Choosing a leash for your dog can be tricky. There are various types in the market with varying objectives. Dog trainers use some of the best varieties to avoid problems. If you have gotten a puppy for home and wonder which leash type may suit your little fellow the most, we have covered the best types of leashes for dogs used by professional trainers.
Getting the Best Leash for Your Dog
When choosing a leash, you may consider some important factors, including the size of your dog, the age factor, the area they live in, and the dog breed. The variation of these essential factors may create the need for different leash types. We will go through each to give you a better idea to make an informed decision.
Flat Leash
The standard leash type for most dogs is the flat leash (aka flat lead). A flat leash uses a rope or nylon as the primary material to ensure durability for extended periods. You may choose a thick or a thin lead, depending on your preferences. Typically, flat leads attach to a clasp (metal) in the dog’s collar. We have covered a few pros and cons of getting a flat lead for your dog below.
Pros of Flat Leash
- The materials are skin-friendly
- You can wash the leash
- You can decide on the length, thickness, and other factors when buying one
Cons of Flat Leash
- Poor flexibility
- Not suitable for dogs with breathing issues
Bungee Leash
A rubber leash or bungee is a popular type of dog leash. As the name suggests, the bungee leash is flexible and suits most dog breeds. Professional dog trainers and military trainers prefer bungee leashes over other types to avoid strains caused by pulling. The best dog trainers in Kansas City recommend bungee leashes to avoid straining the dog’s neck.
Pros of Bungee Leash
- Ideal for running
- Prevents lead strains
- Required minimal effort
Cons of Bungee Leash
- Poor dog control
- Encourages pulling practices
Gentle Leash
Gentle leashes are ideal for dogs that pull more. The collar fits around the dog’s neck over the muzzle to offer better control. Some experts recommend using gentle leashes for tough-to-handle dogs to gain better control over them when running. You may find gentle dog leashes online and in pet stores.
Pros of Gentle Leash
- Provides better control against dog pulling
- Ideal for big and tough dogs
Cons of Gentle Leash
- Struggles to fit around the collar
- Lead friction may cause hair loss
Harness Leash
A harness leash may serve best if your dog has a breathing problem. This type fits around the dog’s neck and clips on its back for easier breathing when walking or running. Dog trainers recommend harness leads to avoid tracheal issues with your pet dog. You can find it readily available in pet accessory stores or buy it online from a reputable seller.
Pros of Harness Leash
- Allows comfortable breathing
- Offers better control over your dog
Cons of Harness Leash
- Encourages pulling in most dogs
- Lead friction may cause hair loss
Slip Leash
Another popular leash type for dogs is a slip leash. This lead is perfect for puppies turning adults. Young puppies often pull to dash out a door or run in a park. Using a slip leash can discourage excessive pulling with the help of a meta ring looping around your dog’s neck. Expert trainers use slip leashes to train puppies. You can find them online or in your nearby pet accessory stores.
Pros of Slip Leash
- An ideal option for dog training
- Easy to loop around the dog’s neck
Cons of Slip Leash
- Risk of a dog choking (due to poor positioning)
- Not suitable for long-term use
How to Choose the Best Leash for Your Puppy?
As a new pet owner, you might need to familiarize yourself with the technicalities of choosing a leash for your puppy. While a standard leash may serve the purpose well, you may narrow down your preferences to pick the ideal fit for your puppy when training at home. If you tried using various leashes but could not get a suitable one, let us guide you on your step forward.
Opting for dog obedience training in Shawnee, Ks, can put a stop to your leash hunt. Professional dog training costs more, but it pays back well in the long run. Precision Dog Training Academy has experts who are familiar with the dos and don’ts of dog training. They have appropriate leads for each dog breed and age.
Moreover, professional trainers are better troubleshooters than pet owners. They have experience training dogs of all breeds and sizes. This knowledge comes in handy when training a new puppy.
The Bottomline
The above dog leash types can help you determine the best choice for your puppy. If you need clarification regarding your leash choices, talking to one of the best dog trainers in Kansas City may prove helpful. Precision Dog Training Academy has an excellent reputation in the city for professional dog training services. You can book your dog’s training session on the official website.
