Tips on Choosing the Right Lead for Your Dog

Dog leads are not an optional accessory, they are a must. They provide the dog owner with a great training tool that is used during the youngest years of a puppy and continues through the senior years. It is great for preventing the dog from frightening other people while in the park, urinating and defecating in inappropriate places, running into traffic, etc. All these situations and many other makes leads for a dog must have accessory. Fortunately, dog lashes are widely accessible. You can find them at pet stores, via classified advertisements, pet shelters or you can order leads for dog online form online pet supplier. Once you go through the range of dog leads, you will not that there are just four main types.

Standard – This is the most common type of dog lead and is widely used among all dog owners. They use the standard lead for a dog for daily use and basic training like walking in the park. Standard leads come with length anywhere from 1 to 2 meters, although the ideal length is 1,5m. This model of dog lead can be made from different materials, depending on the manufacturer.

Retractable – This model of leads work like measuring tape that retracts into a plastic case. You as a dog owner have the complete control over the slack. These leashes usually contain a nylon band or cord that can be long for up to 8 meters. This lead is not a perfect choice for any dog. You can use it only after your dog has mastered how to walk with a standard lead.

Adjustable – These leads for dogs are something between retractable and standard models. Their design is very similar to standard options but feature loops along the lead that give you the opportunity to lengthen or shorten the lead. They give the dog more walking room without providing him with complete autonomy.

Martingale leads – These models combine the lead and collar into one unit. This is a better choice for small size dogs since the collar slips over the head and tightens anytime you want to pull the lead. There are some larger options of martingale leads that can be good for bigger dogs, but still according to experts is better to use them with small dog breeds.

Leads for dogs can be made of different materials. When choosing a lead consider the durability of the material. The stronger the material the less likely your dog will chew its lead. Nylon is a material that combines strength with affordability. Cloth leads are less used by dog owners since they fray easier than nylon models and cost almost the same. Leads made from leather cost more than other materials but are very strong and durable. Many manufacturers today combine innovative designs with functionality. Chain leads are not the preferred ones. Even professional dog trainers never use them during their training sessions.