Top 8 Best Leashes To Use For Dogs That Pull

Do you have a dog that pulls on the leash? Does it make your walks with you and your dog feel like a firefighter trying to hold up a burning building with just his hands? If so, then you’re at the right place. In this article, we will explain why dogs pull on the leash, and introduce you to the best types of leashes for pullers. 

Why Does Your Dog Pull?

Pulling on the leash is natural for dogs. It could either be because of a basic leash or a best choice leash. Not only do they feel more in control, but pulling will often prompt your dog to walk faster. It can also be a sign of socialization and playfulness. If you think about it, it's pretty frustrating to be tied up while trying to go somewhere. Note that dogs have specific needs. Here are some of the reasons why your dog pulls:

You Might Be Walking Too Slow

Small dogs or big dogs tread naturally faster than humans. Obviously they have four legs, so that explains a lot. My dogs get excited about going for a walk, it’s only natural. You may need to adjust for them because at the end of the day dogs are man’s best friends.

It is Fascinating Out There

Dogs are excited to be outside and want to cover more ground. You can often spot these dogs darting from one side of the footpath to the other, checking out all the smells along the way. Also, your dog may have learned that pulling gets them to their destination faster, and results in more sniffing time, so keep in mind to use a longer leash for walking your dogs in open spaces and shorter leash when in crowded areas where you need added control.

Your Dog is Not Trained to Wear A Leash

A dog pulls because it is not trained to walk on the lead properly. This is very common with puppies and older rescue dogs that did not get the chance to be trained wearing a leash. But remember that it is best for your dogs to have a positive reinforcement training first before letting them outside. 

Lack of Exercise

With lack or inadequate exercise, your dog becomes too hyper that they release all those energies when you take them outside. Most dog owners do not exercise their dogs enough throughout the day. On an average, a dog needs about an hour of exercise per day, but this varies depending on breed and energy level. It's important to understand that taking a twenty-minute stroll around the block once a day is not sufficient exercise for most dogs. Know more.

You Might Be Using the Wrong Type of Leash

This might be one of the main reasons why your dog is pulling too often on the leash. When you or your dog walkers take your pooch for a walk with the wrong type of leash, this can be a huge problem. Most leashes designed for dogs that pull tighten when your dog pulls, which then tightens on your dog’s neck or chest - this can be very painful and may cause injury no matter what the dog’s size is.

Choosing the Best Leashes for Dogs That Pull

The choice for the best dog leashes for pullers can be an easy decision if you know what to look for. Top Dog Tips shared some important factors to consider when choosing the best leash for pullers.

Design

Design plays an important role in choosing leash for pullers. This can be a deciding factor of a dog parent. Best part of this is a retractable dog leash that is suited for smaller or larger dogs with padded handles for better control and gentle pressure. 

Shock Absorbance

Shock absorbance is something that pet parents need to look out for as well. The leash should be able to absorb the impacts of the recoil of the dog or other sudden movements to prevent injuries between the dog and the owner.

Durability

Durability makes you realize that your purchase is worth it. Leashes need to be strong for a powerful dog. Durability is a very important factor in choosing leashes for dogs that pull because you’ll never know what could happen when your dog gets too excited outside, most especially for strong dogs or strong pullers.

Visibility

Visibility is equivalent to safety and security. Best dog leash must also come with reflective materials such as reflective strip or thread and different colors. All minor or major accidents can be prevented if you use a reflective dog leash.

Best Types of Leash to Use For Pullers

Choosing the right leash for your puppy or adult dog is an important decision. The wrong type of a dog’s collar can make pulling even harder for you and your dog. There are so many different types and styles of leashes on the market today that it can be overwhelming to choose the one that works best for your pooch. 

No-Pull Dog Harness

No-pull harnesses are a great option for dogs that pull. They don't create any pain for the dog. This type of leash is wrapped around the dog’s chest, and designed to avoid choking and to reduce the pressure on your dog’s neck. It is safe to say that this type of leash is not cruel, similar to a martingale collar.

Head Collars

This type of collar fits on the lower jaw and under the nose, giving you control over the back of your dog's head. Head collars, or sometimes called head halters, can take some time to get your dog acclimated to wearing them, but once your pooch is used to wearing a head collar, it can be a great tool for dogs that pull on walks.

Choke and Prong Collars

Choke and prong collars may be the most effective tools in dealing with dogs that pull on leashes. If a dog lunges forward to hit the end of a choke collar, he'll start choking and immediately stop pulling. When a prong collar pinches him, he'll definitely stop pulling to avoid further discomfort. Some dog trainers say that this type of collar is one of the most critiqued choke collars used to train dogs to have good behavior.

Top 8 Best Dog Leashes For Pullers And Where To Buy Them

We all want to have a comfortable walk with our dogs. No matter what the size of your dog is, you can buy your best option of leash online. There are many sites on the internet where you can find a great selection of leashes for your doggos that often pull. Sharing with you some of the online stores you can visit and get these best types of leash.

1. Heavy Duty Rope Leash For Dogs (SPARKLYPETS)

Sparkly Pets offers this Heavy-Duty Rope Bungee Leash for large and medium dogs with anti-pull, shock absorption, no slip feature, and comes with reflective materials and different colors. This leash is 5.6 feet in length, but it only weighs 8.8 oz. This is highly recommended and definitely the best pick.

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2. No-Pull Dog Leash (THUNDERLEASH)

A premium choice for pet owners is the ThunderLeash No-Pull Dog Leash. Recommended by positive-based trainers, this no-pull harness attaches to your dog's regular collar, so it can be used as a regular leash or a no-pull leash. It is made of durable nylon with reflective strip stitching, a padded handle, and the hook is also made of welded stainless steel, so it's extra durable.

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3. Heavy-Duty Dog Leash For Large Dogs (LEASHBOSS)

Another great choice is the Leashboss Lea-5091 Dog Leash. This 5 feet leash has a dual-handle design similar to a traffic handle that might take you some time to get used to. However, both handles are padded and comfortable with a Y-shaped design for easier grip. With its heavy weight, this durable leash works best with larger breeds.

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4. Heavy-Duty Rope Dog Leash (MAYPAW)

Next on the list is the MayPaw Rope Dog Leash. This 1/2-inch round nylon and 6 feet in length leash is made for medium to large-sized dogs. The handle is padded, and you also have several colors to choose from. It also comes with a 360-degree swivel clip on the end to prevent the rope from twisting during your walks.

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5. Halti Training Lead For Dogs (THE COMPANY OF ANIMALS)

Known for its high reviews and recommendation from professional trainers, this Halti Training Lead For Dogs from The Company of Animals is another leash you might want to consider. This leash is 6.56 feet in length and among those nylon leashes material with metal swivel. This is very user-friendly, comfortable to hold , and perfect for training because of its multi-functional, double-ended leash, and soft padded material which gives greater control.

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6. 2/4/5/6 FT Strong Dog Leash (BAAPET)

Another good choice is the durable and strong Dog Leash from BAAPET. Made for smaller dogs or even the larger ones. This leash comes in different sizes, and is made from ½-inch-diameter nylon rope with reflective threads woven in, so it won't restrict your dog from moving freely, but it will make your dog think twice about running into the street or barking at other dogs. It's durable, strong, and comfortable for you to hold.

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7. No-Pull Dog Harness With Leash Clip (RABBITGOO)

One of the best dog harnesses is this Rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness with two leash clips. It has an adjustable soft padded and reflective no-choke Oxford vest. This is a good leash for large breeds such as Golden Retriever, Husky, Labrador, Alaska, German Shepherd, Akita and other big dogs. Keep in mind that you need to measure the size carefully before buying one for your pooch, for a guaranteed stand-out fit. Its safety features include breathable air mesh which keeps your dog cool during outdoor activities, and bright reflective strips to ensure a safe walk anytime of the day.

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8. Easy Walk No Pull Dog Harness (PETSAFE)

Making it to the list is PetSafe’s Easy Walk No Pull Dog Harness. This leash is recommended by most vets, dog trainers and definitely other dog parents.  It is quick, easy and has a comfortable fit. This harness is suitable for light and moderate pullers, and also comes with different colors and designs and styles you can choose from. With its two quick-snap buckles, it can be easily worn and removed, and the dual color straps help you identify the top and bottom part of the leash. For your pooch’s comfort, this leash is designed to rest across your dog’s chest instead of his throat to stop gagging or choking.

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Key Takeaway

The best type of leash for dogs that pull will depend on the dog’s behavior and what you plan to use the leash for. Plus, not all leashes are suited for every dog, so consider your dog's individual needs in your search for the perfect one. Hopefully, this list has given you a good starting point for narrowing down which lead is best for you—and your dog.