Dogs have been our loyal companions for thousands of years, ever since the first men trained the Canis lupus, or wolf, to hunt for us, slowly evolving them into the Canis familiaris, or the domestic dog.
One fundamental difference is the usage of the leash. Any dog parent knows that not all leashes are created equal.
If you are walking your dog, you might need more control and that’s when a standard six-foot (183 cm) leash comes in handy.
However, if you are hiking on a quiet trail in the middle of the forest or teaching your dog some obedience commands like the oh-so-important recall at a distance, you might want a long training lead.
In this post, we’ll take a look at long lead training, how to use it, why you should use it, and what sets it apart from regular leads.
What Is Long Lead Training Used For?
Long lead training is essentially used for training dogs to obey commands at a distance. For example, sitting, laying down, or standing when you and your dog are yards apart.
In addition, the long lead can also be used when you are teaching your dog recall. Off-leash recalling is risky unless your dog is thoroughly trained and you are sure that your command will be obeyed. Until your dog has a 100% effective recall, he or she should always be on the lead, especially if in an unfenced area.
Leads can range from 10m to 20m, which allows your dog ample room to move around and maneuver yet remain under control.
Why It Is Important To Teach Your Dog Effective Recall
Teaching your dog the recall is one of the most important things you can do to ensure their safety and happiness. It ensures that your pup always comes when called, no matter what distractions may arise.
With effective recall, you can rest assured that your furry friend will be right by your side when it matters most. In an event that your dog gets distracted by a squirrel or another dog on a busy street, the last thing you want is for your dog to dash off into a throng of people, or worse, traffic!
The recall is a command that simply means “come!” It should be used positively and consistently so that your dog understands exactly what it means every time you say it. When teaching recall, it is important to start with basic commands such as sit and stay before adding more complex ones like lying down or going to bed.
Teaching your pup effective recall starts by building trust between you and them. This can be done through positive reinforcement such as praising them when they do something right or rewarding them with treats when they return after being called.
Additionally, make sure you are consistent with commands and use clear language so they understand exactly what they should be doing each time they hear it from you. Finally, choose a unique word or phrase as the command for recall so there is no confusion between different types of commands.
It is also important to practice recall regularly in different settings such as indoors or outdoors to ensure that your pup knows how to respond in any situation. Start slowly in an area with minimal distractions and gradually move up in difficulty as they become more confident in their abilities.
Also, create scenarios where there are real-life distractions (such as other people or animals) so that they learn how to ignore those stimuli and stay focused on coming back to you when called upon.
Teaching effective recall is an essential part of owning a dog and ensuring their safety at all times. Regular practice is key for success, so make sure to take time out of each day specifically dedicated to teaching them this vital command so that both of you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your pup will always come running back when needed.
How To Use A Long Training Lead Effectively
How do you teach your dog to come back to you whenever you call? One of the best ways is by using a long leash training method.
Long leash training is a method that uses a long line measuring at least 10 metres attached to your dog’s collar or harness. During training, your pup is allowed to roam freely while the long line allows you to keep them close enough that they can hear and obey your commands.
This method is great for teaching recall because it gives them freedom of movement but also provides boundaries that let them know when it’s time to come back.
One of the biggest benefits of a long training lead is that it helps prevent unwanted behaviors like running away or chasing after other animals. This type of training also allows you to reward good behavior when they respond correctly without having to physically restrain them with a shorter leash.
How The Total Pet Training Lead Is Different From Others
Total Pet has two training leads of different lengths - the 10-metre and the 20-metre-lead. Both leads have a control handle that allows you to gradually slow the lead down. As a result, you avoid rope burns or hurting your dog’s sensitive trachea from the sudden and violent jerk on their collar as they reach the end of the lead.
Both leads have a 5-metre marker, and the 20-metre lead has a 10-metre marker. This gives you way more versatility and allows you to use the lead at shorter distances if you need more control.
In addition, the heavy-duty nylon leads have reinforced stitching that can accommodate up to 80 kgs of pressure, which will stand up against even the most enthusiastic puller or the largest dog.
Why Not Retractable Leads?
Another type of lead that will give your dog plenty of freedom is the retractable lead that gives your dog as much leeway as you want, yet locks in place if you think your pooch has wandered far enough.
Dog trainers, vets, and behaviourists have all cautioned against the use of such leads. There are a few reasons why these leads can be dangerous and have already been the cause of many training accidents.
- Some leashes are extendable to 25 or 30 feet. Having your dog that far away from you prevents you from reacting quickly should something happen.
- Irresponsible dog owners often have their pooches far away and when their dogs turn aggressive and there is nothing they can do.
- Those same owners that walk around with the button depressed and allow their dogs to do anything often let their dogs run to the end of the line. This looks like aggression and can cause a normally well-mannered, placid dog to try and fight back
- Dogs also get to pick up speed while running to the end of the leash. This causes a tremendous amount of often irreparable damage to their tracheas when they suddenly come to an abrupt stop at the end of the line.
- Retractable leashes are also a nightmare in the hands of an inexperienced dog owner. The dog pulls, and the owner gives in and depresses the button, giving the dog more freedom. What’s the lesson here? All the dog knows is that if he pulls, he wins.
- The thin cord of the leash breaks easily, especially if a powerful dog is on the other end running full speed towards the end of the line while the owner panics. Now you have a large, powerful, out-of-control dog running full speed at whatever he or she was after.
- Many dogs have received horrific injuries like lacerations, spinal injuries, and neck wounds as a result of running to the end of the line and being jerked to a sudden stop. Yikes.
FAQ
What is the best length for a dog training lead?
The best length to start with is a 10-metre lead, and once your dog has mastered the basics, you can progress to a 20-metre lead.
Why are long lines better than retractable leads?
Long lines provide a sturdy, reliable way to restrain your dog while still in training. Some longer leads like the Total Pet Training Lead have multiple adjustment lengths so you can train with a 5-metre, 10-metre, or 20-metre lead.
Retractable leads have been known to snap, causing grievous injury to the owner, dog, and the people around them.
Can I use a long line with a collar?
Yes, you can use a long training lead with a collar, but if your dog is a stubborn puller or tends to lunge at the rope, you might want to use a harness to prevent injury to his or her throat.
What is a Biothane Long Line?
A Biothane Long Line is made using materials that have superior physical characteristics like superior strength, flexibility, and weatherproofing.
Unlike traditional leashes, Biothane Long Lines have a unique material construction that allows them to stay flexible even in the rain and cold temperatures, making them ideal for all kinds of activities like walking your pup in the rain or out on the trails.