Tools of the Trade (Pt. 1)
A note: Each dog is an individual with their own genetics, history, environment, and patterns of behavior. While there may be stigma for some of these tools, we’ve tried to present a fair and accurate depiction of each tool and its uses. You should consider your situation carefully before choosing a tool for your dog. It is always a good idea to work with a trainer and to desensitize your dog to many tools as you work to find the right one.
Leashes are an important tool for non-verbal communication between you and your dog. The most common types of leashes are flat, rounded, retractable, and slip. Leashes are generally flat or round and around 6 ft in length. We require all clients to send a 4-6 ft flat leash with nothing attached (i.e. no poop bag holders)
Flat/rounded Leash: We recommend a regular flat leash with a traffic handle close to the clip. Shorter leashes (or leashes with a traffic handle) give you more control of your dog when you need it most. Some leashes have padded handles and rings where you can attach bag holders or other accessories. We ask that our clients provide a basic flat leash with no padding and no accessories attached. This makes leash management easier and prevents accessories from being lost or getting stuck in the car. If your dog will join us, please ensure you have a flat 4-6 ft leash with no attachments.
Retractable: Retractable leashes allow you to change the length from 3-20 ft. Please note that we cannot take a dog on a retractable leash and we strongly advise against their use outside of a yard. They lack control and can be very dangerous for your dog and others. They can also break and usually it happens at the worst time, like when your dog is pulling away. If you want to give your dog extra space to roam, opt for a longer flat leash. They come in lengths of 3-30 ft.
Slip Leash: Slip leashes are the industry standard for professionals. You see them in dog shows, vet offices, groomers, and daycares. A slip leash is a leash looped to itself so that the end of the leash forms an adjustable collar. These leashes should not be used on puppies under 6 months, but are a great option for dogs prone to escaping a collar. We use slip leashes to teach leash pressure and prevent escapes. They are wonderful tools, but should never be left on when your dog is not being monitored.
