When it comes to choosing the best dog leash, it’s crucial to remember that one size does not fit all. The wrong combination of leash and collar could potentially lead to disaster or, even worse, cause harm to your beloved furry companion. That’s why choosing the best dog leash requires a bit of research and consideration. While consulting with a dog trainer is the ideal approach, let’s delve into the basics to provide you with a starting point.
How to choose the best dog leash
There are several different kinds and combinations, as well as training leashes and collars, so the best way to choose the right one is to ask your dog trainer. Here are some of the basics though, to give you an idea:
Nylon leashes and collars: Strong and the most common type but might cut into your dog’s neck or your hand if they tend to pull. Not ideal for bounding puppies or dogs with two second memories.
Fabric leashes and collars: Less apt to injure your dog or you if they pull hard but not as strong as nylon – good for human-pulling puppies, but not for dogs capable of snapping them. Not for Zeus and Apollo either.
Chain collars: Good for big dogs only as they are heavy. Chain collars can pack a bite without causing injury if you need to bring ‘Arnie’ the Rottweiler up short and fast, or the clinking promise of a bite if you need to periodically remind ‘Arnie’ or ‘Marley’ (or Zeus and Apollo) of who’s boss.
The Standard Dog Leash: As the name suggests – it’s the ordinary, every-day dog leash most people use. Just short enough to keep Rover from getting the cat or jumping on Boo Radley and other dog-slobber-fearing pedestrians, and just long enough for you to loop it around your arm for Rover to tear it out of its shoulder socket. Works just fine 99% of the time, and also for the other 1% of the time when it turns out that Rover is not actually powerful enough to dismember you – or get very far dragging you across the road on bleeding knees.
The Retracteable Leash: Extends as needed to around 20 feet. Good for walking your dog on the beach or in other places where you need to let me him leave your side to explore and run a bit, while still able to keep him in check. Good for pups in a world full of new smells that must be followed – as long as there’s space and it’s safe for them.
Retracteable vs Standard Leashes: Get both or opt for a standard leash only and find a free-range dog beach. Retracteable leashes are not good for walking explorers along the street, or in any place or situation where your dog might get under a car, or wrap it around a pole, a rock, or someone’s legs – whether exploring enthusiastically, or on a mad dash. In the latter case, you’ll be powerless to control them for a whole 20 metres – and a lot of nasty can happen in 20 metres! AND not all of it filled with joy and laughter.
There are many types of leashes and collars to choose from depending on your needs. No matter what type of leash you choose, make sure it is comfortable for both you and your dog. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your choices and find the best one for you and your dog.
