"Pets are humanizing. They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life." 

-James Cromwell

Things to Keep in Mind When Selecting a New Leash

Exercise and walks are great for your dog's health and socialization skills. However, it can quickly turn into a disaster if you don't have the proper equipment to walk your dog on. When you select a leash, there are many factors that need to be considered to ensure that walks with your dogs are safe, fun, and stress-free!


Leash Material

Material and quality is key because the last thing you want to happen on your walk is to have a worn leash snap or cheap material give way, allowing your pet to get loose. ½-1" Nylon is always a safe and sturdy option for leashes. However, if you opt for another option, always be sure to test he durability of the material and keep an eye for wear and fraying.


Clasp Style

The most common clasp style is the bolt snap aka. snap hook clasp, but these do pose the possible threat of the release being accidentally pressed, causing the leash to separate from the dog. Other leashes use a trigger snap hook, which is even riskier because these hooks can come off of the collar if the dog is pulling on their walk. The safest clasp we have seen uses a mountain climber's carabiner, which locks into place from the side and can only be separated by hand.


Leash Length

Leash length depends on how you typically walk your dog, and you dog's height. If you walk on sidewalks along the street, shorter is better. You want a leash that will allow your dog to w
alk comfortably next to you or slightly in front of you without it being too tight or too loose.





Leash Style

Now this is an important one: not all leash styles are created equal. They all have their pros and cons, but some pose larger threats. Retractable leashes might seem cool and convenient with their button-locks, but all too often these leashes break and the locks no longer work (or sometimes our reflexes aren't quick enough), and our pups take off towards a possible dangerous situation. Slip leashes do just that: slip. These leashes keep minimal pressure around a dog's neck, but they also loosen when the leash is slack, leaving more opportunity for escape. Standard leashes are our favorite because they are safe and easy to control, with very limited chance of user- or product- malfunction. 

  

 

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TOP TAILS® conveniently offers dog walks and pet sitting services to zip codes all over Northwest Philadelphia. Rates start at just $16.
 
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TOP TAILS® Dog Walking & Pet Sitting covers the following neighborhoodsManayunk, Roxborough,
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