A Guide to the Different Types of Training Leashes and Collars

If you are shopping for a new training leash or collar for Fido, it is important to know that the style you choose will be an important part of your training sessions.

In general, there are three different types of products that you would use for training: collars, leashes, and harnesses. These products will have a few added features that make them useful during training.

Before we get started, here are a few important notes to consider regarding training and training methods.

Different trainers often have their own preferred methods of training. If you are working with a trainer, consider checking with them for their specific recommendations for products that they would like you to use during their classes. For example, many trainers prefer 6′ leashes for close work in doors, and some would like you to keep a longer 20′ or 30′ leash on hand, specifically as you begin to work out-of-doors on recall.

Some trainers prefer working with prong collars, electronic (or e-collars), or choke chains. Unless you are working with a trainer proficient in using these tools, we recommend using a standard collar or leash, as incorrect usage may cause physical or psychological harm to your pet and may indeed make other training even more difficult.

If you have specific training needs, please seek the assistance of a professional trainer in your area.

Slip Collars, Slip Leashes, and Basic Training Leads

Slip Collars and Leashes

This style is ideal for training dogs that have a difficult time behaving on walks or are easily distracted. When your furry friend gets distracted by a cat, squirrel, or passing car, just give a short sideways tug and a slip training collar or slip leash will redirect your dog’s attention.

With consistency – and some persistence – you will likely find that a simple jingle of the leash will be enough to regain your dog’s attention, ending the unwanted behavior.

Pack Leader Collar

This collar is specifically designed to be worn at the top of the neck, helping to redirect a pulling dog even better than its traditional counterpart. This slip collar will keep your dog’s head up throughout the walk, making pulling uncomfortable.

Basic Training Leashes

There are times when a basic, snap-style leash is appropriate for your training needs. Auburn Leathercrafters offers several lengths and widths of basic leather, cotton and nylon web training leashes. You may wish to purchase one of our basic leashes that are both affordable and comfortable for you and your dog as you work through your training sessions.

When shopping for a basic leash, keep in mind that the leash may be dragged through the grass and mud as your dog learns the basics of come, sit, and stay, both inside and out of doors. Keeping a basic training leash on hand will allow you to keep your everyday or fancy leash looking good for your daily walks in the park and around town.

Martingale Collars

Also known as no-slip or limited-slip collars, Martingale Collars can protect dogs with slender necks from damage to their tender trachea.

A Martingale Collar looks similar to a flat collar but with one section made from a smaller loop of fabric, metal chain, leather, or other material with a D-ring attached. When your dog pulls during a walk, the smaller loop closes, creating tension without choking.

When paired with the right dog leash, a properly sized Martingale Collar offers plenty of control and security, redirecting your pet’s attention similar to a slip leash, with no risk of injury to the trachea. If properly sized, Martingale Collars are also useful in helping keep dogs from backing out of the collar during a walk.

A Quick Note About Harnesses

Tracking Harness

Tracking harnesses were originally designed for dogs to pull sleds and carts. Your extra-large dog may have fun pulling a cart or wagon while wearing this specially designed harness.

Training Harness

Unlike a traditional dog collar, a harness is fitted around your dog’s torso. It’s one of the safest styles for pets with potential breathing problems, including dogs with pushed-in faces like pugs and Boston terriers, breeds known to have trachea and throat problems, such as Pomeranians, and breeds with long, slender necks, like Greyhounds.

Keep in mind that harnesses as a rule still allow your dog to pull, but without the danger of harm to their necks. Proper training to walk without pulling is still a must.

Training Leash/Harness Combination

This leash is the best of both worlds. It looks like a leash but has a couple design features that allow you to securely wrap the leash around the dog’s girth so that the slip action is around the dog’s belly rather than the dog’s neck. This option is great for training dogs who are persistent pullers and who may have a tendency to back out of their collars. It’s also an effective training tool for dogs who are hard to fit.

As with all harnesses, leashes, and collars, this is a training tool to be used to get you and your dog to a place where walking on-leash is comfortable and enjoyable for both of you.

Shop for Training Leashes and Collars

With these few tips, you may be ready to start shopping. We recommend that you start your search here – with Auburn Leathercrafters training leads. They’re stylish, effective, well-made, and will stand the test of time.

You may wish to try a few different options with your fur baby until you settle on the perfect combination of comfort and features. Patience and consistency are your best friends when it comes to training. And remember, if you need specific help or have specific questions, your local professional trainer is a wealth of knowledge and expertise and can be your best friend.