Find the right leash for your dog
Lead with confidence
A safe leash is vital gear for every dog. For outdoor activities, a good leash will help things go more smoothly and allow you and your dog to enjoy special moments together. But different leashes are suitable for different situations. That's why it's worth spending some time choosing a leash that suits you and your dog. Hurtta has some helpful tips to make your choice easier.
Leash basics – let’s find your dog a leash
When choosing a leash, you should turn your muzzle towards the following points:
Obviously, the size of the dog matters. A narrower leash with smaller and lighter clasps is more suitable for a small dog. For example, Bichon Frisé and Papillon need a lighter leash. For a bigger dog, you’ll need a thicker or wider leash and much stronger hardware, including a good, durable locking clasp. That will give you greater confidence on walks with bigger dogs such as a Golden Retriever or Giant Schnauzer.
For puppies and younger dogs, a great option is a leash that makes it easier to train leash behavior. A training leash can be, for example, a leash with an elastic section, that can ease the pressure on the dog when the puppy jumps, pulls, or makes sudden stops, as puppies do. And when learning how to bypass distractions, a good training leash will have a second grip closer to the dog that will give you more control of your dog in unexpected situations.
Simply consider your dog's size, breed, and activity level and you will surely find a leash that best suits your dog's needs. And whatever your choice, the high-quality and durable yet still light materials of Hurtta leashes will ensure comfort for both dog owners and dogs for a variety of activities and tricky, fast-paced situations.
Additional leash features
Sometimes you might want extra features that will make your leash that much more useful. Here are a few that can help.
Visibility is important - Reflective gear for dog walking
Each year the dark season often surprises not only motorists but also dog owners. In Hurtta's reflective dog leashes, bright reflective threads are woven throughout the entire leash, making the leash particularly suitable for use in dark conditions and busy urban areas.
A dog high-visibility leash makes it easier for you and others to see your pet, especially in low-light conditions. This hi vis dog gear can help prevent accidents or collisions when walking your dog near roads, bike paths, or other busy areas.
Reflective leashes are suitable for all dogs, but they provide additional safety and visibility for small dogs such as Dachshunds and Chihuahuas which can be difficult to spot on trails or near roadways. At the same time, most active dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors should also be equipped with a reflective dog leash or one that comes with reflectors.
The Hurtta Casual Reflective Leash ECO is great because it features two extra handles which give you a great deal of additional control. With extra handles, you can safely guide and keep your dog closer in challenging situations such as passing runners and bikers or just navigating poorly lit areas. The soft, cushy, and durable grip also makes handling the leash more pleasant for the dog owner. And the tough, lightweight locking clasp is safe and easy to use.
Reflective leashes
It’s all about adjustability
A good adjustable leash is an ideal choice for most outdoor activities, including busy urban areas, on challenging outdoor terrain, and in hobby venues such as training halls. Light, durable, and adjustable leashes are suitable for all dogs, but especially for active breeds such as Jack Russell Terriers, Shetland Sheepdogs, and Border Collies.
A highly adjustable leash is suitable for dogs with whom you move a lot in different situations and environments. The length of the leash can be easily adjusted depending on your particular need or situation. You can leash the dog close to you or give him or her additional room to roam a bit. The range of length of Hurtta adjustable leashes is 120–180 cm.
Hurtta adjustable leashes have a soft handle that feels comfortable in the hand. And the light aluminium carabiner clasp is safe and easy to use.
Adjustable Leash ECO
Mudventure Leash
Adjustable Rope Leash ECO
Leashes designed for puppies
Everything is new for a puppy, especially learning how to be led on a leash. A puppy's leash should be unobtrusive and light so that the little puppy can grow into it with ease. A leash suitable for an adult dog may be too heavy for a puppy and cause unnecessary discomfort. For small dogs, such as a Tibetan Spaniel or a Poodle, a puppy leash may also be suitable for the dog as they age, but for a Labrador Retriever or a German Shepherd, for example, you will want to get a thicker and more durable leash once the puppy becomes an adult.
When choosing a leash for your puppy, also pay attention to the locking clasp of the leash. It should be quick and easy to attach to the dog’s harness or collar because with a puppy you will be making many quick trips outside each day. The lock should not be too heavy, so that it won't interfere with the dog's natural movements or inhibit the dog’s ability to learn leash behaviour. For your part, look for a padded leash grip. With a soft, comfortable, and sturdy grip, you will reduce hand strain and be able to give all of your attention to your puppy.
Adjustable Rope Leash ECO
Leashes made for training
A leash whose length can be adjusted for different situations and settings is a good choice for dogs that exercise a lot or that enjoy fast-paced activities or hobbies. That way you will be able to use the same leash whether you go for a walk or jog or do some other more strenuous activity. When set short, the leash will keep the dog closer and give the dog owner more control. And when used as a long training leash this leash will give the dog more freedom to jump, perform, play, and explore. The Multi long leash is a clever leash because in addition to its length options it can be adjusted to give you control of two dogs at the same time. You can also adjust it to sit around your own waist, leaving your hands free for other tasks or just to wave to other dog lovers out on the trail.
And thanks to the lightweight locking clasp, the training leash will be comfortable to carry in hand or in the pocket of a training vest. And the easy-to-open and self-closing carabiner locking clasps won’t slow you down, which is really important in a training situation. And finally, a leash with bright reflectors will enhance your dog’s visibility during outdoor activities or daily walks in busy areas at night or during early morning hours.
Multi Long Leash ECO
Adjustable Leash ECO
Hopefully this information gives you a good grip on how to find the right leash for your dog. Just remember to keep your dog in mind, as well as your needs as a dog owner, and you will most likely make a wise choice.
Here’s to enjoying more happy moments together outdoors!