Leashes and long lines....that's what we make, plain and simple! Why do we make them? It all started when we got our first (yes first!) bloodhound, Henry. Henry, and all bloodhounds, are large (100+ lbs.) dogs with both a strong body and stubborn streak. bloodhounds are an independent breed and can not be left off-leash. You see, as with most hounds, bloodhounds are led by their nose. Once a bloodhound catches a scent, there is no turning back! They become oblivious to everything except the scent they're trailing (including cars). Once a bloodhound is on a trail, his head drops and all the loose skin around their face falls forward, causing them to walk right into lamp posts, mailboxes, trees etc. and they couldn't care less!

For our peace of mind and to avoid a lost (or injured) dog, we sourced some supplies and went to work creating a leash strong enough to hold our Henry! We use nylon webbing designed for mountain climbing, with a 3000 lbs breaking strength. This webbing is available in two styles, tube (flat but hollow) and flat web. Next, to ensure there are no weak links in the stitching, we use more mountain climbing technology for the hand loops and attachments. They're called Tri-glides, two kinds, plated steel or space age nylon. They make the loop and we stitch a bit at the ends to keep it in place. This stitching is not structural. The nylon is good for a steady pull but the steel is recomended for extra safety. Our girl Dali (in case you're keeping count, that's our second bloodhound) actually managed to break the tri-glide when she reared up and lunged. Although the hand loop snapped, the remaining leash held strong and I was able to grab hold of her. The only part of the leash that is not guaranteed is the snap. While every effort has been made to ensure we use the strongest bull snaps and bolt snaps we can find, a year of rain, dirt, friction against the ground and trees takes it's toll. We recommend replacing the leash after a year for large breeds with a tendancy towards pulling. For most breeds, they'll last several years to indefinitely.

Leads are available in a variety of colours in both webbings: Red, Blue, Green, Purple, Cranberry and Black. All leashes are made to order, so you can choose whatever length you like (maximum length is 50 ft.). 20 ft. is the most popular length. Please specify Nylon or Steel Tri-Glide.

Cost:

Bolt snap: $6 + $1 per foot (i.e. 20' lead = $26)

Bull snap: $7 + $1 per foot (i.e. 20' lead = $27)