Best 5 Dog Show Leads
Last updated: 4th Dec 2023
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Credit: Image by cookie_studio on Freepik
Step into the world of canine elegance and performance. As every dog enthusiast knows, the right leash can transform a simple stroll into a captivating display of poise and grace.
Whether you're a seasoned handler or a newcomer to the world of dog shows, the leash is your silent communication tool, conveying a sense of partnership, control, and style. Explore the top picks that meet the functionality standards and add a touch of flair to your dog's showtime ensemble.
Credit: Amazon
Real Leather Slip Dog Leash
First on our list is the rolled leather slip lead dog leash and collar in one design, flexible to fit any neck size and a convenient design for walking and training.
The leather slip collar dog leash for small dogs has 2 leather riveted sliders that adjust the collar loop freely to fit any neck size and prevent slipping off. This P-leash is a collar and leash that tightens and loosens when necessary.
The leash efficiently stops the dog from pulling with no harm to the dog. You only need to steady your arm, and the dog will stop when the lead becomes taut. Please wait for your dog to slow down and continue. It has proven effective with most dogs.
The dog show leads for small dogs are made of a single piece of ultra-thin, soft, genuine leather, solid snaps, and steel O-ring. It is lightweight enough to provide your dog maximum comfort, durability, and a beautiful look. It is also straightforward to clean. It is slim and flexible enough to fit in your pocket, yet absorb the pull and prevent sudden slips.
Credit: Amazon
Resco Professional Cordo-Hyde Dog Show Lead
The American-made Resco Cordo-Hyde Show Leads have been used in show rings worldwide since 1940. This ideal show lead is like a hidden string. The judge should focus on the dog, not the lead or handler.
It's made of unique wax-coated cotton that can be concealed by hand and is stiff enough for dog shows.
Quick control with our unique Resco brass clip that adjusts the neck size.
It measures 3/16 inch by 56 inches and is made in the USA.
Credit: CherryBrook
Alvalley Hand Braided Leather Slip Leads with Stops
The Alvalley Hand Braided Leather Slip Lead with Stop is made with the finest leather for a smooth, soft feel to the touch. These Alvalley Slip Leads are hand braided with six leather strands over a nylon cord for extra strength.
The handle and end of this slip lead are braided by hand to ensure durability. This Alvalley slip lead is furnished with a solid brass O-ring that lasts many years.
The lead comes with a hand-braided leather stop that can be moved along the lead to adjust the collar's size for better control over your dog.
This product features six strands of leather that are hand-braided tightly over a nylon cord to provide additional strength. The handle and end also have extra braiding over the stitching to prolong the product's life.
Credit: CherryBrook
Alvalley Braided Leather Snap Lead
These leashes are handcrafted and braided by leather artisans in Colombia. The Alvalley Leather Dog Show Leads use a long-lasting die-cast zinc swivel hook to attach to any collar with an anchor ring. The soft grip braided solid leather, and parachute cord give you the best leash reliability.
The quick clip can be attached in just a few moments, and the leash is gentle on your hands, even when your dog pulls. This makes it an excellent option for puppy training and use throughout your dog's life, including during dog shows. The clip allows for a versatile fit for small, medium, large, and extra-large pets.
Choose from various colors, thicknesses, and lengths to create a unique look for your dog!
Credit: CherryBrook
Cherrybrook Championship HEAVY Nylon Snap Lead
Cherrybrook's Championship HEAVY Nylon Snap Lead shows off Cherrybrook's signature quality in this attractive nylon snap lead. This braided nylon show lead is soft and sleek.
This heavy-duty, braided nylon cord features durable stitching and is available in three thicknesses: Fine (3/16"), Medium (1/4"), and Heavy (5/16"). Made in the USA.
What to look for when shopping for a dog show leash
When selecting a dog show leash, there are several factors to consider.
Length of the leash: The length of the show lead is critical in how easily you can handle the dog and how professional you look. Most handlers have way too long leads.
Very few breeds are displayed in long leads, racing ahead of the handler. Most breeds should heel beside the handler. Choose a lead length to avoid rolling the lead around your wrist.
Too long of a lead means the handler spends much time rolling it around their wrist or into their hand. In the worst-case scenario, the dog steps and trips on the lead, hanging in front of the dog when stacked.
The lead should also be a short distance, as the dog will need space to move freely and in a natural position and stance.
Color: Traditionally, the dog show leads were always that of the dog’s color. It is essential to ensure your selected color is suitable for the dog. Long-coated dogs where the collar/lead disappears into the coat can get away with any color of dog show set as it is hidden in the coat.
If you have a short-coated breed, it is more important to pay attention to the color of the show collar as you can make the dog look short-necked, or the top line look shorter if the collar/lead breaks the flow and outline of the dog.
Beads and bling on the show lead is an excellent way to add fun and personality to the show set, even when you choose a “boring” black or brown set like your dog.
Whatever color of the show you choose, please ensure your show set is clean and in good condition, as a set that is breaking or very dirty could make it look like you have made minimal effort in preparation for the show.
Type of show lead:
Different breeds are shown in different show sets. To get an idea of what your breed tends to be shown in, go and have a look at a dog show & showing of your breed to see different types of leads people use.
Please select the type of activity that you and your dog will feel most comfortable with. Your dog breeder may be able to advise on the suitable show set for the breed.
Almost all breeds are shown in a half check or slip collar/slip lead. Smaller breeds can be demonstrated in loop show leads, often with a wider comfort pad.
If you are new to dog shows, you can also see how your breed is shown. Do you know if the dogs get put on the table? Are they stacked or shown free-standing on the floor before the handler?
FAQs
How long should a show leash be?
When the collar is secure, you should be able to get at least 2 fingers between the collar and the dog's neck. When choosing a show lead, smaller dogs generally prefer a longer lead, while larger dogs prefer a shorter one. However, the lead length is based on personal preference.
Does a slip lead hurt a dog?
Slip leashes can cause injury.
Injuries associated with slip leashes are Bruising. Choking and gagging – you'll often see dogs who pull on the leash coughing, right? Throat problems, including larynx and thyroid damage, can contribute to hyperthyroidism.
How do you walk a dog in a show?
The correct gait is usually a trot, with the dog's head up. A trotting dog's right front leg and left back leg move forward simultaneously, then the left front with the right back. Trotting is the correct pace because it best shows the dog's proper structure.
How do you hold a dog show lead?
How you hold the lead can help or hinder your ability to present your dog well. We recommend having a consistent routine or ritual to help you feel confident. Check out this video on how to hold the lead. Practice without your dog so that you become skilled in quickly getting your lead ready to move with your dog.
Why are dog show collars so tight?
The show collar should fit tight enough so the dog can't back out of it quickly.
Why are slip leads used at dog shows?
A slip lead can be used when moving a dog quickly, such as capturing an escaped dog, or moving a dog in and out of a car. It also benefits basic command training, potty training, and getting show dogs ready for the ring.
How do you pose a dog for a show?
To start teaching your dog to stand in a show pose, first, stand on the dog's right side and place the lead high up on the neck, right behind the ears.
Then, you can clasp the lead gently in your left hand, position the dog's head at a high yet comfortable height, and maintain light tension on the lead to keep it in place.
