The lead goes under the legs with the front clip: how to avoid tangles?

The front clip can be handy on walks, but it changes the path of the lead. When your dog slows down, sniffs or changes sides, a loop can end up near their front legs.

Before giving up on this attachment, watch when exactly the lead goes under the legs.

Is a loop dragging in front of the dog?

A long length of slack lead can drop to the ground. That gives your dog more chances to step over it.

Adjust the length you hold to your walking distance, while keeping some slack. The goal is not to keep constant tension or to force your dog to stay glued to you.

When they stop to sniff, follow the change in distance instead of letting a big loop build up in front of them.

Check the position of the ring

A harness that twists or a clip that sits too low is worth checking for fit.

The weight of the lead clip can also matter with some equipment. The PetSafe Easy Walk manual notes that a heavy clip can pull its front strap down; this is specific to its design, but it is a reminder to check that lead and harness work well together.

Source: PetSafe Easy Walk manual

Use the attachment points provided by the manufacturer. A handle, a patch or an adjustment buckle is not a ring for the lead.

What to do when the lead is already caught?

Stop somewhere safe and let the lead go slack. Free it calmly if your dog accepts being handled, without pulling to drag it out by force.

Do not keep walking in the hope that the loop will free itself.

Can you use the back ring?

If your harness has a back ring intended for walks, it can be another option depending on the situation and the manufacturer’s instructions.

Changing the attachment point does not, however, replace loose-lead training. If tangles are frequent or you find it hard to manage the movement, a trainer using kind methods can help you adjust your handling.

The most useful observation remains simple: does the problem come from the length of lead, changes of direction or the harness shifting?

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