Tired of leashes that smell like wet dog in winter? Switch to waterproof for your extreme outings!
Updated 15 October 2026
In short: a woven polyester lead soaks up water, skin oils and mud; if it dries slowly, microorganisms grow and the "wet dog" smell sets in. A waterproof lead (webbing coated in PVC or TPU) doesn't absorb water: dirt stays on the surface and wipes off with a sponge. The rule of thumb: polyester in dry weather, waterproof for rain, mud and the beach.
Why a wet lead smells
The "wet dog" smell mainly comes from microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts) living on the skin and coat that break down skin oils; moisture releases and amplifies these odorous compounds. A fabric lead that has been through puddles holds water, oils and mud particles between its fibres: if it dries slowly in a poorly ventilated hallway, the smell sets in.
Absorbs moisture
Light, supple, lots of patterns. But water and dirt get between the fibres and drying takes time.
Water stays on the surface
Webbing coated in PVC or TPU: non-porous, it doesn't get waterlogged and wipes clean in seconds.
Polyester or waterproof: the comparison
| Woven polyester | Waterproof (PVC, TPU) | |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Woven synthetic fibres | Webbing with a waterproof coating |
| In the hand | Very light and soft | A little denser, good grip even when wet |
| Against water | Absorbs, dries gradually | Doesn't absorb, water beads off |
| Smells | Possible if it stays damp | Very little for smells to cling to |
| Style | Varied patterns and colours | Plain colours |
| Care | Machine wash at 30 °C in a laundry bag | Sponge, soapy water, wipe dry |
| Best for | Town, dry weather, training | Rain, mud, forest, beach, winter |
Which lead to take out depending on the weather?
Polyester. Light, fits in a pocket, soft on the hand, and available in lots of patterns. Our 150 cm leads come in 2 cm for small and medium dogs and 2.5 cm for large dogs.
Waterproof. A fabric lead dragging through wet grass gets heavy and dirty; coated webbing doesn't soak up water and a quick wipe is enough before getting back in the car.
Waterproof. Less sand gets in and salt rinses off with fresh water. Remember to rinse and dry the clip too, which is still metal.
Our waterproof multi-position lead is made of Hexa, a soft PVC over a thin polyester layer: 250 cm long, 2.5 cm wide, 5 positions (long 250 cm, across the body, medium 150 cm, short 120 cm, double) and an adjustable central ring. It works with a collar or a harness. Straight out of the parcel, slight waviness is normal: it eases with use.
Which material for you?
Caring for each material
- Washing: machine wash at 30 °C, in a laundry bag or pillowcase so the clip doesn't bang the drum, with a mild detergent.
- Drying: air dry, never in the tumble dryer or on a radiator.
- Stubborn smell: soaking it first in warm water with a spoonful of bicarbonate of soda can help.
- After a downpour: hang it unrolled somewhere airy rather than in a heap by the door.
- Cleaning: a sponge and warm soapy water (Marseille soap or washing-up liquid), then rinse.
- Drying: a quick wipe is enough for the webbing.
- Clip: dry it carefully, especially after the sea, to protect the spring.
- Avoid: the washing machine and direct heat.
True or false
It's the dog that smells, not the lead.
FALSEA fabric lead that stays damp holds the smell long after the dog has dried.
A waterproof lead needs no care at all.
FALSEThe webbing wipes clean easily, but it needs rinsing after mud or the sea, and the clip needs drying.
You can keep a polyester lead for winter.
TRUEYes, as long as you air-dry it after every wet walk and wash it regularly.
See the waterproof multi-position lead
Frequently asked questions
Why does my lead smell of wet dog?
The fabric has absorbed water, skin oils and mud. If it dries slowly, microorganisms grow and produce the smell. Wash it at 30 °C and air-dry it, or switch to a waterproof lead for wet walks.
How do I wash a polyester lead?
Machine wash at 30 °C in a laundry bag with a mild detergent, then air dry, no tumble dryer.
How do I clean a waterproof lead?
With a sponge and soapy water, then a wipe. Dry the clip well, especially after a trip to the sea.
Does a waterproof lead go stiff in the cold?
PVC can become a little less supple in very cold weather; it regains its flexibility at room temperature. Avoid folding it sharply when it's frozen.
Can I use a polyester lead at the beach?
Yes, but sand and salt get between the fibres. Rinse it in fresh water when you get back, let it dry, then shake or brush it.