The only tool I carry when meeting dogs for the first time is a slip leash, and it’s actually quite rare that I use it. It’s a Rogz Moxon slip – and it has an adjustable stop so you can’t choke a dog. Slide the lead over the dogs head – too loose or too tight – take it off and adjust the stop. Yes, it can be an aversive tool, but you don’t need to be choking out the dog. It’s simply an easy on, easy off tool when in close quarters.
I meet dogs alone, sometimes in vehicles, back yards, bedroom or bathroom etc. I don’t want the owner around – and I don’t want a leash on the dog. As an example, if I have to assess a dog in a vehicle and the dog is reactive, it can get hung up on a leash if it jumps over the seat. If a dog gets hung up in close quarters, it can choke itself and put me in a position where I have to rescue – risk a bite. Never mind what it does to trust, the dog is freaking out and I’ll get blamed.
When I get in a vehicle for example, I want the dog to relax. I don’t want to be mucking around trying to snap a leash on a reactive dog. Let the dog smell the leash, open it up, slip it over the head, and the dog will follow. First chance I get, slip comes off and I’ll use a regular leash and flat collar.
It’s not all the time one needs to use a slip. Many times, this “reactive” or “aggressive” dog is calm, owner isn’t around to react to – snap the leash on – “let’s go”.
If you’re going to use a slip, buy one with a large ring that allows the leash to slip through without any friction. Some of the rings on slips are too small, and don’t release fast enough. And just because you have a large dog, doesn’t mean you need a slip that could be used to anchor a ship.