Choosing a right show lead is not always easy. There are different styles of leads to fit different types of dogs and different styles of handling.
Loop lead or Clip lead
Loop lead or clip lead are the easiest and most common choice to use for your show dogs. You can pick any collar you like, to attach your lead to. You can easily change collars with a clip lead, or switch same lead to another dog if you like. With loop lead there is no added weight of the clip and the lead is securely attached to your collar or chain.
Slip lead
Most common lead & collar combination type is slip lead. It is minimalistic, easy to put on and off and when fit properly, dog can be easily controlled. The collar part is permanently attached to the lead and you don’t need anything else.
However, you must train your dog so he won’t choke on the lead as the collar can easily tighten up too much.
Collar size should be dog’s neck plus 5-10cm to easily put on. You can also measure your dog’s head around the widest part (forehead/ears) to make sure the slip collar will fit.
Please note that in some countries show leads that can choke the dog are not permitted, such as Germany. You can use a slip lead with stopper in all countries, as long as the stopper will prevent any choking.
Martingale lead
Martingale lead is another type of show lead, and the lead has a collar part with sliding “martingale” loop. Collar should be the same size as the dog’s neck behind ears or slightly smaller to prevent dog slipping from the collar. If the collar is same size or slightly bigger than your dog’s neck measurement behind the ears, it will not choke.
When using chain part, the martingale opens up to 7,5-10cm to allow putting on the collar on or drop the collar down on the lower neck. If you need more opening, choose the braided martingale part instead.
Adjustable lead
Adjustable collars come in two styles with thin collar or with kindness collar. This style of lead will allow you to fit the lead to many sizes of dogs. The lead won’t choke the dog and will be comfortable to use.
While on, the collar will stay at the chosen size with sliding ring and knot adjustment.
