How to Choose the Best Dog Lead
Walks are more fun with the right lead — here’s how to choose one that suits your pup and your lifestyle.
Ever found yourself gripping a lead that’s too short, too long, or already halfway chewed? Or maybe you’ve bought something that looked nice online but just didn’t feel right on your daily walks?
Choosing the right dog lead can seem simple — until you realise how much it affects your dog’s comfort, safety, and behaviour (not to mention your own experience).
Here’s how to pick the perfect one — whether you’re walking through city streets, training in open fields, or strolling in your local park.
The Most Common Types of Dog Leads (and When to Use Them)
1. Standard Leads (Flat or Rope)
These are your go-to leads for everyday walks. Usually 4–6 feet in length and made from materials like nylon, leather, or rope.
Great for: General walking, dogs that don’t pull too much, training leash manners.
Our Luna Co. rope leads have comfy handles and reinforced stitching for strong, stylish control — perfect for everyday adventures.
2. Adjustable Leads
These versatile leads let you switch lengths quickly using clips or built-in rings. Ideal when you move between busy streets and open spaces.
Great for: Urban walks, varying levels of control, multi-dog walking.
3. Long Lines
Long leads (up to 30m) give your dog space to roam while staying connected. A must-have for recall training.
Great for: Training recall, exploring in safe open areas, nervous or rescue dogs who need space.
4. Slip Leads
A collar and lead in one, slip leads tighten when pulled. Best used by experienced owners or trainers.
Great for: Quick control (e.g. vet visits), confident handlers or trainers.
Caution: Avoid using with dogs that pull heavily or have trachea issues.
5. Retractable Leads
These leads extend and retract to allow more freedom — but they can be tricky. Lack of control and sudden tension can be risky.
Best used for: Dogs with excellent lead manners, open, quiet areas, confident, experienced handlers.
Which Lead Is Right for You?
| Lead Type | Best For | Not Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Lead | Everyday walks, basic training | Recall or distance work |
| Adjustable Lead | Mixed environments, training | Dogs that pull a lot |
| Long Line | Recall training, open areas | Busy streets |
| Slip Lead | Training, emergencies | Pullers, brachycephalic breeds |
| Retractable Lead | Calm, trained dogs | Pullers or reactive dogs |
Materials Matter — What’s Your Lead Made Of?
Rope
Strong, flexible, and kind on your hands. Often with a padded handle for comfort.
Nylon
Lightweight, colourful, and budget-friendly. Can cause friction burns if your dog pulls suddenly.
Leather
Long-lasting and stylish. Requires maintenance but softens beautifully over time.
Biothane
Waterproof and durable with a leather-like feel. A great option for wet weather and mud lovers.
Other Things to Consider
Clip Style
- Trigger clip: Easy to use, secure, and common
- Carabiner: Ultra-strong, great for big dogs or climbers
- Swivel clip: Prevents twisting or tangling — especially helpful with active dogs
Handle Design
- Padded handle: Saves your hands from sudden pulls
- Second handle (traffic handle): Allows for quick close control when needed
Pairing Your Lead with a Harness or Collar
Your lead is only as effective as what it clips to. If your dog pulls, pairing with a no-pull harness is safer than a collar. And if your pup has style? You can match your Luna Co. lead with a beautiful bandana or collar.
Explore our collection:
Still Not Sure? Try This:
Ask yourself:
- Do I need close control or more freedom?
- Is my dog a puller or generally calm?
- Will we be walking in busy areas or open fields?
- Do I want something lightweight, waterproof, or stylish?
Best Dog Leads for Puppies
Puppies are curious, unpredictable, and still learning how to walk with you — which means their lead needs are different from adult dogs.
What to Look for in a Puppy Lead:
- Lightweight: Puppies are still building confidence. Avoid heavy materials that can feel restrictive.
- Shorter length: Keeps them closer for safety and better control while they learn.
- Comfortable handle: Because your pup might stop, sit, or zigzag often — you’ll be holding on more than walking!
- Secure clip: A reliable, lightweight clip that won’t pop off mid-walk is a must.
- Gentle material: Soft rope or padded nylon helps avoid friction or pressure on sensitive areas.
Our Top Recommendations:
- A light rope lead for daily walks and gentle training
- A slightly longer line (up to 2m) for recall training in the garden
- Pair with a comfy, adjustable harness for proper support and no neck strain
Tip: Skip the retractable leads while your pup is still learning — they’re too unpredictable and can create bad walking habits.
Need a puppy-safe lead to get started?
Explore our gentle, starter-friendly dog leads →
What About Adopted Dogs? Should You Take Them Out Straight Away?
Bringing home an adopted or rescue dog is exciting, but the first few weeks are all about creating a safe, calm space—not about seeing the world just yet.
The 3-3-3 Rule for Rescue Dogs
- 3 Days to decompress
- 3 Weeks to settle in
- 3 Months to feel fully at home
During the first week or two, your new dog may feel overwhelmed, unsure, or overstimulated. Walks can be stressful rather than enjoyable in this stage.
So, Should You Take Them Out?
Not right away. Unless it’s necessary (e.g. toileting or vet visits), try to avoid walks in the early days. Instead:
- Let them explore your home and garden at their own pace
- Use a secure lead and harness if you need to go out briefly
- Stick to short, quiet outings if they show confidence
- Focus on bonding, calm routines, and gentle enrichment inside
For dogs who are particularly shy or reactive, you may want to consult a behaviourist before introducing walks in public spaces.
When They’re Ready…
Once your pup starts to relax and trust you, that’s when you can slowly begin introducing the outside world. Start with short walks in quiet areas using a comfortable, escape-proof harness and a standard or long line to keep things safe and positive.
Explore our no-fuss harnesses for rescued and reactive dogs →
FAQs
What’s the safest lead for dogs that pull?
A standard or rope lead clipped to a well-fitted no-pull harness offers both safety and control.
Are retractable leads bad?
They’re not inherently bad, but they reduce control and can cause sudden jerks or injuries if a dog pulls.
Can I use a long line every day?
Only if you’re in open areas. Long lines can be a hazard in tight, crowded places.
From Our Pack to Yours
Finding the right lead isn’t just about function—it’s about enjoying every walk, every moment, and every tail wag. Whether your pup loves sniffing every leaf or walking calmly by your side, the right lead can make all the difference.
At The Luna Co., we design leads and accessories that combine comfort, strength, and a little bit of style—for dogs who love life (and long walks).
