Leather Leashes - Prep and Care

A nice leather leash is a great tool for training. While the type of leash you're using may not be noticeable to your dog, leather's supple and flexible quality makes it very nice on human hands, It also makes handling much easier, which can facilitate better leash skills when practicing obedience with your dog. If you have a large dog, or if you do a lot of training with your dog, treat yourself to a nice leather leash. Following the prep below can also make a new leash a great (and unique) gift for any dog lover you know.

While a small selection of leather leashes may be found at most pet stores, my preference is for the 5' x 3/4" found locally at Bridgeport Equipment on this page. I order mine in natural harness leather (tan). These leashes are the best quality and best value I have found.

New leashes made of harness leather will be stiff when you receive them. Most recently, I have begun using Obenauf's Leather Preservative on my leashes. Previously I have used and recommended neetsfoot oil, but I find Obenauf's a better alternative. It seems to take fewer applications (2-3 vs 4-5), and softens the leather much more quickly than I was finding with neetsfoot oil. It also seems to provide better protection.

Using Obenauf's product will soften and protect your new leash quickly. After 2 applications you should find your new leash darkens immediately, will soften, then becomes ready for years of comfortable yet reliable use.