Contrary to popular belief, you can't use just any leash when teaching your pup the obedience basics. The best dog leashes for training will vary in style and size, depending on what you're teaching.

Nicole Flowers, owner of Oregon-based obedience school Portland's Premier Dog Trainer, tells Bustle that knowing which leash works best for different applications is the key to successful training. "Different leashes should be utilized in different phases of training and dog aging," Flowers says. Puppies need two key skills, she explains:

• Name Recall (coming when called). "Name recall needs a long line of about 15 feet," she says. "This way you can say "Macy, Come,' and then pull your puppy back in for the reward when they do not comply immediately."
• Loose Leash-Walking (not pulling on the leash when they walk). "Polite leash-walking skills is going to be easiest taught on a short leash that is non-retractable," Flowers says. "One that can be held close and aids the dog in continuous practice of walking by our side."

After teaching your pup these basic skills, the type of leash you use for continued training is up to you. Flowers does advise against retractable leashes because they keep constant pressure on your dog, which can be confusing for them. Aside from that restriction, just make sure any leash you use is strong enough to hold your dog and built to last.