Long Line
🟢 I use this regularly in training
Long lines are one of the most important training tools for me when working on recall and gradually building up controlled off-leash freedom. They are also particularly useful for dogs that have only recently moved in, young dogs going through adolescence, or whenever recall isn’t yet reliable enough to let your dog run completely free.
A long line gives your dog considerably more freedom of movement than a regular lead while still giving you a safety backup and allowing you to continue building the training in a controlled way.
Which Length Makes Sense?
I like to work with different lengths as training progresses. In the beginning, a shorter long line may be enough.
As your training progresses, you can gradually increase the distance between you and your dog and later work with considerably longer lines.
Depending on the training goal, I use lengths of 5, 25 or 50 metres, for example. Longer doesn’t automatically mean better. The right length depends on how far your training has already progressed, how much space is available and what you are currently working on.
Especially when training recall, a long line can help you gradually allow more distance and freedom without giving up that extra level of security too soon.
What Should You Look For When Buying One?
The long line should suit your dog’s size and strength – and of course, you’re allowed to like the colour too. 😉
For small or lightweight dogs, I would pay particular attention to making sure that the line and clip aren’t unnecessarily heavy. For larger and stronger dogs, the material can be correspondingly more robust.
The material itself is also a matter of preference. I like using classic long lines, but smooth Biothane can also be practical for some dogs and situations. It is easy to clean and, especially for smaller dogs, comfortable to use in a lightweight version.
And Eventually, You May Not Need It Anymore
Admittedly, many dog owners eventually no longer need their longest long lines – and that is actually a lovely training goal.
Once your recall is reliable and the long line eventually spends most of its time in the cupboard, you can pass it on to another dog owner or, for example, donate it to an animal shelter near you.