"Patrick" and Choosing the Right Leash

For any dog lover who hasn’t seen the adorable feel-good comedy film Patrick, get thee to Netflix!

Sarah’s life is a mess – she’s struggling to meet ends, maintain a relationship, care for herself, and get through to her apathetic students – as her family constantly reminds her. But when her affluent grandmother dies, Sarah isn’t bequeathed an inheritance that would help take some pressure off. Instead she’s left with Granny’s most prized possession: precocious pug Patrick. Heartwarming chaos and hilarity ensues.

Much as I enjoyed Patrick, I couldn’t help but shout at the screen for Sarah to put that cat-chasing-crazy pup on a leash. No matter how trustworthy your dog, accidents happen and sometimes their base instincts overpower even the best training. Obeying leash laws and keeping your pooch on an appropriate lead is a simple yet crucial way of keeping them, and you, safe.

But for many dog owners choosing the right equipment is difficult. With so many options available, where do you start? Standard vs. retractable, chain vs. leather, collar vs. harness – making the wrong choice could be an expensive mistake. Fear not! Here are a few tips and recommendations for finding the perfect fit for the Patrick in your pack.

Standard or Retractable?

If you are training a puppy or working with behavioral issues, a standard leash will give you more control. A lead acts as a sort of line of communication between you and your dog. As standard designs restrict the dog’s range of movement, they are optimal for keeping them close for direction and correction. Standard leashes are optimal for small and toy breeds as they usually don’t need the extra length of retractable leashes.

Retractable leads, because they give dogs more freedom to move independently, are not ideal for training. If you dog is not practiced in walking to heel, then they may develop a habit of pulling and ignoring direction. This compromises both your and your pup’s health and safety. For lower energy dogs, walks in open spaces, and dogs that stop and return on command, though, retractable leashes are great for keeping connected while the dog and owner move at different paces.

Length

Six feet is the most common measurement on the market. This provides enough slack for a comfortable walk, but is short enough to maintain control. If you plan on walking around neighborhoods and other lightly trafficked areas, six feet is more than adequate. Small and toy breeds don’t need more than standard length. Large well-trained dogs may be more comfortable with the extra room a 10-15 foot lead gives depending on the environment. As a general guideline: the busier the area or smaller the dog, the shorter the leash; the more spacious the area or bigger the dog, the longer the leash.

Collar vs. Harness

Large dogs tend to do better with collars, and small dogs with harnesses. Collars give walkers more control of big breeds, but breeds susceptible to respiratory problems benefit more from the reduced neck pressure of a harness. As many small dogs are of delicate build, harnesses distribute pressure so no one particular point on their bodies is strained. There are many fits and styles of collars and harnesses available. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations specific to your dog’s breed and health concerns.

Material

Nylon is the most common material used for pet equipment for good reason. Nylon is comfortable, durable, washable, and available in every pattern and color imaginable for personalizing your pet’s style. It is great for puppies as it is soft and flexible, so neither they nor your hand get leash burn while training. Leather, though durable, does soften and break with time and use. It is also heavier than fabric alternatives. Chains may work well for certain behavioral training, but are not recommended for long-term use. Chain leads and collars are heavy, uncomfortable, and sometimes even dangerous for your dog. Always consult a professional trainer or vet before resorting to chain equipment.

With so many considerations such as your dog’s temperament, age, health, size, and environment to weigh, choosing the right leash can feel overwhelming. Hopefully these recommendations help you start the conversation with your veterinarian, and keep you and your beloved pet from becoming the next Netflix cautionary tale.

Add your recommendations in the comments below!