Best Leashes For A Dog That Pulls

Let’s face it; nobody wants to be dragged around by an overeager dog that pulls on its leash.  It’s dangerous for the person trying to walk the dog and for the dog itself―that’s just common sense.  Or is it?  The number of people who outfit their best friend with the wrong leash and collar is troubling.  Why?  Because the wrong sort of leash attached to an ill-fitting collar simply makes a pulling dog strain and pull that much harder.

So, with that in mind, let’s consider…

…5 Reasons Why Dogs Pull

1. An inexperienced owner
2. A nervous or over-eager dog
3. A jealous or overprotective dog
4. The dog has not been leash trained
5. Wrong type of collar and leash is being used

While the fifth point is the main focus of this article, it is important to note the other reasons why dogs pull.  These are all inter-related issues that can cause a dog to pull its walker.

An inexperienced owner―Most first-time dog owners lack the experience to train and handle dogs.  This can cause a lot of beginner mistakes, including the kind of collar and leash they buy.

A nervous or over-eager dog―A dog that is highly-strung or nervous will typically pull on the leash.  Also, a dog that is excitable and gets over-eager about going for walks will pull.  The bad news is that this behavior can be physically dangerous for both the dog and the dog walker.  The good news is that, with proper training and the right kind of collar and leash, pulling can be minimized or even stopped.

A jealous or overprotective dog―Some dogs, and some breeds in particular, may lurch and pull their walker because of jealousy or the innate need to protect or possess.

Again, with the proper leash and training, this undesirable pulling can be avoided.  And, if trained correctly, the dog’s pulling can be eliminated without diminishing his or her protective nature.  Specially trained police K9 dogs are an excellent example of this.

The dog has not been leash trained―Puppies have to be leash trained in order to be properly controlled on walks as they grow.  This is not a skill that puppies are born with; it’s a learned discipline that requires a properly fitted collar and leash.  Older rescue dogs may need leash training too if they weren’t correctly taught by their former owner.

The common thread

Notice there is a commonality in the first 4 listed reasons why dogs pull.  That common thread is number 5― the wrong type of collar and leash is being used.

A good leash for a dog that pulls is one that doesn’t tighten on the dog’s chest and throat.  You don’t want equipment that’s going to cause injury to those critical areas.

Some trainers and owners suggest using collars and leads that cause pain and discomfort to the dog if it tries to run or pull.  This type of “shock training” is based on negative reinforcement and it is not recommended or condoned by most good trainers or dog walkers.

As a professional dog walker, I want your best friend to always have a great and positive walking experience.  As a dog owner, you’ll want to outfit your dog with the right kind of collar and leash.

Here are my suggested best leashes for dogs that pull

• Halti Training Lead―A great training leash that’s engineered for better control of dogs that pull.
• 2 Hounds Design―A complete no-pull harness and leash training kit that is a trainer recommended patented “no-pull” design.
• Pet Safe Collars, Harnesses and Leashes―An assortment of high quality no-pull collar and walking leash choices for all sizes of dogs.
• ThunderLeash No-Pull Dog Leash―A simple no-pull walking leash for all dog breeds. Highly recommended by positive method trainers, dog walkers, and owners around the world.
• SparklyPets Heavy Duty Rope Leash―Designed with aggressive, hard pulling dogs in mind, this leash is well built to last. Comes with a 5-year guarantee.
• Weiss Walkie No Pull Dog Leash―A safe, effective no-pull leash favored by professional dog trainers, walkers, vets, and owners. Train your dog to walk comfortably and correctly in all situations with this strong American-made leash.

In Conclusion

I’ve discussed some of the reasons why dogs pull and I’ve listed training and walking leashes for dogs that pull.  With this information, you can make an informed decision on the best type of walking leash to buy for your dog.  I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this article.  And I hope you’ve gained some insights into fitting your dog with a good no-pull leash―Happy Walking!