How To Choose a Dog Leash for Your Dog’s Walking Style

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Picking the right dog leash can be a daunting task for pet parents. Leashes are more than just a way to keep track of your dog—they’re a way to communicate with them as you move about in the world. Every dog is different, with different activity levels, skillsets, and temperaments. With so many things to consider, we’ve consulted the experts to help pet parents choose a dog leash that’s right for their pup and their lifestyle.

Weighing in are veterinary surgeon and advisor at Gentle Dog Trainers Dr. Kathryn Rosalie Dench, as well as Dr. Sabrina Kong, DVM and certified dog trainer at We Love Doodles. Both experts agree that your dog and the environment they are in determine which leash solutions will offer you the best control on your adventures—and that might mean different leashes for different activities.

With their help, we break down how to pick the best leashes to keep both pup and human safe and happy.

Different Types of Dog Leashes

Type of Leash	What Is It?	Is It Right For My Dog?
Long Leashes	Long leashes are usually longer than 10 feet and are used in open spaces or places where your dog can roam safely.	Dogs who walk well on leashes, know several voice commands, and are not prone to anxiety or aggression can do well on a long leash.
Short Leashes	Short leashes are usually 6 feet or less and give pet parents better control in busy areas or during training.	Dogs who are just learning to walk on a leash, who need closer control, or who are frequently walked in busy areas can benefit from a short leash.
Yard Leashes and Tie-Outs	Yard leashes and tie outs are used to provide your dog monitored outdoor time if you do not have a fence.	Dogs who are accustomed to their space, who are not avid chewers, who are not prone to aggression or anxiety, or who are not expert escape artists can do well with yard leashes and tie-outs.
Two- and Three-Dog Leashes	Multiple dog leashes are for pet parents who want to walk with multiple dogs at a time.	Dogs who are well accustomed to each other and are expert leash walkers are ideal candidates for these types of leashes.
Hands-Free Leashes	Hands-free leashes have a belt with an attachment to the leash to allow pet parents hands-free walking or running.	These leashes work well for active dogs and pet parents who will run together, hike together, or push baby strollers together. Dogs who already have good leash etiquette are good candidates.
Bungee Leashes	These leashes have built-in bungees to help reduce strain and shock on pet parents’ arms and shoulders.	Pet parents who have large or strong dogs who sometimes pull may benefit from these leashes. (Note: These leashes alone will not help teach a dog to walk without pulling.)
Slip Leashes	Also known as “training leads,” these leashes offer adjustability and greater control during exercise or training.	Dogs who are learning to walk with good manners and who are learning voice commands may benefit from these leashes.
Waterproof Leashes	Waterproof leashes do not absorb dirt or odors and can be used in foul weather, on muddy trains, or while swimming.	Pet parents who take their dogs on muddy trails, for swims while on a lead, or who don’t mind a walk in foul weather will enjoy these leashes.
Retractable Leashes	These leashes have varying lengths and can give dogs more freedom to explore, but they offer less control and can snap if dogs pull unexpectedly.	Retractable leashes should be used with caution but may work in very specific cases for smaller dogs who have good leash manners. They are not good training tools.
Bike Tow Leashes	Bike tow leashes allow your dog to accompany you on bike rides.	These leashes should be used only for dogs who are exercised regularly, are familiar with their pet parent’s biking routes and speeds, have been checked recently by their vet, and who exhibit outstanding leash manners.

Long Leashes

Long leashes are usually more than ten feet in length and are ideal for situations where your dog can safely roam farther from you. They can be used in low-traffic areas where constant direct control is not required and in public areas where leash laws permit longer leads. As Dr. Kong emphasizes, a leash is not just a tool to control your dog; it’s also a vital line of communication. Even with longer leashes, that communication line is still open and helps to ensure safety in the various situations you may encounter.

These leashes are not good tools for crowded areas, or for dogs who are just learning the ropes of good leash manners. Similarly, if your dog has some tendencies toward aggression or is a high-anxiety pup who needs a better line of communication with their pet parent, these leashes are not the best choice.

The Taglory Long Leash is a popular choice for training dogs to get used to a long leash and also for dogs who are mature enough to be able to roam a little more in the right environment. This leash features a nylon reflective rope, a padded handle, and is durable enough for large dog breeds. These qualities make it a comfortable choice for pet parents and a safe choice for their pups.

Short Leashes

Short leashes are usually between four and six feet in length, though some do come in very short lengths and are designed for very specific training needs of high traffic areas. According to Dr. Kong, these shorter leashes give pet parents more control (or more direct communication). They also allow pet parents to keep their dogs close during walks.

Dr. Kong notes that a shorter leash can be ideal for a busy neighborhood walk. If you are planning to use a short leash for training, Dr. Dench emphasizes that consistency is important: not only do you need the right leash, but you also need to consistently apply positive reinforcement. And if you need help, ask!

The BAAPET short leash is a popular option that checks a lot of the boxes that both experts recommend in a leash: durability, padded handle, and reflective materials. This leash is available in two-, four-, and six-foot options for your specific needs.

Yard Leashes and Tie-Outs

Yard leashes and tie-outs can be great solutions for dogs who are mature enough to handle some outdoor time while tied up. Not every pet parents has a fenced yard that will keep their dog safely and happily contained. Both experts are adamant that dogs need to be monitored while tied out to prevent them from hurting themselves, getting tangled, or escaping. Similarly, if your dog has a history of aggressive behavior, digging, or is high-anxiety, these leashes may not be great choices.

A good yard leash should be made from chew-resistant materials and, if they include cables, should have anti-rust clamps or coverings, like the popular Petest cable tie-out. Good models feature crimps and sheaths to protect the cable from rust and damage, and ideal anchors will have a 360-degree swivel to keep larger dogs anchored and prevent tangling.

Two- and Three- Dog Leashes

You’ve probably seen dog walkers out there walking multiple dogs at a time and wondered just how they are doing it. Yes, a leash that is designed to hold multiple dogs is part of the equation. But, our experts note that there’s much more to it than just a clever leash design. If you want to attempt walking multiple dogs at a time, Dr. Kong notes, “Multi-dog leashes can be helpful for walking two or three dogs at once, but they can also lead to tangles and may not be suitable for dogs who don’t walk well together.”

Bottom line it, if you want to try this, make sure your dogs are already good on a leash and they walk well with their buddies.

Multiple dog leashes usually have a few distinct design features: they are split and they have a length of bungee. Popular models, like the SparklyPets, also have multiple handle points to allow pet parents to vary the control and length of the lead. SparklyPets also features a swivel to help prevent tangles, a hands-free option for absolute expert walkers, and reflective nylon material.

Hands-Free Leashes

As we alluded to above, hands-free takes leash walking skills to the next level. Both pet parents and dogs need to be competent walkers and already work well together as a team. If you have achieved this level, Dr. Kong notes that “hands-free leashes can be an excellent option for runners or those needing to keep their hands free.”

Just because you’re hands-free doesn’t mean you aren’t communicating with your dog as you walk. (Hands-free doesn’t mean texting while walking—your dog may sense that you’re not an active participant in the walk.)

Good hands-free leashes share a couple of qualities: they are made of strong and durable material, they include bungee to limit shock and pulling, and they have handles available, if needed. SparklyPets makes a tough hands-free leash that incorporates reflective nylon and a length of bungee.

Bungee Leashes

Bungee leashes are exactly what they sound like: leashes that include bungee to help absorb shock. These leashes can be useful for larger dogs who may unexpectedly pull, or for dogs and pet parents who enjoy more advanced activities such as running or hiking. Many different leashes are now incorporating bungee, and you’ll find lots of choices for all breed sizes, leash lengths, and specific activities.

The Raipult bungee leash is a popular option that incorporates design features like a double handle, a quick release clip, and a seat belt attachment.

Slip Leashes

Slip leashes have a specific training use but can also be great tools if you have an escape artist on your hands. Dr. Dench notes that these leads offer adjustability and can also provide greater control for pet parents during training sessions. They can be good options for dogs who have a tendency to pull, or tools to help leash-train a dog. The slip leash gives instant feedback and helps a dog understand how their pet parent is communicating to them through the leash.

If you aren’t familiar with slip leashes, they are essentially a leash and collar combination, where the leash loops around the dog’s neck and applies a slight pressure when the leash is taught. This helps to signal to the dog appropriate leash behavior and when used consistently can be a great training tool. The Fida Durable Slip Lead is a good example of this type of leash, and it includes many of the features that both Dr. Dench and Dr. Kong recommend, such as sturdy nylon, a comfortable handle, and reflective materials.

Waterproof Leashes

Waterproof leashes are a great go-to leash for your inventory if you spend a lot of time exploring the great outdoors with your dog. The benefit to waterproof leashes is that they don’t absorb dirt and odors the same way a traditional leash does, but they can be just as durable and safe. Similar to regular leashes, the length your choose will depend on how you anticipate using the leash. If your dog will be roaming a little on the trail, or even swimming, Dr. Kong recommends a longer leash. However, if you are going to be in close quarters, the shorter leash size might be more well-suited.

While some nylon leashes claim that they’re water-resistant, a true waterproof leash usually has a flexible poly coating applied over nylon. This is what keeps the moisture, dirt, and odors out. The Nimble Waterproof leash uses this type of coating and is available in multiple lengths to meet your specific needs.

Retractable Leashes

While retractable leashes were once pretty common in the dog park, their popularity is waning. The plus side of the leash is that it gives dogs a little bit of freedom to maneuver and it is easy to use. But that’s where the positives typically end. Dr. Kong calls the leash a “vital line of communication,” and Dr. Dench emphasizes that the key to leash training is consistency. When pet parents use a retractable leash, they keep an inconsistent line of communication with their dog. It becomes more and more difficult to instill good leash habits. The direct contact with your dog that a traditional leash can provide is a good thing. It lets your dog know that you are there and that you are in charge.

In addition to promoting less-than-good leash manners, retractable leashes can lead to tangles, can snap, and can lead to pet parent and dog injury when a slack line suddenly becomes taught.

Bike Tow Leashes

Welcome to the Varsity team! If you’re in the market for a bike tow leash, chances are you and your dog have had your fair share of adventures together. Dr. Kong notes that bike tows are a safe option to allow your dog to accompany you while on a bike ride. If you are getting ready to try a bike tow, be sure to have a vet check your dog. It’s important to make sure they’re in the right kind of physical shape for this level of activity.

You shouldn’t attempt a bike tow unless your dog is in good physical condition. They should also be comfortable running on your biking surface (trails or roads). It will be important to match your speed to your dog’s gait so they can run at a comfortable and steady pace.

There are a few different bike tow designs out there. Some bike tows are attached to the rear of the bike and can swivel around the back tire (such as the Malabi Rotating Bike Leash), while others are a lead that is attached to a fixed point on the bike (such as the Bike Tow Leash). Almost all are shorter in length.

What Kind of Leash Do I Need If…

…I want to run or hike with my dog?	Choose a hands-free leash or short leash
…I want to go on a walk in a busy place?	Choose a short leash (consider one with a double handle)
…I’m headed to the dog park?	It depends on your dog, but we recommend a short leash
…I’m off to the beach?	Choose a waterproof leash
…I have a dog who pulls?	Consider bungee leash or slip lead
…I have an especially big or powerful dog?	Choose a bungee leash
…I have a puppy in training?	Consider a short leash or slip lead
…I have an escape artist?	Choose slip lead
…I want my dog to have the freedom of a retractable leash…without using a retractable leash?	Choose a long leash

…I want to run or hike with my dog

Exercise-intense activities may require a hands-free leash. These leashes offer pet parents good positive control but allow the pet parent to keep their hands free. Many of these models will also include a small pocket for treats, poop bags, or keys. If you are looking to go on a run with your dog, Dr. Kong recommends the hands-free leash.

…I want to go on a walk in a busy place

Busy places usually mean that pet parents will want more control. Even if your dog has impeccable leash manners, others may not. The short lead allows your to keep your dog close and their attention focused on you. These shorter leashes can also be important for safety, particularly if there is vehicle traffic. Dr. Kong defines a short leash as “around four to six feet.” Luckily, there are ample choices out there at these lengths. For some circumstances, you may even choose a shorter length.

…I’m headed to the dog park

Here’s the old “it depends” answer. For most dogs, dog parks are a place of incredible excitement (if every day is your dog’s favorite day, this is the favorite of all favorite days). Even if your dog is the gold-star standard of good behavior, not every dog is. A short leash, potentially with two handle options, is a good choice for these situations. However, in some cases a bungee leash or a dual-handle leash may also do the trick. For the dog park scenario, you know your dog and your community best.

…I’m off to the beach

Beaches are the best scenario for a waterproof leash. In addition to being, well, waterproof, most of these types of leashes resist dirt and sand. (This will be a welcome quality as you are trying to vacuum out your car.) Perhaps the best feature of the waterproof leash is that it is also odor resistant. So there’s no need to wash it after it gets wet. Most waterproof leashes come in several lengths, so you can choose the right length for your and your dog’s needs.

…I have a dog who pulls

We’ve all been there. However, even if your dog is a committed puller or squirrel-chasing aficionado, consistent practice and positive reinforcement can help. When considering how to choose a dog leash for dogs who pull, the slip lead or a short leash with a bungee are the best tools to help pet parents enforce consistent habits.

In addition, Dr. Dench recommends that pet parents of perennial pullers use a harness or head halter that is designed specifically for leash control (front clip) to prevent your dog from excessive pulling. Further, pet parents can practice loose leash walking techniques (in a place where there are fewer temptations) and reward your dog for walking calmly with you.

…I have an especially big or powerful dog

The larger the dog, the more important good leash habits are. (If you have a larger dog, Dr. Dench recommends that pet parents ensure that dogs engage in regular exercise and mental stimulation. This can help burn off excess energy and reduce the urge to pull.) Bungee leashes can be a good option for these cases because they can help absorb shock from unexpected pulls.

…I have a puppy in training

For puppies in training, short leashes are probably the best option. These allow a direct connection to your dog and help to establish good habits early on. Choose a leash that will help you consistently provide good feedback to your dog. And once you are progressing with that leash, maintain the same leash until your dog is comfortable with their role. A puppy harness can also help.

As Dr. Dench emphasizes, “Remember, the right leash is just one part of the equation. Training, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques are crucial for teaching your dog proper leash manners.”

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