[nagdu] gentle leader

[Julie J.]

I suggest caution with the use of head collars in hot weather. Most head 
collars are made so the dog can still open it's mouth to pant, however it 
will be a bit restricted as to how far the mouth can be open and will 
restrict the cooling effect of panting.  Longer snouted breeds won't be as 
affected, but shorter face breeds like Boxers and even some labs I've seen 
will be more restricted by a head collar because of the shape of their 
muzzle.

I haven't used a head collar for quite a few months now.   When Monty was 
younger I did more frequently because when he's on a mission he can get 
going pulling.  Usually that happens when he knows feeding time is waiting 
at the other end of our walk. *smile*    Still, I'd take it off if he was 
panting more than a little bit, because he does have a shortened muzzle and 
the potential to overheat is there.

Julie