Nosework Equipment - Page 1

For all you Nosework enthusiasts out there, what type of leash and how long of a leash do you use?  Your input is greatly appreciated. 

Thanks, 

Vonrivera

Looking at the revised 2014 rules, it only states that the leashes may be made of fabric or leather, martingale or flexi, and must be of sufficient length to safely control the dog. 

Having trialed in Canada under the Sporting Detection Dog Association and have judged for the Canadian Sport Scent Detection Federation, a 6 foot leash is pretty standard.  I have found that 6 feet, gives me enough length to allow the dog to work and not crowd or get entangled.

Hurtta or Julius harness are popular among Nosework Participants, but I also see plain old Petsmart type harnesses and flat collars too.  As for leashes, thin and light seems to be popular among those whom get past Nosework 2, also some people use no leashes at all.  Don't go too long though because it should not be like a tracking long line.  I personally use a half inch thick, 8ft leather line. 

I use a Julius K9 "beltharness" and used a 6' biothane leash for our ORT and NW1.  The judge on our exterior search (large area) commented that my line could have been longer and I agree, I'll probably use an 8' or 10' line next time (though I was sick with Shingles for our NW1 and also very nervous, probably the most nerve-wracking trial I've done including all SchH trials and I've done nearly a dozen different dog sports).  A lot of my training and searches are done off leash to prevent myself from uninentionally cueing the dog.

15' X 3/8" Bio-thane...For training... ... ...For Schutzhund Trialing 33' X 3/8"...I prefer a leash with No Handle in it for Tracking...
 

Thank you for your advice!

Vonrivera