Which Long Line Is Right For Your Dog?

There isn't a single "best" long line. The right choice depends on your dog, how they work and what feels comfortable in your hands. A tiny dog has very different needs to a powerful GSD or Labrador, and some handlers prefer the lightest possible setup while others value additional strength and security.

Our recommendations are based primarily on the clip rather than the webbing. The clip's weight and rated break force have the greatest influence on which line is likely to suit your dog. As with all guidance, individual dogs may suit a different option depending on how they work and your own preferences as a handler.

Before choosing a line, there are three things worth considering.

The first is your dog's size. Very small dogs often benefit from lighter clips that don't feel bulky, while larger dogs generally suit wider webbing and stronger hardware.

The second is how your dog trails. Some dogs work with very little pressure on the line, while others throw themselves enthusiastically into every trail. Choosing equipment that matches the way your dog works is just as important as matching their size.

Finally, think about your own preferences. Some handlers want the lightest, least obtrusive setup possible. Others are happy to carry a little more weight in return for additional security. Neither approach is right or wrong. The aim is simply to find the combination that suits both you and your dog.

With those principles in mind, here's how the different options compare.

Standard Long Line

The Standard Long Line is made with 20 mm grip webbing and is fitted with either the Standard Clip or an optional Carabiner Clip. It offers a comfortable balance of durability and handling, making it well suited to medium and larger dogs.

General guide: Dogs over approximately 15 kg.

A good choice if: Your dog generates more power on the line, or you prefer a stronger, more substantial setup.

Lightweight Long Line

The Lightweight Long Line combines 15 mm grip webbing with our Lightweight Clip. Weighing just 18 g, the clip feels unobtrusive while still offering a rated break force. It provides an excellent balance between weight and strength for many smaller dogs.

General guide: Dogs approximately 6 kg to 14 kg.

A good choice if: Your dog is smaller but works enthusiastically, and you'd like a lighter setup without compromising on strength.

Featherweight Long Line

The Featherweight Long Line uses the same 15 mm grip webbing with our ultra lightweight Featherweight Clip. At just 8 g, it is designed to minimise the weight carried by very small dogs. Because the clip does not have a rated break force, it is intended for gentle dogs rather than strong pullers.

General guide: Dogs up to approximately 5 kg.

A good choice if: Your dog is very small and works with little pressure on the line.

Carabiner Upgrade

The Carabiner Clip can be fitted to both the Standard and Lightweight Long Lines, giving you the flexibility to combine either webbing width with additional security. Although larger than the Standard and Lightweight Clips, it remains relatively light and features a twist lock mechanism that makes accidental opening highly unlikely.

This makes it a particularly useful option for medium sized dogs that pull strongly, where a handler prefers the lighter feel of the Lightweight Long Line but wants the reassurance of a higher rated clip. It is equally at home on the Standard Long Line for larger, more powerful dogs or for handlers who simply prioritise the additional security of a locking clip.

A good choice if: You'd like the security of a locking clip, or your dog would benefit from the lighter Lightweight Long Line paired with a stronger clip.

Optional Handle

All of our long lines are available with or without a handle. This is entirely a matter of personal preference.

Some handlers like the reassurance and convenience of having a handle when moving to and from the start of a trail or when gathering the line. Others prefer a handleless design to minimise the chance of the line catching on vegetation or other obstacles while trailing.

A good choice if: You'd like the flexibility of a handle for everyday use. If you regularly trail through dense undergrowth or simply prefer a cleaner line, a handleless option may suit you better.

Personalisation

If you'd like to make your long line your own, we offer optional personalisation with your dog's name, kennel name or business name.

Which Should You Choose?

As a general guide:

Featherweight Long Line
Up to approximately 5 kg. Best suited to very small, gentle dogs.

Lightweight Long Line
Approximately 6 kg to 14 kg. A great option for smaller dogs that benefit from a lighter setup without compromising on strength.

Standard Long Line
Over approximately 15 kg. A dependable choice for medium and larger dogs.

Carabiner Upgrade
Available with both the Standard and Lightweight Long Lines for handlers who would like additional security or who want to pair the lighter Lightweight Long Line with a stronger locking clip.

Ultimately, there isn't a universal "best" option. Every dog is different, and their equipment should reflect that. Choosing a long line that suits your dog's size, the way they work and your own handling preferences will help make every trail more comfortable and enjoyable.

Explore our range of long lines to find the combination that's right for you and your dog.