Right and wrong ways to hold your dog's lead on walks

Grabbing the lead, attaching it to your dog’s collar and heading out for a walk is something every dog owner does daily, often without much thought. Yet, how you hold your dog’s lead can affect your control, your dog's behaviour, and even your safety during walks.

If a dog pulls, lunges, or tries to bolt while on the lead, holding it incorrectly can cause painful injuries to your fingers, hand, or arm. In some cases, especially with larger or stronger dogs, improper handling can even cause you to lose balance and fall.

All dog owners and prospective owners should learn safe, effective ways to hold their dog’s lead for better control and safety, as well as understand why certain common methods can be hazardous.

In this article, we explain the right and wrong ways to hold your dog’s lead on walks, offering practical tips to keep both you and your pet safe and comfortable during your time outdoors.

Incorrect and potentially dangerous ways to hold your dog’s lead

Most dog leads have a closed loop handle designed to slip your hand through for a secure grip. While this is the safest way, many people develop habits that put them at risk.

• Wrapping the lead around your hand: Though it may feel foolproof to prevent your dog from slipping the lead away, wrapping or winding the lead tightly around your hand or fingers can cause crushing injuries that may damage nerves and tendons. These injuries can be painful and sometimes have long-lasting effects.
• Threading fingers through the loop: Placing individual fingers through the handle loop concentrates pressure on thin areas, risking cuts or breaks when your dog suddenly pulls.
• Not using the hand loop: Holding the lead by the leash material directly can cause friction burns or rope burns, which are painful skin abrasions from the rubbing of the leash material when tugged quickly.

Additionally, if the lead is wrapped around your hand and you cannot instantly release it, your dog suddenly bolting or pulling hard can drag you off your feet, risking falls and injuries.

Safe, correct ways to hold your dog’s lead

Follow these steps to safely hold your dog’s lead and maintain effective control while walking:

1. Use the lead’s hand loop properly: Slip your palm and four fingers comfortably inside the loop, with your thumb resting on the outside. This grip allows gentle pressure to tighten your hold and offers clear feedback if your dog pulls. Never wrap the lead around your hand or fingers.
2. Adjust lead length safely: If you need to shorten the lead, fold it back and hold the loops in your closed hand, ensuring your hand doesn’t go inside any loops to avoid entrapment if your dog pulls suddenly.
3. Maintain a firm but relaxed grip: Grip the lead securely but without tension to avoid discomfort to your dog and yourself. A firm but calm grip helps maintain control without causing your dog stress or resistance.
4. Choose quality equipment: Use leads made from smooth, non-abrasive materials and replace worn or damaged leads promptly. Wearing thin gloves can also protect your hands from friction burns, especially during longer walks.
5. Consider your dog's size and behaviour: For dogs prone to pulling, a shorter lead may provide better control. Always keep your dog close by your side to prevent pulling and make your walks more comfortable for both of you.
6. Practice consistent control techniques: Keep your dog by your side and use calm, consistent commands. If your dog begins pulling, adjusting your stance or changing direction with gentle guidance can discourage the behaviour.

Adopting these methods will promote safer, more enjoyable walks. If you’re unsure about your lead or collar fit, or your dog’s behaviour, consult a professional dog trainer or vet for guidance specific to your dog's needs.