Dog Leads- Should I use One or Not?

There is a big debate on whether or not people should put dog leads on when taking them for a walk. Some people believe that it is cruel to keep dogs on lead all of the time and a dog must have off lead time to be a happy dog. Others think that it is necessary to ensure the safety of both the dog and other people. In this post, we will explore both sides of this argument and come to a conclusion about what is best for both dogs and humans alike!

1. Introducing the lead

To many dog owners, the lead is nothing more than a necessary evil. It’s an unpleasant reminder that our furry friends can’t roam free as they deserve. But the lead can also be a lifesaver, both for our dogs and for us. Leads keep dogs safe by preventing them from running into traffic or other hazards. They also help us keep control of our dogs in public places, which is important for the safety of both our pets and the people around us. However, the pros from HaloCollar.com are of the opinion that your dog needs a collar as well to be safe. That way, if the lead ever breaks, your dog will still be safely tethered to you.

2. The benefits of dog leads

As mentioned earlier, leashing your dog provides many benefits. It allows you to keep control of your pet, and also keeps them safe from potential dangers. By keeping your dog on a leash, you can be sure that it will not run into the street and get hit by a car. You also won’t have to worry about them getting lost, chasing something furry, or running off.

In addition, leashing your dog can help to train them. If you are consistent with keeping them on a leash, they will eventually learn that this is how they are supposed to behave when they are out walking. This can be beneficial if you ever take them to a park or on a hike, as they will be less likely to run off and explore when you don’t want them to.

3. How to use a leash correctly

When you put a leash on your dog, you need to make sure that it is not too tight or too loose. The collar should be snug against your dog’s neck, but you should still be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s skin. If the collar is too loose, your dog may be able to slip out of it and run away. Too tight, it is not only uncomfortable but may choke your dog or cut off its circulation.

Be careful about how you hold the lead. You should never jerk or pull on it harshly. This can hurt your dog and make it difficult for them to walk. Instead, you should hold the leash loosely in your hand and let your dog walk ahead of you. If they start to pull, simply stop walking and wait for them to come back to you. Beware retractable leads, instead opting for a good quality training lead so you can alter the length depending on your location.

4. When to put your dog on a lead

If you’re not comfortable walking your dog off a leash, or if local laws require it, you’ll need to put your pup on a lead during walks. When deciding whether to put your dog on a lead, consider how well trained your dog is. If they don’t respond to commands like “sit” and “stay,” they may be more likely to run off if not on a lead. You should also think about your dog’s personality. If they are anxious or easily excited, they may benefit from being on a lead to keep them feel safe and calm.

5. What to do if your dog pulls on the lead

When your dog is on a lead, you can control how far they go and at what speed. When walking if your dog starts to pull on the leash, simply stop walking and stand still until they calm down. Once they’ve calmed down, you can start walking again. If your dog continues to pull on the lead, you may need to try a different type of lead or collar. Consider a harness for anxious dogs to avoid pressure around their neck which they can find stressful.

6. Ditching the lead

Sometimes, it is really lovely for our dogs to have some freedom off their lead. If your dog has sketchy recall or you are not confident to let them off, consider hiring a local secure dog field. This way, you can both relax and enjoy the freedom it offers. Also consider investing in a GPS tracking devise in case a mishap does occur.

Try lead training to help your dog learn that walking calmly by your side. This type of training takes time and patience, but it can be very effective in teaching your dog not to pull on the lead.

Ultimately, it is up to the owner to decide whether to put a lead on their dog or not. Some factors to consider include the size of the dog, obedience level, and comfort level. If in doubt, consult with a professional trainer or behaviourist who can help you with training and making those all important decisions. .

Let us know your top tips for lead walking in the comments below.

Other ways to exercise your dog here. Cover photo credit to Gentle Dog Trainers.