7 best dog show leashes
Dog show leashes, also known as show leads or exhibition leads, are specialized leashes designed for use in dog shows and competitions. They are distinct from everyday leashes in their appearance, material, and purpose. Here are some key characteristics and information about dog show leashes:
Material: Show leashes are typically made of high-quality materials like leather, nylon, or braided cord. They are chosen for their durability, strength, and professional appearance.
Length: Show leashes are usually shorter than standard walking leashes, typically around 4 to 6 feet in length.This shorter length allows the handler to maintain close control over the dog during the show.
Design: Show leashes are often designed to be elegant and understated, with a focus on simplicity and functionality. They are meant to complement the appearance of the dog being shown.
Width: The width of a show leash can vary, but it is generally narrower than a regular leash. This allows for a comfortable grip while maintaining a refined look.
Hardware: Show leashes often feature high-quality, polished metal hardware, such as swivel snaps or clips, to securely attach to the dog's collar or harness.
Colors: Show leashes are typically available in classic, neutral colors like black, brown, or tan. These colors allow the leash to blend seamlessly with the dog's coat and other show accessories.
Braided or Rolled Leashes: Some show leashes are braided or rolled for added elegance and a sleeker appearance. These styles are particularly popular for certain breeds in the show ring.
Multi-Functional: While primarily used in the show ring, show leashes can also be suitable for formal events, photo shoots, or any situation where a polished appearance is desired.
Proper Handling: Handlers in dog shows are trained in specific techniques for holding and presenting the dog with the show leash. This helps showcase the dog's conformation and movement to the judges.
Alternative Options: In addition to traditional show leashes, there are also show chains (also called choke chains) that are used for certain breeds. These chains are chosen for their ability to maintain a straight line along the dog's neck, emphasizing their conformation.
It's important to note that show leashes are specialized equipment designed for a specific purpose. They are not intended for regular walking or training activities. When using a show leash, it's crucial to handle it with care and ensure that it fits securely on the dog without causing discomfort or injury. If you're new to dog shows, seeking guidance from experienced handlers or trainers can be very helpful.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best dog show leashes on the market
Mendota Pet Dog Show Slip Leash - Made in The USA
Mendota Pet
Product description
Simplicity at its best! Soft on the hands, easy to use and pliable enough to fit in your pocket. Mendota's flagship product, used for many years by trainers and handlers, is now adapted for exercise, training and field use. Having the leash and collar in one design allows for correction and ease of use. The adjustable leather slide prevents the lead from slipping off, yet allows it to be released in the relaxed position.
- HAND MADE in USA: Mendota Show Slip Leashes are hand made in the USA using premium polypropylene rope.
- TRAINERS & HANDLERS: A flagship Mendota product - the British Show Slip Leash is a favorite amongst dog trainers and handlers for it's versatility and lengthy rope making it an ideal option for training.
- LEASH & COLLAR: This show slip leash acts as a leash and a collar in one. Simply slip the loop over your dogs neck and use the handle end as a leash.
- SMALL DOGS: Great for the Ring and for smaller dogs! These leashes come in a 1/8" (3.18 mm) diameter and 54" (1.37 m) length.
- MENDOTA GUARANTEE: Mendota's gear for dogs is built to last, we guarantee it for the life of your pet.
User questions & answers
| Question: | How many items come in the oder |
| Answer: | One lead that has collar on one end you can create by looping the end and the other has a handle for leash. One peice collar and lead together....very handy |
| Question: | Does this work for german shepherd dogs |
| Answer: | The one I bought would be too small for a german shepherd dog. I use it as a training leash. It works like the ones Cesar Millan uses, placed high on the neck. I have a Bichon Frise. |
| Question: | Where is this made |
| Answer: | Manufactured by Mendota in St. Paul, Minnesota. The company was founded in 1994. |
| Question: | Can this fit a Doberman Pinscher with an 18 inch neck for show ring purposes |
| Answer: | Yes you should have about 5+ inches between you and the dog |
| Question: | What color is the snap on the black lead |
| Answer: | Greetings. The Mendota Show Snap Leads use a white brass snap. |
Resco Professional Cordo-Hyde Spinner Show Dog Lead with Built in Swivel and Neck Pad, 3/16-Inch Wide by 56-Inch Long, Black
Tecla Company Inc.
Product description
American-made Resco Cordo-Hyde Spinners were created when professional handlers asked us to create a spinner show lead for smaller dogs that rotate or spin around in the show ring. It has a built-in swivel at the neck end-that keeps the lead from tangling when the dog rotates. When they spin you remain in control. No tangling or bunching to detract from the show performance. A neoprene rubber neck-pad takes the stress off the dog's throat when there is tension on the lead The patch is small and unobtrusive so it doesn't detract from the dog's appearance in the show ring and training exercises. It's available in 3/16-inch and 3/8-inch widths. Resco Cordo-Hyde is a unique wax-coated cotton material that can be balled up in the hand to hide the lead and its stiff enough so that the dog will respond to a handler's tug on the lead in the show ring.
- Proudly hand-sewn in the USA by Resco - Providing innovative grooming solutions since 1937!
- Micro-crystalline wax-coated cotton for the look and comfortable feel of leather
- Achieve the performance of a Spinner with the control of a Martingale
- More Resco Show Leads available in Snap, Loop, Spinner, Martingale, and Spinner-Martingale styles
- Lifetime Warranty - We guarantee our products are of the highest quality and made to last so you don't have to worry.
- Proudly hand-sewn in the USA by Resco - Providing innovative grooming solutions since 1937!
- Micro-crystalline wax-coated cotton for the look and comfortable feel of leather
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do you have this lead in white? Can it be machine washed |
| Answer: | Here is the Amazon listing ID: B000MFPS78 |
| Question: | I need a show leash for a toy poodle. Which is best size and length |
| Answer: | This is 52” so may be somewhat too long. I bought this one by mistake for my Brussels Griffon, also a toy breed for anyone reading this response who might not know toy breeds. It was way too long and I had to fold it in my hand more than comfortable amount. Another issue is the kindness pad. It is too big and too wide for a groomed toy poodle. Look at vendors at show for the satin kindness leads sized specifically for toys I know-long answer but maybe might help others too |
| Question: | Which lead would be best for showing a cocker spaniel |
| Answer: | It depends upon how responsive your dog is... I showed my springer spaniel in a martingale lead as a puppy but now show him in a fine chain collar with a Resco 3 foot long, 3/8ths inch wide lead, and it is easier to keep the chain up where it is supposed to be than the slightly large martingale... I'd consult his/her breeder for advice, and ask folks at a show handling class if you can borrow various types of collars to see what works best... |
Mendota Pet Show Loop Leash - Dog Lead - Made in The USA - Black, S
Mendota Pet
Product description
This lead is perfect for the show ring. It is the same concept as our Show Slip Leash, but is constructed without hardware. The lead is 4' (1.22 m) long with a diameter of 1/8" (3.18 mm). It can be used alone or with a Show Slip Collar.
- SHOW LOOP LEAD: This lead is perfect for the show ring. It is the same concept as our Show Slip Leash, but is constructed without hardware.
- SIZE: The lead is 4' (1.22 m) long with a diameter of 1/8" (3.18 mm). It can be used alone or with a Show Slip Collar.
- MATERIAL: Made of durable polypropylene rope.
- MENDOTA GUARANTEE: Mendota's gear for dogs is built to last, we guarantee it for the life of your pet.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this lead have any metal parts? could it go through tsa security |
| Answer: | It has no metal. We bought it for this purpose. My daughter just went through security with it no problem! |
| Question: | Does this lead have any metal parts? could it be used to go through tsa security |
| Answer: | There not metal parts in this Show Loop/Lead. View the zoom image and you will see one leather junction. The lead is machine braided nylon composition. There are other types of Show Leads with a snap/hook on one end to attach to a collar, but this is not that type. For specific TSA questions, there is a website for TSA that posts FAQ's. Also, airlines provide FAQ's on carry-on items. |
Resco Professional Cordo-Hyde Dog Show Lead
Tecla Company Inc.
Product description
American Made Resco Cordo-Hyde Show Leads are used in show rings the world over since 1940. The ideal show lead is like an invisible string-the judge's eyes should be focused on the dog not the lead or the handler. A unique wax-coated cotton material that can be balled up in the hand to hide the lead and it's stiff enough so that the dog will respond to a handler's tug on the lead in the show ring. You will have quick control with our unique Resco brass clip that adjusts the neck size.
- Proudly hand-sewn in the USA by Resco - Providing innovative grooming solutions since 1937!
- Micro-crystalline wax-coated cotton for the look and comfortable feel of leather
- More Resco Show Leads available in Snap, Loop, Spinner, Martingale, and Spinner-Martingale styles
- Lifetime Warranty - We guarantee our products are of the highest quality and made to last so you don't have to worry.
- Proudly hand-sewn in the USA by Resco - Providing innovative grooming solutions since 1937!
- Micro-crystalline wax-coated cotton for the look and comfortable feel of leather
- More Resco Show Leads available in Snap, Loop, Spinner, Martingale, and Spinner-Martingale styles
- Lifetime Warranty - We guarantee our products are of the highest quality and made to last so you don't have to worry.
User questions & answers
| Question: | This is my first show, what size is best for my German Shepherd |
| Answer: | This lead broke before we even began our show. I would not recommend this product. |
| Question: | Is this lead strong enough for a large male doberman |
| Answer: | It is a soft, waxed cotton-type show lead that I train my puppies on. I haven't seen people in the Doberman ring using Resco leads - they usually use a chain collar and a leather lead. |
| Question: | is there a way to soften the cord hyde? Both of my puppies have sensitve necks and it is less comfortable than the satin cord fancy leads which I use a |
| Answer: | Yes, CordoHyde is waxed cotton. Some people like to wash them to remove the wax.This will give you a soft lead with the Resco slider to hold it in place. |
| Question: | What size can i use for a shih tzu |
| Answer: | We use the thinnest on our Pomeranians, but showed a Great Dane with the same size almost 40 yr. ago. My point is that you should use whatever size that you feel comfortable with in your hand. Dogs respond with any size because they enjoy the security of being attached, if you will, without being “bullied.” Most people don’t understand leash training; but it’s really easy. The key is quick tugs (fraction of a second) and releases on a loose lead. Verbal positive reinforcement works wonders too. Let |
Product features
Resco Original Show Lead
The Resco Original Show Lead is widely regarded as the standard of excellence in the dog showing world. Introduced in 1952, the unique feel of Resco Cordo-Hyde became the staple for professional handlers.
A Color for Every Coat
No matter what coat your dog has, Resco has you covered.
Unique Cordo-Hyde
No one can match the unique feel of a Resco Cordo-Hyde lead. Made of a woven cotton with a proprietary wax coating, Cordo-Hyde has the professional feel that handlers have grown to expect.
Multiple Styles to Meet your Needs
Resco offers more than just their Original Show Lead, including Martingales, Spinners, and the new Spin-Mart!
Chokes and Collars
Resco offers a full handling solution with a variety of training chokes and collars to compliment your professional show lead.
The Full Resco Pet Products Grooming Solution
Resco Pet Products is known throughout the professional veterinarian and grooming industries as a standard of excellence. See why the professionals choose Resco over the competition!
American Manufacturing
Since 1937, Resco Pet Products has been building quality grooming tools in Metro Detroit, Michigan. All Resco leads are proudly sewn in the USA.
Join the Resco Community!
Please leave a review detailing your experience with Resco's products. Since 1937 Resco's designs have been perfected based on your feedback. Resco has the best customers in the world and we'd love to hear from you! Join Resco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Mendota Pet Show Martingale Style Leash - Leash & Collar Combo, Made in The USA - Black, 8 in x 1/8 in x 40 in
Mendota Products
Product description
Soft, pliable 1/8-inch diamond braid with an adjustable oil-tanned leather slide and non-corrosive, bright brass rings for flawless performance. Braiding is UV-coated to protect against decay and fading and its "broken-in" feel is gentle on hands. Overall length is 40 Inch.
- SHOW MARTINGALE SLIP LEASH / COLLAR: This leash collar combo easy and safely slip around the neck collar of your dog. The leash secures your dog without it tightening around your dog’s neck. Great alternative to the Slip Lead!
- MATERIAL: These leads are made from a soft, pliable diamond braid that comes with an adjustable leather slide to get a comfortable fit around your dog's neck.
- HAND MADE in USA: Mendota Martingale Show Leashes are hand made in the USA using premium soft diamond pliable braided polypropylene rope
- HARDWARE: Made with durable brass and oil tanned leather for a beautiful look.
- MENDOTA GUARANTEE: Mendota's gear for dogs is built to last, we guarantee it for the life of your pet.
User questions & answers
| Question: | What size for a Vizsla puppy |
| Answer: | Greetings. The Vizsla has the lovely long slender neck so the larger sizes aren't necessary. First, measure your dog's neck circumference, keeping in mind that your pup will grow. Next, take a look at the Listing image of the Show Lead. The Martingale section is the LOWER cord length between the 2 metal rings. That Martingale section is 8 inches long. Now look at the "loop" above the Martingale section . . . that is a very adjustable cord section by sliding the leather tab up and down the main Lead section. You will have a nice amount adjustment length in this size. Hope this helps! |
| Question: | Does this leash have a lock to minimize the leash sliding lower on the dog's head |
| Answer: | It is NOT a locking mechanism, however it has a slide that stays in place when you push It down to fit the dogs neck... This is like a martindale and I only used it for showing in conformation. This by no means is an adequate leash for simply walking your dog.. That is my opinion |
| Question: | What size are the rings for a small martingale |
| Answer: | 1/2" in diameter |
| Question: | Is this martingale round or flat nylon |
| Answer: | it is a round braid |
Alvalley Metal Chain Dog Show Collar - Pet Slip Collar for Shows - Fine Brass Snake Choke Chain Collar - Adjustable for Toy, Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large Dogs (Gold, 18", 5.5mm Thick)
Product description
Alvalley: Smooth Snake Chain Slip Leash and Collar for Dogs
If you're looking for a champion dog show presentation or focused training the Alvalley Slip Brass Chain Collar is perfect for your ocassion! This fine metal snake chain adds class and elegance that doesn't distract from your dog. These collars let you discourage pulling without harming your dog and the no-pinch construction allows you to make gentle corrections to a dogs behavior safely.
This collar perfectly fits toy, small, medium, large, and extra-large dogs. The metal construction ensures your leash remains secure even against the pulling of a large dog.
These collars make great gifts and come in a variety of colors that you can mix and match with any dog accessories. Choose from black, gold, chrome, and rose gold!
Features
Alvalley was created to make fine dog show quality leads. We've been producing the best leashes for years and you'll never find a more dedicated knowledgeable group when it comes to leads and collars. Please visit our Amazon store to see our full range of colors, lengths, thicknesses, and styles. If you're getting the best for your dog, you're getting an Alvalley.
- STUNNING STYLE: This stylish snake chain collar gives an elegant presentation that doesn't distract from your dog. This is a perfect piece for presenting at dog shows and other formal occasions.
- THE MOST VERSATILE COLLARS: The Alvalley Slip Metal Dog Collar uses a fine metal chain that doesn't pinch and creates a style perfect for dog shows. The construction uses brass for a no-rust piece that you can use for years to come.
- PERFECT FOR SHOWING AND TRAINING: The natural tightening on pulling make this a perfect collar for your puppy and it's great for later life showing and training. The chain doesn't pinch for a gentle correction even if your pet pulls very hard. Perfect fit for toy, small, medium, large, and extra large pets.
- CHOOSE YOUR COLOR: These metal collars come in a variety of colors. Choose from Black, Gold, Chrome, and Rose Gold. Choose the perfect length and thickness, and mix and match with your dogs accessories for a fun unique look!
- ALVALLEY LEASHES AND COLLARS: We started with one express purpose, to make fine dog show quality leashes and collars for your pets. Get the best for your dogs from Alvalley.
User questions & answers
| Question: | What size can you recommend for a puppy basset hound 22lbs as of today |
| Answer: | not sure ask your breeder |
| Question: | My pup’s neck measures approx 11” at its largest point. What size do I need—12” or 14”? Thank you.... k |
| Answer: | A 12 inch will work for you dog. |
| Question: | I want 1.8mm/18' silver not gold snake collar. where is the option for a choice |
| Answer: | The colors we have available are: gold, rose gold, chrome and black. Thanks Alvalley |
| Question: | Does the length (22in) include the rings |
| Answer: | Yes, the length measurement includes the rings. |
Resco Professional Cordo-Hyde Martingale Dog Show Lead, 3/16 x 42-Inch Long
Tecla Company Inc.
Product description
American Made Resco Cordo-Hyde Martingale Leads combine our Resco Show Lead and a Resco Choke Collar for better control in the show ring and training exercises. Cordo-hyde is a unique wax-coated cotton material that can be balled up in the hand to hide the lead and it's stiff enough so that the dog will respond to a handler's tug on the lead in the show ring. You will have quick release with our American made nickel plated bolt snap.
- Proudly hand-sewn in the USA by Resco - Providing innovative grooming solutions since 1937!
- Resco Cordo-Hyde show leads are the standard in dog handling, beware imitations
- More Resco Show Leads available in Snap, Loop, Spinner, Martingale, and Spinner-Martingale styles
- Micro-crystalline wax-coated cotton for the look and comfortable feel of leather
- Lifetime Warranty - We guarantee our products are of the highest quality and made to last so you don't have to worry.
User questions & answers
| Question: | My dog has a 10" neck, so would I choose the 10" choke |
| Answer: | These are for showing in conformation. It will expand to your dogs neck size. If you are looking for a regular collar; they are usually 10-12 size and can be adjusted. |
| Question: | What size would you suggest for a miniature dachsund that weighs 11 lbs.? Thanks |
| Answer: | This show collar is very adjustable and would fit fine for the show ring. This is not an everyday leash. |
| Question: | Is this a good lead for a male Rottweiler, and if so, what length |
| Answer: | not unless he is a puppy. Otherwise you should have a show chain (snake type) and a heavy nylon lead about 3 ft to start with after he is show trained you can go with a kangaroo leather lead that attaches to his choke collar. |
| Question: | What size do you recommend me for a Japanese Akita puppy of 4 month? Thank you |
| Answer: | I'd say 12 to 18 inch... measure his head., under chin an over his ears. |
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