Best Headcollars of 2026

"I was honestly amazed by how much more control I have over my dogs who used to pull like crazy. At first, they definitely weren’t fans of the Gentle Leader, but after a while, they got used to it and now they know it means it’s time for a walk. It’s made walks so much more enjoyable and manageable. The durability is impressive too—I've used the same one for over a year and it still looks good. I just make sure to wash it regularly because it sits close to their mouths. Highly recommend for anyone with strong pullers."

"With our pointer-pit bull mix, walks used to be a constant struggle because of his strength and excitement. Since switching to the Gentle Leader, he pulls and lunges 90% less. I can easily redirect him if he gets too excited, and there’s no fear of him dragging me into danger anymore. Although he still tries to paw it off sometimes, using it together with a harness gives me peace of mind. The difference in our daily walks is night and day—it’s truly improved our relationship with our dog."

"After trying every collar and harness out there, the Gentle Leader was a game changer for our energetic cocker/retriever. She went from pulling like a train to walking calmly right beside us. I love how simple and lightweight it is—no more heavy straps or complicated buckles. She can still eat and sniff, and just a gentle touch on the lead turns her attention to me. Daily walks are finally a pleasure for both of us."

"I've used the Halti collar for over two decades with strong, stubborn dogs, and it's been a lifesaver for managing pulling and making walks enjoyable. The latest version is even better with added padding, a safety strap, and reflective material. After just a few training sessions, I noticed my large dog was much easier to control. I highly recommend this for anyone with a big or hard-to-handle dog."

"After struggling with my reactive rescue dog for months, the Halti headcollar has completely transformed our walks. Using this as a training tool, I can now keep him calm around other animals, and he no longer lunges or pulls. Consistent use and positive reinforcement have made a huge difference—I feel we can finally enjoy peaceful walks together. Highly recommended for owners of reactive dogs."

"The Halti works as it's supposed to, but I found that not every dog accepts head halters. My dog didn't like it, so I had to look for another option."

"I've relied on the Halti collar for over two decades, and it's transformed how I walk my large, strong-willed dogs. My Labrador mix used to drag me everywhere, and nothing else worked until this collar. Now, with my new dog, I'm seeing the same easy control, no more tugging, and improved design — the extra nose padding and reflective strip are great upgrades. I can't recommend it enough for anyone with a big or hard-to-manage dog."

"Walking my reactive rescue dog used to be a nightmare — constant lunging, panic, and fear made every outing stressful. Since I started using the Halti headcollar, it's been a total game changer. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, my dog has gone from pulling and panicking to calmly walking past other dogs. It’s amazing how much more peaceful and manageable our walks have become."

"The Halti is extremely effective at reducing leash pulling, and my dog adjusted to it much faster than expected. The comfortable fit and quality construction stand out, but I did need to take it slow and use treats to get my dog used to it. For anyone struggling with leash manners, it’s a simple, reliable solution."

"I give this gentle leader an 11/10 for controlling my strong pullers. At first, my dogs hated it, but they adapted, and now I wouldn’t take them out without it. The control is unmatched, and the quality has held up for over a year. Just remember to wash it since it gets drooly, but overall, I highly recommend it!"

"Walking my 50-pound pointer-pit bull mix used to be a struggle because he’d pull and lunge at anything. The Gentle Leader reduced his pulling by 90% or more, making walks pleasant and safe. He still tries to take it off sometimes, so I double up with a harness for security. Even so, it’s made a huge difference in our relationship and daily walks."

"We tried every collar and harness for our excitable cocker/retriever, but nothing worked until this. The Gentle Leader completely transformed our walks—she trots along happily, and I can easily turn her head with the lightest touch. It’s simple, comfortable, and now every walk is a pleasure. I use it daily and couldn’t recommend it more!"

"I've been using the Halti headcollar for over 20 years, and it's still my go-to for walking strong, stubborn dogs. It completely changed my experience with my 100 lb Labrador mix, allowing me to walk him without being dragged or knocked over. The new version is even better, with more padding and a safety strap, and my current large dog has taken to it quickly. I highly recommend it for anyone struggling with big or hard-to-handle dogs."

"After struggling for months with my animal-reactive rescue, I tried the Halti and it made a world of difference. My dog went from lunging and panicking to calmly walking by other dogs, thanks to the gentle correction and better control the Halti provides. It's comfortable, works well with positive training, and has made walks enjoyable again. I can finally walk my dog in the neighborhood without fear."

"The Halti headcollar is extremely effective at reducing leash pulling, and its padded, lightweight design makes it comfortable for my dog. It offers a noticeable improvement in control and walking experience. However, it's important to introduce it gradually, as some dogs may dislike wearing it at first. Used responsibly, it's a fantastic training aid."

"With the Halti, my usually unruly rescue walks calmly by my side, even around other dogs. I only needed gentle direction, and for the first time, our walks were peaceful and enjoyable instead of stressful. I wish I could give more than five stars!"

"I was amazed at how quickly my energetic Labrador stopped pulling and started walking on a loose leash after just one try with this head collar. Redirecting her is now effortless, and I finally feel hopeful about our training sessions."

"I use the Halti lead and head halter combo for training tough boxers, and it's the best tool I've found for secure, versatile control. The double securement points and sturdy construction make walks with strong dogs much safer and more manageable."

"With the Gentle Leader, I finally have full control over my dog’s pulling. At first, my dogs weren’t happy about wearing it, but now they recognize it as a signal for walks. It’s durable, easy to clean, and has become essential for every outing. Highly recommend for anyone with a strong puller!"

"Using this on my extremely strong pointer-pit mix, I’ve noticed a huge improvement in his behavior during walks and runs. He still tries to lunge sometimes, but it’s easy to redirect him. For added security, I attach the leash to both the Gentle Leader and a harness. Walks are now enjoyable and safe for both of us."

"We struggled with our energetic cocker/retriever pulling on every walk, no matter what collar or harness we tried. The Gentle Leader was a complete game-changer—our walks are now relaxed and enjoyable. It’s simple to fit, comfortable for our dog, and just a light touch keeps her walking calmly by my side."

"I have a very energetic Small Munsterlander that was impossible to control on regular leashes, but the Halti transformed our walks in just one day. He stopped pulling without experiencing pain, just mild annoyance, and now we both enjoy walks so much more. He can eat, drink, and act normally with it on, and I love that it only takes a gentle reminder to keep him focused. Thank you, Halti, for making walks enjoyable for both of us!"

"Although my dog is a bit too sensitive for this to be a permanent solution, I think the Halti is a fantastic tool for teaching dogs not to pull. It’s highly adjustable, reflective, and works better than other options I’ve tried. Just make sure to introduce it slowly and watch for any signs of discomfort, especially with emotionally sensitive dogs. I’ll keep mine for future use or to donate because it really does help with leash feedback."

"With two dogs, it took a little time for them to get used to the Halti, but I noticed a huge improvement from the first walk. No more pulling or running; I can control them with a small gesture. The product fits well, doesn’t hurt them, and is easy to remove after walks. I’m very satisfied and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it!"

"I've tried a lot of head halters over the years, and this one is better built and sturdier than I expected. The fit is a bit big, but I'd rather have it too big than too small. I appreciate the quality, though I do wish it had a metal buckle and an extra safety connection to the collar. For the price, though, I'm satisfied."

"This has been the best training headcollar I've found! It doesn't slide around, my dog can't chew on it, and it's got more padding than others I've used. The larger leash attachment makes it super easy to clip on and off. The fit is perfect, and it's never loosened or slipped off, even with my dog rubbing or scratching. I'm really happy with this purchase and will buy again."

"I was worried about sizing, but after using the size chart and measuring my dog, the fit is spot-on. The reflective details are great for safety, and the design with cheek pieces helps keep the shape and makes it more escape-proof. I did remove the label from the nosepiece for comfort, but overall, it's well-made and my dog's pulling has improved."

"I've been using this training collar daily for about a month and it's been amazing for my reactive dog. Not only is the material durable and water resistant, but it really helps control pulling during jogs. The fit is great, and my dog adjusted quickly with some desensitization. Definitely recommend it for anyone struggling with a strong puller."

"This collar made walks with my Golden Doodle so much easier and more enjoyable. He used to be almost impossible to walk because of pulling and barking, but now he stays focused and can't lunge at people or other dogs. The quality is excellent and the large size fit him perfectly after adjustment. I'm thrilled with the results!"

"I did notice that the adjustable slider doesn't always stay put and my dog managed to loosen it just by moving around. I ended up using zip ties to keep it secure. Otherwise, it has made walking much safer and more manageable for me, given my medical condition. Wouldn't recommend for medium or larger dogs unless the slider gets improved."