Although excellent, traditional leads present many problems like frequent breaking, quicker wearing, and other possible dangers. Many now want the flexibility of an extendable lead but with some added strength and security.

However, a growing number of pet owners are considering the Flexi retractable dog lead range, and those with bigger dogs are turning to the best retractable dog lead for strong dogs - 'The Giant Flexi' lead. So, what are they, and how do Flexi giant leads work?

How Do Flexi Giant Leads Work?

Flexi giant leads are retractable leashes that offer your pet all the room it needs to move around whilst allowing you to stop them with the click of a button. They are comfortable, smooth and have an intuitive braking system that acts within a split second on a long-lasting and well-tested spring.

The security features give you and your dog some flexibility whilst also ensuring you can stop your dog from running out in the middle of the road where there's oncoming traffic. In addition, some models have reflective safety features for use during evening strolls, and they come in various sizes and lengths.

What Is a Giant Flexi Dog Lead?

The Gian Flexi is a heavy-duty extendable dog lead. It is a robust, durable and retractable lead, but it's more heavy-duty than a typical Flexi to help you handle bigger dogs. It is the same ergonomically designed, Flexi pet product technology with an even more robust design making it the best extendable lead for strong dogs.

German engineering and manufacturing have always been top-notch, and the design of the Flexi dog lead doesn't disappoint which is why it remains one of the most famous and best dog leads in the world. It's a retractable dog leash with a spring engineered to be long-lasting, backed by rigorous testing. This involves dragging, soaking, forcing to shudder or flutter, dropping and exposing it to the elements. Many people are huge fans of them, but they are not impossible to break, and that is why choosing the right size and type for your dog is very important.

Now we know what the Giant Flexi lead is, let's delve into more about the Flexi range and why they are helpful.

Benefits for your Dog

The retractable lead is excellent for dogs that trot at a steady pace and behave well whilst faithfully obeying commands. It offers your dog a greater sense of freedom than a traditional lead and gives you peace of mind when they wander away by making use of the extendable leash.

Security Features

It's versatile, safe and great for both dogs and even cats, although your cat must be well trained to ensure they don't get into a panic and tangle themselves up in the extendable lead, as this could be very dangerous. 

This type of lead has a comfortable short-stroke braking system that gives added security for stopping and retracting. In addition, the chromed snap hook attaches to any collar or harness with ease.

How Do Flexi Leads Work?

The Flexi lead works by using a button on the handle to control the cord's amount of giving and extension. The extended cord means your dog has more freedom when walking with you, but you can close the extension and walk them the same as on a regular shorter lead.

The adjustable cord and control means you can use the Flexi dog lead in any weather condition without breaking or failing. It can handle various situations, outdoor terrains and intense pulling pressure that only a dog can do. This makes it great for travelling, hiking, camping or going on a usual walk.

Keeping Your Pet Leashed

Since most parks and national forest preserves require you to keep your pet on a lead, you'll be able to abide by the law while ensuring everyone in the vicinity is safe, including you and your dog. The locking mechanism's speed and a quick pullback can be that fine line between close calls and disaster.

Lifesaving Situations

If you're in the mountains and your pup wants to be a little risky and run up to a cliff edge, you can stop them from going any further to avoid a tragedy. Likewise, if you're in the country and wandering through open farmland, you can prevent your dog from chasing any livestock that's on the loose.

The Flexi extendable lead won't drag on the ground, and you won't have to gather it up every time. This gives you the most significant amount of control whilst allowing your pup to explore and wander as much as required.

How Do You Use a Flexi Lead?

The convenience of this leash is a crucial factor. But there is not a one-size-fits-all model, and you will have to select the correct size leash to accommodate your pet. This will ensure the lead doesn't break or fail unexpectedly.

Sizing Is Everything

The best way to use a Flexi dog lead is, first and foremost, to ensure you have the right size for your pet. This detail is crucial to guarantee safety, security and to maintain optimal function. 

The Integrated Braking System

The integrated braking system gives you the most control over your dog and prevents them from running off. All you have to do is push the brake button with your thumb and pull on the lead. This will guide your pet back to you and train them to understand what this sensation means.

There's also an additional full stop function, which fixes the leash at a certain length. So, even if you can't stop the dog before the length of the leash ends, it will stop by default due to the length of the leash.

What Is the Difference between a Tape or Cord Flexi Lead?

There are two types of Flexi dog leads to ensure the best fit for your pet: tape or cord. The main difference between these is strength. The tape leash can handle more weight and pressure than the cord.

The Perks of a Cord vs a Tape

Another difference between the tape and cord types is that the cord includes a protector belt and reflective components. The tape leashes only feature reflective elements on specific models, not all of them. 

Regardless, this is excellent for low light and night time situations.

If your dog is an avid wanderer, the tape leash allows for easier unravelling or unwrapping of the leash. This will come in handy if your dog runs around bushes and tree trunks or loves jumping into compact foliage. Unfortunately, trying to untie a cord leash is not easy!

Considering Dog Sizes

The cord lead is suitable for smaller pets that stay close by and don't often meander away from you. This means it's ideal for kittens, cats, Chihuahuas, Teacup puppies etc.

What Are the Different Sizes of Flexi Leads?

Flexi dog leads come in four basic sizes, choosing between tape or cord. There's also an array of colours and materials to select from as well. The extra small Flexi dog leads can fit in your pocket, making it even more convenient.

The main determining factor will be your pet's weight. This will ensure you get the right kind and size. Also, you want to make sure that you can handle the weight of the leash itself without trouble or difficulty. For example, you may run into problems if you hold the lead for several hours and your arm or hand gets tired from the weight.

• Extra Small: suitable for cats and tiny dogs weighing up to 8 kg (about 17½ lbs) for the cord and up to 12 kilograms (about 26½ lbs) for the tape; the leash weighs around 100 g (4 oz).

• Small: fits small to medium-sized dogs that weigh up to 12 kg (about 26½ lbs) for the cord and up to 15 kg (33 lbs) for the tape; the leash weighs around 160 g to 180 g (just over 5 oz).

• Medium: Perfect for dogs that weigh up to 20 kg (44 lbs) for the cord and up to 25 kg (55 lbs) for the tape; the leash weighs approximately 350 g (12 oz)

• Large: this is the best size for big babies weighing up to 50 kg (110 lbs), with the leash weighing about 350 g (12 oz). There is no cord option, only tape.

Did you know about the GIANT Flexi? There is no weight limit for these. They are for the massive boys or girls! You can find the Giant Flexi Here.

What Are the Pitfalls in Using a Flexi Lead?

Of course, there are a few things to be aware of before deciding on using a Flexi lead with your dog. First, understand that it may not be suitable for just any dog. For example, if your canine disobeys often, walks you more than you walk them, or is a super-strong beefcake, then you may need to refrain from using it.

For such a situation, if you are going to proceed and you are confident, you will need a solid lead like the Giant Flexi. Another common problem is underestimating or overestimating the dog's strength. For instance, consider getting a medium tape leash if your dog weighs 13 kg but has considerable pull when on a walk. On the other hand, think about using the small tape leash if you have a dog weighing 20 kg, but they are old and slow.

Conclusion

To conclude, the Flexi dog lead can be a lifesaving device that will allow you and your four-legged furry friend to see the world together. The sturdy, solid and reliable German engineering means you can trust what you're getting, and it will provide one of the most durable leads for your dog and its activities.

Other than that, when your dog excitedly runs off, you can use the brake button or retractable feature to pull the pup back to you. This can be an absolute lifesaver for use in situations where you see danger and your dog may not.