Should I use a slip lead to train my dog to stop pulling?

By Sarah Groves Dog Training - puppy training specialist covering Neath, Port Talbot and Swansea

When it comes to training your dog, the tools that you decide to use greatly impact your dog's happiness and wellbeing. One tool that has become quite popular to use is the slip lead.

While these leads may seem like a quick and easy option for securing or releasing a dog, and to stop your dog from pulling, they come with hidden risks that could impact your pet's health and behavior.

What is a Slip Lead?

A slip lead is a straightforward piece of equipment made from rope or nylon that loops around a dog's neck.

The idea is, that when the dog pulls, force is applied to the neck, and when the dog is relaxed, the lead is slacker around the neck.

The dog will quickly learn that when they feel an uncomfortable tightening around the neck that walking slower will reduce the discomfort. This, in turn, teaches a dog to walk on a lead without pulling.

However, while this may seem logical at first glance, there's a lot more to consider.

The Dark Side of Slip Leads

So, slipleads work to stop your dog from pulling quickly –

But at what cost?

Even short term use of a slip lead greatly increases the chance of your dog developing structural damage, and it’s not uncommon for these tools to cause:

Physical Risks

Trachea Damage: Dogs that frequently wear slip leads are at a higher risk for injuries to their trachea. Dogs who have used slip leads have an increased chance of experiencing a chronic cough, often due to tracheal collapse, which can lead to significant breathing difficulties.
Choking and Gagging: The constriction from a slip lead can result in choking, causing your dog to panic during walks. This can create distress for both your dog and you as the owner.

Neck and Spine Injuries: Pressure from slip leads can lead to neck strain and spinal issues that may not be immediately noticeable.
Nerve Damage: The delicate nerves in a dog's neck are vulnerable to injury from ongoing pressure. Nerve damage can lead to weakness and discomfort, significantly impacting your dog's daily life.
Eye Damage: Sudden pulls on a slip lead can generate enough force to harm a dog’s eyes, potentially causing serious health issues that require veterinary attention.

Psychological Risks

The implications of using slip leads go beyond physical injuries. The discomfort or fear your dog experiences can lead to serious psychological issues:

Fear-Related Behaviors: Repeated negative experiences associated with the slip lead can trigger anxiety. Dogs might start to fear walks or any display of a leash, taking away the joy of outdoor activities.

Increased Reactivity: Dogs that become fearful of slip leads may react aggressively or anxiously to things in their environment. This change in behavior can create further challenges during walks or social situations.

Long-Term Anxiety Disorders: The psychological trauma from slip leads can lead to lasting anxiety issues. Your dog may require professional help to overcome ongoing anxiety, increasing stress for both you and your pet.

Training Alternatives To Teach Your Dog To Stop Pulling: Humane Methods That Work

If your dog tends to pull on a lead, there are many humane training techniques available that can effectively address this behavior without resorting to harmful tools.

Positive Reinforcement And Reward Based Training Methods

Using treats and praise to reinforce desirable behaviors can be incredibly effective method of training your dog. It will take a longer time to build good walking habits from your dog, but is the more ethical and least intrusive method for training your dog.

Well-Fitted Front-Clip Harnesses

Front-clip harnesses can be more of a comfortable harness for your dog to wear and for you to hold. By having a double-ended lead which is attached to the front and back of the harness, pressure can be evened out, and if your dog does happened to pull during training, they are not using their full force to pull and you have more even control. This option directs your dog from the front, allowing for easier steering and minimizing the risks associated with traditional collars.

Hire A Reward Based, Qualified Dog Trainer To Help You Learn How To Train Your Dog

Consider enrolling in training classes or hiring a trainer for one to one private sessions led by experienced trainers. These professionals can teach you effective, positive methods to manage your dog’s pulling behavior.

Is The Slip Lead Really Worth It?

As a professional dog trainer of over a decade, I do not advise these leads to be used as a training tool to stop pulling – it doesn't matter if Bob down the road told you to use it because it worked amazing for him – it’s not an ethical or safe choice.

Does it stop pulling quickly? Of course it does! But is it really worth risking the physical and mental well-being of your best friend?

Need help with your dog’s pulling and live in Neath, Port Talbot or Swansea? Get in touch to get started!

Call/message: 07891 222454

Email: sarahgrovesdogtraining@yahoo.com