head collar or muzzle?

1364 Views 2 Replies 3 Participants Last post by Skye'sMom, Jun 7, 2008

stephaniek

Discussion Starter · Jun 6, 2008

Unfortunately, I live in Ireland which has breed specific legisgation requiring 11 breeds of dogs, including GSDs, to wear a muzzle when in public. In practice, they accept halters/head collars as complying with the law. Most people I see around with GSDs don't have anything on them but a collar, but I am enrolling in a training class that won't allow us in the class if we aren't in compliance.

I hate the idea of putting something on my pup's face. He's great walking on a loose lead, so we don't need the extra control of a halter. I just bought an Infin-8 head collar from Black Dog because I read it was better for the dogs alignment than the Halti, but poor Cyrus absolutely hates it.

My question is do you think a muzzle could be less restrictive? I have the halter on as loose as possible but it still really bothers him.

Ugh. I hate this. Luckily we are moving back to the US soon so we won't have this problem.

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DianaM

· #2 · Jun 6, 2008

Quote:In practice, they accept halters/head collars as complying with the law.

Just goes to show that people who write laws often don't know enough about what they're putting into law and usually shows they don't know enough to find their way to their own butt, even with a GPS.

I'm sorry you have to deal with this. I'd suggest a muzzle, just because it's a good thing to train for anyway. In emergencies, the last thing you'd want is to fight to muzzle your dog!

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Skye'sMom

· #3 · Jun 7, 2008

Quote: My question is do you think a muzzle could be less restrictive? I have the halter on as loose as possible but it still really bothers him.

I have to go with the halter as less restrictive. It allows eating, drinking, even easier panting.

If you have it as "loose as possible" that could be why it bothers him. When the head halter is loose, it allows it to roll and chafe the skin. Check your directions and adjust it as requires.

The gentle leader is highly adjustable and should be more easily accepted. I am not familiar with the one you are using, but do agree the halti is not a good fit on most dogs.

It's curious that a head halter is acceptable, since in addition to allowing the things above, it also does not stop biting.

I'm sorry you being forced to use one, but I am sure the trainer has to comply with the law. I hope you are both able to enjoy classes.

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