Is your dog an overeager puller? If so, you might be suffering from chafed hands and an aching shoulder. Instead of using typical leads, you should get the best leash for large dogs that pull. This is made to absorb the shock so you won’t be having a tug-of-war with your canine every time you’re bringing it out.
Below, I reviewed five of the best leashes that will help reduce the force of your dog’s pulling and even discourage the doggo from doing so.
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Why do dogs pull?
Aside from finding the right leash for your dog that pulls, it’s also important to understand the reason behind it. This will help you tackle the root cause of the problem to fix it permanently.
The following are just some of the potential reasons behind this dog behavior:
- Lack of training. Dogs that aren’t trained will try to go their own way by pulling on the leash. This problem will only be solved if you take the effort of training your dog properly.
- Reward behavior. Many times, we let the dog lead us instead of the other way around. Over time, your dog will realize that it has control over where it can go. Pulling then becomes a rewarded behavior because you give what your pet wants.
- Inexperienced handler. Owners that lack the experience often struggle to control their dogs. The canine will exploit this opportunity to impose what it wants.
- Environment. Sometimes, the environment is more reinforcing than the handler. For example, your dog with a strong prey drive will be keen to run after a squirrel. No matter how hard you pull the dog back, its instincts will reign.
Best Leash For Large Dogs That Pull – Top 5 Picks
OUR #1 CHOICE
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RUNNERS-UP
[su_service title=”EzyDog Vario Multi-Function Dog Leash” icon=”icon: star” icon_color=”#2D3092″ size=”32″ class=””][/su_service]
Do you want a dog leash that can be transformed into six different restraints? If so, you should get the EzyDog Vario Multi-Function Dog Leash. This can be used as a long leash, long tether, traffic leash, double leash, hands-free leash, and short tether. It’s a very versatile leash that suits different occasions.
Moreover, this is made of durable nylon with three clip holes along its length. This way, you can convert the leash for better control on your pulling dog. It can be used as a 2, 3, and 6-feet leash by clipping one end to the rings.
Aside from that, this leash is available in standard and lite sizes. The lite one is perfect for small breeds while standard suits over 26 lbs.
One of the things I really like about the EzyDog Vario is its patented soft-touch technology. It’s a type of webbing that keeps the material comfortable to hold without chafing and rope-burning the skin. There are also snap hooks on each end of the leash that doesn’t rust easily.
Lastly, this leash has a reflective trim for added safety at night in case you’re walking your dog.
[su_service title=”ADITYNA Leather Dog Leash” icon=”icon: star” icon_color=”#2D3092″ size=”32″ class=””][/su_service]
If nylon and rope leashes are no match to your dog’s pulling, the ADITYNA Leather Dog Leash might be the answer. This is made of high-grade and genuine leather that can endure the toughest force. Also, this is 6-feet and 1-inch long, which is perfect for walks around the neighborhood.
Moreover, this leather dog leash is ideal for large and extra-large dog breeds like Great Dane, German Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, and more.
At the end of the leash is a stainless steel clasp that rotates at 360 degrees to allow you and your dog to move without the hassle. I also like the two rivets used to crimp the leather to lock the clasp in place. Overall, it feels strong and premium, even for an overeager dog.
Unlike other leather leashes, this one is thicker and the clasp is much longer. Even though it doesn’t have a special handle padding, the leather is smooth so it remains easy to hold. It doesn’t burn the hands even if your doggo is pulling hard.
Aside from that, I like that it comes with a little bag and a box. I can even send it as a gift to a dog owner friend or family member.
[su_service title=”Neewa Tug-Line with Bungee Leash” icon=”icon: star” icon_color=”#2D3092″ size=”32″ class=””][/su_service]
The Neewa Tug-Line with Bungee Leash is made with durable polypropylene material that can endure the strong tugging of dogs. It also has a bungee portion that absorbs shock to reduce the strain on your hands and shoulder.
Aside from that, this leash can be used with the Neewa Canicross belt or hiking belt for hands-free use. You can also get this leash in either 1.5 to 2 m or 2 to 2.5 m lengths, whichever suits you and your dog best. The longer version is perfect for bikejoring or skijoring.
Moreover, you can still use this as a typical leash since it has a handle in the middle. So far, this leash holds up well and my dog, who pulls like a Tyrannosaurus Rex, is no match with this lead. I also tried this while hiking and it’s pretty convenient since my dog can enjoy the trip and I can keep my hands free.
To add, the bungee part will absorb the shock of pulling. It may lose its tension over time, but it’s normal for this kind of leash. Overall, the stretch of the bungee is just right for my energetic Collie.
[su_service title=”Ravenox Cotton Rope Dog Leash” icon=”icon: star” icon_color=”#2D3092″ size=”32″ class=””][/su_service]
My last pick for this list is the Ravenox Cotton Rope Dog Leash. This is made of durable, twisted cotton rope that remains gentle on the hands but tough against the pulling of your dog. It also has handwoven loops that increase the grip of the leash.
Moreover, there’s a brass-plated snap to connect to your dog’s collar or harness. This rope is perfect for all-around use, whether you’re walking your dog or taking it on a hike. The material is weather-resistant and will endure freezing temperatures. Unlike nylon material, this cotton rope is less susceptible to UV damage.
Aside from that, you can get this rope in a wide variety of colors like black & royal blue, camouflage, black, red, shades of grey, and more. This is also available in 6, 10, and 25 feet long whichever you prefer based on the application.
Lastly, the Ravenox brand supports the Marine Raider Foundation. Every purchase of this leash helps retired marines and sailors as well as their families. They also hire veterans!
How to choose a leash for dogs that pull
To find the best leash for large dogs that pull, it’s important to know what you’re actually looking for. To help narrow down your options, you should consider the following aspects.
🐶Type
There are several types of leashes with different purposes. The following are the most common options:
- Standard. This is the leash type that you’ll use for casual walks and everyday activities. It can be attached to the collar or harness in a snap.
- Retractable. This is like a standard leash but rolled inside the handle. Instead of a rope, this uses a belt that can be anywhere from 4 to 30 feet. Take note that retractable leashes should be used with care to prevent accidents.
- Tether. This type is used by runners, cyclists, hikers, and pet owners who want a hands-free way of taking their dog outdoors. It comes with a belt that the person wears around his waist.
- Bungee. A bungee leash has a part that stretches as the dog pulls. This reduces the impact of the pulling on your hands and shoulder.
🐶Length
Once you’ve chosen the right leash type, the next thing to consider is the length. If you’re looking for an everyday leash, I don’t recommend going for a very long type. About 7 feet should be the maximum length or less if you have a pulling dog. For training and open space playtime, you can get a longer leash to give your dog the freedom to run around.
🐶Weight rating
Next, check if the leash has the right weight rating based on your dog’s size. This will ensure that the leash is durable enough not to snap if your dog pulls hard. The larger the dog, the thicker the leash material should be.
🐶Material
Dog leashes are made of a wide range of materials. The following are the most common options:
- Nylon. This is very affordable and durable. Also, nylon is easy to clean and it dries pretty quickly.
- Rope. Rope leashes are ideal for large dogs. Cotton rope types are easy on the hands but it gets dirty easily. You can also find synthetic ropes that are more durable and easy to maintain.
- Leather. For strong dogs, genuine leather leashes are ideal options. It’s durable and somehow weatherproof. Also, leather tends to age well if maintained well.
🐶Handle and connections
Lastly, check the handle of the leash. It should be comfortable to hold and should reduce the impact of pulling on your hands.
Aside from that, you should also check the part of the leash you’ll connect to the collar or harness. A metal snap is the most common since it also rotates at 360 degrees. Some leashes use a carabiner, but it doesn’t rotate as metal snaps do.
🐶Price
While you can always opt for the cheapest leash in the market, investing a few more bucks will go a long way. In the long run, getting a durable and premium leash will save you more money from buying multiple replacements. Just look for the right balance between the price and the quality.
Conclusion
The best leash for large dogs that pull will save your hands and shoulder from the strain. Just make sure that you get one with the right material, size, and weight rating. You should also invest in a durable option instead of opting for the cheapest find.
What do you think of these leashes I reviewed here? Let me know below!
