5 Best Long Lines to Help With Recall Training

You’re facing the challenge every dog owner knows only too well, your dog suddenly develops selective hearing the moment their lead comes off. Professional dog trainers like myself often recommend long lines as the bridge between on-lead control and reliable off-lead freedom. These specialised training tools give your dog enough space to explore while maintaining your ability to guide their behaviour, and prevent them running off. However, not all long lines are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can actually hinder your progress.

I’m a professional dog trainer and companion animal behaviourist and I do find recall lines really help your dog to make the right choices when teaching them foundation recall exercises, and when they’re around livestock. The easiest way to stop your dog chasing sheep and other animals is by putting a lead on and using simple management to prevent inappropriate behaviour.

Ancol Outside Training Line for Dogs – Black Nylon Long Lead (4.5m)

If you’re seeking a reliable training tool that balances freedom with control, the Ancol Outside Training Line delivers exceptional value for recall practice. This 4.5-metre black nylon lead provides the ideal range for distance work while maintaining safety in open spaces. You’ll appreciate its hard-wearing construction that withstands regular outdoor use, even with powerful or excitable dogs. The reinforced design guarantees secure handling during training sessions, while the swivel clip adds reliability. At just 210 grams, it’s lightweight enough for comfortable handling yet durable for various training applications including aggression, agility, and behavioural work. Customer ratings of 4.4 stars confirm its effectiveness.

Best For: Dog owners who need a reliable, long-distance training lead for recall practice and behavioural training in open spaces, particularly those with powerful or excitable dogs requiring durable equipment.

Pros:

• Durable nylon construction withstands regular outdoor use and rough environments
• 4.5-metre length provides optimal balance between control and freedom for effective recall training
• Lightweight at 210 grams with reinforced design and swivel clip for secure, comfortable handling

Cons:

• Some users report challenges with managing the full 4.5-metre length during training sessions
• May require practice to maintain proper control, especially with strong or unpredictable dogs
• Long lead can become tangled or cumbersome in smaller training spaces or crowded areas

Toozey Dog Training Lead, 5m Long Waterproof Lead for Small to Large Dogs

The Toozey Dog Training Lead stands out with its impressive 200 kg weight capacity, making it an exceptional choice for owners of powerful breeds who need absolute confidence in their equipment during recall training. This 5-metre waterproof lead combines high-quality PVC, polyester, and zinc alloy construction with practical features that address real training challenges. And just look at the colour, you’re definitley not losing that at the bottom of your training bag!

You’ll appreciate the 360-degree swivel D-ring that prevents tangling during active recall sessions, while the leather-grain surface provides a non-slip grip even in wet conditions. The bright yellow colour enhances visibility in outdoor environments, helping you maintain visual contact with your dog. With 4.5 stars from over 21,000 customers, this lead delivers the durability and reliability essential for effective recall training across all dog sizes.

Best For: Dog owners who need a reliable, high-strength training lead for recall work with small to large breeds, especially those training in outdoor or wet conditions.

Pros:

• Exceptional 200 kg weight capacity provides confidence when training powerful dogs
• Waterproof PVC construction with non-slip grip works effectively in all weather conditions
• 360-degree swivel D-ring prevents tangling during active training sessions

Cons:

• At 250g weight, it may feel heavy during extended training sessions
• 5-metre length might be excessive for training in smaller spaces or urban environments
• Single colour option (yellow) may not appeal to all owners’ preferences

ONESAVE Extra Long Dog Training Lead for Large Dogs

ONESAVE’s versatility stands out with seven different length options ranging from 1.5m to 30m, making it an excellent choice for dog owners who need flexibility across various training scenarios and outdoor spaces. You’ll appreciate the ergonomic padded handle that provides comfort during extended training sessions, while the 360° swivel clip prevents frustrating tangles as your dog moves around. The lightweight yet durable construction withstands pulling from strong dogs across all breeds, from Pomeranians to German Shepherds. With a solid 4.0-star rating from customers who praise its effectiveness for recall training, you’re getting proven performance that gives your dog freedom to explore while maintaining control.

Best For: Dog owners of all breeds who need flexible training lead options for recall training, outdoor exploration, and obedience work across various distances and environments.

Pros:

• Seven length options (1.5m to 30m) provide exceptional versatility for different training scenarios and outdoor spaces
• Ergonomic padded handle and 360° swivel clip design ensures comfort and prevents tangling during extended use
• Lightweight yet durable construction suitable for all dog breeds from small Pomeranians to large German Shepherds

Cons:

• Manual retraction required as this is not a retractable lead, which some customers find inconvenient
• Limited customer review base with only 34 ratings, making long-term reliability assessment challenging
• Longer lengths may be cumbersome to manage and store when not in use

5M Long Line Dog Training Lead with Padded Handle (Black, 16FT)

The tough nylon rope construction withstands sudden pulls from large dogs, while heavy-duty clips at both ends guarantee secure attachment points. Swivel clasps rotate 360° to prevent frustrating tangles during active recall work. You can remove the handle for alternative securing uses around your property, adding versatility beyond training applications. At 16 feet, it’s suitable for small, medium, and large dogs across various outdoor activities.

Best For: Dog owners who need a versatile, long-distance training lead for recall work, outdoor activities, and general training with dogs of all sizes.

Pros:

• Durable nylon rope construction with heavy-duty clips can withstand sudden pulls from large dogs
• 360° swivel clasps prevent tangling during active training sessions and outdoor activities
• Versatile design with removable padded handle allows for multiple uses beyond dog training

Cons:

• At 16 feet long, it may be too lengthy for small spaces or urban environments with limited room
• The long length could potentially create tripping hazards for both the handler and other people nearby
• May require more storage space compared to standard shorter leads due to its extended length

Cushioned Horse Lunge Line for Horse and Large Dog Training (8 metres, Black)

Built for demanding training environments, this Cushion Horse Lunge Line excels when you’re working with large, powerful dogs that require extra durability and control during recall sessions, think Danes, Ridgebacks and American Bulldogs, or yes perhaps a small horse! At 8 metres, it provides ample distance for teaching reliable comebacks while maintaining manageable handling – you can let this drag along the floor.

The flat-woven cotton webbing prevents frustrating twisting that can interrupt training flow, while the soft-touch material won’t cause rope burn during extended sessions. Heavy-duty brass snap hooks guarantee your dog stays securely attached, even during enthusiastic recall attempts.

The weather-resistant construction and reinforced stitching handle outdoor conditions and strong pullers without compromising integrity. This dual-purpose line’s horse training heritage means it’s engineered for animals notably larger than dogs, making it ideal for Great Danes, German Shepherds, and other powerful breeds.

Best For: Dog owners with large, powerful breeds like Great Danes or German Shepherds who need a durable, extra-long training line for recall work and distance training in outdoor environments.

Pros:

• 8-metre length provides excellent distance for recall training while remaining manageable to handle
• Flat-woven cotton webbing design prevents twisting and rope burn during extended training sessions
• Heavy-duty construction with brass hardware and reinforced stitching built to handle powerful dogs

Cons:

• Just one colour – boo!
• 8-metre length may be excessive for smaller spaces or urban training environments
• Higher weight (442g) compared to standard dog leads may cause fatigue during long training sessions

Things to Consider When Choosing a Long Line to Help With Recall Training

When picking a long line for recall training, you’ll need to factor several specifications that directly impact your dog’s safety and training success. The most important considerations include choosing appropriate length options for your training environment, ensuring the material can withstand your dog’s strength and activity level, and selecting handles that won’t cause discomfort during extended session. You must also verify that clips can securely hold your dog while prioritising visibility features that keep both you and your pet safe during training.

Length and Distance Options

Five distinct length categories define the long line options available for recall training, each serving specific purposes in your dog’s development journey. You’ll find 5-metre leads offer the ideal starting point, providing balanced exploration while maintaining essential control during initial training phases. As your dog’s proficiency advances, 10-metre options expand their freedom in moderate spaces, while 15-metre leads excel in open environments where distance becomes vital for advanced recall work. The longest options, extending up to 30 metres, challenge experienced dogs with maximum distance scenarios. Your training effectiveness depends heavily on matching lead length to your dog’s current skill level and available space. Consider investing in multiple lengths—this strategic approach allows you to progressively increase distance while adapting to different training environments and your dog’s individual learning pace.

Material Durability Considerations

Since your long line will endure constant friction against grass, gravel, and debris during training sessions, selecting materials that resist abrasion becomes paramount to your investment’s longevity. High-quality nylon and PVC materials provide exceptional durability while maintaining flexibility in harsh outdoor conditions. You’ll want reinforced stitching and robust construction, especially when working with powerful or excitable dogs that create additional stress on the equipment.

Waterproof materials offer significant advantages by preventing water absorption and odour retention, preserving the line’s integrity across various weather conditions. Easy-to-clean surfaces enable quick maintenance after muddy training sessions, extending overall lifespan. Consider tangle-free designs featuring 360-degree swivel clips, which reduce material stress during use and enhance longevity by preventing repetitive strain on connection points.

Handle Comfort Features

Your hands bear the brunt of every training session, making handle comfort a vital factor that directly impacts your effectiveness when training your dog. I always recommend wearing gloves when using a long line, it is too easy to grab a line that’s zipping away from you and ending up with rope burn. Been there, done that! You only do it once I guess….

A padded handle markedly reduces hand fatigue during extended sessions while improving grip security when your dog pulls unexpectedly. Look for ergonomic designs that provide natural hand positioning, particularly beneficial across various training environments.

Materials matter greatly—leather grain and soft-touch webbing create non-slip surfaces that maintain control even under pressure. Weight plays a vital role too; lighter leads prevent discomfort during prolonged use without sacrificing durability. Consider detachable or adjustable handles that offer customisation options, allowing you to modify your grip style based on personal preference and specific training requirements. These features collectively guarantee sustained comfort throughout demanding recall sessions.

Also consider if you want a handle at all – if your primary aim is to let your dog drag a line that you can stand on if they get too far away from you or for safety, then you might want a handles-free long line. In that case I recommend tying knots in the lines so you can stand on it and the knot will act as a brake, rather than grabbing with your hands.

Clip Strength Requirements

While handle comfort keeps you in control during training, the clip that connects your long line to your dog’s collar or harness bears the greatest mechanical stress of any component. You’ll need clips made from zinc alloy or heavy-duty brass to handle sudden pulls and unexpected movements without failing. Look for weight capacities of up to 200 kg, especially for larger or powerful breeds that generate considerable force during recalls.

A 360-degree swivel design prevents tangles and allows smoother movement, making your training sessions more effective. Don’t overlook this feature—it reduces line twist that can compromise your control. Inspect your clips regularly for wear and tear, as compromised hardware creates safety risks and training failures that can set back your progress considerably.

Visibility and Safety

When training in different environments, bright colours and reflective materials become your primary defence against accidents and lost lines. You’ll need this visibility to track your dog’s movement and respond quickly during recall exercises, especially in low-light conditions or dense vegetation. See, fluro lines are great!

Waterproof long lines like those made of biothane and nylon, maintain their visibility advantage when wet conditions would otherwise obscure colours and compromise your grip. Rain can turn a reliable training tool into a safety hazard if you can’t see or hold it properly.

Your long line’s construction quality directly impacts safety during sudden pulls. Choose materials that won’t snap under pressure, preventing dangerous escape situations. Swivel clips eliminate tangling issues that create accident risks, while comfortable grip handles guarantee you’ll maintain secure control when split-second reactions matter most.

Weight and Portability

Beyond safety considerations, the physical weight of your long line directly impacts training effectiveness and handler comfort. Long lines typically range from 210g to 442g, creating significant differences in usability. Lighter options like the 210g Ancol Outside Training Line offer superior manageability, reducing arm fatigue during extended sessions and allowing better control responsiveness.

Heavier 400g and over leads provide enhanced durability but become cumbersome during prolonged use, particularly when managing multiple dogs. You’ll find lightweight leads essential for maintaining consistent training sessions without physical strain compromising your handling precision.

Consider leads with included storage solutions like mesh bags, which dramatically improve portability and organisation. Balance weight against durability requirements—your lead must withstand regular use while maintaining handler comfort throughout training sessions.

Finding success in recall training can be easy when you’ve selected the right long line for your dog’s specific needs. Whether you’re working with a small pup or a large breed, these five options provide the durability, length, and control necessary for effective training sessions. Remember to take into account your dog’s size, strength, and training environment when making your choice. With consistent practice and the proper equipment, you’ll develop reliable recall skills.

Want help with your dog’s recall – book an online session and let’s talk!