It's easy to feel overwhelmed by all the types of dog leashes on the market. We get it. But don't worry we've covered the most popular types of dog leashes here to help you figure out which one is best for your dog.
Taking your dog on a walk is likely something you'll be doing at least once a day, so you want to be sure that you choose one of the best dog leashes for your dog. There are a few things to consider when it comes to choosing a dog leash. You'll want to consider things like the size and personality of your dog, and where you are on your leash training journey.
In this feature, we go over all the pros and cons of the different types of dog leashes and even have vet Dr. Rebecca MacMillan weigh in on each type. Let's check them out!
What are the different types of dog leashes?
1. Standard fixed-length leash
The most common type of leash is the standard leash that has one clip that attaches to your pet's collar or harness. This is the most popular types of leash and is a good fit for most dogs. When choosing this type of leash you'll want to look out for ones that are made of durable long lasting materials, like nylon or leather. These leashes are great for dogs that pull.
Dr. MacMillan says, "Fabric leashes can be a bit lighter, which may be easier for puppies, but they can fray and break if your dog likes chewing on them."
Chain leashes also fall in this category, while they may be too heavy for puppies and toy-dog breeds, that will be good for large-dog breeds.
2. Slip leash
This leash features a loop that can be put over your dog's head and then tightened to the perfect fit. The leashes also tend to tighten as your dog pulls against you, making them not ideal for dogs who pull excessively. Dr. MacMillan advises against using this type of leash for dogs that have spinal or neck problems.
3. Retractable leash
This leash is a great option for owners that are looking to give their pooches a little more freedom while out on walks. As they are given more space to roam and sniff around. These leashes however, are not great for dogs that pull. As they will be rewarded with more free range the more they pull on their leash.
4. Dog harness
Along with leashes, there are also several different types of dog harnesses. Harnesses can take some of the pressure off a dog's neck and distribute it over the dog's body, making your hound more comfortable on walks. Many dog owners also use harnesses for dogs that pull.
What is the best type of leash for training
When it comes to how to stop a dog from pulling, the right leash can sometimes make all the difference. You may want to consider a double-ended leash. These leashes have two clips. One that attaches to the back of your dog's harness and another that goes on the chest of the harness. This allows you to be able to steer your dog and it stops them from being able to lean all their weight against you.
If you are working on training recall in dogs, Dr. MacMillan says, "A long-line training leash used in a large outdoor space can be a great option for dogs that are still working on their recall."
If you found this helpful, check out How to use a harness on a dog and Ways to build self-care into your dog walk.
Rebecca is a veterinary surgeon who graduated in 2009 from the Royal Veterinary College in London. She has a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, having done a mixture of day-to-day routine work, on-call emergency duties and managerial roles over the years. She enjoys medicine in particular and she is proud to have recently achieved a BSAVA postgraduate certificate in small animal medicine (with commendation). She writes on various feline and canine topics, including behavior, nutrition, and health. Outside of work and writing she enjoys walking her own dog, spending time with her young family and baking!
