One of the first things that pet parents buy when they’re anticipating the arrival of a new canine family member is a dog leash. Dog leashes are typically attached to matching dog collars, and their purpose is to keep the dog under the owner’s control and supervision. Using these tools ensures that the dog is safe while they’re exploring unfamiliar areas. Additionally, these items are also used to train dogs and keep them away from private property, busy streets, and less-than-friendly animals. In many locations, pet parents are also required by law to keep dogs leashed if they’re venturing outside.
Before you place an order for a snazzy dog leash, however, it’s important to remember that not all dog leashes are made the same. Here are some pointers and factors you should consider if you want to buy dog leashes or wholesale dog collars that perfectly suit your furred companion:
Type of Leash
First of all, you need to determine exactly what type of leash you should look for. There are many types out in the market, and they’re designed to suit particular activities, discipline styles, and dog personalities. Here is a summary of the most common leash types that you can find in most physical and online pet merchandise stores:
Standard Leash
The standard type is the simplest dog leash that you can probably find in the market. This type of leash doesn’t have a mechanism that allows it to automatically retract or adjust, so it stays the same length all the time. Standard leashes can be clipped easily to a dog’s collar, and they work well for everyday walks.
Retractable Leash
Retractable leashes present you with the capability to change the length of the leash as needed. On one end of this model is an implement that can extend, retract, or lock the length of the leash. While this model offers an extra level of convenience, it should be noted that the improper use of retractable leashes can teach the dog to pull while walking.
Adjustable Leash
Adjustable leashes offer a compromise between standard and retractable leashes. This type of tool often features loops and clips in the middle, which the pet walker can remove or add in order to change the length of the leash.
Martingale Leash
If pulling is a habit that you want to train out of your dog, a martingale lead and collar is a great teaching tool. This leash features an adjustable collar that tightens around the dog’s neck in case they start pulling, discouraging them from continuing the said habit.
Multiple Dog Leash
A multiple dog leash allows you to take multiple dogs out for a walk all at the same time. This tool features two or more leashes that are connected to a single handle.
Chain Leash
Chain leashes can be quite hefty and are best suited for dogs that tend to chew on less durable leash materials like nylon or leather.
Bike Leash
If you’re an avid biker and your dog is capable of keeping up with you, then you can enjoy the activity together by using a bike leash. This leash has a metal tube that is attached to the frame of the bike.
Length
The length of the leash often depends on the leash type or model. It’s quite common to spot leashes that are between four to eight feet in length in most pet product stores. If you find common leashes to be too long or too short for your comfort and that of your pet, you can opt to buy retractable or adjustable leashes instead.
Width
The width of the leash can help determine its level of durability. If your dog is especially strong, a chewer, or a puller, then you might want to get a wider model to ensure that your pet won’t cause the leash to snap no matter how rambunctious they get. Take note, though, that wider leashes also tend to be a bit on the heavier side. Be careful when using them, especially if your pet is still a puppy.
Material
It’s easy to find leashes made from nylon, leather, and chain from your nearest pet product store. Nylon leashes come in all sorts of designs and colors, and they also fare quite well even if they are repeatedly exposed to high levels of humidity. On the downside, they’re not a good match for dogs that like to chew. Leather is a great option if you want your pet to look classy on your daily walks. This material can be more costly than nylon, though. If your dog likes to chew, then a metal chain leash is a durable option.
Clip
Many leash models need to be attached to the dog’s collar. This is often done with the use of bolt snap clips, which you need to slide open to use, and trigger snap clips, which open inwards. As long as the clips feature high-quality springs, either will do a fantastic job of keeping your dog safely and securely tethered to the collar.
Finally, don’t forget to consider the look that you want for your dog. Having a particular color or design in mind will make it easier for you to choose which among your options will look great on your new canine companion.
With these tips in mind, you shouldn’t have a problem finding the perfect leash for your fur baby. Just take your time and don’t rush while shopping for one. After all, your pet’s safety and comfort should be your top-most priority, so make sure you get the best one available on the market.
