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Every dog needs a good leash. The trouble is there are so many options out there that choosing the one that’s right for your pup can be a challenge.
When looking for a new leash, it’s essential to consider your needs. Are you looking for a hands-free option for running or something for training? Will you be walking a single dog or multiple pups? Are you shopping for something to use in the yard or on a hike, or simply something with a little style?
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—and beyond—with this list of the best dog leashes for all sorts of situations.
Happy walking!
Best Leashes for Pullers
Old School Leather Leash
This premium, genuine leather leash combines craftsmanship and metal clips that can withstand 500 pounds of pull force. If kept out of reach of puppies when not in use (you don’t want them chewing on your lovely leash), this stylish accessory should last for years to come—which is why the company even provides a 2-year warranty.
Buy on AmazonThunderleash 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 your dog’s torso to give them harness-like feedback when they pull. It makes a great training lead and offers good control of even moderately large dogs. And if your dog does decide to be well-behaved for the day, you can always clip the leash to their collar for the walk (just like a normal leash).
Buy on AmazonBest for Hands-Free Convenience
Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Bungee Leash
A hands-free leash is perfect for trained dogs who enjoy running and hiking with their people. Pushing a stroller or carrying groceries? That’s no problem—just make sure your pup is a good listener, since you’ll have less control over how they’re walking. This model sports an extra handle in case you need to get hold of your dog quickly, a long bungee section for shock absorption, and reflective stitching for nighttime visibility.
Buy Now on ChewyBest Eco-Friendly Option
Cycle Dog Recycled Leash
The Cycle Dog 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 makes for a surprisingly useful spot to attach your poop bags or keys. Cycle Dog is a company with an inspiring story—so both you and your pup can feel good about this purchase.
If the rubber look isn’t your favorite but you still want something environmentally friendly, consider a Krebs leash, which upcycles used climbing rope into sturdy and durable leashes for dogs.
Buy on AmazonBest Reflective Option
Illumiseen LED Leash
This light-up leash is perfect for when you want to take your pooch on an evening stroll and need some nighttime visibility (and you’re looking for more than just a light accessory for a collar). This model combines a rechargeable USB-powered LED light with three light settings and reflective fabric for maximum visibility. Yellow not your thing? This is available in five different colors.
Buy Now on AmazonBest for Well-Behaved Dogs
Long Line Leash
A 25- to 60-foot long line leash can be a useful tool for working on recall training exercises with your pup. Distance command training requires a long leash so that your dog can practice behaviors at liberty without the possibility of wandering off. Though this tool offers a taste of freedom, it’s also made up of sturdy, high-quality materials that will stand up to your toughest pups.
Buy on AmazonLeashboss Padded Hiking Leash
This leash is perfect for your (mostly) well-behaved pup that needs to be on a leash but deserves a little freedom. The super cushy handle makes this a dream to hold, and the D-ring on your end means your poop bag can hang conveniently close by. Not only is this sturdy leash popular with plenty of dog-lovers, but it comes with a five-year warranty that ensures protection against issues—including the occasional dog-chewing incident.
Buy on AmazonBest for Dogs Who Need More Control
Traffic Leash
Often called a traffic leash or training tab, this lead consists of 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 conjunction with a regular six-foot leash for training purposes. This one-foot nylon lead can be added to your regular leash or attached to a harness. It’s a great option for medium and large dogs who need a little extra control.
Buy on AmazonSlip Lead
The slip lead is a good tool for a dog that needs occasional light correction on walks but isn’t a heavy puller. The leash features a loop that secures around your dog’s neck like a collar and a rubber stopper to prevent it from over-loosening. A more casual way to walk your dog, this option is best for pups who are on the mellow and more predictable side. It’s also important to note that the loop isn’t a replacement for a real collar, which should have your dog’s tags firmly attached.
Buy on AmazonBest Basic Leash
Back-to-Basics Leash
This leash may not look like anything special, but there are good reasons for its popularity. Crafted from 100% strong nylon fabric, this simple option is available in a rainbow of colors. Long enough to give your dog some freedom but short enough for you to maintain control, it’s perfect for hiking and camping—but also just right for a quick cruise around the neighborhood.
Buy on AmazonFurther Reading
Now that you’ve explored some great leash options, we hope that you’re inspired to take your four-legged friend out into the world using the one that’s best suited for you both.
But don’t forget—here at Rover we’ve got plenty of dog-walking experts who are happy to take your dog out for a spin when you don’t have the time!
For more information about walking and leash-training your dog, check out these other articles:
