The Leash: Not Just Control, but Connection

For many dog owners, a leash is a symbol of control. And yes - in some cases, it does work that way.

But in a good relationship with your dog, a leash can become something very different: a way to communicate clearly, and a tool for emotional support.

Mrok often walks freely on our hikes and trips. But when he feels unsure - maybe because of a new place, busy surroundings, or the presence of unknown dogs or people - he calmly walks up and asks to be leashed.

This moment feels like a child quietly reaching out for your hand. Not because they have to… but because it feels safer to move forward together.

That’s why we believe a leash should serve the dog first - and the person second.

What We Look for in a Leash

Not all leashes are created equal. In our experience, a good leash should:

1. Support clear communication Avoid elastic leashes. Stretchy materials blur your signals. A slight tug might mean “slow down” or “wait,” but a flexible leash turns every message into the same vague pull. Static lines keep communication sharp and readable.

2. Be easy to clip - and unclip Especially in tricky situations. If dogs get tangled while greeting each other, you should be able to detach the leash quickly and without stress.

3. Have a secure hand loop At full length, the leash should still give you a solid grip - even in slippery or awkward terrain.

4. Work well with gloves and cold hands A thicker leash (we use 9mm rope) is easier to handle in winter and doesn’t cut into your hand if the dog pulls suddenly. It also tangles less than thin lines and is easier to “clear” on the move.

5. Handle dirt, water, and mud like a pro Our leashes often end up soaked in swamps, covered in sand, or full of pine needles. After a rough walk, we simply throw them in the washing machine - and they come out ready for the next day.

What We Use

After trying various leashes — retractable ones, elastic lines, even Biothane — we eventually built our own.

We now use static caving rope, the kind made for rescue operations. It’s strong, reliable, and doesn’t stretch. On one end, there’s a stainless steel carabiner. On the other, a hand loop.

We use three lengths depending on the situation:

• 3 meters – for city walks, public transport, and cafes

• 5 meters – our everyday leash; perfect balance of freedom and control

• 10 meters – for training, socializing, or controlled exploration

We use such a leash in 3 lengths: 3, 5 and 10 metres .

The ends of the rope are stitched with heavy-duty thread and additionally glued. The leather pieces are sewn and also reinforced with adhesive.

Choosing with Purpose

When picking a leash, ask yourself:

• Will it give my dog a sense of support?

• Can I clearly communicate through it?

• Does it allow me to guide and protect my dog — without taking away their confidence?

If the leash works for your dog first, it will work for you too. That simple shift in thinking can completely change the way you move through the world together.

Want to know more about the gear we use for Mrok? Interested in how we keep him safe while he runs free in the mountains? You’ll find more in our Dog Gear section - including real-world tests, ideas, and quiet solutions that actually work.