Leash Training

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  From an early age we put collars on the puppies so they get accustom to the feel.  After they have adjusted to that, we add tabs so they learn to feel the weight of a clasp and also so they can pull each other around.   It's a wonderful passive way to begin the process of leash training. 

The "tabs" are a result of leash abuse ;-)  Leashes left in the wrong places get chewed.  Over the years I have lost the original function of many leashes, but no worries, they gain a new function- puppy leash training.  I have many leather leashes of various lengths.  Those different lengths serve different purposes.  Even the clasp itself is useful as it introduces weight and something dangling. 

 I have a favorite leash type- 1/4" leather, braided, not stitched or riveted, small clasps, 6' long.  There was a wonderful vendor who made her own leashes of this style in many leather colors.   She would vend at dog shows and I bought leashes from her on a regular basis.   For a while I would also sell her leashes (at cost) to puppy buyers.  Most commercially available leashes are not appropriate for sheltie puppies.  The claps are too big and heavy as are the leashes themselves.   Sadly for me, she retired.  Happily, I was able to find this style of leash available from a company that has been around for awhile.

J&J dog supplies is a company that specializes in supplies for obedience, agility, rally and many other competition sports.  Their leashes only come in one color, but they meet all of my criteria.  They suggest the 1/4" is for dogs up to 15lbs, but that is the size I have always used and will continue to use.  My dogs don't pull while walking, it fits well in my hand and softens to a pliable feel and use.  Leather is not as slippery as nylon and when you clamp down on the leash, it won't keep slipping in your hand.   

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