Skip to main content

How to choose the right type of dog leash for your pup

Time for a walk! Learning how to walk on a leash is oh-so-important for any dog to learn, especially if they’re coming with you to work, on vacation, or to any public place. But when a pup isn’t comfortable on her leash, things aren’t likely to go well. There are several important factors to consider when selecting the perfect leash, but it’s totally okay to try out a few with your dog before making your decision. You want her to be comfy, too, after all!

Whether you’re looking into different materials, lengths, or dog leash types, there’s one out there for you. Once you’re armed with the knowledge of how to find the right leash, it’ll be time to take Fido shopping. Are you ready for your next adventure?

Related Videos
a beige German shepard mix sits on the grass, attached to a leash on their collar
MabelAmber/Pixabay

Types of dog leashes

When leash shopping, it’s important to know the differences between the types of leads you may see. They may look the same at first, but having an appropriate lash can be the difference between security and danger. These are the most common kinds of leashes:

Standard leash

Most leashes are simple 4- to 6-foot-long strips of leather or nylon (more on leash material below) that latch onto a dog’s collar or harness with a clip on one end. The other end has a loop for the owner to hold or wear around their wrist so that the dog is always secure. This type of leash has no bells or whistles but is great for basic walking and training, though there are adjustable standard leashes that work via reattachable extension pieces. These adjustable leashes are safer and generally a better choice than retractable leashes.

Martingale lead

This type of leash is great for dogs who pull, which is why it’s also known as the no-slip leash. When a dog pulls, the martingale lead constricts gently — not enough to choke or hurt your dog since it cannot tighten more than you adjust it to — keeping her safe in her collar. These setups are ideal for breeds like greyhounds who have heads slimmer than their necks.

Chain leash

This type of leash is just like your standard dog leash, except it’s made of metal chain rather than fabric. Chain is ideal for pups who like to chew on their leash, though not all dogs are deterred by the metal alone. Some give up when they learn they can’t chew through it, but others consider it a game. Keep an eye on her teeth if she chews on this leash!

a small beige dog walks on cobblestone, attached to a leash on their collar
StockSnap/Pixabay

Decide what’s important to you

Once you know the lingo, there are a few important factors to consider when leash shopping. Remember that your number-one priority should be the safety of your pet.

Leash material

Most standard dog leashes are made of leather or nylon, though you can find others (cotton, rubber, etc.) as well. Keep in mind these alternative materials are generally not nearly as durable. Nylon and leather are preferred because they’re not heavy enough to harm a puppy, but they’re still strong enough to hold up against a full-grown dog.

Many materials are designed with your pup’s safety in mind, so it never hurts to explore your options. It’s not rare to find reflective materials for nighttime walking or extra-durable varieties for teething puppies.

Leash length and width

Don’t forget to factor in the size and activity level of your pup before purchasing a certain weight of leash. A Chihuahua won’t need as wide a leash as a mastiff would, for example, but a dog who pulls will need extra security, no matter their size.

The length of your dog’s leash will determine how far from you she can wander while out and about. A shorter lead tends to give you more control, which is important for pups who like to pull. At the same time, since shorter leashes give your dog less room to wander, you’ll be making most of her detours with her. The standard leash is 6 feet long, but longer leashes may be useful in certain situations, like training.

Collar and/or fastener

Generally, a standard leash attaches to your dog’s harness or collar with a D-clip on one end. Because the leash is effective only if your dog is securely attached to it, though, a collar may not always be enough. Many dogs learn how to back out of a collar when pulling on the leash, which is why a harness can be so helpful.

When looking at the clip itself, you will see either a “bolt snap” clip, which uses a spring to keep closed until you manually slide it open, or a “trigger snap” clip. This type opens inward using a much larger spring; both of these qualities make it more difficult for the clip to break. Bolt snap clips are still very reliable and are the most common clip you’ll see.

Whichever type, length, and material of leash fit best for your pup’s lifestyle, don’t think for a minute that you won’t find something perfect. When in doubt, ask the knowledgeable folks at your local pet store or vet for suggestions. Leash training, like any new habit, takes time to get used to, but you’ll have the best-behaved walking buddy before you know it!

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Have your heart set on a breed? Here’s why it’s important to consider different types of dogs
Think you need a small dog? Here's why you should research different types of dogs first
A woman kissing a dog

Perhaps you love your friend’s Yorkie. Maybe you grew up with a beagle and always dreamt of having one of your own. Getting fixated on a specific breed is normal and natural, and there’s no shame in it. Just like gender disappointment is a "thing" in parenting, so is dreaming about welcoming a specific dog with a distinct look and characteristics into your family.

Still, you want to consider different types of dogs while searching for a new furry family member. It may be difficult to wrap your head around, but researching other breeds and considering all of your options is an essential step in the process of choosing a dog breed. That doesn’t mean you must consider all dog breeds — that’s overwhelming — but you want to look into several. Here’s why and how to jumpstart your search for your next four-legged best friend.

Read more
6 affectionate and cute dog breeds for owners who love to cuddle
Different dog breeds that are cute and that any owner would love
Cavalier King Charles spaniel lies on a pillow and looks into the camera with big eyes

Sometimes, a dog simply falls into your life with no notice. Other times, however, you have the opportunity to plan for welcoming your new furry friend. You might even want to research different dog breeds to decide the kind of pet you're looking for. Do you want an athletic canine bestie? Or would you prefer a buddy who wants to hang out on the couch?
Affection is one other quality that many look for in a pet. After all, nothing beats a good cuddle with your pup after a long day. Luckily, all the cute dog breeds on this list are known for their affectionate natures, so they'll be just as happy for a snuggle session as you will. Take a look!

Great Dane
Although a lot of people think of small dogs as the cuddliest, that's not always the case. The American Kennel Club (AKC) explains that this breed "need[s] lots of affection and socialization with people and other animals, making them great family pets." They are called "Gentle Giants" after all.

Read more
Why you shouldn’t feed your dogs trail mix
3 reasons why dogs can't eat trail mix or their common ingredients
A Yorkshire terrier licks their lips and looks into the camera

At first glance, trail mix might look like a healthy snack for everyone in your home. It has a little sugar, some healthy fats, and a small number of carbohydrates to keep you going throughout the day. Sounds great, right?
Although people can eat as much trail mix as they please, the same isn't true for our canine friends. There are many ingredients in this popular combo that aren't safe for dogs to eat. Let's go over a few of the reasons why as we answer some of the most common questions:

Can dogs eat raisins?
Why can't dogs eat trail mix?
Which nuts are safe for dogs to eat?

Read more