As a Larchmont dog walker, it's easy to enjoy a stroll with a dog down by Manor Park or on the Leatherstocking Trail and wonder what's going on in the mind of our furry friend. As most Larchmont dog walkers probably realize, not all dogs are trained equal. Most dogs know their name. Some know words like "sit", "paw," "speak," or "lie down." Lots of them know the words "STOP!" "NO!" or "DROP IT!" (although many times they pretend not to). EVERY DOG knows the word "treat."

Dog might be man's best friend but if you're trying to train your dog not to pull, the retractable leash is your worst enemy. Not only can retractable leashes snap, but dogs that get used to being walked on a retractable leash learn that the more they pull, the more likely their leash will extend. Dr. Becker, of Mercola.com's Healthy Pets even created a 10 Reasons NOT to Use a Retractable Leash List. But, if retractable leashes are so terrible, why are they made? Well. Fo

For those of us that enjoy more walking and less pulling, gentle leaders and other types of head collars are among the most choice options. The primary types of head collars are the gentle leader, the Halti, and the SnootLoop. Of course there are muzzles, but that's another story. Also addressed in this post we take a look at specific type of "front pull" harness that we didn't mention in Part II of this series. SO, the appeal with gentle leaders, Haltis, and Snootloops (h