Some tips on lead techniques

5 March 2024

A long lead can give a dog more freedom of movement on walks in open fields and allow them to move away from a trigger and sniff and explore.

 

 Sniffing can be a relaxing activity. Some dogs feel very frustrated on a lead and will react because of tension.


Here are some tips on holding the lead


It can be a hazard to drop a lead. Place the lead over your wrist and inbetween your thumb and forefinger. This will help to keep your wrist safe.


Hold the lead with both hands so you can guide the dog or pull them away if you need to. Perhaps the trigger has surprised you or come too close.


What lead to choose


Ensure you have a lead that does not chafe on your hands.


Ones that do not get all wet and soggy and  therefore could slip out of your hand.


Have a lead that is suitable for your dogs weight and therefore does not risk breaking.



by Lisa Sinnott 30 January 2026
Some dogs do it for hormonal reasons others due to behavioural. Reasons behind humping can include hormones, anxiety, tension attention seeking, frustration, eliciting play or displacement behaviour when stressed. Filling out the diary can help pinpoint more triggers and look at what is happening.
by Lisa Sinnott 30 January 2026
Children and Dogs: A Guide to Safe and Happy Relationships Having a dog in your family is exciting and fun, but it’s important to teach children how to interact safely and kindly with their furry friend. Puppies and young dogs are still learning, and we need to help them grow into happy, well-behaved companions.
by Lisa Sinnott 30 January 2026
You may have heard that you have made a 'rod for your own back' with your dog, or 'spoiling' them has caused separation anxiety. I am here to tell you, that this is not the case. Dogs from breeders and rescued dogs can experience it. Separation distress can be caused for lots of different reasons. These can include:
by Lisa Sinnott 30 January 2026
Understanding Pica in Dogs: Why They Eat Non-Food Items
by Lisa Sinnott 29 January 2026
Sound sensitivities can be distressing for us to watch.
by Lisa Sinnott 27 January 2026
Many trees can be dangerous if a dog eats them which many dogs can do.
by Lisa Sinnott 19 January 2026
Sometimes management at home can be tricky if you have more than one dog, with this in mind I wanted to break down some options for you.
by Lisa Sinnott 12 January 2026
It is thought that in chronic stress that the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory – the hippocampus – has shrunk.
by Lisa Sinnott 7 January 2026
Introducing dogs to one another
by Lisa Sinnott 15 December 2025
Not all muzzles are made the same. Fabric one’s can inhibit panting, and can easily be torn on branches and some hold a dog’s mouth shut – uncomfortable and mean they cannot pant.