How to Use a Slip Lead Correctly
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How to Use a Slip Lead Correctly – A Simple Guide to Better Lead Training
A slip lead is one of the simplest pieces of dog training equipment you can own, but how you use it makes all the difference.
At Kugae Gundogs, we use slip leads every day with our own dogs and with dogs that come to us for training. Whether we're working with a young spaniel just starting its training or a Labrador progressing towards working in the field, a slip lead gives us a simple way to communicate with the dog without relying on complicated equipment.
In our latest video, Carl demonstrates how to use a slip lead correctly, including how it should sit, how it should feel when the dog is walking properly and some of the common mistakes handlers make.
Watch: How to Use a Slip Lead Correctly
You can watch Carl's full demonstration here:
If you're new to using a slip lead, we'd recommend watching the video alongside this guide so you can see exactly what Carl is demonstrating.
What Is a Slip Lead?
A slip lead combines a collar and lead in one simple piece of equipment.
The loop passes over the dog's head and the lead can then tighten and release as required. There are no clips, buckles or separate collars to deal with, which is one of the reasons slip leads have traditionally been so popular with gundog handlers.
But the important word here is release.
A slip lead shouldn't be permanently tight around the dog's neck.
When the dog is walking correctly, the lead should be relaxed. This allows the dog to learn where you want it to be rather than simply being physically held in position.
It's About Communication, Not Constant Pressure
One of the most important things to understand when using a slip lead is that more pressure doesn't mean better control.
We don't want to spend an entire walk pulling against the dog while the dog pulls against us.
Instead, we're trying to teach the dog to understand where we want it to be.
Used correctly, the slip lead allows the handler to give clear feedback and then immediately release that pressure when the dog responds.
That timing is an important part of training.
The eventual goal isn't to have a dog that behaves because the lead is holding it there. We want the dog to understand the position and choose to stay with the handler.
Positioning the Slip Lead
Correct positioning is another important part of using a slip lead.
The lead needs to sit comfortably and securely, and the stopper should be adjusted so the loop cannot become excessively loose.
Take a few seconds when putting the lead on rather than simply throwing it over the dog's head and starting to walk.
This is particularly important with young dogs that are still learning how to behave when the lead comes out.
We actually like puppies to become familiar with a lead from an early age. Initially, that can be as simple as calmly putting it on and taking it off before gradually progressing to walking and more structured heelwork.
Don't Let the Lead Do All the Training
A common mistake is expecting a lead to solve a training problem by itself.
It won't.
The slip lead is simply a tool that helps you communicate with your dog.
Your movement, timing, consistency and relationship with the dog are still far more important.
If your dog is constantly pulling, rather than simply pulling back harder, think about why the dog isn't paying attention to you.
Change direction. Encourage the dog to follow you. Reward the correct position through your interaction and movement, and make being beside you worthwhile.
This is where lead training begins to become actual heelwork rather than simply controlling a dog on a walk.
Which Slip Lead Should You Use?
The size and type of slip lead you choose should suit both the dog and the handler.
At Kugae, we generally use a 6mm slip lead for spaniels, younger dogs and smaller gundog breeds. It's lightweight, easy to handle and particularly useful for everyday training and heelwork.
For Labradors, retrievers and larger or stronger dogs, our 8mm slip lead provides a little more substance in the hand while keeping the same straightforward slip-lead design.
For handlers who prefer something more traditional, we also have our Rolled British Leather Slip Lead, available in both 6mm and 8mm. It offers the same practical slip-lead principle with the feel and appearance of British leather.
Shop the Kugae Slip Lead Range
These are the same types of leads we use during our everyday training at Kugae Gundogs.
Shop Kugae Slip Leads & Training Leads
You can also view the individual options:
6mm Kugae Slip Lead – ideal for spaniels, young dogs and smaller gundog breeds.
8mm Kugae Slip Lead – ideal for Labradors, retrievers and larger or stronger dogs.
Rolled British Leather Slip Lead – available in 6mm and 8mm for handlers looking for a traditional leather option.
Shop the Kugae Rolled British Leather Slip Lead
From Lead Work to Heelwork
The bigger picture is that the slip lead isn't the end result.
We're using it to help teach the dog the behaviour we eventually want without having to rely on the lead.
As training progresses, we're looking for the dog to understand:
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Where we want it to walk
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To pay attention to the handler
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To respond when we change direction
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To remain calm rather than constantly pulling ahead
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To maintain that position with less and less help from the lead
Ultimately, good heelwork comes from training, not from equipment.
The right equipment simply makes it easier to communicate clearly while the dog is learning.
Keep Your Training Simple
You don't need a huge amount of complicated equipment to train a gundog well.
A good slip lead, consistent handling and an understanding of what you're trying to teach can take you a long way.
If you're unsure how your slip lead should be fitted or how to use it effectively, watch Carl's demonstration below and see how we use one during everyday training at Kugae Gundogs.
Watch the Full Slip Lead Training Video
And if you're looking for the same style of equipment we use ourselves, you can browse the complete Kugae Gundogs slip lead and training lead range in our online shop.