training sessions. For exercise, you have two options: either allow your dog to exercise off-lead in a controlled environment or use a long line to minimise pulling. This approach will help your dog become more accustomed to the head collar and gradually build positive associations with it before venturing on walks.
A history of head collars
The concept of a dog head collar draws inspiration from the halters commonly used on horses and other large farm animals for control purposes. For animals like bulls or sheep, where training might not be feasible, physical control through head halters became a practical approach. This technique has been adapted for dogs, especially those that are stronger or more challenging to handle.
One of the earliest methods of dog control involved using a rope lead crafted into a figure-eight shape. The loop was placed over the dog’s nose and around its neck, crossing under the chin. By pushing the stopper down, the rope stayed in place, preventing it from coming loose. This simple yet effective method gained popularity and has been widely used over the years, even in the late 1990s.
The Gentle Leader, a headcollar designed by R.K. Anderson in the 1980s and currently owned by Beaphar, is one of the first headcollars I encountered. Its unique design and straightforward approach make it a personal favorite. Another notable brand is the Halti, created in 1984 by Dr. Roger Mugford, who also drew inspiration from halters used for larger animals.
These headcollars have proven to be valuable tools for dog owners, providing enhanced control and making walks more manageable and enjoyable for both dogs and their handlers.
Does your dog dislike wearing a dog head collar?
To start with activities that do not involve formal training, especially if your dog is not fully comfortable with the head collar, consider these gentle techniques:
- Feed them while they wear the head collar. This helps associate positive experiences with wearing it.
- Engage in playtime with your dog, if they enjoy playing. This playful interaction can help create positive associations with the head collar.
- Allow your dog to wear the head collar while just exploring and wandering around the house or yard. This helps them get used to the feeling without any pressure.
- Plan activities where your dog can have a pleasant time without feeling concerned about the head collar, such as relaxing walks or gentle play in familiar surroundings.
During walks or other activities with the head collar on, if your dog attempts to rub or remove it, try gently pulling the lead upward. When your dog responds positively, makes eye contact, or walks nicely, offer enthusiastic praise like “good boy” or “good girl” to reinforce their good behavior.
By incorporating these gentle techniques and positive reinforcement, you can gradually help your dog become more comfortable and accepting of wearing the head collar. Remember to be patient and encouraging throughout the process.
Using clicker training or a type of ‘marker training’ to help your dog to tolerate the head collar
Don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through this process, and once you understand it, you’ll see that it’s not as challenging as it may seem. However, let’s begin with a little background information on what clicker training entails.
Clicker training revolves around the concept of using a distinct ‘click’ as a marker signal to communicate with your dog. This click serves as immediate feedback, letting your dog know that the specific action or behaviour they just performed is desirable and will lead to positive consequences. The marker signal, which is either the sound of the clicker or a chosen word like ‘good!,’ precisely marks a second in time, making it an incredibly accurate tool for training. As the trainer, you can quickly capture and reinforce behaviours by appropriately using the marker.
When introducing your dog to a clicker for the first time, they may initially react with curiosity. However, as soon as they associate the clicker’s sound with receiving a reward, its effectiveness increases dramatically. When utilised correctly, the clicker becomes a potent tool in shaping your dog’s behaviors and fostering positive training outcomes.
Moving forward, let’s explore the step-by-step process of clicker training and witness the remarkable results it can bring to your dog’s learning and behavior.
Charge the clicker up!
Let’s delve deeper into the concept of “charging” the clicker, and by charging, I don’t mean plugging it into an electrical outlet! Initially, the clicker may seem meaningless to your dog, as it’s an unfamiliar sound. However, because of its novelty, you can effectively utilise it as a marker signal to identify and reinforce behaviours you wish your dog to repeat. For this exercise, we’ll focus on teaching your dog to touch their nose to the head collar.
The process of charging the clicker involves creating a strong association between the sound of the clicker and receiving a reward. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start in a quiet and distraction-free area. Have a supply of small, tasty treats your dog enjoys.
- Hold the clicker in one hand and the treats in the other.
- Press the clicker to produce the distinct “click” sound, immediately followed by offering a treat to your dog. Repeat this several times, ensuring a consistent sequence of click-treat.
- As you repeat the click-treat sequence, your dog will soon start to associate the sound of the clicker with the imminent arrival of a tasty treat.
- Continue this process until you observe your dog eagerly anticipating the treat every time they hear the clicker.
Now that you have successfully charged the clicker, you can move on to the next step: teaching your dog to touch their nose to the head collar using clicker training.
- Show your dog the head collar and let them sniff it. Click the clicker immediately after they show any interest in the head collar.
- Offer a treat as a reward right after the click. This reinforces the positive association with the head collar.
- Repeat this process several times, clicking and rewarding whenever your dog shows any curiosity or interaction with the head collar.
- Gradually, wait for your dog to make more deliberate moves towards the head collar, like sniffing it or nudging it with their nose, before clicking and rewarding.
- As your dog becomes more comfortable with the head collar, start introducing the behavior of touching their nose to the head collar. Click and reward whenever your dog voluntarily touches their nose to it.
- With consistent practice, your dog will begin to understand that touching their nose to the head collar leads to positive consequences, making them more willing to repeat the behavior in the future.
Remember, clicker training is all about positive reinforcement, patience, and clear communication. Celebrate your dog’s successes with enthusiasm, and over time, you’ll witness significant progress in their learning and behavior.
For a more in-depth understanding of clicker training and to see it in action, I highly recommend watching Karen Pryor’s videos, as she is a pioneer in the field of clicker training and provides valuable insights on the technique. Her expertise will undoubtedly enrich your clicker training journey with your beloved canine companion.
Training the dog to place their nose into the nose loop
Now that we have successfully established the behaviour of your dog touching their nose on the head collar, it’s time to raise the criteria and introduce the next level of training. We’ll now work towards having your dog place their nose into the nose loop of the head collar, which is a vital step in muzzle training as well.
To achieve this, repeat the process we used in “training the touch”:
- Show the head collar to your dog and encourage them to interact with it.
- Click and reward every time your dog shows interest in the head collar, progressing towards nose touches.
- Gradually raise the criteria by rewarding only more deliberate interactions, like your dog placing their nose into the nose loop of the head collar.
By consistently reinforcing this new behavior, your dog will learn that placing their nose into the nose loop leads to positive outcomes, further strengthening their understanding of the training process.
Next, we’ll work on adding duration and introducing similar variants to the training:
- Click and reward your dog when they place their nose into the nose loop and keep it there for a few seconds.
- Gradually extend the duration of the nose-in-loop behavior before clicking and rewarding. This encourages your dog to sustain the action for longer periods.
- Introduce slight variations to the training, such as having your dog touch their nose to the head collar from different angles or positions.
Remember, if your dog gets confused during the training, it’s essential to remain patient and understanding. Short, successful training sessions are recommended, which may mean conducting sessions lasting only a few minutes at a time. Always conclude each session on a positive note, with your dog accomplishing a behavior they’ve mastered.
If, during a training session, your dog achieves a significant breakthrough or demonstrates exceptional progress, consider ending the session and rewarding them with playtime using their favorite ball or toy. This will further reinforce the positive experience associated with training and make it a fun and rewarding activity for your furry friend.
Throughout this training journey, always be attentive to your dog’s cues and reactions, ensuring that they feel comfortable and motivated to learn. With consistent effort, patience, and a positive approach, you’ll witness your dog’s skills and confidence grow, making the training process an enjoyable and fulfilling experience for both of you.
What not to do
Maintaining patience with your dog is paramount; never let frustration get the best of you, as it can only serve to frighten or intimidate them. Remember, losing your temper during training will disrupt the entire process and hinder progress.
When it comes to rewards, always consider what truly motivates your dog. While it may seem obvious, it’s crucial to use rewards that your dog finds genuinely rewarding. If you offer a reward of your choosing, but your dog shows a preference for something else, go with their choice. Utilising the incentives that resonate most with your furry companion will enhance their enthusiasm and engagement during training sessions. After all, the key is to keep the training experience enjoyable and rewarding for your dog.
Using a head collar for lead training
Lead training, particularly stopping a dog from pulling on the lead, is one of the primary issues my products aim to address. Unsurprisingly, a product that aids in a dog’s training becomes a best seller.
Among the top products that help with lead training are the dog training lead, which assists in recall (coming when called), and the head collar, which helps ease or eliminate pulling on the lead.
However, the core concern remains pulling on the lead, not the availability of equipment. While head collars are readily available online, finding an effective and suitable one can be challenging. Nevertheless, the most impactful solution lies in addressing the actual problem, and a head collar can play a crucial role in achieving that.
Yet, it’s essential to acknowledge that tackling this issue can be easier said than done. Not everyone possesses the expertise to train a dog, and while the internet offers advice, it may not always yield the desired results or be practical to implement effectively.
Managing distractions
Indeed, managing distractions plays a critical role in successful lead training for your dog. It is crucial to set the stage for productive training sessions by selecting an appropriate environment. Trying to conduct lead training in a place where you know your dog will be easily distracted is counterproductive. Instead, opt for a quiet and controlled area on your walk or even start in the familiarity of your garden, where distractions will be minimal.
As you and your dog make progress, gradually introduce more distractions into the training scenario. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and not rush the process. Increasing distractions too quickly can overwhelm your dog and hinder their learning. Take incremental steps and allow your dog time to adjust and build confidence.
If your dog makes mistakes or struggles to focus amidst distractions, it’s your responsibility to guide them back on track. Rewind to a point in the training where your dog fully understands the desired behavior. This ensures that your dog grasps the concept effectively and builds a solid foundation for further progress.
Remember, patience and consistency are key throughout the training journey. Celebrate your dog’s successes, no matter how small, and provide clear and consistent cues to help them navigate distractions more effectively. As you build trust and rapport with your dog, you’ll find that managing distractions becomes more manageable, and your lead training efforts yield rewarding results.
Training — Step 1:
Let’s begin this lead training journey by training your mind. It’s important to understand that teaching your dog to walk to heel is not solely about stopping them from pulling on the lead. Instead, it’s about guiding them to walk in a specific position. For this exercise, we suggest positioning their head or right shoulder by your left knee. Ideally, they should be slightly behind your knee, allowing you to guide them in terms of direction and speed.
Training — Step 2:
To set the stage for successful training, plan your sessions or walks in a calm and unrushed manner. Create an environment where you can engineer or encourage the right behavior, allowing you to capture that precise moment in time and rewarding the desired position.
Use the head collar to promote various behaviors, and reward them accordingly. While the main focus is on position, you can also look out for other positive behaviors such as eye contact, maintaining a loose lead, walking at a desirable speed, ignoring distractions, and displaying positive body language and calming signals like yawns, soft expressions, and tail wags. Recognise what constitutes a “win” for you and your dog and reward those unique behaviors.
Training — Step 3:
Now, let’s combine reward and position, but remember that timing is crucial in training a dog. Proper timing ensures that your rewards reinforce the desired behavior effectively. It’s essential to understand what rewards are, as they come in various forms. Take a moment to consider what positive reinforcements resonate with your dog, and how certain problem behaviors might have inadvertently been rewarded in the past.
For example, if your dog tends to run off, understand that the repetition of this behavior, combined with the emotional fulfillment and reinforcement from environmental stimuli, reinforces their tendency to repeat it. Instead of punishing your dog when they eventually come back, focus on positive reinforcement to encourage them to return willingly.
Whenever your dog displays positive behaviours listed earlier, promptly reward them. Timing and consistency in rewards are crucial to reinforce the behaviors you desire.
General Head Collar Buying Guide:
Now, let’s help you choose the ideal head collar for your dog. Our handy head collar guide is here to answer your questions and assist you in selecting the perfect head collar for various scenarios, behavior problems, or specific needs. Take some time to explore the guide, and if you still have questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for personalised assistance.
The Dream Walker
Our top recommendation that covers all avenues is the Dream Walker. This head collar is designed with ultimate comfort in mind, featuring soft padding around the dogs’ head section. It does not require any measurements and is gentle on your dog’s face and your hands. The classic figure 8 design is paired with the option to lead from the back of the head or under the chin. For added safety, you can attach the safety link in case your dog attempts to rub off the head collar.
Other Head Collar Options:
We offer a range of head collars, each with its own unique features and benefits to suit different needs. Here are some other options to consider:
- Figure 8 Lead: This head collar leads from the back of the head only and offers the ultimate luxury with padded ends. It is made from cushion web material.
- Dream Walker: Ideal for guiding from under the chin, this head collar features a padded noseband for a soft nose piece. It does not require any head measurement and can be used with or without the integrated lead under the chin. Additionally, it can be shortened or used at full length, similar to a Dog Training Lead Police Dog Style. The safety link can be added for added security.
- Simple Leader: This head collar is designed for maximum effectiveness when guiding from under the chin. It comes fully padded and features a figure 8 design that clips behind your dog’s ears. It is adjustable with a head measurement but can be further adjusted for a custom fit. The material used is cushion web.
Will they work?
While we do not provide guarantees, we can assure you that our head collars, especially the figure 8 design that all our head collars are based on, have proven to be effective. However, it’s essential to recognise that head collars are designed to be training aids, assisting you in teaching your dog to walk nicely on a lead.
If you encounter challenges or have specific requirements for your dog, we recommend choosing a padded head collar to increase the chances of your dog accepting it. Additionally, ensure that the head collar fits snugly and comfortably, preventing it from rubbing or obstructing your dog’s eyes.
My dog still pulls with a head collar on
Teaching a dog to walk to heel is indeed a challenging exercise. If for any reason the training route you’ve chosen isn’t yielding the desired results, seeking the right head collar becomes essential. We encourage you to read the above notes and reach out to us for guidance and options tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
My dog has sores on its face from wearing another brands’ head collar
Please consult your vet for proper advice if your dog has sores on its face. In a similar situation, some dog owners have found colloidal silver gel to be beneficial. However, it’s crucial to allow the area to heal before using any product that might cause rubbing or irritation.
Background
My journey in dog training began many years ago, but it was in 2003 that I truly immersed myself in the world of canine training. In 2006, I established the Springer School, dedicated to teaching pet owners essential and vital behaviours for their dogs. It was during this time that Meg K9 Dog Leads came into existence. Initially, our main focus was crafting dog training leads, catering to the specific needs of dog owners.
In 2003, I had the opportunity to learn clicker training from Paddy Driscol, who, in turn, had learned from the pioneering Karen Prior. This invaluable knowledge and training technique laid the foundation for my approach to dog training.
Shortly after launching Meg Heath Dog Leads, I introduced the Zed Collar, a head collar that quickly became a bestseller. Over time, we continued to refine and upgrade our head collars, with comfort and ease of use always being at the forefront of our design philosophy.
One of our most successful and enduring head halter designs is the Simple Leader, which has been thoroughly tested and remains a favorite among our customers. However, our dedication to innovation and improvement never ceases, leading us to create the latest addition to our line of head collars, the Dream Walker.
The Dream Walker head collar sets a new standard of comfort and functionality, not only for your dog but also for you as the person walking them. We understand the importance of a pleasant walking experience for both the dog and their owner, and this head collar delivers on that promise.
The head section of the Dream Walker is thoughtfully designed and fully padded, ensuring a gentle and secure fit. Additionally, its unique design is protected to guarantee its exclusivity and effectiveness in guiding your dog while walking.
We are proud of our journey in the dog training and accessories industry, continuously striving to offer products that prioritise comfort, durability, and effectiveness. Our commitment to excellence remains unwavering, and we look forward to serving dog owners with top-of-the-line products that enhance their walking experience with their beloved canine companions.
