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Behaviour & Training

How To Correctly Put A Slip Lead On A Dog (Left Side)

A slip lead provides gentle control and tightens slightly with pressure. It should sit high on the neck, right behind the ears.

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How To Correctly Put A Slip Lead On A Dog (Left Side)

Behaviour & Training

How To Correctly Put A Slip Lead On A Dog (Left Side)

A slip lead provides gentle control and tightens slightly with pressure. It should sit high on the neck, right behind the ears.

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Guide

HOW TO CORRECTLY PUT A SLIP LEAD ON A DOG

A slip lead provides gentle control and tightens slightly with pressure. It should sit high on the neck, right behind the ears.

  1. MAKE A LOOP: Hold the slip lead by the end with the stopper. Form a loop with the other end.
  2. PLACE OVER HEAD: Gently place the loop over your dog's head.
  3. POSITION HIGH ON THE NECK: Position the loop high on the neck, right behind the ears. This gives you the best control and is most comfortable for your dog.
  4. ADJUST THE SLIDE: Pull the lead through the slide to adjust the loop. It should be snug enough that it doesn't slip down, but loose enough to fit two fingers comfortably.
  5. ATTACH & GO: You're ready to go! The lead will tighten slightly with pressure and loosen when the pressure is released.

P — WALK ON THE LEFT SIDE In most countries (which drive on the right), dogs should walk on the LEFT side of the handler (P position). This keeps the dog away from traffic and closest to you for better control and safety.

CORRECTING BEHAVIOUR If your dog pulls, jumps, or ignores you:

  • Give a POP on the lead. Pop up, not back.
  • The pop is a quick, light correction to get your dog's attention.
  • Release the pressure as soon as your dog responds or returns to you.
  • Never pull up and hold. Consistent, fair timing is key.

POP UP, NOT BACK — A quick pop gets attention. Popping back can encourage opposition. POP UP = GUIDE AND COMMUNICATE — Strong, steady pop back = Creates conflict.

A SLIP LEAD IS A TRAINING TOOL A slip lead is a training tool — not for tying out. It helps you:

  • Communicate clearly with your dog
  • Teach good manners on the lead
  • Train loose-lead walking
  • Build focus, respect and obedience
  • Before moving to a flat collar or harness with a regular lead

Be patient and consistent. Keep training sessions short, positive and fun!

WE BUILD CALM. WE BUILD CONFIDENCE. WE BUILD RELATIONSHIPS. We don't entertain behaviour. We educate it. Structure creates freedom. Calm is the goal.

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LUOSKO Guide

Behaviour & Training

How To Correctly Put A Slip Lead On A Dog (Left Side)

A slip lead provides gentle control and tightens slightly with pressure. It should sit high on the neck, right behind the ears.

How To Correctly Put A Slip Lead On A Dog (Left Side)

Guide

HOW TO CORRECTLY PUT A SLIP LEAD ON A DOG

A slip lead provides gentle control and tightens slightly with pressure. It should sit high on the neck, right behind the ears.

  1. MAKE A LOOP: Hold the slip lead by the end with the stopper. Form a loop with the other end.
  2. PLACE OVER HEAD: Gently place the loop over your dog's head.
  3. POSITION HIGH ON THE NECK: Position the loop high on the neck, right behind the ears. This gives you the best control and is most comfortable for your dog.
  4. ADJUST THE SLIDE: Pull the lead through the slide to adjust the loop. It should be snug enough that it doesn't slip down, but loose enough to fit two fingers comfortably.
  5. ATTACH & GO: You're ready to go! The lead will tighten slightly with pressure and loosen when the pressure is released.

P — WALK ON THE LEFT SIDE In most countries (which drive on the right), dogs should walk on the LEFT side of the handler (P position). This keeps the dog away from traffic and closest to you for better control and safety.

CORRECTING BEHAVIOUR If your dog pulls, jumps, or ignores you:

  • Give a POP on the lead. Pop up, not back.
  • The pop is a quick, light correction to get your dog's attention.
  • Release the pressure as soon as your dog responds or returns to you.
  • Never pull up and hold. Consistent, fair timing is key.

POP UP, NOT BACK — A quick pop gets attention. Popping back can encourage opposition. POP UP = GUIDE AND COMMUNICATE — Strong, steady pop back = Creates conflict.

A SLIP LEAD IS A TRAINING TOOL A slip lead is a training tool — not for tying out. It helps you:

  • Communicate clearly with your dog
  • Teach good manners on the lead
  • Train loose-lead walking
  • Build focus, respect and obedience
  • Before moving to a flat collar or harness with a regular lead

Be patient and consistent. Keep training sessions short, positive and fun!

WE BUILD CALM. WE BUILD CONFIDENCE. WE BUILD RELATIONSHIPS. We don't entertain behaviour. We educate it. Structure creates freedom. Calm is the goal.

LUOSKO German Shepherd Dog Rescue · Printed from the LUOSKO Guide Library