Choosing a leash or long line for your dog: the comparison
The leash is the most-used accessory in a dog’s life, yet it’s often chosen in a hurry. Length, material, attachment system: every detail matters for the comfort of dog and owner alike. Planète Pets reviews the options, alongside our dog accessories section.
The standard leash: the safe bet
For the city and everyday outings, a fixed leash of 1.20 m to 2 m remains the benchmark: it offers constant control and clear communication with the dog. Flat nylon is light and economical (€8 to €20), biothane doesn’t mind water or mud (€15 to €35), and leather, pricier (€25 to €60), gains suppleness over the years. Multi-position models, adjustable to 2 or 3 lengths thanks to rings, also let you wear the leash across the body or briefly tether the dog: it’s our favourite format for versatility.
The retractable leash: handy, in the right hands
Popularised by the Flexi brand, the retractable leash offers 3 to 8 metres of freedom with a thumb brake. It’s useful with a calm small dog in open spaces, but it has drawbacks: constant tension that teaches the dog to pull, a thin cord that can cause burns, and reduced control when the unexpected happens. Expect €15 to €40 depending on size. Best reserved for dogs already trained to walk on a leash, and avoided in dense urban areas.
The long line: the training tool par excellence
A 5, 10 or 15 metre long line is your ally for recall work and semi-free walks where regulations or safety rule out letting the dog off. Paired with a harness (never a collar, to avoid jolts to the neck), it lets the dog explore while keeping a safety net in place. Biothane reigns supreme here: a 10 m line drags through wet grass and wipes clean with a sponge. Expect €20 to €50 depending on length and material. Round out recall training with genuinely irresistible treats.
The details that change everything
- The clip: check its strength and locking; a screw-lock carabiner is reassuring with a powerful dog.
- Width: 10 to 15 mm for a small dog, 20 to 25 mm above 20 kg.
- The handle: neoprene-padded if your dog still pulls.
- Visibility: reflective stitching is essential for night-time outings.
The Planète Pets takeaway
The ideal kit comes down to two pieces: a multi-position leash for everyday use and a 10 m long line for open country, for an overall budget of €40 to €80. For escape artists and born hunters, a GPS collar adds an extra layer of security. All our comparisons are gathered on the dog hub.
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Dogs universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.