Dog Training Tips: How to Use a Long Line

Whether you want your dog to safely explore his surroundings or you're planning to train him to respond to a long-distance recall, a long line can turn out being man's best friend -- after Rover, of course. Learning more about this helpful piece of equipment ultimately offers a win-win situation: on one hand you'll improve your handling skills, while on the other, Rover will learn to respond more reliably to your cues.

  1. Choosing the Top of the Line

    • Also known as a light line or drag line, a long line resembles a very long leash. Unlike a leash, though -- which on average measures 4 to 6 feet -- a long line is thinner and can measure anywhere between 10 and 30 feet, or even longer in some cases. When it comes to material, nylon web, rope and cotton are commonly used. You can purchase a quality long line in stores or you can build one on your own by purchasing braided nylon rope and a harness snap, both of which you can easily find in your local hardware store.

    Introducing the Line

    • As with any type of training equipment, slow and steady wins the race. Introduce the long line gradually by letting your dog get used to it by dragging it around your home. Afterward, move to a safely enclosed area, attach the long line to your dog's collar or harness and then unsnap his regular leash. Release your dog and allow him to explore to his heart's content. This will allow your dog to get used to the feeling of the line dragging behind him.

    Holding the Line

    • Rover isn't the only one in need to get used to the long line; you'll likely need to practice, too. Practice holding the line in quiet areas. The long line should be kept loose, without tension, and it's your job to take it up using both hands as your dog moves about. Learning to control your dog using your voice and body language will help prevent giving in to the temptation of applying tension and reeling him in.

    Keeping in Line

    • The long line turns out very handy for proofing long-distance recalls. Best of all, it offers peace of mind because, despite exposing your dog to distance and distractions, you know he's safely under control. Make it a habit of calling your dog and rewarding him lavishly for at least three seconds with treats and loads of praise when he comes to you. Don't let the fun abruptly end there, though; release him again and again so he can continue to explore to his heart's content.

    Crossing the Line

    • Removing the long line too early in training may cause an untrained dog to refuse to obey to a recall, and if no action is taken, he'll soon realize that not coming becomes an option. Fortunately, the issue can be remedied by resuming the use of the long line for several weeks in hopes that Rover forgets all about the mishap. If at any time he appears distracted while on the long line, you can always step on the line and back up, encouraging him to make the right choice.

    The Bottom Line

    • A long line allows Rover the ultimate luxury of exploring the great outdoors while staying safe. It's a great tool for transitioning dogs from their indoor havens to the many unpredictable distractions of the great outdoors. However, it's important to consider that, no matter how much training you do, some dogs will never be ready for being kept safely off-leash in unconfined areas. Whether this is due to hard-wired behaviors or past handling errors, the good news this that your dog can still enjoy a wonderful life even when kept on a long line.