Best Leash For Dogs That Pull: Make Walks Enjoyable (2018 Reviews)
Pulling is a major problem for many dogs who aren’t used to being on a leash. And without the right leash, they can actually hurt themselves with too much pulling. That is why it is so important to find the best leash for dogs that pull.
At the same time, you also want to start training your dog to stop pulling so that going for walks can be a more enjoyable and relaxing experience for both of you. Read on to find a quality, effective leash that meets your needs and get some tips for leash training your dog.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison: Best Dog Leash For Pulling in 2018
| Dog Leash | Quality | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Freedom No-Pull Harness | A- | |
| Premier Pets Gentle Leader Head Collar | B+ | |
| Herm Sprenger Prong Collar | A- | |
| Xtreme Heavy-Duty Shock Absorbing Leash | B+ |
* click on the product name to be taken to Amazon where you can check the current price and read customer reviews.
Below you’ll find in-depth reviews of each of the above products.
Quick Tips for Leash-Training Your Dog
Training your dog to stop pulling is going to be better than just buying a leash that will make him more comfortable as he pulls. A good leash for dogs that pull is great for using during training (and some can still be used even after he has been trained). However, the key here is that you train your dog!
It’s actually not that difficult. It just takes consistency and patience. There are a variety of methods you can use to train and we are only including the one you like the best here. If you don’t like this method, you can do some additional research to find one that works better for you.
The important thing is that once you choose a method, you stick with it. Trying out different ones will confuse your dog and slow down progress. So here are the basic guidelines for our favorite leash-training technique:
- Go for daily walks: the more often you go out, the sooner your dog will get used to walking on a leash and doing it without pulling.
- Use walks as training sessions: until your dog has learned not to pull, treat every walk as a training session.
- Train your dog to come and stay: you can find lots of guides to help you train these basic tricks. They will be needed for this training method.
- Start with your dog sitting at your side: Give him a treat while he is sitting at your side.
- Begin walking: start taking some steps forward, continue walking so long as your dog stays close enough to you that there is slack in the leash.
- Stop: as soon as the dog gets to eager and starts pulling, immediately stop walking and call the dog back to you. When he is at your side again, give him a treat.
- Give treats while walking: encourage your dog to stay at your side by giving him treats as you walk so long as he stays near you.
- Repeat: if he starts pulling again, stop. You can also take a couple steps further back so that your dog learns that pulling will only end up taking him further away from whatever it was that sparked his interest.
This is a great positive reinforcement technique that rewards your dog for sticking by your side and staying calm even when he gets excited by something. Make sure you allow him to investigate the things that spark his interest but only if he doesn’t pull to get there. This shows him that with patience, he can have a more enjoyable and fulfilling walk.
Editor’s Choice – Best Dog Leash For Pulling Dogs
What you are looking for in a good leash for dogs that pull is something that won’t tighten too much around the dog. With all that pulling, dogs risk choking and damaging their neck so they need something that will protect against that.
Another option is to get one that does make them uncomfortable as this negative reinforcement can help correct their behavior. But that is a personal choice you will have to make when deciding how you want to train your dog.
Here are our favorite choices:
1 Freedom No-Pull Harness
The no-pull dog harness is the perfect option to make your dog more comfortable and give you more control of the dog’s body. The combination of strong nylon and steel make it ideal for larger breeds.
It also has velvet lining on the inside for added comfort for your furry friend. Make sure you are still adamant about training, though!
2. Premier Pets Gentle Leader Head Collar
For larger dogs that pull, a head collar can help give you more control. This one comes in 6 different sizes so you can choose the right one for your breed. With no dog muzzle, it still gives your dog the freedom to bark, drink and fetch.
3. Herm Sprenger Prong Collar
This prong collar is designed to fit loosely around the neck so long as your dog doesn’t pull. When they do start to pull, the prongs will pinch into their neck causing discomfort but avoiding choking or serious damage.
This is useful for training but once they have been trained, you probably want to switch to something more comfortable.
4. Xtreme Heavy-Duty Shock Absorbing Leash
This heavy duty leash is designed to with stand even the toughest of pulling. It was made to handle larger breeds of 50 lbs or more. Its heavy duty anti-shock retractable leash design helps prevent pull-related injuries for both you and your dog and makes it a good leash for running. Because it is just the leash part alone, you will have to buy a dog collar separately.
Conclusion
All four of these will get the job done, depending on your training method you should choose the one that suits you best. Be sure to read reviews by other owners, read their experience and let it be your guide when you make decision which one to choose.