5 Common Mistakes With Headcollars (And How to Fix Them)

A headcollar can transform your dog walks by offering calm control and comfort, for both you and your dog. Many people use one to stop pulling or lunging, only to find frustration instead. Often, the issue isn’t the tool, but how it’s used. In this post, you will discover the five most frequent mistakes made with headcollars and learn how to fix them effectively. Along the way, you will see why the Dogmatic Headcollar, with its unique design, offers a better solution.

1. Using the Wrong Size or Shape

A headcollar that is too tight will rub, shift, or restrict movement. Excess slack lets the dog wriggle free or lean into the lead without control. Each dog has a different head shape, and size alone does not guarantee fit.

How to fix it:

Measure your dog’s muzzle and neck carefully before choosing. A headcollar must feel snug but not restrictive. The Dogmatic Headcollar offers padded options in both leather and cushioned webbing and comes in multiple sizes to match breeds of all kinds. For help, use the Dogmatic sizing guide.

When fitted properly, it offers complete but gentle control, and stays securely in place without riding up near the eyes or twisting on the face.

2. Fitting it Incorrectly

Even a well-sized headcollar becomes ineffective if worn incorrectly. The neck strap should sit high behind the ears, and the nose band must not sit too close to the eyes. Misplaced straps can cause distress, encourage pawing, and reduce control.

How to fix it:

Position the neck straps high on the neck, directly behind the ears. The nose loop should rest securely on the muzzle without impeding sight or breathing. Confirm that the clasp fastening stays centrally behind the back of the neck. The Dogmatic design, with straps under and at the sides of the chin, prevents movement or riding up.

The headcollar should feel balanced and stay in place, even with stronger pulls or sudden movements.

3. Neglecting Gradual Introduction

Dogs often react poorly when you put on a headcollar and immediately start walking. They might resist or freeze in place. That reaction is usually stress, not defiance.

How to fix it:

Take a measured approach. Allow your dog to sniff and investigate the headcollar. Initially, leave it on indoors for brief periods. Reward calm behaviour lavishly. Once your dog wears it without fuss, put it on for a short, quiet walk. Build up step by step.

The Dogmatic Headcollar features soft, padded materials that help dogs accept the fit more willingly. Start with short sessions, then expand the time you walk together. Use plenty of praise, treats and fun to associate with wearing the Dogmatic. Learn more about how to get a dog used to a headcollar in our guide.

4. Using the Wrong Lead or Attachment Point

Attaching your lead incorrectly, such as clipping it to a collar or the wrong loop, undermines control. Using too-short leads also raises tension and limits movement, making your dog feel confined or confused.

How to fix it:

Always attach your lead to the ring on the loop of the headcollar. Use a well-matched no-pull dog lead, one that offers sufficient length for your walking space and keeps a relaxed line. The Dogmatic combination of headcollar and lead allows clear guidance and gives your dog room within boundaries.

The headcollar’s chin loop moves independently, allowing control over head direction without altering the overall fit.

5. Assuming the Headcollar Solves All Problems

A headcollar makes control easier, but it does not train your dog by itself. Without reinforcement and guidance, your dog may still pull or become confused.

How to fix it:

Combine the headcollar with consistent positive reinforcement. Reward relaxed walking. Use calm commands and maintain a steady pace. The headcollar sets a strong foundation, but training creates behaviour that sticks.

The Dogmatic Headcollar is designed to support this process with gentle control, allowing you to reinforce good walking habits without discomfort.

Why the Dogmatic Headcollar Stands Out

This headcollar works differently from others on the market. It offers:

• A fixed noseband and secure side strapping that avoids riding up.

• Padded cushioned webbing or luxurious soft leather to prevent discomfort.

• A chin loop that enables precise head guidance without shifting the rest of the fit.

• Compatibility with collars and leads from Dogmatic’s range.

• Consistent, trustworthy performance that many behaviourists and trainers recommend.

It stays where it should, unlike many alternatives that ride up or rub. You gain control without compromise.

Shop the UK’s #1 Headcollar Trusted by Behaviourists, Trainers and Rescues

If you’ve made one of these common mistakes, or just want to walk better, start with the right equipment and use it correctly. The Dogmatic Headcollar gives you reliable, kind control and helps build better walking habits for life.

Shop Dogmatic headcollars online now. They are available in leather and padded cushioned webbing options. Alternatively, for more information, contact our team for advice today. 

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