How to Put on a Gentle Leader
The Gentle Leader is dog training device designed to combat pulling on the leash, lunging, barking and other aggressive behaviors. Unlike a traditional collar, the Gentle Leader features a neck collar with a loop that encircles the dog's muzzle and applies pressure to this area. According to the manufacturer, pressure on the muzzle helps your dog understand that you are the one in control, and helps reduce those unwanted behaviors. The Gentle Leader is relatively easy to put on once you get the hang of it, but it must be fitted correctly or it will not work as effectively.
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Instructions
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1
Select the correctly-sized Gentle Leader for your dog based on his weight. If your dog weighs less than 5 lbs., purchase the petite version. Dogs between 5 and 25 lbs. should use the small Gentle Leader, and a medium should be used for dogs between 25 and 60 lbs. If your dog weighs between 60 and 130 lbs., choose the large version. Finally, an extra large should be purchased for dogs over 130 lbs.
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2
Attach your dog's leash to the metal control ring on the front of the Gentle Leader. While the leash and nose strap are pointing down towards the floor, unclasp the neck strap and hold one end in each hand.
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3
Put your dog into a sit position. Encircle the neck strap around his neck and clasp it. The Gentle Leader should be worn high on your dog's neck--not low around the neck like a traditional dog collar. Position the Gentle Leader neck strap so it is just underneath the base of your dog's skull. In the front, the neck strap should be just underneath your dog's chin. Adjust the neck strap using the slide adjuster so it is snug. You should be able to get one finger underneath it, but no more.
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4
Praise your dog and give her a small dog treat. Using the Gentle Leader will be much easier if your dog has a positive experience with it during her first exposure to the training device.
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Remove the neck strap now that it is properly fitted. Slide the adjustable clamp near the center bar ring down towards the metal control ring. Your leash should still be attached, so simply slide the clamp down toward the leash until it is stopped by the control ring. Grasp the nose loop and pull it up through the center bar ring.
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Hold the nose loop with both hands. Gently slide the nose loop over your dog's muzzle. This is easiest to accomplish if you stand behind your dog, with your dog between your legs. Once the nose loop is in place, clasp the neck strap around his neck like you did in Step 3.
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Check to make sure the nose loop is positioned correctly. It should be as far up on her muzzle as possible so that she can still open her mouth. You can tighten or loosen the nose loop using the adjustable clamp.
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Praise your dog again and give him a small treat. You are now ready to start training with the Gentle Leader. The manufacturer offers an instructional video and an illustrated guide to using the Gentle Leader. Links to both of these items are available under Resources.
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Tips & Warnings
Some dogs may have no problems with the Gentle Leader, and others dogs may struggle and refuse to accept it. The first time you put on the Gentle Leader, it may help to have a friend who can distract your dog with treats--especially while you secure the nose loop. Once your dog gets used to the Gentle Leader, it will become much easier to put it on.
