Correct positioning of the slip lead on your gundog

Correct positioning is the single most important factor when using a slip lead. If the position is wrong, the lead will not release pressure when you slacken your hand, which means the dog receives constant "static" rather than clear communication.

Here is the step-by-step guide to fitting a slip lead for a gundog (traditionally walked on your left side).

1. The Orientation: "P is for Perfect"

Before you put the lead on the dog, hold it up in front of you. You want the loop to form the shape of the letter P.

  • Why? The lead needs to run over the top of the dog's neck, not under it. When you hold it as a "P", the part of the rope leading to your hand comes off the top of the loop.

  • The Test: When the lead is on the dog, lift your hand. The loop should tighten. Drop your hand, and gravity should instantly make the ring slide down, loosening the loop.

  • Note: If you walk your dog on the right side, you need the inverted shape (a number 6 or 9), otherwise the lead will "lock" and stay tight.

2. The Placement: High and Tight

The slip lead should not sit where a normal collar sits (at the base of the neck/near the shoulders).

  • The Sweet Spot: Place the lead at the very top of the neck, literally touching the base of the skull behind the ears.

  • The Reason: This area is sensitive and offers control of the head. If you control the head, you control the body. If the lead slides down to the muscular base of the neck, the dog can pull you along like a sled dog.

3. The Stopper: Locking it in

Almost all gundog leads come with a leather or rubber stopper (sometimes called a "keeper"). This is not just decoration; it is essential for keeping the lead in the "Sweet Spot."

  • Adjustment: Once the lead is high behind the ears, slide the stopper down towards the metal ring.

  • The Gap: It should be snug enough that the lead cannot slide down the neck, but loose enough that you can comfortably fit two fingers flat between the lead and the skin.

  • The Safety Check: If the stopper is too loose, the dog can back out of the lead or the lead will slide down to the trachea (choke hazard). If it is too tight, the lead won't release pressure, and you lose your communication channel.

Summary Checklist

  1. Form a "P" (for left-side walking).

  2. Place High (behind the ears).

  3. Slide Stopper (snug but with a 2-finger gap).

  4. Test Release (slack lead = loose ring).