How to choose the right dog leash

When it comes time to choosing the tools you need for walking your pup, the choices are seemingly endless. Leashes are a very important tool to have for your dog. You use it for training, you use it for walking, and more. That is why learning how to choose the right dog leash is so important. Choosing the wrong leash can make your adventures uncomfortable and even unsafe.

Whether you are shopping for a leash for your daily potty walks, your dog park trips, your hikes, or your trips to the water, you need to be sure and choose the right dog leash to keep your trips more enjoyable.

How To Choose The Right Dog Leash

There are countless types of leashes out there and available for your dog. Different materials, styles, lengths, and widths are just some of the options that you have to choose from. Plus you can even find different clasps and handles. Determining which of these work best for you depending on research and preference.

Before you even begin to decide which leash to choose, you need to keep a couple of things in mind.

• Do you plan on walking your dog at night? If yes, you need to be sure that your lease is reflective.
• What size is your dog? It is probably self-explanatory, but you need to match your dog’s leash to its size. For example, a little tiny dog does not need a heavy duty leash, and a small leash will not hold a large dog.
• If you have concerns about the leash becoming stained or smelling bad, it is important to choose a leash material that is easily washable and is odor-resistant.
• What activities will you be doing? Different activities require different types of leashes.
• How old is your dog? If you are still training a pup that likes to chew, you are better off to have a durable leash that won’t easily break.

What are the different standard leash options?

If you are shopping for a standard leash, you have plenty of options available to you. The standard leash is between 4 and 6 feet long with widths up to 1 inch.

Nylon Leashes

Nylon leashes are incredibly common and easy to find, in pet stores as well as big box type discount stores. They are very inexpensive, plus nylon leashes are easy to clean. They are awesome for quick walks or a trip to the vet or doggie daycare. On the downside, nylon leashes are not very flexible nor are they as durable as other options.

This 5′ Margaritas de Primavera dog leash is one of my favorite nylon dog leashes, because it is adorable and strong, but I have a couple of others I use as well, like this cute 5′ Monstro-city dog leash which is great for Halloween.

Paracord Leash

If you want a durable leash with a lot of distance for your pet to run, this paracord leash with carabiner is perfect! Paracord is lightweight nylon cord that consists of a core of woven threads housed in a woven outer covering. It has multiple uses and used by the military, astronauts, and skydivers, so you know that it is durable! This versatile rope also makes a great leash.  

Floating Leash

If you plan to spend much time at the water with your dog, make sure that you have a leash that will float while your pup swims. This one has 20’ of lead to it and works great for those warm days at the water.

Hemp Leash

Does your dog have allergies or sensitive skin? A hemp leash is a good option for you. Not only is it good for allergies and skin sensitivities, but it is also earth friendly. Plus, it is odor resistant and durable!

Retractable Leash

Retractable leashes are all the rage these days. They are seemingly great for those who want their dog to have lots of room to run, but the reality is, retractable leashes are a hassle and can cause injuries to dogs and humans. Additionally, many dog trainers are opposed to retractable leashes because it teaches dogs that it is acceptable for them to pull on the leash. Why highly recommend that you avoid these types of leashes. 

Slip Leash

Slip leashes are great for training or for use as regular leashes. Slip leashes are used as both a leash and a collar. When putting one of these leashes on your dog, make a large loop with the leash by pulling the rope through the metal ring. It is important though to make sure to keep this leash high on the dog’s neck near their ears so that they won’t choke or cough. One of my favorite slip leashes is this 6’ long slip leash.

Chain Leash

Chain leashes are not always the most convenient leashes due to their weight and uncomfortable grip, but they can be great, especially if your pup likes to chew. A metal chain does not feel good to chew on so a leash like this is a good deterrent.

Combo Martingale Collar and Leash for Dog

This combo martingale collar and leash is heavy duty and will let you safely walk dogs of all sizes. The handles are incredibly soft as is the rope so it is easy on your hands and the dog’s neck.

Snap-clasp Leash

The snap-clasp leash is easy to use with just about any collar and the soft rope handle make it’s easy on your hands too! This is the best type of leash to keep in your car, or right by your door. With the snap-clasp, it is easy to quickly snap on and go. This snap-clasp leash is one of my favorites and at 6’ long, is just right for most of our activities.

Being a pet owner means that we need to do our part to keep them comfortable and safe. We may not think that choosing the right dog leash is that important to keeping our dogs comfortable and safe, but it really does make a difference. When deciding how to choose the right dog leash, choose one that is comfortable for you to use, but more importantly choose one that keeps your dog safe and secure. A great leash is going to help you have amazing adventures with your dog!