Does your dog pull on walks? Do you have a hard time training them to walk by your side? If this sounds like your dog, a slip lead dog leash may help.
This post will look at what a slip lead leash is, how to use it properly, and how to choose the best slip lead for your dog.
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What Is A Slip Lead Dog Leash?
A slip lead dog leash is a collar and leash in one. It “slips” over your dog’s head and loops through a ring creating the collar and leash effect.
As you are walking with your dog, if they pull, the collar portion will tighten, giving your dog a signal to stop the behavior.
How Do I Put A Slip Lead On My Dog?
If your dog is walking on your left side, you will want to form the letter P with the lead. If your dog is standing on your right side, you will want to form the number 6 with the lead.
Once you know what side your dog will be on and you then slip it over your dog’s head, you can then adjust the stopper. Using the stopper will prevent the slip lead from sliding down out of the correct position and possibly cause harm to your dog.
When fitting the leash, you will want to make sure you can fit two fingers underneath. This will help to ensure the slip lead is not too tight or too loose on your dog.
Where Should A Slip Lead Sit On My Dog?
When you are putting a slip leash onto your dog, you want to make sure it is in the correct position on your dog. It should be placed up high, just below your dog’s ears.
If the leash sits lower on your dog’s neck, then you run the risk of choking your dog while using it. Your dog may then see using the slip lead as a punishment and will not enjoy going for walks.
What Size Slip Leash Should I Get For My Dog?
The size of the slip leash you get is determined by the size of your dog and how much control you need to have over your dog.
If you have a small or medium sized dog, 4 feet should be fine. Some people may feel more comfortable with a little bit of a longer lead, in which case 6 feet may be sufficient.
Keep in mind the size of the slip lead is the length of the entire leash. This means that once the leash is fitted around your dog’s neck, the length of the leash portion will be shorter.
In terms of the thickness of the slip lead, this also depends on the size of your dog. The larger your dog, the thicker you will want the leash to be.
Are Slip Leads Good For Leash Training?
Slip leads can help with leash training your dog, if it is used properly and in the correct position on your dog. They can help your dog learn to walk at your side and not in front of you.
Do Slip Leads Stop Pulling?
Slip leads will not stop your dog from pulling. If your dog pulls on a walk, the collar portion of the slip lead will tighten, giving your dog a signal not to pull.
They do not on their own stop your dog from pulling. One of the benefits of using a slip lead is that it can also be configured to be used as a head halter.
When the slip lead is in this position, if your dog pulls, they will be redirected to face you instead of letting them pull you to where they want to go.
How Do I Choose A Slip Leash?
There are several things you may want to look for when choosing the right slip leash for you and your dog.
Length
The length of slip leads tend to be either 4 or 6 feet, although there are some that can be even longer. The best size will be determined by the size of your dog in relation to your own size. The shorter the length, the more control you will have over your dog.
Width
The width of the lead is also important. Usually, the longer the lead, the thicker it is.
Material
Ideally you want a strong, durable material that will hold up through time and your dog, especially if your dog likes to chew their leashes.
Comfortable Handle
Most slip leads have the same material for the entire lead, including the handle. If your dog does pull on your walk, you may be likely to experience a type of rope burn on your hand. If you have issues with your hands, a padded handle may be better for you.
Reflective Stitching
This is helpful when walking your dog at night to allow drivers to see you more easily.
Stopper
A stopper is important to have on your slip lead. This will help you to keep the leash in place and avoid choking your dog. The stopper should be of a durable material, yet easy for you to maneuver.
Advantages To Using A Slip Lead
- Easy to put on your dog.
- Helps you get your dog quickly if they get loose.
- Can be used as a halter.
- Good for dogs that slip out of collars on walks.
Disadvantages To Using Slip Leads
- Chokes your dog if it’s not put on correctly.
- Can give you rope burn.
- Does not stop your dog from pulling.
What Is The Best Slip Lead For Dogs?
The best slip lead for dogs is one that fits comfortably on your dog without sliding out of place. It should be easy to adjust so you can quickly loosen any tension that might arise on the collar if your dog does pull.
Here are some top rated slip lead dog leashes available. Product information is according to the manufacturer.
Best Overall
Mendota Products Slip Dog Leash
This leash comes in two sizes, has a leather snap, and is machine washable.
- Available in multiple colors.
- Comes in 4 foot or 6 foot.
- Waterproof.
- Machine washable.
- Made of polypropylene rope.
- Oil tanned leather snap to adjust neck size.
- ½ inch in diameter.
- For dogs 50 to 250 pounds.
- Made in the USA.
Best For Multiple Dogs
Downtown Pet Supply Kennel Slip Lead
This leash comes in a multipack so it is great if you have multiple dogs or run or work in a kennel or rescue.
- Available in various multipacks.
- Comes in multiple colors.
- 6 feet in length.
- 1 inch wide.
- Machine washable.
- Use O rings to slip the leash through.
Best Leather
Wellbro Leather Slip Lead Dog Leash
This leather leash is available in two sizes and has reinforced stitching.
- Available in 6 feet or 5 feet in length.
- 0.7 inches wide.
- Uses two leather stoppers to adjust the length.
- Has an O ring.
- Reinforced stitching.
Best With A Padded Handle
Surepet Slip Lead Dog Leash
This lead comes in three sizes, has a leather stopper, and an additional anti-choking tab.
- Available in 4 feet, 5 feet, and 6 feet in length.
- Comes in multiple colors.
- ½ inch thick.
- Made of nylon rope.
- Has a leather stopper.
- Padded handle.
- Anti-choking tab.
- Reflective stitching throughout.
- For dogs up to 250 pounds.
Best Long Length
Yucforen Long Slip Lead Dog Leash
If you need to have some extra length to walk your dog, this lead comes in two long lengths and has an anti-choking tab.
- Available in 10 and 20 feet lengths.
- ⅜ inches thick.
- Comes in multiple colors.
- Anti-choking tab.
- Leather stopper to adjust the length.
- Reflective stitching.
- Made of nylon rope.
Best Splurge
EzyDog Luca All-In-One Dog Leash Combo
This slip lead comes with two different thicknesses and has a rubber stopper to keep it in place.
- 5.5 feet in length.
- Available in Lite (0.23 inch thickness) or Standard (0.35 inch thickness).
- Comes in multiple colors.
- Made of climbing rope.
- Rubber stopper to keep your dog from slipping out.
- Metal slider helps leash adjust from slip lead to a halter configuration.
A slip lead dog leash can help you train your dog to walk at your side when used properly. Make sure the lead is placed in the correct position on your dog to avoid choking them in case they pull.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.