One of the most rewarding parts of being a dog owner (aside from all of those slobbery kisses, of course), is taking your pet for a walk. German Shepherds require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy, and taking your dog for a walk on a regular basis (two or three times per day), is a great way to make sure that your dog gets those things.

Whether your German Shepherd is your first dog or your fifth, you’re probably excited to grab a leash and head out into the world for a walk together. However, since your German Shepherd is a larger breed, it is important to have the proper gear when you are setting off on your walk together. You won’t want to purchase any leash – some of them aren’t able to hold bigger breeds and are better suited for smaller dogs. There are plenty of things to take into consideration before even setting out for a stroll with your dog – does your dog need a harness? Are you going to be walking your dog at night? How long of a leash should I purchase?

Here are a few great products that could prove quite useful when you are thinking about making a purchase of a leash for walking your dog.

Flexi Explore Retractable Dog Leash –

This dog leash is your classic “retractable” dog leash, which serves many purposes. Great for leash training, as the length of the leash will be adjustable, this leash comes in three colors and different sizes. The large size leash is great for German Shepherds, as it is rated to hold up to 110 pounds. It also will extend up to twenty-six feet, so you can have your German Shepherd walk right next to you, or if you are in a park, you are free to allow him or her to sniff around and safely explore the area.

Big Dog Soft Reflective No Pull Harness –

If you are just leash training your German Shepherd, or your dog is a bit difficult to control on a leash, you might want to invest in a harness. Harnesses are great for dogs that pull during walks, because it doesn’t go around their neck, eliminating the choking hazard that a leash and collar might pose. This harness is specially made for larger dogs, and the soft material will not cut into their skin. The harness is also reflective, making it a great choice if you plan to go for walks at night.

Max and Neo Reflective Nylon Dog Leash –

This dog leash is a wonderful choice for older dogs, puppies, and dogs who are already leash trained and won’t give you any trouble with pulling. The Max and Neo Reflective Nylon Dog Leash is perfect for late night walks, because the reflective stitching material will shine through the dark, helping to keep both you and your pup safe. The leash comes in a variety of colors and two different lengths – 4 foot and 6 foot, so you can choose which is right for you. As an added bonus, the company will donate a leash to a dog rescue center for each leash that they sell.