Using a Slip Lead Safely

Slip leads can be wonderful tools, however, they are often misused. So, we are here to help shed some light on safe slip lead use.

What should Slip Leads be used for?

Slip leads were created for working dogs who cannot wear a standard collar due to the nature of their work.

They look like regular leads but with a metal ring on the end rather than a clip. The loop goes over the dog's head, and pulling on the handle causes the loop to tighten around the dog's neck.

The original purpose was to get working dogs from the car to the field and vice versa. Slip leads offer a way of controlling a working dog without clipping onto an existing collar.

This is still the primary use for slip leads; however, they can be handy in emergencies when the dog doesn’t have a collar. They are also sometimes used for dog sports such as Gun Dog and Agility.

Can I use a slip lead for my daily dog walk?

Slip leads are NOT intended for normal day-to-day dog walks.

This is because you cannot control the tightness of a slip lead. Slip leads, when misused, carry the same dangers as choke chains; there is no limit to how tight they can get around the dog's neck. A tight slip lead can result in strangulation and severe injury to the neck or throat.

Some trainers advise using these leads for reducing pulling behaviour or for training a dog to walk properly on a lead. Often, the lead itself is manipulated into a figure of eight. This is where a loop goes around the dog's head AND muzzle.

This is extremely dangerous as the lead will not loosen and will prevent the dog from being able to pant properly.

Slip leads are not fit for use as a training tool or for a normal dog walk. Here are some of the instances where slip lead use is inappropriate:

• Slip leads should NEVER be used on dogs who pull or have pulling behaviours
• Slip leads should NEVER be used to stop pulling behaviour
• Slip leads should NEVER be used to punish or create negative/ painful experiences/li>
• Slip leads should NEVER be used as a head collar, this can cause dog’s discomfort

Slip leads must never be used in a way other than their intended purpose – as a safe transportation aid.

At Pets Corner, we provide the best and safest advice, so we will always refuse sales on slip leads if they are being used for the wrong purpose.

What alternative is there to a figure-of-eight lead?

At Pets Corner, we do not stock Figure of Eight leads

However, there is a safe and effective alternative called a Canny Collar. This training aid simulates the same effect as a figure of eight by pushing the nose downwards. This is achieved without being tight around the muzzle.

The Canny Collar also has a collar attachment, so if your dog slips his nose strap off, you are still attached.

Fitting A Slip Lead Correctly

For working dogs that require slip leads, fitting the lead correctly will ensure they remain comfortable.

		A slip lead should sit at the highest point of the neck, below the jaw.
		It must NEVER be fitted or worn in the centre or base of the neck due to the high risk of injury and strangulation...
		It must also be fitted so that two fingers can slide underneath comfortably against the dog’s neck.

Slip Lead Walking Placement

The correct placement of the slip lead is decided by which side of you your dog walks on.

Slip leads must always be worn so that when tension is slack, the lead can open freely. Any other fit will cause the lead to work incorrectly and risk strangulation.

Here is a guide on placement, depending on which side your dog walks.

		LEFT HAND: Form the letter ‘P’ with the loop at the top and place it over your dog’s head.
		RIGHT HAND: Form the number ‘9’ with the loop at the top and place it over your dog’s head.

Need other high-quality walking equipment? Shop our range of collars, leads and harnesses.

For free fittings, head to your local Pets Corner store.