Just as there are a variety of collars on the market, there are also several types of leashes. Most people buy the wrong leash, which can be defined as one that provides no control over a big dog like your rottweiler. You should have two or three leashes for different circumstances. The leashes you should definitely have are a leather leash and a tracking leash.

You should purchase a good, sturdy six-foot leather leash. Unlike the cheap nylon imitators, the leather leash is kind on your hands and won't cut into your hands the way nylon and rope leashes will. They give better control than any other leash. Yes, a leather leash is more expensive, but you must use the right tool for the job. Also purchase a good fifteen to twenty-foot tracking leash (nylon or cotton). You can use this for hiking or for training your rottie to come.

Leashes you shouldn't use include nylon, rope, chain, and the retractable type. None of these leashes gives you good control over your rottie. One very popular leash is the retractable kind. People love these leashes because their dogs can wander all over without their really having to pay attention to where the dog is going. The problem with these leashes is twofold. They don't offer any control over the dog, even with the line in the lock position. Second, dogs have entangled with other dogs on these leashes and fights have ensued. Unless you have a pocketknife handy to cut the retractable leash cords, there is no way you're going to get your dog out of the fight or the tangle. However, retractable leashes do have their place. They make excellent tools for teaching your dog to come.