A long line isn't just a long lead. The difference from a standard lead lies in its purpose: it gives your dog freedom to move in open areas while you stay in control if a deer, another dog or simply an exciting scent turns up.
5 or 10 metres?
5 metres is enough for meadows with a decent view and for getting started with training. 10 metres gives more freedom, but it also needs more space and a bit of practice in handling, so the line doesn't get tangled in branches or around your own legs.
| Length | Suitable for | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| 5 metres | Meadows with a decent view, getting started with training | needs little space, easier to handle |
| 10 metres | more freedom in open areas | needs more space and practice so the line doesn't get tangled |
Where it doesn't belong
In traffic, on busy paths or anywhere you need to react quickly, a long line is the wrong tool. Ten metres of line can't be reeled in within a second. For these situations, a short standard lead of 1 to 2 metres remains the better choice.
How to go about training
Never hold the line tight, wrapped around your hand in a loop. Hold it loosely in several folds instead. That way you can shorten it quickly in an emergency without trapping your fingers. Let your dog explore over a short distance at first, and only increase the distance once he responds reliably to recall. If he pulls on the lead instead of reliably coming back, you'll find practical exercises in Dog pulls on the lead: What really helps.
Material and weight
At 10 metres, the weight of the line makes a noticeable difference for your dog. Our DRIFT long line, made from thinly rolled, vegetable-tanned leather, weighs less than 300 grams even at 10 metres long, and correspondingly less at 5 metres.
You can find more about the right lead length for every situation in our dog lead guide. You can see the current selection in the Harnesses & Leads collection.