I read a study somewhere about a year ago that all choke/pinch collars do damage to the dog's esophagus/trachea. They did autopsies on dogs that passed away and notice damage in like 95% of the dogs who had these types of collars. That just bothers me too much to ever consider using one. I use the Gentle Leader on Duncan. He also lunges at other dogs/cats/ squirrels,people on the street and it gives me complete control. They are so strong! When Duncan lunges, I have control of his head so he doesn't get very far. I don't even see how a pinch collar would control this behavior at all.....He would still lunge except now you're pinching his neck and his insides more. The pinch will not stop the dog....you know that. You know how dogs are. They will continue the behavior even when it is illogical and maybe painful. Sheer force of will....
Dominant dogs often "flip out" when wearing the gentle leader/halti for the first time. But they will get used to it. Duncan is extremely dominant and sometimes still trys to rub it off but he is used to it now. I have found that with a large strong dog, it works fantastic. Give it another shot.....