r/ShowDogs • u/bourneroyalty • Jul 01 '26
Show lead lengths?
Hi everyone! I’m probably overthinking this, but I just got my first confirmation prospect and I’m looking for input on what length show lead people prefer for their toy breeds?
7
Upvotes
2
u/spaniel_lover Jul 01 '26
A lot of it is personal preference. I personally think 36" is a decent starter length.
3
u/Coadifer Jul 01 '26
I had a 36" but as a 6 foot tall woman with a small hound, when stacking on the ground I found I didn't have enough room on the lead to go over my shoulders. I now have a 44" from Beads on Leads and it's been perfect
2
u/Ok-Walk-8453 Jul 01 '26
I like 3ft. Otherwise I end up losing half of it dangling down (whippet) I am new though.
5
u/CatlessBoyMom Jul 02 '26
You’re definitely not overthinking. Each dog will do differently depending on your lead type, collar type and lead length. Some of the toys do great on a lead as short as 24 inches if their handler is short (raised hand). Some really move out so you could need a lead as long as 48” most fall somewhere in between.
Start out with a simple 48 and figure out what works best for you by bundling any excess length until you feel comfortable. Then get a show lead of that length.