If you have a dog, you’ve probably asked yourself this question before: How do I know if this leash is the best for my dog? Now that we’ve talked about why you should walk your dog on a daily basis, you want to make sure that all the tools and accessories you are using with your fur-baby are adequate. So what goes into getting a new leash for your dog? We’ll work through some tips that can help you determine yours and your dog’s needs so that you can find the best leash out there. 

Before we count down the factors you should keep in mind, let’s talk a bit about the types of leashes that you’ll find out there: Adjustable leashes are very common, but also simple nylon leashes as well. You will need to think about the length of the leash, depending on how much you want your dog to explore while wandering off. You’ll also have to consider the material the leash is made of: leather, nylon or rope are only a few of the options. 

Consider your dog’s size

First and foremost, the number one thing you should consider is your dog’s size. A small chihuahua will have different needs than a big Rottweiler or German Shepherd. In relation to that, the appropriate leash for each is conceived differently. 

Think of it this way: a big dog can easily snap a leash that’s meant for a Bichon if they get excited about seeing something interesting while on a walk since they have more strength and bigger muscles. On the other hand, a small-sized pooch might be overwhelmed by the weight and thickness of a “big dog” leash. 

Consider your dog’s activity level

In a way, this one is tightly related to your activity level and needs, since you’re (theoretically) the person walking the dog every day. More specifically, if you enjoy going on hikes with your dog, you’ll have different requirements than someone who’s just going around the block with their puppy. 

You may need different leashes for different activities, so also keep that in mind. For example, you could use a hands-free leash when taking your dog for a jog with you, but then use a bungee extension cord when you’re hiking so that you can allow him to explore his surroundings a bit. 

Consider your dog’s behavior

Every dog has a distinct personality. This means that some may behave better than others, even with training.  When choosing the best leash, think about if your dog likes tugging on the leash (in which case, you should consider a bungee extension for your leash)or if you have a dog with behavior issues like aggressivity towards others (in which case you should think about a short and easy-to-handle leash). 

Consider your dog’s age

Puppies specifically tend to chew on their leashes, especially if they are not yet trained well enough to walk on a leash. In this case, opt for leashes that are more durable and “chew-proof”. 

This is also a factor you should take into account if you’re trying to train your puppy to walk on a leash, as you’d need to get one that’s sturdy enough to maintain control of your pup, but also flexible enough to allow him or her to get used to the idea of having to walk on a leash. 

Consider your budget

We all know what’s best for our puppy, but unfortunately, this is also related to our budget. And we can’t all afford diamond-studded leashes - not that you should consider one anyway. However, different materials cost different amounts, so keep that in mind throughout your search. For instance, nylon leashes

Based on these 5 factors you should be able to choose a leash that’s a perfect fit for your puppy. That being said, you’ll probably end up getting different leashes for different activities, as along the way you’ll notice what works best for your particular dog and your particular lifestyle. 

In the end, no matter what your choice is when it comes to the leash you’re getting, always try to keep in mind this one thing: your dog’s safety. That’s the first and biggest concern when buying a new leash. Make sure the leash is durable enough, to avoid snapping and loose enough to be worn comfortably. Keep in mind that a leash is there to ensure your dog’s safety and prevent accidents that can happen from dogs running into the streets, in front of cars, or by attacking people they don’t know, for various reasons. Having a well-trained dog and a good leash to pair, can be the most effective way of keeping everyone safe.