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- 🐕🦺 The Great Leash Debate
🐕🦺 The Great Leash Debate
Nylon, leather, chain, rope, or retractable -- Which dog leash should you choose?
In this issue:
🐕🦺 The Great Leash Debate
✅ Sit & Stay Pro Tip: Leash Pros and Cons
❓Poll: What type of leash do you use?
😁 Smile Section
🩺 Vet Recommendations: Fitting Dog Collars
🍬 Treats
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Asking dog owners to agree on the best dog leash is like asking a parent which type of infant carrier or stroller to use. There are about a hundred different options, and everyone has a favorite. Does it even matter which you use? Is one better than the other?
Whether your favorite leash is a bit of string (definitely do not recommend) or a gold-plated chain lead, we’re here to put the debate to rest.
Sit & Stay Pro Tip — Leash Pros and Cons
Nylon
Your trainer will always recommend a flat lead when leash training your dog. This allows for better grip and control. Your material options here are leather or…drumroll, please…nylon.
Pros:
Lightweight
Weatherproof
Sturdy
Customizable
Ideal for training
Available with reflective material for high visibility
Cons:
If your dog pulls, this material is more likely to chafe your and your dog’s skin.
It’s easier to chew through than other materials.
Nylon isn’t expected to last as long as other materials.
Leather
We think of the flat, leather leash as the nylon upgrade, and it’s the go-to option for Canine Trade Group president John Van Olden.
Pros:
All-natural material
Durable
Gentle on skin
Ideal for training
Long-lasting
Cons:
Approximately 2x more expensive
May require leather cleaner and conditioner for maintenance
Chain
We don’t see the chain leash used too much, but it remains an option. If you’re going for a particular look or your dog has chewed through ten leashes, we can see the appeal.
Pros:
Extremely durable
Easy to maintain
Cons:
Heavy, bulky material
Not ideal for small breeds
Not ideal for training
Rope
We typically see rope leashes as slip leads, which can be helpful for rapid transitions with a well-trained dog. However, we are seeing more cases of rope leashes because of the material’s durability and affordability.
Pros:
Durable
Affordable
Often comes with padded handles for comfort
Cons:
Bulky
Absorbs water and becomes heavy/difficult to dry
more dangerous for the owner if dog takes off
Retractable
This is easily the most controversial of the five options we’ve looked at here, but we understand why it’s popular.
Pros:
It’s convenient; the dog has more freedom to explore without the walker having to leave their intended path.
The leash can adjust to different lengths depending on the situation.
The leash is less likely to get tangled.
Cons:
It’s nearly impossible to control the dog if it runs the full length of the leash.
If the thin cord does get tangled, it can cause friction burns and deep cuts.
The handle is bulky and easier to drop.
You don’t have a visual on the state of the cord. It could be about to break, and you may not notice because it’s often retracted.
If you’re still training your dog for leash manners, a flat nylon or leather lead is the way to go. The other options are certainly viable, but we recommend making sure your dog is well-trained before turning towards some of the more cumbersome leash options.
Poll
What type of leash do you use?Click to cast your vote! |
Dog Food and Supplement Recalls
No new recalls to announce! 🥳
The Smile Section
Thanks to Phyllis H. for making us smile with this adorable photo of her 1-year-old puppers.

If you have a photo and/or story that can make us smile, send it to [email protected].
Vet Recommendations
Dr. Carla discusses how to properly fit your dog for five types of dog collars.
Treats
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🏆️ Check out the winners: Every year Purina crowns 5 companies with the best innovations for pets.
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