If you have a reactive dog, then you know how important it is to find the right leash. There are so many different leashes on the market, and it can be tough to decide which one is best for your dog. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the five best leashes for reactive dogs, based on our own experiences and research.
Table of contents
What is leash reactivity in dogs?
Leash reactivity is a dog’s tendency to become overly excited or aggressive when on a leash. This can be triggered by many things, including other dogs, people, animals, and even inanimate objects. For many dog owners, dealing with leash reactivity can be a challenge.
Reactive dogs may lunge at the end of their leash, bark excessively, or try to run away. This can be dangerous for both the dog and the owner, and it can make walks and other outings stressful.
What kind of leash helps with reactive dogs?
The good news is that there are many leashes on the market that can help to reduce or eliminate leash reactivity in dogs. These leashes provide extra control and security, and they can help to keep your dog safe and calm while on walks.
There is a big misconception that harnesses give more control over a dog. In reality, a leash that clips in front of the dog instead of his back gives you more control. When a leash is clipped in the front there is a much better leverage point to redirect and stop a dog from pulling.
Another big mistake people make is using prong collars or choke chains on their reactive dog. This can actually make the problem worse, as it can cause the dog to associate pain with whatever is triggering his reactivity.
The best leashes for reactive dogs are those that provide extra security and control without causing pain or discomfort. Here are five of the best leashes for reactive dogs that we’ve found.
PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar
As discussed before, a leash that is clipped from the front rather than the back is a good option for a reactive dog. This headcollar does just that, as well as giving you extra control with the padded neoprene nose loop.
This headcollar also allows your dog a full range of motion, which is important for their wellbeing. Best of all, the headcollar is easy to fit, so you can get started on your walks together right away.
- Vet recommended
- Trainer designed
- Teaches better leash manners
- Prevents choking and gagging
- Allows full range of motion
- Not chew proof
Barkless No-Pull Headcollar
This is another great leash for reactive dogs because it helps to control their pulling behavior. It is also comfortable for them to wear and does not choke or gag them.
Additionally, it allows full range of motion so they can still play while on the leash. Overall, this is a great product for reactive dogs and their owners.
- Gently redirects your dog's pulling behavior
- Prevents choking and gagging
- Allows full range of motion
- Soft Padding
- May not be suitable for very small dogs
HALTI Optifit Headcollar
The HALTI Optifit collar is a great solution for reactive dogs. This leash attaches to your dog’s head and helps to guide their head in the direction you want them to go. This makes training much easier and puts you back in control.
Additionally, the collar comes with a safety loop, in case the headcollar comes off. This is a great tool for effectively training your reactive dog while keeping both of you safe.
- Gently steers the head
- Made from nylon webbing
- Comes in 3 sizes
- Safety loop
- Reflective webbing
- May not be suitable for very small dogs
Steel Chain Martingale Collar
Another great leash/collar for reactive dogs is a martingale collar. The difference between a normal collar and a martingale collar is that it tightens when a dog pulls. This is helpful to prevent dogs from backing out of their collars and escaping.
Martingale collars are also great for training dogs. If you need to give a correction, it will be better received by the dog than if it were wearing a regular collar.
The steel chain martin gale collar is a great option because it is adjustable and made of high quality materials. It is also helpful that for every collar sold, one is donated to a dog rescue. This helps support dog rescues with a never ending supply of collars.
For this reason, the Steel Chain Martingale Collar is a great leash for reactive dogs and we highly recommend it.
- Adjustable
- High quality materials
- Donates to dog rescues
- Less control compared to the first 3 collars
Martingale Collar, Training Dog Collar
If you’re looking for a great way to keep your dog cool during the summer months, then you should definitely consider getting the VIPAMZ Kids sprinkler for Yard Outdoor. This water play toy is perfect for kids of all ages and will provide your furry friend with hours of fun and excitement.
The best part about this particular sprinkler is that it easily attaches to any standard garden hose, so you won’t have to worry about lugging around a big, bulky water tank. Plus, the spray from this dog sprinkler can reach up to eight feet, depending on the pressure of your water. So whether your dog likes to run and play or just stand in one spot and get soaked, they’ll be able to do so safely and without getting drenched.
In addition to being a great way to keep your dog cool, the sprinklers are also perfect for watering your lawn or garden. The two different sprinkler heads provide a wide or narrow spray pattern, depending on your needs, and the entire unit can be easily adjusted to fit any size hose. So whether you’re looking for a fun way to keep your dog entertained or a practical way to water your plants, the VIPAMZ Kids sprinkler is a great choice.
- Great value
- Durable construction
- Reflective stitching
- Limited cinch feature is safe and effective
- 100% iron chain creates an audible stimulus
- Less control than the first 3 collars
Additional tips for using a sprinkler with your dog
- Avoid using a prong or choke collar until you have consulted with a professional trainer.
- Remember to praise your dog for good behavior so they know they are doing something right!
- Socialize your dog with other dogs and people so they learn to be comfortable around them.
- Be patient and consistent with your training, it will take time for your dog to improve.
- Always use a collar with a front clip harness when walking a reactive dog. This will give you more control.
Final thoughts on best Leashes/Collars For Reactive Dogs
There are a lot of great options for leashes and collars for reactive dogs. It is important to find one that is comfortable for your dog to wear, while also giving you the control you need. We hope this list has helped you narrow down your search and find the perfect leash or collar for your reactive dog. Thanks for reading!
