If you’re new to owning a dog, navigating all the new information can be overwhelming. Especially when it comes to leashes – there are so many materials and lengths and types, how do you know which one to get?!
A good place to start is the size and weight of your dog. That will determine what material you might want to buy. After all, thinner leashes made of a material like nylon can be chewed through or broken easily by a big dog, while a heavy chain leash will be way too much for a small dog to handle.1
Leash Materials:1
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Nylon – this is usually what you’ll find in a pet store. These aren’t the best for dogs that like to chew on their leashes, as they’ll most likely chew right through them.
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Leather – offers a more comfortable experience, but they are difficult to clean.
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Rope – is very durable but also has some give to protect you and your dog if they pull.
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Hemp – an eco-friendly alternative that also has benefits for dogs that have sensitive skin.
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Chain – these are usually used for dogs that like to chew on their leash, but aren’t always the best option for use every day.
The next thing to think about is what you’ll be doing with your dog. A leash is meant to keep your dog and others around you safe. If you’re just going on a normal walk, a standard leash is the way to go. If you’re working on training, a longer leash is a good option.2
Leash Types:2
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Standard – these are about six feet long and can be found in nylon, leather, or rope.
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Long – around eight to ten feet long and recommended to be used with a harness to give more control and keep your dog safe.
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Longline – at least fifteen feet, sometimes longer. These are usually used when training a dog to come back to you when you call them in an open area.
Umbilical cord leashes are also great for joggers who jog with their dogs. This leash goes around your waist so you can have your hands free and still keep your dog with you.1
Retractable leashes are a point of concern for many. This is because they actively teach the dog to pull on the leash. They also can break easily and if your dog runs, there isn’t enough control for you to stop them quickly.1&2
A leash is a staple item when it comes to owning a dog and making the correct decision is important to keep both your dog and yourself safe in all situations.
Check out our blog here on how to prepare for your puppy.
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I’ve worked with dogs my whole life and started training dogs at the age of 9 ( over 50 years experience ) and I like using leather leashes ( 4 to 6 feet ) you have better control over the dog and the larger the dog is you want have control so you don’t get pulled down, if that large dog is on a leash long than 6 feet and he gets turned on by another dog challenging him you will not be able to stop him in running mode, you will be pulled down and drugged across the ground and the leather leashes you also want receive rope burns to your hands, I believe that a dog should be already trained with collar and leash before ever putting a harness on a dog because you have to make sure you have control over the dog, a dog should never pull or drag you around and act unruly in public , giving attention to bad behavior and talking to them is rewarding that behavior.
Great input, Gina. Thank you for your insights.