Author: Terry Hearn
Slip leads are a popular and commonly used tool for training, but due to the way they tighten around the neck, some dog owners are concerned about how safe they are and which breeds they are suitable for.
This article will look into the pros and cons of using slip leads to help owners decide if they are the right choice for their dogs, and when a harness and collar would be more suitable.
How a slip lead works
A slip lead consists of a single-piece of rope or cord which can be used as an all-in-one alternative to a lead and collar. The cord is looped around the dog’s neck and tightens when they get too far ahead, making it a commonly used training tool to stop pulling and a quick way to secure a dog quickly.
Fitting and using a slip lead safely
- Position the collar loop high on the neck so it is closer to their chin and ears than their shoulders
- Make sure the collar is comfortable. This can be tested by making sure that two fingers can fit between the collar loop and their neck.
- When in use, train your dog using a combination of positive reinforcement and short tugs on the lead. As soon as the command is followed, release the pressure.
- Make sure training is done in a calm environment first so your dog can understand what pressure from the lead means before heading outside.
Are slip leads safe for dogs?
When used correctly, slip leads are safe and most issues will be the result of misuse. However, many owners are concerned by the fact that a slip lead has nothing to stop it from over-tightening.
If a dog is not trained and continues to pull, the slip lead will continue tightening, so it then functions more like a choke chain and could cause injury to the throat and neck as a result.
Some slip leads are available that include a stopper to reduce choking and prevent injury, but these are still designed to apply pressure when your dog pulls.
When slip leads should not be used
- Strong pullers: dogs who are very energetic and difficult to control are not suited to day-to-day walks on slip leads as they would be more prone to injury. Instead, they should use a different lead or harness to avoid neck injury and only use slip leads for training.
- Puppies: Young puppies are not developed and are still learning, so subtle correction with a slip lead is unlikely to be effective and could cause injury and confusion. Instead, positive reinforcement should be used for training and a harness for walks.
- Older dogs or dogs with health issues: Any dogs who may have neck or throat issues due to age, injury or ill health should not use slip leads to avoid making issues worse.
Pros and cons of using a slip lead
Pros of slip leads
- Quick to put on: Slip leads are easy to put on and take off quickly, making them an easy option for short walks.
- Training: Close control means that slip leads are an effective way to train lead walking, but shouldn’t be used with untrained dogs or puppies.
- Catching escape artists: Because they are lightweight and easy to use, a slip lead is an effective way to catch an escaped or stray dog.
Issues with slip leads
- Negative reinforcement: If your pup has a bad experience while training, it could cause anxiety and a negative association around both the lead and going for walks.
- Injury: Using slip leads when training could result in neck and back injuries. Even the most well-behaved dogs sometimes can’t resist lunging suddenly if a squirrel appears and could end up feeling very sore as a result!
How slip leads can be used to train dogs
When training with a slip lead, it is very important to start slowly with minimal distractions. Positive reinforcement should be immediate and so they can learn that the lead is for guidance.
Never allow the lead to be pulled excessively tight or for an extended period or used aggressively. A short tug and quick release with calm and consistent instruction will help the training to be effective and avoid creating negative experiences.
Correcting behaviour
This approach uses the lead to tell your dog that their actions are not appropriate, such as jumping up or ignoring commands. It is important that this is done considerately so that the tightening becomes a way of communicating rather than a punishment.
As soon as unwanted behaviour stops, the tension in the lead must also drop. Otherwise your dog could become confused. Teaching that the pressure means a command is being given will not be effective if the pressure is continual or erratic.
Combining tension with commands will help to build an understanding that the lead is related to behavioural instructions.
Focus
Developing focus and the ability to regain your dog’s attention is important, especially when walking in busy and distracting locations. Using a tug and release method is an effective way to do this using a slip lead.
When you notice your dog is getting distracted gently tug the lead to get their attention and help them to refocus. As before, the lead should be relaxed as soon as they look back to you or their concentration returns. Then reinforce the positive behaviour with praise and treats.
Moving from slip leads to regular leads
If you’ve been using slip leads and you’ve realised they’re unsafe for your dog’s needs or are having a negative impact on their training, now is the time to transition to a standard lead or harness for a more comfortable walking experience.
When choosing the replacement make sure it is suitable for your dog’s size, breed and temperament using TopDog’s size guides.
Dogs may try pulling a little as they get used to their new lead, but consistent use of the same commands and stopping rather than pulling the lead will help them to adjust quickly. TopDog has a range that includes adjustable harnesses and leads for dogs of any shape and size - with colourful designs to match their personality.