Every time I start to look into getting accessories for my dog there is always too much to choose from. However, it is important to have the knowledge to purchase the correct equipment or else you will be going back to get what you should have bought in the first place. Who would have thought there are different types of dog leads some made out of different materials, some for specific training or job purposes and, of course, some just for fun and fashion.
I have already researched dog collars and all the special design and uses. Seems there are about as many dog leads out there. In more recent years for everyday collar and lead material nylon has become the leader. Most are made from what’s called nylon webbing. I’ve used a lot of nylon webbing when I used to rock climb and I can tell you it’s some strong stuff if I am willing to hang my body weight off the side of a rock being supported by this stuff. The other most popular are leather dog leads. Sturdy and they last for a long time.
First there is the slip lead for dogs which has a loop that slips over the dog’s head and tightens when the lead is pulled. It is a dog collar and lead combination and is used as a dog show lead. Slip leads are usually made from nylon rope or leather and is sometimes referred to as a British style. Good for training and handling in the ring but not a walker lead.
One of the most popular leads for walking is the retractable dog lead. This is a device very similar to your retractable tape measure that has a self winding mechanism that allows the handler to press a button and retract or give slack to the dog. Personally I do not like these they are normally too long and do not give the handle any control. Also a frisky pup will tie your legs up in a skinny minute.
Check cords are especially designed for a dog training lead. They are long, usually around 30 feet. Most float for water retrieval training.
Another very helpful dog leash if you have pullers or larger breeds that are tough to handle sometimes is the shock absorbing dog leads.
You can get two dog leads for walking your pack without getting tied up. These are designed like a ‘Y’ or a ‘V’ so a single lead can hook into an o-ring while the design allows hooking into two collars.
And finally you can get dog leads with matching collars in almost any pattern you heart desires. I hate to admit but my dogs have had special Hawaiian styles for beach and nice leather with beautiful metal studs (bones and Native American designs) for dressing up. Hey we all got to look good sometime. Some have reflective materials on them for those dusk or dawn walks.
Hope this helps when going to the store to get your canine friend a lead for training or walking. For everyday use I have always used either nylon webbing or short leather for good control. I tried the two dog lead once and if my dogs had behaved it would have worked.
