One of the best and the worst things to happen for dogs in the last century has been the invention of the invisible fence ®. (The term Invisible Fence ® is actually a brand name or trademark for Invisible Fence Company, but so most people recognize it as a type of fence.) Other terms are electronic dog fence, underground dog fence or even electric dog fence.

How is the electronic dog fence the best thing for dogs?

I have seen so many dogs receive the freedom to run and play and be happy in their yards. I see these dogs actually get to interact more with their family on an every day basis. I have seen dogs actually receive health benefits from “being loose” in their yards. None of this was possible when dogs are tied up or kenneled all day long.

How is the electronic or electric dog fence the worst thing for dogs?

I have seen well intentioned people buy these dog fences out of department stores and install them. They had no professional installation help or dog training. They would let their dogs loose and the dogs would either adapt to the underground dog fence or they would not. Many dogs were hurt, lost or killed because they ran through these systems without proper guidelines.

Please read that sentence again … “Many dogs were hurt, lost or killed because they ran through these systems without proper guidelines.” This did not and does not have to happen.

The invisible fence should never be used without professional help. Make sure you never buy one of these department store fences (usually made overseas as well). Never buy from an electronic fence company unless they have a real dog professional to help you train your dog. Don’t assume that they are professionals just because they show up at your door - many of them aren’t.

As a dog trainer, I recommend this type of fencing done the right way. Be a responsible dog owner. Do your homework and do not just blindly rush into this. Your dog will be happy you did.

The Gentle Leader is a dog leash or head collar (sometimes referred to as a Halti) that is used to stop your dog from pulling while walking your dog.

Will it actually stop your dog from pulling?

Yes. It will stop your dog from pulling while on walks. But it is not suitable for training and addressing behaviors. It doesn’t teach your dog anything. And you have not established yourself as your dog’s pack leader. The Gentle Leader dog leash should be used only as a restraining device. There is a huge difference between restraining a dog and training him.

How does the Gentle Leader dog leash work?

The Gentle Leader slides over the head and muzzle. When the dog pulls, pressure is applied from the back of the neck causing the dog to pull backward instead of pulling forward. Basically, the premise is that it controls the dog’s head. Where ever the head goes, the body will follow.

The advantages of the Gentle Leader are you get definite control of your dog on walks. The Gentle Leader is inexpensive. Although it does take getting used to, a dog can adapt to it rather quickly. You don’t have to be a dog trainer to get him to respond to it.

The disadvantages of the Gentle Leader are that it is a restraining device rather than a training tool. Its purpose is really only for walking your dog. The dog will probably become “collar smart” which means you will have to use the Gentle Leader every single time you want to take your dog for a walk. It is not designed to work on other dog behaviors. Your dog may go through some spastic reactions while learning to wear it.

You will hear claims from head collar enthusiasts and others state that it is a humane device for dogs. It is no more humane than other tools such as training collars, martingale collars and pinch collars if the person using them knows how to use them. In fact, I will go so far as to say that the latter tools will address more behaviors and make your dog more obedient than the Gentle Leader or head collar.

In conclusion, the Gentle Leader will help you walk your dog, but don’t count on anything more. If you expect more from your dog, I would advise investing in a little dog training. The money will be well spent if you get the right dog trainer and you commit to leading your dog.

If you want to purchase the Gentle Leader dog leash, I have found Amazon to be very competitive. Just follow this link below:

Gentle Leader