When you go leash shopping for your dog, you’re faced with numerous different styles, lengths, and materials. But what type of leash is best for dogs? Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer to that question.
Types of Dog Leashes
There are multiple types of leashes on the market for good reason: the best leash for one dog may not be the best for another. The following dog leash comparison will explain the characteristics and benefits of each type to help you make an informed decision about what is the ideal option for your dog.
Bungee Dog Leash
With its built-in shock absorption, a bungee leash allows for a strain-free walking experience. This is the best leash for training your dog, as it gives you enough control to keep you both safe, including in high-traffic areas.
Classic Dog Leash
Once your dog knows how to walk well, consider switching to a classic dog leash. This still gives you control, but it provides your dog with more free rein, striking a balance between safety and freedom.
Short Trainer Leash
If you still need shock resistance but want to increase the amount of freedom for your dog, consider a short trainer leash. This will allow your dog to explore her surroundings but will prevent sudden jolts for you if something catches her attention. This is the best leash for a small dog who has the tendency to pull.
Rope Leash
For walking in all weather conditions, choose a rope leash. It also comes with a D-ring, which is convenient for holding poop bags or keys.
Leash Splitter
Lastly, if you’re walking two dogs, choose a leash splitter. This will allow you to put both dogs on one leash, leaving your other hand free.
How to Choose the Best Dog Leash
There are several things to consider when choosing a dog leash, including material, length, width, and clip type. Each of these factors impacts leash performance.
Durability and Strength
It’s important to have a durable leash to avoid needing to purchase a new one frequently. Strength is also important to ensure the leash doesn’t break while you’re walking your dog, which could put you in a dangerous situation.
Determine the durability of a leash by considering the material. There are three particularly strong materials:
- Nylon — This is the most popular material for leashes. It’s lightweight, inexpensive, and won’t become damaged if it gets wet (although you should let it dry out completely between uses).
- Leather — This is another sturdy material. It won’t break even if your dog is a puller, it’s easy to clean, and it’s aesthetically pleasing.
- Chain — This is the strongest leash material. Provided you choose a metal that’s resistant to rust and corrosion, it will never break. Choose a chain if your dog has powerful jaws and chews through fabric or leather.
Comfort and Safety
Next, consider comfort and safety for both your dog and yourself. You’ll gain this through a few key features:
- Padded handles — Your hands will never tire if you have a leash with padded handles. Try this solution if you’ve previously had a leash without handles and found it uncomfortable or if you’ll be going on long walks where you’ll be holding onto your dog for extended lengths of time.
- Reflective strips — If you’re walking your dog at night, use reflective strips to be able to drop the leash and still see where your dog is. You can also put strips on your dog’s collar or harness.
- Shock absorbers — Active dogs may need shock absorbers on their leashes to prevent sudden pulling. Shock absorbers are also useful if you want to attach the leash to a running belt.
Leash Length
When you want to keep your dog close to you, a short leash is ideal. Since most of your walks will be like this, a short leash is essential. However, you may also want a long leash for walking in wide open spaces, especially when training your dog before you let her off the leash.
Many owners struggle to know what leash length to choose for a puppy. Typically, you want something between 1.5 and 2 metres to maintain control while giving your dog space to explore. However, the best leash for a puppy who tends to jump up or pull toward approaching dogs will be slightly shorter.
Your Dog
Use the above to determine which is the best leash for your dog. This will depend on factors like:
- Whether your dog is big or small
- If your dog pulls
- If your dog chews
- Whether your dog is timid or aggressive
Additional Accessories for Better Walks
A leash is just one thing you need when walking your dog. Add extra accessories to your dog’s belongings to make walks more enjoyable, more comfortable, and safer for both of you.
Adjustable Dog Harness
For greater control, a harness is essential. Whereas there are benefits to using just a collar, having a harness reduces pulling, avoids neck injuries, prevents leash biting, and makes it less likely that your dog will escape.
Strong and Comfortable Dog Collar
Even if your dog has a harness, she’ll need a collar. Your dog should wear her collar at all times to ensure she always has her identity tags. Plus, this will give you something to clip the leash to quickly if you’re unable to put her harness on.
D-Ring Attachment
Does your dog pull? You need a no-pull D-ring harness attachment. Add it to the front of the harness to correct your dog’s behaviour and have a pull-free walk.
Paw Pad Protectors
Prevent injury and irritation by providing your dog with paw pad protectors. Since they stick to the bottom of your dog’s feet, they’re much easier for your dog to get used to than boots or socks. Plus, they’re great for walking on rough terrain, hot surfaces, and anywhere that may otherwise be uncomfortable for your dog.
Poop Bags & Holder
Need we say more?
Find the best leash for your dog at Dog Friendly Co. We also have many other accessories you’ll need — for walks and for at home. Check out our online store to see our full range, including kits with everything you need.