Introduction
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, fun, and sometimes a little overwhelming. There’s a lot to learn: feeding, toilet training, playtime, and of course, walks. One of the most important tools you’ll use every single day is your puppy’s leash or lead.
A leash is not just a rope or strap that keeps your puppy close. It is:
When you choose the right dog leash or lead, you make walks safer, easier, and more enjoyable for both of you. When you choose the wrong one, walks can become stressful, confusing, or even dangerous.
This guide is written for new dog owners who want simple, clear help to choose the best dog leashes & leads for training puppies. We’ll go through everything step by step, in detail, using easy language and real-life examples.
Why Choosing the Right Puppy Leash Matters
It might look like “just a leash,” but it affects almost everything about your puppy’s walk.
1. A Leash Keeps Your Puppy Safe
Puppies are curious and fast. They might
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Run toward other dogs
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Chase bikes or cars
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Jump on people
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Run into the road
A good leash and lead help you stop danger before it happens.
For example
You’re walking near a main road. Your puppy sees a bird and wants to run after it. With a strong, secure leash, you can gently stop them and keep them away from traffic.
2. A Leash Teaches Good Walking Habits
Your puppy doesn’t know how to walk nicely at first. They might
With the right leash and lead, you can teach
If a leash is too long, too heavy, or uncomfortable, it becomes harder for your puppy to learn.
3. A Leash Builds Trust and Communication
The leash connects you and your puppy physically, but also emotionally.
Through the leash, your puppy can feel
Over time, they start to understand these signals. They feel that you are their guide, and this builds trust and a strong bond.
4. A Leash Helps Your Puppy Feel Confident
The world is big and new for a young puppy
There are
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New sounds
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New smells
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New people and dogs
With the right leash and calm handling, your puppy feels
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Supported
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Protected
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Less scared
A leash that is too tight, too harsh, or used roughly can make a puppy nervous or fearful. A gentle, secure leash with a soft approach helps them feel safe while discovering the world.
Types of Dog Leashes & Leads for Puppies
There are many different types of dog leashes and leads. It can be confusing at first, so let’s break them down one by one, with simple explanations.
1. Standard Dog Leashes
This is the most common and recommended type for new dog owners.
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Usually made from nylon, leather, rope, or Biothane
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Usually between 4–6 feet long
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Has a handle at one end and a clip at the other
The Prisma Leash delivers eye-catching style with its bold geometric pattern that stands out on every walk. Made with soft yet durable polyester, it ensures comfort and reliability for small dogs and puppies. The lightweight Super Hook™ adds secure, easy attachment to keep your little explorer safe and stylish.
Price : Dhs.51.98
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Why standard leashes are great for puppies
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They keep your puppy close enough to control
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They are simple to use – no buttons, no extra systems
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They work well for basic training and daily walks
Best for
Example
If your puppy suddenly tries to cross the street, a 4–6 ft standard leash gives you enough control to stop them quickly and safely.
2. Training Dog Leads (Long Lines)
These are much longer than standard leashes.
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Often 10–30 feet long
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Made from nylon, rope, or coated materials
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Used in open spaces like fields or quiet parks
Why training leads are useful
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Your puppy can explore more freely but is still safe
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Great for teaching recall (“come when called”)
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Helps build confidence and independence gradually
Best for
Example
You attach your puppy to a 10–15 ft training lead in a quiet park. You let them wander, sniff, and explore. You then call their name and say “Come!” If they come to you, they get praise and treats. The long lead makes sure they cannot run away too far or into danger.
3. Retractable Dog Leashes
These leashes have a plastic handle with a long cord or tape that winds in and out. You can
They might look fun because they offer lots of freedom. But for puppies, they are often not the best choice, especially at the start.
Give your large dog the freedom to explore while maintaining full control with this smooth retractable design. Its secure braking system allows quick stops and lock-in length for safer walks in busy areas. Comfortable to hold and built for strong pullers, it’s perfect for everyday adventures.
Price : Dhs.122.85
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Why retractable leashes can be risky for puppies
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They teach pulling – the puppy learns “If I pull, I can go further”
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The thin cord can burn your skin if it wraps around your hand or legs
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It’s harder to control your puppy quickly if something scary happens
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They can encourage rushed, uncontrolled behavior
When can they be used?
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Only for puppies who already walk nicely on a normal leash
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In safe, open spaces (not near roads or crowds)
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With calm, well-trained puppies
For new dog owners with young puppies, it’s usually better to start with a standard leash, then maybe later use retractable ones if needed.
4. Hands-Free Dog Leashes
These attach around your waist or across your body instead of your hand.
Best for
Not ideal for
If your puppy pulls suddenly while you’re wearing a hands-free leash, it can affect your balance. So it’s better for later, not for the very first months of training.
5. Reflective Dog Leashes
These leashes include reflective strips or stitching that shine when light hits them.
Designed for nighttime safety, the Nox Leash features reflective accents that keep your small dog visible during evening walks. Lightweight yet durable, its soft polyester strap ensures comfort for both you and your pup. The secure Super Hook™ offers strong, reliable attachment for worry-free outings after dark.
Price : Dhs.51.98
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Why reflective leashes are helpful
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Cars and bikes can see you both more easily at night
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Useful if you walk early in the morning or late at night
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Extra layer of safety in dark or low-light areas
Reflective leashes can be standard, long, or even part of a harness-leash set. They are not a different style of leash, but an extra feature that can be very valuable, especially in cities or busy places.
6. Durable & Chew-Resistant Dog Leads
Puppies love to chew – especially when they are teething.
Built with a neoprene coating, this leash resists water, dirt, and wear — perfect for active small dogs. The bold coral color and smooth finish deliver durability without compromising on style. Featuring the secure Super Hook™, it ensures safe, comfortable walks in any weather.
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Some puppies
Durable dog leads are built to handle this better. They may be
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Made of heavy-duty nylon, rope, or coated materials
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Reinforced with extra stitching
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Thicker and stronger than basic leashes
Best for
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Strong breeds (like Labradors, German Shepherds, Huskies, etc.)
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Puppies who chew or bite everything
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Training in energetic, outdoor environments
7. Slip Leads (Use with Care)
A slip lead is a leash and collar in one piece.
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You slip it over the dog’s head
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When the dog pulls, it tightens around the neck
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When the dog relaxes, it loosens
These are often used by trainers or shelters for short-term handling, not long daily walks.
For new puppy owners, slip leads are usually not recommended without guidance, because
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If used incorrectly, they can put too much pressure on the puppy’s neck
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They do not have a safety stop unless specifically designed that way
If you want to use a slip lead, it’s better to speak with a trainer or vet first.
Key Features to Look For When Buying a Puppy Leash
Now that you know the main types, let’s talk about what makes a good leash.
When you look at any dog leash or lead, pay attention to
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Material
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Length
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Width
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Handle comfort
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Clip type
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Extra safety features
We’ll go through each one in detail.
1. Material: What Is the Leash Made Of?
Common materials
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Nylon – light, strong, affordable, comes in many colors
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Leather – strong, lasts long, becomes softer over time
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Rope – often used for climbing-style leashes, strong grip
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Biothane or coated webbing – waterproof, easy to clean
For most new puppy owners, nylon is a great starting choice because
Leather is a good option if you want something long-lasting and comfortable in your hand, but it can cost more.
2. Length: How Long Should the Leash Be?
The leash length affects how much freedom or control you have.
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4 ft (1.2 m): very close control. Good for busy streets or training in tight spaces.
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5–6 ft (1.5–1.8 m): the most common and balanced length. Great for daily walks and basic training.
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10–30 ft (3–9 m): long lines for training recall and open-area play.
For new puppies, start with 4–6 ft. You can add a long lead later for training in parks and fields.
3. Width: How Thick Should the Leash Be?
The width should match your puppy’s size and strength.
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Small or toy breeds (e.g., Chihuahua, Pomeranian):
→ Thin leash (around 0.9–1.2 cm)
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Medium breeds (e.g., Beagle, Cocker Spaniel):
→ Medium thickness
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Large breeds (e.g., German Shepherd, Golden Retriever):
→ Thicker leash for strength
If the leash is too thin for a strong puppy, it might feel sharp in your hand or snap under strong pulling.
4. Handle Comfort
You’ll hold the handle every time you walk your puppy, so comfort matters.
Look for
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Padded handles – especially if your puppy pulls
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No rough edges or seams that could rub your skin
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A handle loop size that fits your hand comfortably
If you plan longer walks, a comfortable handle makes a big difference.
5. Clip Type (The Part That Attaches to the Collar or Harness)
The clip must be
Avoid weak plastic clips. They can break if your puppy pulls hard or if the leash gets caught.
6. Extra Safety Features
These include
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Reflective stitching for better visibility
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Locking clips so they don’t open by accident
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Weather-resistant materials if you walk in rain or snow
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Quick release options for emergency situations
You don’t need all of these, but some can be very useful, depending on where and when you walk your puppy.
Best Leashes & Leads Based on Puppy Type
Every puppy is different. Let’s match leash choices to four common puppy types.
1. Small Breed Puppies
Examples: Pomeranian, Chihuahua, Maltese, Shih Tzu
Best choices
Why
Too heavy a leash can put pressure on their neck or chest and feel uncomfortable. Smaller puppies have delicate bodies, so light gear is kinder on them.
2. Large or Strong Breed Puppies
Examples: Labrador, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Husky
Best choices
Why
These puppies grow quickly and are often powerful even when young. You need a leash that won’t break and gives you control while they learn not to pull.
3. High-Energy or Working-Type Puppies
Examples: Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, Cocker Spaniel, mixed active breeds
Best choices
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Standard 4–6 ft leash for normal walks
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Long training lead for park sessions
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Optional hands-free leash later, once trained
Why
They need both exercise and training. A combination of a regular leash and a training lead lets them burn energy safely while still learning to listen to you.
4. Nervous or Shy Puppies
Some puppies are more sensitive and easily scared.
Best choices
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Light, soft standard leash
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Paired with a comfortable harness
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Reflective feature if walking during quiet night hours
Why
They need to feel safe and not over-controlled. A soft, gentle leash with a calm walking style helps them relax and gain confidence over time
How to Use Dog Leashes Properly for Training Puppies
Now you know how to choose a leash. Next is learning how to use it in a kind and effective way.
1. Start Indoors First
Before going outside, let your puppy
You can let them drag the leash around (only under supervision), so they don’t see it as something scary or strange.
2. Teach “Follow Me” Indoors
Hold the leash gently
This builds a simple idea: “Walking near you = reward.”
3. First Walks Outside: Keep It Short
For the first outdoor walks:
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Choose a quiet area if possible
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Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes at first)
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Let them sniff and explore, but stay relaxed
You are not aiming for perfect heeling. You are just helping your puppy get used to the world while staying connected to you.
4. Encourage Loose Leash Walking
“Loose leash” means the leash is not tight. There is a soft “smile” or curve in the leash.
When your puppy walks beside you on a loose leash:
If your puppy pulls ahead
With time, they learn
“Pulling makes the walk stop. Walking calmly makes the walk continue.”
5. Be Calm and Patient
Puppies are learning all the time, but they are also easily distracted.
Training with kindness and patience builds a better relationship and better long-term results.
Common Mistakes New Dog Owners Should Avoid
Here are some mistakes many new dog parents make — and how you can avoid them.
Mistake 1: Using a Retractable Leash Too Early
As mentioned before, retractable leashes often teach pulling. For a puppy learning basic leash manners, a standard leash is much better.
Mistake 2: Letting the Puppy Chew the Leash
If you let your puppy chew the leash like a toy, they might
Instead
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Calmly say “No” or “Eh-eh”
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Redirect them to a chew toy
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Reward when they chew the toy instead
Mistake 3: Keeping the Leash Too Tight
If the leash is always tight, your puppy
Aim for a loose leash as much as possible.
Mistake 4: Long Walks Too Soon
Puppies have growing joints and bones. Long, heavy walks too early can be tiring or even harmful.
Instead
When to Upgrade Your Puppy’s Leash
As your puppy grows and learns, you might need to change or upgrade their leash.
You should consider a new leash when
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Your puppy becomes too strong for the current one
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The leash shows signs of damage (frayed, weak areas)
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Your puppy’s training level has improved
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You start doing new activities (e.g., hiking, running, off-leash training with a long lead)
It is normal to go through 2–3 different leashes and leads as your puppy grows into an adult dog.
Trainer & Vet Tips for Safer, Happier Walks
Here are some simple, pet-professional style tips
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Use a harness instead of a collar if your puppy pulls a lot. This helps protect their neck.
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Bring treats on walks to reward calm, good behavior.
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Keep early walks short and positive. End the walk on a good note.
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If your puppy is scared of something, don’t drag them. Move away gently and give them time.
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If you feel unsure, consider one or two sessions with a dog trainer to learn leash techniques.
Best Places to Buy Puppy Leashes & Leads
You can find dog leashes and leads
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At local pet stores
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At large pet retail chains
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From trusted online pet shops
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Through recommendations from vets or trainers
Wherever you buy, look for
FAQs
1. What leash is best for a puppy’s first walks?
A standard 4–6 ft nylon or light leather leash is usually best. It gives enough control without being too heavy, and it’s simple for both you and your puppy to use.
2. Can puppies use retractable leashes?
It’s better not to use retractable leashes with very young puppies. They can teach pulling and are harder to control in busy areas. Once your puppy has good leash manners, you can consider them in safe, open spaces.
3. What length leash is best for training puppies?
4. How many leashes should a puppy have?
At minimum
Optionally
5. Should I use a collar or harness with my puppy’s leash?
For many puppies, especially those that pull or are small/fragile, a well-fitted harness is safer and more comfortable than a collar. A harness spreads pressure across the chest and shoulders instead of the neck.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog leash or lead is one of the most important steps in helping your puppy learn, feel safe, and enjoy every moment of their walks with you. A good leash gives your puppy the comfort and confidence they need to explore the world while staying connected to you, their trusted guide. By starting with a simple, strong, and comfortable standard leash, using gentle and positive training, and being patient as they learn new skills, you’ll build a strong foundation for happy walking habits that will last a lifetime. With the right leash and lots of love, every walk becomes a chance for bonding, discovery, and joy—just you and your puppy growing together one step at a time
