Long lines are great for dogs that have poor recall as they allow more freedom of movement but there are several important points to consider first:
- Start with a shorter line, 3-4 metres, until you get used to managing the dog safely on a long line.
- Hold the long line in both hands controlling the length as appropriate.
- Only ever connect a longline to the rear connector of a well fitted harness and not to a collar. If you attach to a collar and the dog starts to run, when they reach the end of the longline the jolt could cause serious neck injury.
- Be aware that if the dog has too much slack, if they start to run they will be able to pick up speed and both you and the dog could be injured.
- If you allow the longline to trail freely (you do not have hold of it) as some people use in recall training, never stamp on the line to stop the dog as again, there is serious risk of injury due to the resulting jolt.
