Right and Wrong Ways to Hold Your Dog’s Leash on Walks

Grabbing the leash, clipping it onto your dog’s collar, and heading out for a stroll is a daily ritual for many dog owners across America, often done without much consideration. However, the way you hold your dog’s leash can greatly impact your control, influence your dog’s behaviour, and even ensure your safety while out walking.

When a dog pulls, lunges, or bolts unexpectedly on a leash, improper grip can cause painful injuries to your fingers, hands, or arms. Especially with larger or more robust dogs, incorrect handling might even throw you off balance, potentially leading to falls and injuries.

All dog owners and future owners should familiarize themselves with safe and effective ways to hold their dog’s leash. This not only enhances safety and control but also prevents common dangers.

In this guide, we detail the right and wrong ways to hold your dog’s leash during walks, providing actionable advice to keep both you and your pet protected and comfortable while enjoying outdoor time together.

Unsafe and potentially harmful methods of holding your dog’s leash

Most dog leashes feature a closed loop handle designed to slip your hand through for a secure and reliable grip. Yet, many people develop habits during walks that compromise their safety.

• Wrapping the leash around your hand: Although wrapping the leash tightly around your hand or fingers may seem like a quick fix to prevent your dog from slipping away, it can cause severe crush injuries, damaging nerves and tendons. Such injuries are often painful and may lead to long-lasting effects.
• Inserting fingers through the handle loop: Placing individual fingers through the leash handle loop puts pressure on small areas, increasing the risk of cuts or breaks if your dog suddenly pulls away.
• Not holding the leash by the proper loop: Gripping the leash material itself instead of the handle loop can lead to rope burns or friction burns on your skin, which are especially painful during sudden tugs.

Furthermore, if the leash is wrapped around your hand and cannot be released immediately, a sudden pull or bolt from your dog can drag you off your feet, raising the risk of falls and injuries.

Safe and proper techniques to hold your dog’s leash

Implement the following steps to hold your dog’s leash safely and maintain optimal control on walks:

1. Use the leash’s loop correctly: Slide your palm and four fingers comfortably inside the loop with your thumb resting on the outside. This grip allows you to gently tighten your hold and feel any pulling without risking injury. Avoid wrapping the leash around your fingers or hand.
2. Safely adjust leash length: To shorten the leash, fold it back and hold the loops securely in your closed hand, keeping your hand clear of any loops to prevent entrapment in case your dog pulls suddenly.
3. Keep a firm yet relaxed grip: Hold the leash with a steady but calm grip to maintain control without causing discomfort for you or your dog. A balanced grip helps prevent stress or resistance in your pet while ensuring control.
4. Select quality gear: Choose leashes made from smooth, durable materials and replace any worn or damaged equipment promptly. Wearing thin gloves during longer walks can help protect your hands from cord burns and rubbing injuries.
5. Consider your dog’s size and temperament: Dogs prone to pulling often benefit from a shorter leash for better guidance. Keep your dog close by your side to reduce pulling and make walks more enjoyable for both of you. For example, in busy urban areas like New York City, keeping your dog close can prevent sudden lunges into crowds or street traffic.
6. Practice consistent control techniques: Keep your dog beside you, use calm and steady commands, and correct pulling by adjusting your stance or gently changing direction. Training exercises with certified trainers can especially help, particularly for strong breeds like Labradors or Boxers common in many US households.

Following these recommended methods will make your walks safer and more pleasant. If you have concerns about your dog's leash or collar fit, or if you notice troubling behavior, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or your veterinarian for advice tailored to your pet’s specific needs.