Best Leashes for Your German Shepherd and Other Large Breed Dogs

Different types of dogs require different types of leashes. Additionally, different activities require different leashes for the same dog. In this section, we will review six different types of leashes that are best for German Shepherds and for what activity they are best.

1. Basic Standard Leash

Typically, a basic standard leash is made of nylon or leather. Both materials are sturdy and durable enough to control a large dog’s powerful strength. Leashes made of nylon and leather are engineered soft enough so that your hands will not get sore or blistered during use.

With only one handle, a basic standard leash is best for a dog who does not pull hard on the leash. A dog who obeys the “heel” command or naturally walks slowly is best for a single-handled leash.

A basic standard leash is often best for casual walks where your dog will be right beside you. Whether you’re walking on a road, sidewalk, or various public places, you want your dog to be close to you for his own safety. If an unleashed dog approaches your dog, you want to be able to keep him under control, protect your dog, and remove him from the situation if necessary. A simple, 6-foot, single-handled leash will work great in this situation.

2. Double-Handled Leash

Similar to the basic standard leash, the double-handled leash is also typically made of soft nylon that is durable, yet comfortable. The difference from the basic standard leash is the addition of a second handle approximately 18 inches from the clip.

This second handle allows you better control over a strong dog who pulls hard on the leash as well as better control of any dog in varying situations. Use the long leash for casual walks, loose leash walking, and extended sniffing. Use the shorter leash for busy sidewalks, bike paths, and crowded areas that require you to have instant, close control of your dog. This second control point gives you (the dog’s master) dominance over the situation.

3. Hands-Free Leash

A hands-free dog leash commonly possesses a certain set of features. First, you’ll notice the waist belt that features an adjustable band and a buckle. Sometimes the belt has a pouch for storing a phone, wallet, keys, treats, doodie bags, or other essentials. The leash portion clips onto the belt and features two handles and elastic. The elastic portion lets your dog move around as he wishes. The two handles let you take control of your dog if the situation arises. And the waist belt leaves your hands free while keeping your dog close to you.

Hands-free leashes are often made of soft nylon, so the waist belt does not become abrasive. The handles feature soft fabric, so you do not blister your hands when you take hold. The elastic is durable and absorbs shock if your dog suddenly changes direction.

The most common activities for a hands-free leash include running, hiking, and bicycling. In these activities, you and your dog need to be able to move independently from each other. The elastic leash allows such movement. If you’re riding a bicycle and your dog moves away from you, a standard leash would pull you off your bike. The elastic of the hands-free leash allows your dog to move around without the risk of making you fall off your bike. Additionally, the waist belt keeps you tethered to your dog while your hands are occupied on the handlebars.

Hiking is a similar scenario to bicycling. As you navigate the trails, rocks, and tree branches, you want your dog to be able to do the same. The elastic leash does just that. Additionally, the waistband keeps you tethered to your dog while keeping your hands free. You have the additional freedom to grasp tree branches for stability, hold a trail map, or drink from a water bottle.

4. Retractable Leash

Retractable leashes give you the control to let your dog wander as far away from you as you want. This type of leash often extends up to 16 feet. Your dog can explore his surroundings as you walk, run, or hike. If the need arises, however, retractable leashes have a brake system that stops your dog from roaming further away from you.

Retractable leashes do have their restrictions, though. They are not designed for powerful large-breed dogs who pull hard on the leash. The leash is often thin and narrow. It is not meant to handle so much brute force. A retractable leash is better suited for a gentle walking dog or a smaller dog (under 50 pounds).

The best activities for a retractable leash include walking, running, and hiking. Your dog may want to explore his surroundings during these activities. Having 16 feet of freedom will make him happy. And you can use the brake system to keep him close by if the need arises. For example, if you’re walking in a public park and another dog walks by, you’ll want to keep your dog close to avoid conflict and be courteous.

5. Training Leash

Training leashes are extremely lengthy so that your dog can practice commands and tricks without requiring the handler to run right beside him at all times. Training leashes are fairly simple in design. They’re made of nylon with a single handle and a clip. You can find training leashes in many different lengths: 15, 20, 30, or even 50 feet.

Training leashes are often first used with puppies to teach them the recall using the Come command. Hook the training leash onto your pup’s collar and let him wander away a bit. Call him back with the Come command. Training him this way teaches him to come when called, despite any distance or distraction between you and the pup.

Once a pup is older, you can continue to use the training leash to teach him agility tricks, tracking skills, and other activities. You could let your dog go swimming in a lake without worrying about him running away with the use of a training leash. At 30 or 50 feet in length, your dog can swim around, have fun, and get exercise while you monitor the leash length.

6. Multiple-Dog Leash

Multiple-dog leashes feature a couple different styles. You can purchase a leash that accommodates 2 dogs or 3 dogs. You can purchase a full leash (as pictured above) with a 6-foot leash and 2 or 3 connection points. Or you can purchase an adapter (also pictured above) that simply connects to whatever type of leash you already possess.

The adapter might be a great option for most people because you do not have to buy an entirely new leash. If you like the leash you have, just connect the adapter and you’re good to go! This adapter is compatible with most leash types. Standard, double-handled, retractable, and hands-free all work well. A training leash might not be ideal, though. Allowing multiple dogs to wander 20 feet or more away from you could be difficult to manage if they would start to run away.

A multiple-dog leash is great for walking all your dogs at once without wrapping 2 or more leashes around your wrists. If your dogs get along well, they will love walking while tethered together. If your dogs need some practice with getting along, a multiple-dog leash could teach them to cooperate while walking.

With an adapter, you could use a multiple-dog leash for running, hiking, and biking as well. For these activities, a hands-free leash with an adapter would be most compatible.