Ever tried juggling a coffee, your phone, and a dog leash when your dog suddenly decides to chase after a bird? It’s moments like these where leash length really comes into play. The debate between long and short leashes doesn’t just boil down to preference; it also affects training, safety, and how much freedom your dog has to explore. Some swear by the control of a short leash, while other dog owners prefer the flexibility of a longer one.
The right choice depends on a couple of things: your dog’s behaviour, where you’re walking, and what feels comfortable for you. Let’s break it down so you can pick what works best for you and your dog.
The Distinction Between Short and Long Leashes
Ever walked your dog through a busy street and wished for more control, or took them to an open field and wanted to give them more room to roam? The length of your dog’s leash influences how you and your dog experience walks, training sessions, and other activities.
Short Leashes
Length: Typically 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 metres)
These leashes are designed for closer control and are great for keeping your dog by your side in crowded areas, such as city streets and busy parks. They’re often the go-to choice for training as they make it easier to reinforce loose-leash walking and good behaviour. The limited range also means fewer opportunities for tangling or sudden dashes. Shorter leashes make it easier to guide and correct your dog without needing to reel in excess length.
Long Leashes
Length: Range from 10-30 feet (3-9 metres) or more.
Long leashes give dogs more space to explore while still keeping them connected, making them a popular choice for recall training and sniff-heavy walks. They’re ideal for open areas like fields, beaches, or quiet trails where a little extra freedom won’t cause any issues.
The Perks of Short Leashes
Short leashes might not give your dog as much room to roam, but they make everyday walks and training a whole lot easier.
Better Control
A short leash keeps your dog close, making it easier to manage sudden movements—whether it’s lunging at a passing skateboard or weaving through a crowded footpath. It’s especially useful in high-traffic areas where quick reactions keep your dog safe.
Improved Training
When teaching loose-leash walking or basic commands, a shorter leash encourages your dog to stay focused on you. It’s a great tool for reinforcing good behaviour without giving them too much room to pull or wander off.
Enhanced Safety
With less slack to trip over or get caught, a short leash helps prevent your dog from darting into traffic, approaching unknown dogs, or getting into things they shouldn’t. It’s an easy way to keep them within reach in unpredictable situations.
Easier Handling
No need to deal with metres of trailing lead—short leashes are simple to hold, less likely to get tangled, and won’t wrap around your legs mid-walk. If you’ve ever fumbled with a long leash when you’re out and about, you’ll certainly appreciate how straightforward a shorter one can be.
Limitations of Short Leashes
While short leashes are great for control, they do come with some trade-offs.
Limited Freedom
Dogs love to sniff, explore, and stretch their legs, but a short leash keeps them close, limiting their ability to roam. If your dog enjoys wandering a little or stopping to take in their surroundings, they might feel a bit restricted on a shorter lead.
Can Increase Pulling
Feeling confined can make some dogs more eager to pull, especially if they’re trying to reach an interesting scent or greet another dog. This can turn walks into a bit of a tug-of-war, making them less comfortable for you and your pup.
Benefits of Using a Long Leash
A long leash gives your dog more room to move while still keeping them safely connected to you.
Freedom to Explore
Dogs experience the world through their nose, and a long leash lets them sniff, wander, and take in their environment without feeling restricted. This added freedom can make walks more enjoyable and reduce frustration, especially if you’ve got a curious or high-energy pup.
Recall Training
Teaching a dog to come back when called takes practice, and a long leash provides a safety net while they build their skill. It allows them to respond naturally while giving you control if they ever get distracted or tempted to run.
Outdoor Activities
Whether you’re heading to a quiet park, an open field, or a bushwalking trail, a long leash lets your dog move more freely while keeping them safely connected to you. It’s a great option for active dogs that need the space to run but aren’t fully trained for off-leash adventures quite yet.
Mental Stimulation
Does your dog love exploring at their own pace, investigating different scents, and choosing their own path? These activities engage your dog’s mind, and a long leash supports this natural curiosity, making daily walks more than just physical exercise.
Where a Long Leash Falls Short
A long leash may give your dog more freedom, but it also comes with a few challenges.
Difficult to Control
A longer leash means more material to manage, which can quickly get tricky during walks. If you’re not careful, it can tangle around your legs, nearby objects, and even your dog.
Risk of Tangling
Which brings us to this point—longer leashes can sometimes be more of a hassle than they’re worth. In crowded places or near traffic, it will take longer to rein in your dog if they get excited or distracted, which can be risky in these situations.
Requires Training
Using a long leash isn’t as straightforward as it seems—it takes practice to handle it smoothly without tripping over or letting it drag. Dogs also need to learn how to respond to the extra distance without pulling too much or ignoring cues.
Not Ideal for All Locations
A long leash offers more freedom but isn’t practical everywhere. In urban areas, busy parks, or places with strict leash laws, keeping your dog close is safer and often required. They can also be tricky on bushwalks or off-path activities, where they easily get caught on branches, fences, or benches.
When a Short Leash Works Best
Urban Walks
Navigating busy streets, crowded footpaths, or areas with heavy traffic calls for a shorter leash. It keeps your dog close and reduces the risk of sudden lunges or stepping into harm’s way.
Training a New Dog
If you’re planning on having a new addition to the family, starting with short leases is a good idea. When teaching basic commands or loose-leash walking, a short leash helps reinforce good behaviour as it minimises distractions and allows you to guide your dog’s movements more effectively.
Reactive or Aggressive Dogs
Does your dog tend to react to other dogs, people, or unexpected noises? In that case, a short leash gives you better control. It helps prevent sudden lunges and keeps interactions safe for everyone.
Vet Visits and Public Places
Whether you’re at the vet, a coffee shop, or a pet-friendly store, a short leash will help manage your dog in tight spaces. It prevents them from wandering, jumping on people, or getting into things they shouldn’t
Best Times to Use a Long Leash
Open Spaces
Parks, beaches, and open fields are perfect spots for a long leash, giving your dog room to move while still staying connected. It allows them to sniff, run, and explore without the risks of being completely off-leash.
Recall and Behavioural Training
A long leash can be a great tool for practising commands like “come” or “stay” from a distance. It lets your dog learn independence while still ensuring they’re under your control if distractions do pop up.
Energetic Dogs
Some dogs need more exercise than others, and a short walk around the block might not cut it. A longer leash gives them the space to stretch their legs, burn off energy, and satisfy their need to move.
Specialised Activities
Long leashes also come in handy for activities like tracking, hiking, or agility exercises where controlled freedom is a prerequisite. They let your dog participate in more active adventures while keeping them safe and within reach.
How to Choose the Right Leash for Your Dog
The right leash depends on your dog’s size, behaviour, and where you’ll be using it—here’s what to consider when choosing one.
Size and Strength
A tiny Chihuahua and a strong Staffy won’t need the same type of leash. Smaller dogs do well with lightweight, shorter leashes, while larger or stronger breeds need something sturdier to handle their power.
Activity Type
Think about how you and your dog spend your time. Keep in mind that while a short leash keeps things controlled during training or city walks, a longer one is usually better for open spaces where they can safely explore.
Behavioural Needs
Some dogs are naturally relaxed on a leash, while others get nervous, excited, or highly reactive. If your dog is untrained or easily gets excited, a shorter leash will make them easier to manage and reduce the risk of pulling or sudden lunges.
Environment
City streets, busy parks, and footpaths are best enjoyed with a short leash to avoid getting tangled up in crowds. If you’re heading to a quiet beach, a field, or a hiking trail, a long leash gives your dog more freedom while keeping them safe.
Finding the Middle Ground with Adjustable Leashes
Adjustable and retractable leashes offer a more versatile option that gives your dog more freedom while allowing you to rein them in when needed. These leashes let you switch between short and long lengths, making them handy for different situations and environments. You can keep your pup close in busy areas and give them more space to explore when the situation permits.
If not handled carefully, however, retractable leashes can extend too far at the wrong moment and create safety risks near traffic or other dogs. The thin cord can also cause burns or tangles, so they require proper use and awareness. Additionally, adjustable leashes work best for dogs that already have good leash manners, but they can encourage pulling in more excitable dogs. That said, if your dog tends to lunge or rush ahead, we recommend a fixed-length leash for better control.
Safety Tips for Using Long and Short Leashes
For Short Leashes
- Use padded handles for comfort during walks.
Holding a leash for an extended period can put a strain on your hands, especially if your dog likes to pull. A padded handle on a short leash adds extra comfort and will make your walks much more enjoyable.
For Long Leashes
- Use in open areas to avoid tangling or accidents.
Long leashes work best in spacious environments where your dog can roam without getting caught on obstacles like trees, fences, or park benches. Trying to use them in crowded areas can lead to tripping hazards for you and your dog.
- Wear gloves to prevent rope burns.
If your dog suddenly takes off while on a long leash, the friction can cause painful burns on your hands. A sturdy pair of gloves gives you better grip and protection, especially when you have an energetic or strong puller on your hands.
General Safety
- Regularly inspect leashes for wear and tear.
Frayed edges, weak clasps, or stretched-out sections can lead to a leash snapping at the worst possible moment. A quick check before each walk helps prevent unexpected breakages.
- Train dogs to walk calmly on all leash types to minimise pulling.
A well-trained pup is easier to handle, regardless of leash length. Taking the time to train your dog and teaching them not to lunge or pull will make walks safer and more pleasant for you both.
Making the Right Choice for Your Dog
The best leash for your dog depends on their personality, where you’re walking, and what you’re doing. A shorter leash is great for control in busy areas, while a longer one gives more freedom in open spaces. Bearing this in mind, it’s worth trying both to see which one suits your dog’s needs and your own comfort. Some dogs thrive with a mix—using a short leash in town and a long one for outdoor activities.
No matter which you choose, the right leash makes walks more comfortable and stress-free. Finding what works best means happier walks, a happier dog, and a strong bond between you both.
