A Comprehensive Guide to Buying the Best Dog Leash

There’s such a wide variety of leashes, it can be difficult to know which leash to choose. When looking for a new leash, consider style AND function. We’ve compiled a list of the best dog leashes to give dog owners the lowdown on a range of styles perfect for any situation. Whether your dog is a loose leash expert or a freight train puller, we’ll help you find the best dog leash for your dog’s daily walk.

 

1. Old School Leather Leash

This premium “military grade” leather leash combines craftsmanship and utility into six feet of Ron Swanson-approved perfection. Keep out of reach of puppies when not in use, as leather this nice will tempt dogs to chew. A shorter leash like this one is great for dog training.

 

2. Hands-Free Leash

A hands-free leash is perfect for trained dogs who run and hike with their people. If you push a stroller or carry groceries while walking your dog, you’ll love the hands-free option. On the downside, you will have less control over how and where your dog is walking and be slower to correct or direct your dog. This model sports an extra handle in case you need to get a hold of your dog quickly, two bungee sections for shock absorption, and glow-in-the-dark tape for nighttime.

 

3. Retractable Leash

A retractable leash is a wonderful tool for dogs with good recall skills. Dogs can enjoy freedom to roam and sniff and the comfortable handle with brake button feels nice in your hand. Unfortunately, dogs that may be tempted to chase down a squirrel or are strong pullers will quickly break the lock and retracting mechanism inside. This model uses a bright neon tape instead of a thin string as some models do, which helps stop you from tripping up. A better choice for small dogs versu a large dog, whose powerful pulling may easily break the mechanism inside that sucks in excess dog leash material.

 

4. Eco-Friendly Chic Leash

The Cycledog recycled dog leash is made from used bicycle tire tubes covered in reflective material. This leash is grippy, antimicrobial, and comes with a handy bottle opener, which is a great spot to attach your poop bags or keys. Get the story behind Cycledog here.

 

5. LED Glow Leash (for night walks)

An LED safety light leash is perfect for nighttime visibility. This model combines a rechargeable USB-powered LED light with 3 light settings, and reflective fabric for maximum visibility. Available in 5 different colors.

 

6. Leash Coupler

Walk two dogs as easily as one by attaching the leash coupler to the end of your regular leash to create a double dog leash.

 

7. Drag Line

A 25 to 60-foot long line leash is a great tool for working on recall training exercises. Distance command training requires a long leash so that your dog can practice behaviors at liberty without the possibility of getting lost.

 

8. Traffic Leash

A traffic leash or training tab is a short loop attached to a dog’s collar to provide close control in sticky situations. It can be used alone in off-leash situations as an emergency brake, or in addition to a regular 6-foot leash, for training purposes. This one foot nylon leash can be added to your regular leash, or attached to a harness. Great for large dogs.

 

9. Slip Leash

A slip lead is a good tool for a dog that needs occasional light correction on walks, but isn’t a freight train puller. The leash makes a loop to secure around the neck like a collar, with a rubber stopper to prevent it from over-loosening.

 

10. Thunderleash No-Pull Dog Leash

The Thunderleash is an everyday leash with one special property— a unique clip that allows you to connect the leash around the dog’s torso to give them harness-like feedback when pulling. A great training lead to give good control for any size dog.

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