What Length Should I Choose for My Dog's Leash?
All dog leashes have the same basic purpose, that is, to keep your pup safe and under your control while out in public and as an aid during dog training. The dog’s age size, temperament, level of training, and the situation, will determine the best leash length to use.
Safety first means never having so much slack in your leash that it drags on the ground where it can get tangled around you and/or your dog. A tall human with a small dog should use a different leash length than a shorter human with a tall dog. As younger dogs learn more, and situations change, the optimal leash length will also likely change.
Shorter 1-2m leashes are recommended for younger puppies, for dogs that are new to you, for puppies or dogs in training or for times the situation dictates it is safer to have your pup close by, such as greeting other dogs and people or unexpected distractions like a squirrel or skateboarder.
Shorter leashes are also recommended for dogs working on pulling or jumping up. For overall control, 2m is a good length for most dogs and puppies. It’s perfect when teaching your new puppy (or dog) to stay by your side, and it's always recommended for any dog who needs a little more guidance.
A 2m leash will offer the same control for a taller dog. This is the perfect length for walking in neighborhoods, parks, city streets, or other more trafficked areas. As your puppy or dog learns leash manners, you can still maintain control with a 3m or 5m length. This gives your pup a bit more room to potty and explore, yet remain within your control. If your pup is pulling, jumping up, lunging at passing dogs continue to work with them on the shorter length leash. The increased length, and decreased control, will not improve these poor leash manners. For the well behaved pup, this is the perfect length for walking in neighborhoods, parks and other less trafficked areas such as hiking.
Crowded City Streets
Traffic leads keep taller dogs close and safe, especially under high traffic conditions or in crowded places. Our Urban Walker is 50cm long and has a short hand loop which makes it easier to keep your best friend by your side.
Why We Don't Recommend Flexi Leashes?
As we've said, keeping your pup safe is the primary purpose of a leash. The shorter the leash, the more control you have. The more control you have, the safer it is for both you and your pup.
- Retractable leads “reward” your dog for pulling. Feeling the tension on the line as they get to explore new and exciting smells tells them I pulled to get over to here and was rewarded by getting to check out this new thing I wanted to.
- Retractable leashes offer little control. There is no easy or quick way to retract the leash short of grabbing the cord and pulling on it, which may cause injury to your hands.
- You also risk injury to your dog’s neck or spine when you push on the lock to stop your dog from pulling ahead of you. It exerts a strong force where the leash is attached to your pup (likely at the collar).
If you have any questions about choosing the right leash for your dog, we're always happy to help.
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Measure Neck
Measure your dog's neck closely
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Measure breast
Measure your dog's chest tightly at its widest point, about 3-5 cm from the armpit.
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Measure back length
In all products the back length is adjustable.
For dogs with an elongated body, this parameter is very important. The harness should not rub the armpits, the straps should be on the chest.
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Select the correct size
To select the right size, please refer to the size chart.
If you have not found the right size, please contact us.
The harness should fit tightly around the dog, not dangle. But it should not press or rub anywhere. The dog's movements in the harness should be free.