Long lines are one of the most powerful tools you can use to train a big dog—but they do come with a learning curve. Over the years of using them with Mack and hearing from other dog owners, I’ve seen a few common mistakes pop up again and again.
Here are five of the biggest ones—and how to avoid them:
1. Grabbing the line with bare hands
This is the most painful mistake (ask me how I know). Many cheaper long lines are made from thin nylon, which can act like a cheese wire if your dog takes off at speed. If you instinctively grab the line to stop them, it can whip through your hands and cause rope burns—or worse.
Avoid it: Choose a long line made from soft, wide webbing that’s kind on your hands and less likely to cause injury. Always hold the handle or step on the line instead of grabbing it mid-flight. Our Big Dog Long Line is designed with safety in mind—no burns, no frays, just confidence and control.
2. Letting it tangle or drag in tight spaces
A tangled long line is frustrating at best and dangerous at worst. If you’re in a small park, on a trail, or near trees, dragging a 10 or 15 metre line behind your dog can get messy fast.
Avoid it: Use the right length for the space. Our 5m long line is perfect for tighter areas, while 10m and 15m lines are best for open ovals, sports fields, or the beach. Store the extra line in loops if you're not using the full length.
3. Using it for correction or pulling
The long line isn’t meant for yanking or physical correction. It’s a teaching tool—used to guide, not punish.
Avoid it: Use it to give your dog more freedom while reinforcing good behaviour at a safe distance. The moment you use it like a lead, you lose the benefits it brings for trust and recall.
4. Not watching the environment
Dogs can gain a lot of speed on a long line. If you’re not aware of cyclists, kids, or other dogs nearby, it can quickly become chaotic.
Avoid it: Be proactive—scan your surroundings and call your dog in early when distractions appear. A quick recall or shortened line prevents accidents before they happen.
5. Skipping the practice stage
A long line is a skill—for both you and your dog. Jumping straight into off-lead-style walking with no practice can lead to tangles, confusion, and stress.
Avoid it: Practise in a quiet area. Let the line trail while you work on engagement, recall, and movement together. Build distance and freedom gradually.
Final thoughts:
Long lines give your big dog the space to learn and move—but using them well takes a bit of strategy. The right length, the right material, and a bit of know-how go a long way.
If you’re ready to upgrade your training toolkit, check out our Big Dog Long Lines - designed to protect your hands, give you control, and support your training goals.
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