Lead Guide

Quick answer

• On Java 1.21.6 and later, craft 2 leads from 5 string. Older versions also needed a slimeball.
• Use a lead on an animal to tie it up, then use it on a fence to tie it there.
• Leads snap if you get more than about 10 blocks away.

Leads let you walk animals wherever you want. They're the easiest way to bring animals home to a farm.

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Crafting

Since Java 1.21.6, leads are made from 5 String and no slimeball. Older versions used 4 string and 1 slimeball for 2 leads.

Using a lead

1. Use the lead on an animal.
2. Walk. The animal follows.
3. Use it on a fence or wall post to tie the animal there.

What you can tie up

• Most farm and tame animals: cows, sheep, pigs, horses, wolves, llamas and more.
• Iron golems, snow golems and allays.
• Boats and happy ghasts in newer versions.

You can't put a lead on villagers or most hostile mobs.

Cheat sheet

• 5 string for 2 leads
• Use on a mob, then a fence
• Snaps past about 10 blocks
• No villagers