Dog Leads: How to Pick the Right Leash for Walking & Training

 So you have a new dog and you are immensely happy with your new pal. Besides getting your furry friend all it needs (food, dog bed, toys), you would need a leash so the two of you can have a walk and enjoy your time outside. Leashes are crucial not only for walking but for training as well. A quality-made leash is a tool you’ll use on a daily basis, so it should match your dog’s size, temperament, and of course your preferences, needs, and budget. 

Hiking, walking, running, training - various activities can be done with the proper leash. Finding a good dog lead may seem like a challenging task, not because it’s complicated, but because the market is so abundant with options. No matter what your final choice is, the leash should be made of quality material and with a secure clasp that is comfortable for use. 

How to Choose the Best Leash For Your Dog?

The choice of a dog lead can be made on various criteria. For instance, if you want it to be durable, you can pick a long-lasting material (rope or leather). The size is very important because it would determine your dog's freedom of movement. All of these things should be based on your dog’s size, breed, and weight. If you have a small dog, you don’t have to get a thick and heavy leash (it will be too heavy for the small pup anyway). 

Standard Leash

This leash is the most common type you'll see and is easiest to find in most pet stores. Standard leash lengths vary between 120 - 180 cm and are usually wide between 1 - 2.5 cm. These models are budget-friendly, which is a good start if you're a new dog owner.

Short Leash

The traffic handle style or a short leash is a type of standard leash, that is no longer than 300-600 cm. These leashes will keep your dog close to you when you walk on the street and have to cross the road safely. It’s ideal for practising Heel cue. If you need a leash for short walks, this one is perfect.

If a stander leash is your choice, you can pick several materials. 

• Nylon

These types of leashes are budget-friendly and easy to clean. Holding it feels comfortable in your hand. If it’s too thin, then expect a leash burn on your palm (in case the dog pulls the leash unexpectedly). Nylon isn't very flexible nor soft. It’s suitable for smaller breeds; large dogs will likely rip it off once they pull suddenly. But, also you can expect your dog to chew it quickly. If your dog has a history of chewing leashes, then avoid nylon. Nylon leashes are an excellent option for short walks, quick trips to the pet store or vet.

• Leather

This is a long-lasting material that is comfortable for holding. It may be challenging for cleaning, but such leashes are excellent for long walks. If this is your choice, make sure the leather is waterproof (it will not dry out and crack after it gets wet). 

• Rope

Usually made of mountain climbing rope, these leashes are popular because of their comfort and durability. Rope won’t tear easily; these leads have a locking clasps and are comfortable for handling (and often have a poop bag holders and other accessories that should be close to your hand). 

• Retractable Leash

Known as Flexi leashes, these leads are an excellent idea in case you want to make your dog feel free to explore while you still have it under control. Retractable leashes may cause you some headaches; your dog will think that pulling on the leash is OK. The downfall with these models is that it can easily injure you and your dog. Using such leashes can easily cause burns and cuts on your fingers and legs. Your dog may entangle in the leash and end up with neck injuries. Such leashes are not suitable when you take your dog for a walk in an urban area; it can easily run into the street and get hit by a vehicle.

• Adjustable Leash

These models are a wonderful option when you need to shorten the lead briefly. This can be helpful when you need to fasten your dog close to you or a tree for example. These leashes are great for attachment to the dog’s collar or harness. Adjustable leads have clasps on both ends; depending on where you attach one clasp will determine the size of the handle of the leash. These leads are suitable for training a dog to walk on a loose and tighter leash. 

•  Split Leash 

If you have more than one dog, than picking a split leash is the best option. You can walk two or more dogs at the same time, without having to juggle lead handles. Split leashes have one handle and the leash splits into two separate leads with clasps for each dog.  No matter how disciplined your dogs are, choose a split leash that has a tangle-free leash coupler. The leash can be detached from the split lead and used as a single leash when you need to walk one of your dogs. 

• Hands-Free Leash

If you want to have your hands free of the leash (for when going shopping, jogging, or hiking), hands free or umbilical cord type of leads are the best option. These types of leashes have a waist-belt where you attach the leash.

Walking your dog is a pleasurable activity that should be safe for both you and your furry friend. Training it to walk right next to you when you are walking down the street should be your priority (for its safety). Pick a leash that would give your dog enough comfort and freedom, but won’t put it in a dangerous situation (the same goes for you). The right leash length, width, and material are determined mainly by your dog’s size, breed, and temperament. Make every activity and adventure comfortable for both you and your dog.