How to choose a leash for a dog

Types of leashes

Often a novice dog breeder gets lost near a counter with a variety of leashes displayed on it - the variety is great, the price range is huge. It's easy to get confused, confused and buy something that isn't really needed. It is better to understand in advance what types of leash designs there are and their purpose.

Leashes can be intended for walking, for training or for exhibitions. There is no need to purchase exhibition ring leashes right away. When the time comes to go to the exhibition, you will select the current height and weight of the dog, or you will want to make a show ring for the dog with your own hands. Perhaps you decide not to take your pet to the exhibition at all, or he belongs to the pet class and is spared the need to take part in the fuss of the exhibition. But in ordinary life, a dog show ring is not needed.

How to choose a leash

Leashes - roulettes are divided into two types:

— Rosovaya

Cable tape measures are suitable for small dog breeds. It does not twist when adjusting the length, so there is practically no discomfort from its use.

The main disadvantage is its strength, since the cable will not be able to hold dogs of medium breeds, or very active decorative ones.

— Tape

This type of leash is more durable, therefore, it can be used for active small breeds of dogs and for medium-sized dogs.
The tape leash can get twisted while walking the dog, so it will have to be adjusted manually.
The durability of this type of leash depends on the quality of the tape measure you purchased, as well as on the careful use and activity of the dog.

It is pointless to use a roulette leash for large dogs - it will not hold the dog and will simply break.

Leash for walking and training

This type of leash is specifically used for large breeds of dogs. It is much stronger than a tape measure leash and looks like a braided ribbon.

At one end there is a carabiner attached that hooks the dog’s collar, at the other there is a loop with which the owner holds the leash and additionally secures it so that the dog does not break out.

A leash for walking and training in the form of a tape can be made of canvas, leather, or nylon. In any case, the material for the leash must be durable and withstand the force of the animal's jerk.

The canvas dog leash is the most popular in this category as it is highly durable and of high quality, making it durable. This type of leash can be washed if necessary. The price and canvas leashes are an order of magnitude lower than, for example, leather leashes.
A leather leash for dogs has the main disadvantage - in the cold or from moisture it becomes tan and cracks, therefore, for training, for example, in the forest, it is not very suitable. You can use a leather leash while walking.
Nylon leashes can be chewed by a dog, but despite this they have sufficient strength.

Leash length:

For walking - from two meters;

For training - from five meters.

If you teach your dog commands that require it to move, then use leashes of sufficient length (for example, the command to fetch a stick).

When choosing a leash for a large dog, you need to check not only the strength of the leash itself, but also the quality of the fastenings.

Leash - driver

This type of leash looks like a loop connected at the bottom with a carabiner. The carabiner is attached to the collar, and the owner leads the dog through this loop.

A walker may be needed in particularly crowded places, when the dog must walk as close as possible.

This leash is only suitable for large dogs whose height allows the owner to hold the dog without bending over.

Chain

Chain leashes have significant weight, therefore, they are not recommended for small dog breeds.

Also, chains are not very suitable for long-haired dogs, as their hair can get tangled in the chain links.

Daily use of this type of leash is not recommended even for large breeds of dogs, since a strong jerk from the animal can simply break the links, and there is no need for excess weight either.

The leashes and chains look quite beautiful and impressive, so it is recommended to use them for special occasions, for example, for an exhibition.

Ringovka

In another way, this type of leash is called a noose.

It is a noose that pulls the animal when moving in the wrong direction.
The ring is used to train the dog in stances and other commands, and it is also worn at exhibitions when it is necessary to restrain the animal.
During movement, the leash should not attract the attention of the dog and the judges, therefore, it is necessary to accustom the animal to this type of leash in advance.

Sparka

A spark leash is one leash that allows you to walk two or even three dogs at the same time.

Unlike three separate leashes, a sparkle is less tangled, making the process of walking several dogs much easier.

Long walks with a leash of this type are not recommended, so for long walks each dog will need to take a separate leash suitable for it.

Roulette leash: price, types

Roulette leash.
In urban environments, tape measures are most convenient for walking. The pet has the ability to run away to the sides, while the leash does not sag or drag through puddles and dust.
Roulettes differ in several ways. A roulette leash can be in the form of a tape or a thin strong cable. Tape is usually used in the design of a roulette leash for large dogs, as well as for the most active and pugnacious ones. For small and calm dogs, the tape measure can be in the form of a cable. Tape is considered stronger, but is easier to twist and get stuck; cable is more convenient to use, but not as strong. The tape measure for dogs is designed for a certain weight of the animal. It is recommended to buy a tape measure with a reserve, that is, if your pet weighs up to 20 kg, choose one that is designed for a weight of 25-30 kg. Especially if your pet is active and doesn’t mind running after the cat or rushing headlong into a fight with the neighbor’s dog.

“Roulette” leashes can be of different lengths, from 2 to 8 meters. The most convenient tape measure for dogs in the city is 5 meters : it is enough for your pet to run around you without getting too tangled in the bushes. If there is absolutely no free-running space in your area, you may need an 8-meter dog tape measure. But long leashes are more likely to get tangled and stuck.

The price depends on the manufacturer, the length of the leash and the weight category. In addition, all sorts of designer features influence the price. For example, you can buy a tape measure, in the body of which, in addition to the leash itself, there is a travel drinking bowl with a bottle of water and a package of bags for dog excrement. The body of the tape measure can be decorated with rhinestones and have a built-in flashlight, convenient for walking in the dark.

Flexi leashes.
Tape measures are made by several companies, and the longevity of your purchase depends directly on the manufacturer. Cheap Chinese roulettes break quickly and are not worth buying. Either the spring breaks, or the stopper mechanism fails, or the leash itself breaks, or the body falls apart. German Flexi tape measures for dogs are noticeably more expensive, but they serve flawlessly for many years. The Flexi dog leash can easily withstand significant loads without breaking even with strong tugs from large dogs. Flexi dog tapes are available in different versions and colors, but all of them are easy to use and reliable.

The best leashes for dogs and cats

A leash is purchased based on the individual characteristics of the animal. This is the most important element of training and containment, so when choosing, take into account the weight and breed of the pet, as well as its behavior on the street.

For aggressive large dogs, durable tape products are suitable. Small breeds prefer a light rope with a high reeling speed.

Many people are afraid to let their cat go outside alone and prefer to walk it on a special leash. This accessory is useful not only for regular trips to the park, but also for long trips, as well as visits to the veterinary clinic.

Flexi Design Classic

Tape measure in a shock-resistant case for small dogs

The cable leash from the German manufacturer Flexi embodies stylish design, functionality and quality. The model occupies a leading position in our rating, as it guarantees safety, comfort and freedom of movement for the animal.

Find out the price

Reasons to buy:

strength;
reliable fixation;
a light weight;
compact sizes.

The Flexi Design Classic cable leash is designed for walking pets weighing up to 8 kg. The plastic case is made in black with colored inserts. The thin rope does not fray, and its length is automatically adjusted.

To fully control the dog’s behavior, the model is equipped with an ergonomic braking system button. The patented mechanism works like a clock and guarantees ease of use.

The total length of the cable is 3 m. A stylish and functional accessory allows you to quickly respond to unexpected movements of your pet and is considered one of the best in terms of price-quality ratio.

Regular leashes: prices, varieties

For walking with large active dogs and for training, regular dog leashes in the form of a ribbon or cord of various lengths are best suited. At one end there is a carabiner for fastening to the collar, at the other there is a loop for the hand.

Regular leash.
To make such leashes, canvas tape, synthetic braid, parachute lines, leather, and cords are used. The most practical, cheaper and stronger thing is tarpaulin tape. A leather leash for dogs, the price of which is noticeably higher than a canvas leash, is much less durable and not very practical.
In addition, on long leather leashes you have to make unnecessary connections, which further reduces reliability and strength. For walking, a 2-3 meter leash is enough; for training, you may need a longer one, up to 5 m. Leashes for small dogs can be made of a variety of materials. They do not require great strength; they usually play a decorative role.

To transport or drive large dogs in crowded places, leashes are used. This simple design consists of a durable leather or canvas hand loop to which a carabiner is attached. A walker is convenient only if the dog’s height allows you to hold it by the collar without bending over.

What material to choose a leash from?

Nylon leashes

Pros:	Minuses:
Various colors available; Inexpensive, strong and durable; Suitable for walking in rainy and wet weather; Very light.	When wet they become slippery; If your dog jerks suddenly, the leash can burn your hand and leave a burn on your skin.

Leather

Leather is a natural material, if it is well processed and taken care of and treated with leather conditioner, it will last a very long time.

They are very durable.

It does not harm the dog if it bites or chews it.

The main disadvantage is that they are expensive and require maintenance; their length rarely exceeds 1-2 meters.

Tarpaulin

Light and flexible, do not deteriorate under the influence of water and humidity. Cheap.

We recommend: How to recognize signs of frostbite and hypothermia in a dog

The main disadvantage is that they wear out quickly and are not very attractive aesthetically.

Metal chain

They look impressive on large dogs and are relatively inexpensive.

They have serious disadvantages:

Heavy and ineffective when training a dog;
They can damage the dog’s mouth and teeth if it bites or starts gnawing;
A sudden jerk may damage your hand.

Rubber and other elastic materials

The worst material for leashes. The dog will constantly pull you in different directions, and you will not be able to effectively control its movements.

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Show rings, nooses

Ring leash.
A garrote leash is not exactly the execution weapon that comes to mind.
Its design is such that when the leash is pulled, the sliding loop puts pressure on the dog’s neck and forces it to reduce the tension. This design is used during training, when practicing movement next to the owner. Sometimes a noose is used for especially active dogs on walks. The principle of the noose can be used to make a show leash. The goal of the show ring is to make the dog show its best side. The pet must hold its head high, not hunch its back, and the leash itself must remain invisible and not distract the judges’ attention from the animal itself. If you are going to a show, consult with an experienced handler who will advise you on the most suitable show ring.

Homemade leash

Homemade leash.
Handicrafts have now become fashionable again. Handmade dog equipment is found everywhere. Many people make leashes with their own hands , and they decorate the pet like no other factory product.
You can also sew a leash yourself if for some reason you are not satisfied with the assortment in the pet store. To cope with this task, you don’t even have to look on the Internet for a master class “How to make a leash for a dog with your own hands.” It is enough to buy a strong, reliable carabiner, canvas tape or parachute lanyard, reinforced threads. At one end you attach a carabiner, stitching the tape in several lines, and at the other end you make a loop for your hand. The joints can be covered with leather overlays, and good decorative rivets can be placed on top of them at the nearest shoe shop. For small dogs, the leash can be woven from leather laces, synthetic fibers or ribbons. Sometimes such leashes are even crocheted. Extraordinarily beautiful designer leashes are often sold for a very respectable price, comparable to the cost of the dog itself. Sometimes they are even decorated with Swarovski crystals, or even precious stones and metals.

If you have 2 dogs

Double leash.
For walks with two dogs, it is convenient to use not two different leashes, but one common one. Two leashes are bound to get tangled, especially if your pets are active and mobile. For exhibitions and short walks, you can use a fold. The bundle clings to the carabiner of the leash.
To walk in a pack, dogs must be specially accustomed to relatively synchronous movement. The short length of the fold does not give them much freedom of movement. Another option is to attach carabiners to both ends of the leash. This leash for two dogs gives them greater freedom of movement than a dog leash. In this case, the leash is needed at least 3-4 meters in total length.

Recently, a tape measure for two dogs has appeared on the shelves of pet stores. However, this design is quite cumbersome, and the cables still get tangled. This device is quite expensive, and the price does not quite correspond to the practicality of the tape measure.

How to choose a leash for a dog

So, when buying a leash, you must follow simple rules:

When choosing a leash, it is important to decide on the final goal. Having precisely defined the purpose, you can significantly narrow the search. You should not try to combine several goals at once, otherwise the chosen leash will ultimately turn out to be useless.
The size of the dog also needs to be taken into account. Some leashes are simply not suitable for large or small dogs. In any case, for a strong animal you need a durable one, albeit one with quite a lot of weight.
Consider the dog's character. Hyperactive and aggressive dogs will require more durable material. Almost any will suit a calm pet. You need to understand that a hyperactive pet will always spoil the leash faster.
Before purchasing, make sure of the strength and quality of the carabiner. Sometimes it is poorly secured. There may also be a problem with the shutter.
Separately decide on the length of the leash. The length also depends on the purpose. If leather is the chosen material (even if it is only partially used), take care into account. When purchasing, choose a leash whose edges will be processed, otherwise the leather will quickly get wet. Dry the skin so that it does not rot.
When keeping your pet outside, use two leashes, which are changed if necessary (one is torn or dirty, for example).

Choosing the leash size

How do you know which leash is the right weight for your dog so that your dog will break it?

As a rule, leashes correspond to the weight categories of dogs:

XS - dwarf dog breeds (the smallest breeds, for example, Papillon and Chihuahua),

S - small breeds,

M - medium breeds,

L - large breeds,

XL - giant breeds (especially large breeds, such as the English Mastiff).

How long should the leash be?

It all depends on the purpose for which you choose ammunition. For exhibitions they use short ones (about 1 meter). Walking leashes are usually 2-5 meters long.

Long ones are often used for training (the length is at least 5 meters). When choosing the length, also consider how convenient it will be for the owner to use the leash (for example, not everyone can handle a 10-meter canvas leash).

Every dog needs a leash, regardless of size, activity level or personality. It is better to purchase dog equipment for every occasion, so that you can always feel comfortable while walking with your pet.