A dog lead is an essential item for your puppy.
With so many options out there, which one to choose?
Over the life of your dog you will probably end up with several leads. Initially it may seem that almost any lead will do. They all serve the same basic purpose. To keep your dog close by when you out and need to keep them safe.
For us, there are two basic types of lead. A short lead for most situations. The key with this lead is that it is comfortable for you to hold. Some one gave us one when our pup was quite little. It had quite hard edges on the handle. As our dog grew stronger it felt like it was almost cutting my hand if she lurched or pulled.
We really like the Halti training leads. They are easy to grip, and have several handles for different lengths. Need to hold your doc close by a busy road, or if they want to jump up at someone? If your dog makes a habit of biting the lead when frustrated, a metal chain lead can help dissuade this. We don't ever recommend the use of choke chains. Our preference is to use a lead with a harness rather than a collar. There will always be occasions when even a well-trained dog will pull, and we don't like to see them choking!
The second type of lead are extendable leads for places where you don't want your dog to run off, but do want to allow them more freedom. Again, look for one that has a comfortable handle and a strong locking mechanism to set the lead length if you need to.
For many owners, the aim will be to to train your dog so that you can let them roam off-lead. The dog will be happier, and may be less inclined to bark at other dogs off-lead. But there will always be occasions when you need to have a lead handy.