Leash and Collar Safety Tips

Krysia Ng Leash and Collar Safety Tips

Many places have established leash laws with the main intent to protect the health and safety of the general public as well as pets. Animal bites and accidents are greatly reduced when every pet owner obeys the leash law. When dogs are restrained, it also prevents them from chasing or even killing wildlife. A dog that is obedient and well-behaved is a positive reflection of the dog’s owner.


“Is it illegal to walk my dog without a lead?” This is a common question of many dog owners. Leash laws do exist; depending on where you live, leash laws may differ from state to state or country to country. In many places, such as Singapore, it’s actually illegal to walk a dog without a leash.   


Why do dogs need a leash?

  • It’s a great way to prevent your pet dog from trespassing on your neighbor’s property during your outdoor excursions.

  • It prevents your dog from jumping up on people you encounter during your walk.

  • A dog that is properly leash-trained and obedient is a pleasure to walk with.

  • A pet dog that’s on a leash has lesser risks of being exposed to diseases, such as canine parvovirus or distemper, and parasites.

  • A dog on a leash can be restrained from sniffing the poop of other animals.

  • Being restrained by a leash prevents your dog from rushing on to traffic and protects your pet from other animals that are unrestrained.

  • An obedient and leash-trained dog is easier to relocate to another household.

  • Most dogs look forward to outdoor excursions. They associate their leash with positive experiences and will always be excited when they see their owners holding it. They perceive it as a sign that they’re about to go out on another enjoyable adventure.

  • A dog on a leash makes it easier for pet owners to have full control over their pet’s movements.

  • While walking outdoors, being on a leash prevents your dog from drinking in puddles or ponds, or getting into something muddy or foul-smelling.

  • Prevents dogs from eating something that can be harmful such as garbage, food from strangers, or even poop!

  • No accidental pregnancies!



Why does my dog always pull on the leash?

Outdoor excursions are always something that pet dogs become overly excited about. So, it’s no wonder why your dog starts pulling on his leash as soon as you open the door. Also, dogs instinctively repeat behaviors that are reinforced or rewarded. The excitement of the senses being bombarded by different smells, sounds, sights, and just everything about the great outdoors is rewarding. Pulling on the leash is not a show of dominance; your dog is just very excited to go out.



Leash training is one of the basic training regimens for puppies, together with basic obedience training, house training, and crate training. Here are the steps for leash training a puppy:

  • Start by introducing your puppy to his collar or harness and leash. Let him get used to wearing a collar or harness first and when he’s already comfortable with it, it’s time to introduce the leash. Be sure to make the experience positive with some tasty treats.
  • When your puppy takes to his collar or harness and leash without any issues, it’s time to start short leash walks and see how he behaves. Have some bite-sized treats to reward desired behavior. If he starts to pull, call his name, and move a few steps away. If he follows you, be quick to reinforce the behavior with a treat.

Are rope leashes good for dogs?

Rope leashes are made from the same material used for making mountain climbing rope. The durability and comfort of the material make it one of the popular dog leashes around. A rope leash can also provide some protection for the arm and shoulder in case the dog pulls hard on the leash.

Are bungee leashes good for dogs?

Bungee leashes are one of the best types of leashes for dogs. It’s designed with a bungee that helps absorb shock, which is great for dogs that are heavy pullers. The bungee portion absorbs the shock and reduces the amount of jerk to your hand and arm when the dog bolts out and pulls hard at the leash. Some bungee leashes can be worn as a waist leash.

Should I take my dog's collar off at night?

It really depends on the dog and living situation. If you are sure that your dog is safe, taking off his collar can give his fur time to breathe. However, if your dog is unreliable or you’re in a place that’s unfamiliar to your dog, letting him wear a collar even at night is a good idea.

Should dogs wear collars all the time?

There are situations in which collars should be worn by dogs at all times. For example, if you have a senior dog, wearing a collar that has his identification tags can help ensure that he can easily be found when he wanders off and fails to find his way home. A new dog should always wear a collar with his owners’ contact details in case they can’t find their way back in case they wander away from home. Dogs, even when they’re well-trained, should always wear a collar when traveling, even if it’s just a short trip to the groomer's.

Should you walk a dog with a collar or harness?

Between a collar and a harness, many veterinarians and professional dog trainers recommend letting dogs wear a harness for the following reasons:

  • A harness makes it easier for the pet owner to control and manage their dog.
  • A harness is a valuable tool when leash-training puppies.
  • Wearing a harness prevents a dog from getting tangled up in his leash and possibly getting hurt in the process.
  • When walking busy streets or being in crowded areas with your dog, a harness would offer better control of your pet.
  • A harness allows you better control over a strong or very large dog. It’s also easier on your arms and back.
  • A harness disperses pressure exerted over a larger portion of a dog’s body, reducing pressure and strain on the dog’s neck and back. This is great for very small dogs whose delicate bodies are prone to injury when they keep on pulling or tugging at their leash.
  • A harness discourages a dog from pulling.
  • If your pooch is a clever escape artist, the best solution would be to let him wear a harness. Unlike when wearing a collar, a dog can’t wriggle out of his harness.
  • Harnesses can also be used to assist dogs that need help to stand up or sit down without causing any pain or discomfort.

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