Slip Leads: Training Tool or Safety Risk?

Mar 12
2 min read

Following the recent debates at Crufts, the use of slip leads and grot collars is back in the spotlight.

A slip lead is essentially a noose design that goes over the dog’s head and tightens around the neck whenever they pull. A "grot" collar is the same concept, but made of a much thinner, harder cord.

While they are common, it is vital to understand when they are appropriate—and when they are dangerous.

When are they actually useful?

Slip leads aren't inherently "evil," but they are specialized tools intended for specific scenarios:

Safety & Rescue: Transporting flight-risk rescue dogs where a secure, quick-on connection is vital for safety.
Short Transitions: Used by vets or daycare staff (like our 30-second walk to the paddock) to move dogs efficiently without fumbling with collars.
Fully Trained Working Dogs: Gun dogs who already walk perfectly to heel. They use these so they can be "naked" while working in heavy brush, preventing them from getting snagged on branches.

The Reality of "Training" with a Slip Lead

For the average pet or a dog still learning, these leads are often aversive and ineffective. Dogs have a natural opposition reflex—an instinct to pull against pressure rather than move away from it. This means an untrained dog won't "learn" to stop; they will simply pull until they choke. Your dog isn't pulling because of their equipment; they are pulling because they are overstimulated or haven't been taught otherwise.

The Physical Risks

Because the pressure is concentrated on a small area of the neck, the risk of injury is high—especially for puppies with developing bones. Constant use can lead to:

Collapsed/Damaged Trachea's
Neck Sprains & Nerve Damage
Thyroid Gland Issues
Increased Intraocular Pressure (stress on eyes and ears)
Frustration & Distress from chronic gagging

The Golden Rule: If you see a dog walking perfectly on a slip lead, the lead didn't fix the problem—the training did. The lead is just a lightweight connection for a dog that already knows what to do.

The Bottom Line: Loose lead walking can’t be bought in a shop. It takes time, consistency, and a lot of patience. Your dog’s neck will thank you for it!