6 Ways Leashes Promote Good Health for Dogs

Taking your dog for a walk on a leash is required by law in some states.

When dogs get loose, they can easily get lost, confused, or too far away from home to return. Leashes can stop this scary incident from transpiring.

But did you know it had health benefits for your dog as well?

We explain 6 important ways leashing up contributes to your dog’s good health.

1. Basic Exercise and Physical Activity

Running and playing without a leash inside the safety of a home is great. But walks outdoors are necessary to get your dog some tough exercise. This keeps their weight healthy, their bones and muscles strong and their general cardiovascular fitness up. It also supports their digestion.

Dogs have pent-up energy (causing boredom and destructive behaviors) that you can’t adequately get them to release at home.

But you can’t risk them roaming off too far from you, and that’s where leashes help. This fear can’t hinder your dog’s necessary outdoor exercise routine. You’re in control and there’s little room for accidents.

2. Mental Stimulation and Enrichment

Your dog needs exposure to new environments, sights, sounds, smells and experiences. That’s limited indoors. Leashed walks help you circumvent this restriction.

Your canine gets enough mental stimulation and the risks of any behavioral issues as a result of lack of mental exercise are warded off.

3. Socialization and Training Opportunities

Leashed walks also allow for controlled socialization with other dogs and people. This has a direct impact on your dog’s behavior. They learn and develop social skills and confidence.

Leash training from an early age teaches your pups to walk politely by your side. Basic obedience commands like heel, sit and stay are easily reinforced. All this helps build a strong bond between you and your dog – as they begin to trust and respect you.

4. Safety and Injury Prevention

When outdoors, leashed dogs (provided the walker is attentive) can be safe from busy roads, aggressive animals, harmful substances, etc.

So both the dog and the owner are safer, there is less chance of injuries from falls, fights with other dogs, accidents caused by sudden movements or being distracted.

Some dogs can’t resist the urge to chase squirrels, rabbits, or bikes. Untrained dogs especially so. They might even end up running right into the street. Leashes stunt this dangerous chasing instinct.

5. Veterinary Care and Early Detection

Regular walks with a leash let dog owners keep a close eye on their dog's health and behavior, so they can notice any changes in their dog's gait or general health right away.

This is like having a proactive approach to their health care. You can prevent minor issues from turning into bigger problems and get your pup prompt vet attention and treatments if needed.

6. Avoiding Harmful Ingestion

Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn't – rotten food, toxic plants, animal waste, etc. A leash stops them from eating these harmful substances that could make them very sick.

When dogs are not on a leash, they are more likely to investigate and come into contact with wildlife or unvaccinated animal urine, feces, and diseases. Leashes limit this exposure.

What Type of Leash is Best?

If you don’t have a suitable leash for your dog for different outings, results can get counterproductive. So choose wisely.

1. Standard Flat Leash – For daily walks around the neighborhood, a classic leash that is 4 to 6 feet long and made of nylon, leather, or rope works great. Look for a 1-inch width for good control.

2. Double-Handled Leash – These leashes have two handles - one at the grip and another a few feet down. The second handle allows you to easily pull your dog in closer on a tight leash if needed.

3. Adjustable Leash – Leashes that can switch between a 2-foot "traffic lead" and a 6-foot extended length give you flexibility for different situations.

4. Head Halters/Front-Clip Harnesses – Attaching the leash to a standard collar can make pulling harder to handle than using a leash with a head halter or front-clip harness.

We recommend using a dog running leash with built-in LED lights for safety with a sound grip. If you’re looking for a more comfortable option and prefer to walk your dogs on your run, a hands-free long dog leash can be helpful.

Whatever you choose at the end of the day, make sure the leash has a secure clip and is made of durable material. Some training, and you can keep your pup safe and healthy thanks to these outdoor walks on a leash!