Slip leads are a combination of a leash and a collar in one easy-to-use design, making it the most versatile of all leads. They can also be easily turned into a head harness or a body harness with just a few small adjustments.
Slip leads are unique in that they are designed to tighten under tension and release as soon as the tension is gone. Not only are they practical and simple to use, they are also one of the most important tools in a trainer’s arsenal.
But if you haven’t learned to use a slip lead properly, it can be dangerous for you and your dog. Here is how to use a slip lead in three easy steps.
A slip lead, when properly fitted, should rest behind the jaw at the very top of the neck (right behind the ears).
When using a slip lead, you will want the leather slide to touch the dog’s neck so he can’t slip out, but is still loose enough to slide two fingers between the slip lead and your dog’s neck. The goal is to make it tight enough that your dog doesn’t slip through, but loose enough so your dog is not uncomfortable or choking.
The slip lead should fit around the back or base of the ears and the area under the jaw.
Never attach a slip lead to the middle of the throat area or neck area. This can cause damage to your dog should they suddenly pull away or pull while on walks.
Think about smoothness of action when you’re walking your dog. Ideally, you want your dog to heal nicely before putting them on a slip lead. But, that’s not always possible - particularly in rescue scenarios.
To release the slip lead, simply loosen the leather slide by moving it towards the handle on the leash.
Always let your dog know what your intentions are before you remove the lead. This helps build trust between the handler and dog.
The more you use the slip lead, the easier it will be to move the slide.
Mendota Pet offers the bestselling slip lead as well as harness options that include the Dog Walker and Jaeger Leash. But, our bestselling slip lead can also double as a harness in a hurry.
The slip lead is perfect for getting a dog into a ring, loading into or out of cars, moving a dog quickly from one place to another, and offers a multitude of training benefits.
Mendota Pet offers an extensive collection of slip leads in a vast array of colors, sizes, materials and designs.
Mendota Pet slip leads are made in the USA from braided polypropylene rope. They are available in two widths (⅜” and ½”) and are available in 4-foot and 6-foot lengths. The leashes are accented with oiled leather, and have a leather slide to prevent the ring from sliding too far toward the handle. This allows the slip lead to tighten up as much as necessary, but limits how big it can get so it doesn't slip off.
Feel like you need a slip lead but are working with a dog that doesn’t handle slip leads well? Consider our Martingale-style Dog Walker.
Discover the timeless design and lasting quality of the Mendota Pet Products. Handcrafted in the USA, our British-style lead is a leash and collar in one convenient design, making it ideal for the casual dog walker or professional trainer.
Our durable, multifilament braided rope features a “broken in” feel that is soft on your hands and pliable enough to roll up and put in your pocket. The oil-tanned leather splices and innovative hardware give these leads a beautiful finishing touch, proving that the best design is found in the simple details.
January is Walk Your Dog Month! Here are three reasons why you should get out with your dog every day (even when it's cold) and how to choose the best equipment to make your walk fun for everyone.