Taller owners naturally use more of a handsfree leash around the body in a crossbody setup. That can leave less leash between you and your dog, especially if the dog is small.
The solution is not necessarily to use the leash at maximum length. Start with the body loop, then adjust the dog side until there is a comfortable amount of slack.
Why tall owners use more leash crossbody
The leash travels from one shoulder across a longer torso to the opposite side. That uses more of the total available length.
The difference becomes more noticeable with a small dog whose attachment point sits close to the ground.
Set the body loop first
Wear the leash diagonally and make sure the strap lies flat across your torso.
You should be able to turn your upper body and move your arms without the leash pulling toward your neck.
Then check the dog side
Attach your dog and look at the line between you. You want a soft curve rather than constant tension.
If the leash is straight even while your dog is walking beside you, lengthen the dog side.
Tall owner and small dog
The height difference creates a steep leash angle. Make sure the leash is not constantly pulling upward on the attachment point.
You may need more total length or a different body position.
Tall owner and large dog
A larger dog’s attachment point sits higher, so the same crossbody setting can feel more natural.
Still check the amount of slack rather than assuming the setup is correct.
Try waist wear as an alternative
Around the waist creates a lower body attachment point and uses the leash differently.
Some tall owners find this leaves a more comfortable amount of length for the dog side.
Do not let the crossbody loop become too tight
Trying to save leash length by making the body loop very small can pull the strap into the shoulder or neck.
Comfort on your body matters too.
Winter coats use more length
Thick clothing adds volume around your torso. Adjust the leash over the coat you actually wear.
You may need to lengthen the body loop slightly and then recheck the dog side.
Busy routes and tall owners
Even if your normal setting is relatively long, shorten the dog side for crowded streets, crossings and narrow paths.
Open routes
On quiet paths, give your dog more room if the environment allows it.
How much range does the UNBORINGBYPIP leash have
Our Hands-Free Rope Dog Leash adjusts from 130 to 260 cm and can be worn crossbody, around the waist or by hand.
The wide range gives tall owners more flexibility to create a comfortable body loop without sacrificing all of the dog side length.
Use your own body as part of the fit
Handsfree leash setup depends on two bodies, not one. Your height and your dog’s height both matter.
Adjust the leash so you can move naturally and your dog can walk with a soft amount of slack.