Since getting Puppy, I've tried nylon leashes, biothane leashes, and leather leashes. My absolute favourite are my custom-made biothane leashes from k9noz.com. I don't have a base to compare biothane leashes across different vendors and brands as I've never tried any other vendors. To date, I've made and received three orders from Bud at k9noz.com, and have loved every single one. The ordering process was straight forward, and the customization options are endless. Bud makes and sends his leashes very quickly. Shipping is usually the longest part of my wait. Thanks for the leashes, Bud!
Why Biothane?
- Pliable and bendy like leather
- Not as porous as leather and nylon, so easier to clean
- Cheaper than leather
- Many customization options
My Leashes
Here's a sample of some of the biothane leashes I have.
The leash at the top is a waist leash with three loops sewn in along the leash and bolt clips at both ends. I wear this leash when I go jogging or training with Puppy. The three loops allow me turn the leash into a regular leash with a handle, or a cross-body leash very easily. I absolutely cannot live without the waist leash, and this would be the leash I would choose if I could only use one leash for the rest of my life. It's also recommended by professionals like Dr. Sophia Yin for a few reasons.
- Keeps both hands free during training to dispense treats and fumble with clickers
- Helps with training a loose-leash walk since the waist leash allows you to anchor your entire weight against the dog's pull
- Prevents the owner from communicating inappropriate emotions through the leash in tense situations. For example, some owners grip and tighten their leashes when they see other dogs approaching. This in turn increases our dogs' anxiety and stress when other dogs appear.
The second leash is a 15 feet long line. I ordered this when I lived in an apartment, and used it to give Puppy more room to run when I take her to public parks where she must stay on leash. I use it now on leashed hikes, and for recall training.
The third is a 6 feet walking leash. I find the length great for hiking, but a little too long for regular city walks. I constantly have a bit of leash gripped in my hand to shorter the length of the leash. I had a 4 feet one made, and use that as my primary walking leash. I love the handle and the little loop in the handle. The loop allows me to strap the leash across my body if I don't need it while outside with Puppy.
The lash leash pictured is a 1 foot long traffic lead. I use it when I want to keep Puppy very close to me. I sometimes also use it to attach a flimsier training collar (like the head halter) to my main collar and leash clip to provide added security.
The Good
- Longer lasting than nylon leashes. The nylon leashes I've used got fuzzy with time.
- Great material and very well-made leashes. The leashes only need replacing when I've been a clutz and left them in Puppy's cage for her to gnaw on
- Many customization options available
The Not-So-Good
With my second batch of leashes, I had problems with the biothane sometimes leaving cuts in my finger if Puppy tugged too hard while on the leash. I think this is a common problem with biothane leashes. My friend reported improvements after rubbing sand paper along the edges of the leash.
Conclusion: Love! Will buy again!
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