Leashes are an important and integral part of dog care. Not only do they ensure that your dog won’t suddenly run off and endanger itself when you’re out for walks, but they also prevent your furry friend from getting lost or stolen. There are many types of leashes out in the market today and most of them can be paired with personalized dog collars or generic ones. As such, it’s imperative that you pick the right one for your cute canine companion. We’ve assembled a list of the six most common types of leashes to help you with this endeavor.
1. Standard Leash. Nothing too exciting here, this is the standard type of leash that you can find in any pet store. Typically made out of leather or nylon, standard leashes have a loop handle at one end and a metal or plastic clip on the other that attaches to your dog’s collar. These are quite affordable, and they’re easy on your dog’s teeth if they’re the sort to chew on their leash. Before you use a leash for walks, just make sure that the leash isn’t about to snap or unravel.
2. Chain Leash. Sturdier and heavier than standard leashes, chain leashes are a good match for bigger and stronger dogs, as well as those that just can’t seem to stop nibbling on everything and anything in sight. Owners should note that chronic chewers may damage their teeth if they continue to chew on their chain leashes for too long.
3. Retractable Leash. Remember that retracting measuring tape you’d often spot in your dad’s toolbox? Now imagine that, scaled up and with a nylon band instead of metal, and you have the retractable leash. Using the same locking mechanisms as its toolbox counterpart, a retractable leash allows owners to give their dog as much (or as little) slack depending on the situation. It allows your canine companion to move around a bit more freely and explore their surroundings, but it also gives you more control of your pet. The downside of this leash type is that it may encourage leash-pulling. Use this particular type of leash when your companion is already well-disciplined and trained to walk properly.
4. Adjustable Leash. An adjustable leash sits somewhere between the standard leash and the retractable leash. Just like what it says on the box, this type of leash can be adjusted to your desired length through the use of loops and clasps. It’s like a sturdier version of the retractable leash, one that can be used on dogs of any size.
5. Seatbelt Leash. While most dogs love car rides, they can also be quite excitable during a road trip. Thankfully, there are seatbelt leashes that can secure your dog to the back seat of your car. Seatbelt leashes are usually clipped onto your dog’s harness or collar on one end and to your car seat’s seatbelt clip on the other, making a secure connection.
6. Reflective Leash. A subtype of the standard leash (or adjustable leash), reflective dog leashes are made with a reflective material that makes them very visible in the dark. This type of leash is a must-have for dog owners who usually take their dogs on nightly walks, as well as those who go night hunting with their dogs.
These are just some of the most common and most recommended leash types out there in the market today. But no matter which one you decide to go with, no matter the style or type or color, always ensure that it’s the right fit for your canine companion. If in doubt, consult a veterinarian.
