Slip Lead: How to Use a Slip Lead in 4 Steps

A slip lead is a type of dog leash that is an all-in-one collar and leash. Slip lead leashes tighten when your dog pulls against the leash and then release the tension when the dog relaxes. Many dog owners will use a slip lead as a training tool when they begin training their dog to walk alongside them and not rush ahead. However, slip leads can be dangerous for young dogs who haven’t started their training as these types of leashes can choke or harm dogs who won’t obey your commands.

You can find slip leads in many materials—such as nylon rope, chain, or polypropylene rope—and some will have leather stoppers or a padded handle for comfort. The best rope dog slip leads have a webbing structure that has some flexibility to prevent choking your dog.

There are many reasons slip leads are one the best leash options for dog training or for daily use. Slip leads are:

• Comfortable on your dog’s neck: Many dog collars are uncomfortable for dogs to wear and will dig into your dog’s neck. Rope slip leads don’t require a collar and are retractable, so they are never too tight.
• Easy to take on and off: You can very quickly and easily slide a slip lead on your dog if you are going on a quick walk, taking your dog to go potty, or are transporting your dog.
• Great training tools: Slip leads can be very useful as a training lead for your pooch. They will tighten when your dog is not obeying you and will loosen when they remain by your side. While small dogs may not be ready for a slip lead if they have a hard time obeying commands, older dogs can learn how to stay by your side when you use a slip lead dog leash.

Dog owners should know that slip leads have some disadvantages for dog walking, especially for small breeds. Slips leads are:

• Dangerous for unsupervised dogs: If you leave your dog alone on a slip leash there is a possibility they will pull and tug at the leash. The slip lead can tighten around their neck and choke them if there is no one around to loosen the collar.
• Not safe for disobedient dogs: If your dog is not fully trained, they may frequently pull and tug against the leash. This constant tugging can cause their neck significant strain. You should only use a slip lead when a dog is at least moderately trained and is ready to learn commands.
• Unsafe for small dogs: Small dogs are especially susceptible to choking on a slip lead. A large dog’s neck is more resilient while a small dog is much weaker and may tug and pull until it harms itself.

You can learn how to use a slip lead by following a few simple steps:

1. 1. Prepare the slip lead. Use the slider on the slip lead to create a loop that is wide enough to fit over your dog’s neck. If you plan to have your dog walk on your left side, open the slip lead so that it forms the letter P in front of you. If you want your pet to walk on your right side, open the slip lead so that it forms a nine.
2. 2. Place the slip lead over the dog’s neck. Slide the slip collar over your dog’s neck. This may be easier if you first get your dog to sit down.
3. 3. Fit the leash to your dog’s neck. Hold the slider and bring it down so the loop closes, but be sure to leave at least two fingers of space between the rope and your dog's neck. You want the loop to be snug but still loose so your dog feels comfortable.
4. 4. Keep the leash high on the dog’s neck. As you walk the dog, be sure the loop of the slip lead stays high up on the neck close to the dog’s head. This prevents the dog from choking and will give you more control as you walk your dog.

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