Head halters can be very effective when used on out-of-control dogs or dogs who seriously pull. Head halters are devised with one strap running around your dog's nose, another around your dog's neck, and a ring under the chin to fasten the leash to. The design makes it difficult for your dog to continue pulling because, once he starts to pull, his nose is then turned back toward you. In some ways, the head halter resembles a muzzle, perhaps mainly because there is a strap around the dog's nose. This can make some people hesitant to use it. However, unlike a muzzle, a dog can still pant, bark, drink, eat, and even bite. The head halter doesn't cause any pain and is absolutely humane. In fact, it is far more effective than a prong collar or choke chain in preventing pulling.

In order for the head halter to be both comfortable for you dog and effective, it must be fitted correctly. The correct fit is as follows: the nosepiece should sit naturally just below your dog's eyes and should be able to slide down as far as the beginning of the skin of the dog's nose without falling off the end of his nose when his mouth is closed; the neck strap should be just behind your dog's ears and you should be able to fit one finger between it and your dog's neck; and the metal ring for the leash to attach to should be just under the chin.

For some dogs, and their owners, the head halter can be a blessing. However, many dogs will resist it at first. They may try to get it off in any way possible, pawing at it or even rubbing their nose along the ground. It does take some getting used to and most dogs do eventually accept it.