Proponents of the head halter say that it mimics the way a higher-ranking wolf shows dominance by grabbing a lower-ranking pack member around the snout with his jaws.

Opponents of the head halter say that some dogs find it unnatural and uncomfortable. If the dog collar is too tight, it may dig too deeply into the skin or the strap around the muzzle may push into the dog’s eyes. Injury can result from improper use of the head halter; if a dog is jerked suddenly by the leash attached to the head halter, the dog’s neck is pulled sharply to the side, which might result in neck injury.