When conditioning a Figure 8, or other head collars to use for safe walking, there is a protocol that I always follow to make the process as easy as possible. These are the rules I work through with every dog.

1. Your dog will never accept, or be conditioned to, something painful or uncomfortable.

2. If an object is not painful or uncomfortable, a dog will still assume that it may present a risk to them, in that it may trap or restrict their free movement or decision making. in these instances, your dog will enter fight or flight. Therefore, it is essential to demonstrate to your dog that they do have free movement and agency to make their own decisions, whilst wearing a new tool. In the early stages, allow them to move freely and practice as many natural behaviours as possible.

3. “Don’t scratch your Chicken pox” - Your dog should be allowed to move freely, with the one condition being that they do not fuss the lead on their face. Always interrupt these behaviours so that they do not become habit, and so that your dog learns to accept the lead as a normal part of their experience.

4. Teach your dog to communicate with and control the Sensation - by adding gentle and gradual changes in direction. Your dog should learn that they can release tension by choosing to move and follow you.