How to Properly Leash a Dog

How to Properly Leash a Dog: Choosing the Right Leash for Control and Comfort

Leashing a dog may seem simple, but the type of leash you choose, how you fit it, and how you use it can make a significant difference in your dog's behavior and overall walking experience. From training to everyday walks, the right leash ensures control, communication, and safety for both you and your pup. In this guide, we’ll break down different types of leashes, their pros and cons, how to fit them properly, and why our Biothane Slip Leash is the ultimate solution.

Understanding Different Types of Leashes

Not all leashes are created equal. Each serves a specific purpose, and choosing the right one depends on your dog's temperament, training level, and walking environment.

1. Standard Flat Leash

✅ Pros: Simple, affordable, comes in various materials and lengths. Great for everyday walks.
❌ Cons: Offers limited control for dogs that pull or need training.
🔹 Best for: Well-trained dogs who don’t pull excessively.
A flat leash is the most common leash found in pet stores. It’s usually made of nylon or leather and comes in lengths ranging from four to six feet. While great for well-behaved dogs, it doesn’t provide much correction for dogs that pull.

2. Retractable Leash

✅ Pros: Allows dogs more freedom to roam on walks while still being tethered.
❌ Cons: Can encourage pulling and make sudden control difficult. Risk of entanglement and injury.
🔹 Best for: Small, well-behaved dogs in open, low-distraction areas.
Retractable leashes can extend anywhere from ten to thirty feet, allowing dogs to explore at greater distances. However, they often teach dogs to pull since tension is constantly applied when the leash extends. They can also pose dangers in high-traffic areas or with reactive dogs, as it takes time to retract them in sudden situations.

3. Martingale Leash

✅ Pros: Prevents dogs from slipping out while still being comfortable. Provides more control than a flat collar.
❌ Cons: Requires proper fitting to avoid discomfort.
🔹 Best for: Dogs with narrow heads, such as Greyhounds, or those prone to slipping out of collars.
A martingale leash combines a collar and leash into one, tightening gently when the dog pulls. While helpful for dogs that slip collars, they still require proper training to be effective.

4. Harness with Leash

✅ Pros: Great for dogs with respiratory issues. Distributes pressure evenly across the chest.
❌ Cons: Can encourage pulling by giving dogs more leverage. Not ideal for training.
🔹 Best for: Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs) or dogs with neck sensitivities.
A harness distributes pressure across a dog’s chest and shoulders, reducing strain on the neck. While great for short-nosed breeds or dogs with trachea concerns, they don’t discourage pulling and often make it worse. Dogs feel more comfortable pulling against harnesses since there’s no pressure on their necks.

5. Slip Leash

✅ Pros: Provides instant feedback and control. No collar needed. Easy to put on and take off.
❌ Cons: Requires correct use to prevent excessive tightening.
🔹 Best for: Training, leash-reactive dogs, and owners looking for simple, effective control.
A slip leash is both a leash and a collar in one. When used correctly, it applies gentle pressure to guide the dog’s movements. Unlike harnesses and retractable leashes, slip leashes help reinforce good walking behavior by offering clear, immediate feedback.

How to Properly Fit and Use Each Leash Type

Regardless of which leash you choose, proper fit and usage are crucial. Here’s how to fit and use them correctly:

📍 Flat Leash & Retractable Leash: Attach to a well-fitted collar or harness. Ensure that the collar is snug enough to prevent slipping but loose enough for comfort. Avoid excessive slack to reduce pulling tendencies. If using a retractable leash, be aware of your surroundings and keep control over how far your dog extends.

📍 Martingale Leash: Adjust so that when tightened, it does not choke the dog but prevents slipping out. The martingale should only tighten slightly when needed and loosen when the leash is relaxed.

📍 Harness: Choose a harness that fits securely around the chest and shoulders, not too loose or tight. Attach the leash to the designated ring based on whether your dog needs front-clip (anti-pull) or back-clip (casual walking) control. A front-clip harness discourages pulling by redirecting the dog’s motion, while a back-clip harness is better suited for calm walkers.

📍 Slip Leash: Position the loop high on the neck, just behind the ears. This placement provides the best control while preventing unnecessary pressure on the throat. Keep the leash relaxed unless correcting behavior. A slight tug and immediate release should be enough to redirect the dog’s focus.

Why the Biothane Slip Leash Stands Out

While every leash has its pros and cons, the Biothane Slip Leash combines the best features of multiple leash types, making it an ideal choice for both training and everyday walks.

✅ Waterproof & Odor-Resistant – Unlike nylon, it doesn’t absorb water or smells. Easy to clean with just a wipe.

✅ Quick, Secure Fit – No collar needed, just slip it on and go.

✅ Gentle but Effective Control – Provides clear feedback for leash training without being harsh.

✅ Durable & Long-Lasting – Stronger than leather, resistant to wear and tear.

✅ Ideal for Training & Behavior Correction – Helps reinforce commands and control pulling dogs.

📍 Potential Considerations: Requires proper placement – Must be worn high on the neck for best results. Not ideal for small, delicate breeds – Works best for medium to large dogs needing guidance.

The Biothane material also makes it the best leash for messy situations. Unlike fabric leashes that absorb dirt, mud, and odors, Biothane can be rinsed off in seconds and never holds onto moisture or bacteria. This makes it the ideal choice for outdoor adventures, rainy weather, and training sessions.

Conclusion – Find the Right Leash for Your Dog

Choosing the right leash is essential for both safety and effective training. Whether you need a standard leash for everyday walks, a harness for comfort, or a slip leash for training, making the right choice can transform your walks. If you’re struggling with a pulling dog or need a reliable, waterproof, and easy-to-use leash, our Biothane Slip Leash is the perfect solution.

👉 Upgrade your walks today! Try our Biothane Slip Leash and experience the difference.