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Labs make wonderful walking companions: they’re hardy, athletic, and very sweet. That doesn’t mean every one of them was born to wear a leash, though. To get to a point where you and your pup enjoy your outings together, you’ll need perseverance, training, and the proper equipment: a leash well suited to your Lab. But Labrador leashes come in so many sizes, lengths, and materials, it can be tough to know which one to choose.
When shopping for Labrador leashes, consider both function and style. Do you need a leash to corral a super-puller? Looking for something easy on your hands? Or has your dog mastered the loose-leash walk, and you just need something that will look good?
We’ve scoured online reviews to find the five best Labrador leashes for your furry friend.
Best Basic Labrador Leashes: PetSafe Nylon Lead
Most professional dog trainers agree: the best leash for Labradors is a simple six-foot lead with a secure clasp. This basic nylon lead from PetSafe is hugely popular because, quite simply, it gets the job done. With strong, durable nylon and a nickel-plated clasp, it stands up to daily use. And the bright colors look great against your Lab’s coat!
Lab owner review: “Love this leash. It is soft in my hand and can handle a big Lab as we walk around campus. Definitely worth the buy.”
Buy Now on AmazonBest Retractable Leash for Labs: Tug 360 Retractable Dog Leash
Retractable leashes work kind of like measuring tapes, letting out different lengths of lead. You can lock and release the lead with a button on the handle. This is great if you want to give your pup some extra line in a wide-open field or at an empty beach, but it can cause tangles and accidents in crowded areas. Most professional dog trainers agree that retractable leashes can be a handy training aid, but you want to be careful when using them—and there are better options for everyday walks.
When choosing a retractable leash for your Labrador, pick one with extra safety precautions like tangle-free line and a quick-release feature. The heavy-duty Tug retractable leash is a great choice for Labs because it has 360-degree tape movement and quick-lock and unlock features. Plus, the large size is rated for dogs up to 110 pounds.
Lab owner review: “I have a very active Lab and wanted a sturdy leash. This is very comfortable in my hand, and I am much more confident that the leash won’t break. The other feature I like is the softer feel to the plastic.”
Buy Now on AmazonBest Hands-Free Labrador Leash: Tuff Mutts Hands-Free Leash
Do you take your dog jogging? Try a hands-free leash for your Labrador! It gives you better range of motion and can even help train your dog to keep pace. Hands-free leashes are also perfect for walking the dog and pushing a stroller at the same time so the whole family can enjoy the outing.
The Tuff Mutts hands-free leash is four feet long, with a shock-absorbing bungee to help keep you and your dog on track. The adjustable waist belt and dual handles give you good control, and reflective stitching keeps you safe on low-light runs.
Lab owner review: “I am an avid runner, and I have a young Lab who has boundless energy. I always wanted to run with her, but I always thought it would be too cumbersome to hold a leash plus carry water for me and water for her. I finally decided to look for some things to make a run with her easier, and I came across this leash. I’m so glad I did! This leash is sturdy, and it seems like the clasp will hold up well.”
Buy Now on AmazonBest Drag Line for Labs: Downtown Pet Supply Training Lead
A drag line, also called a training leash or just “long leash,” is a super-long lead used for training. They’re extra handy for working on recall and other distance commands with your Lab.
This 50-foot training leash by Downtown Pet Supply is made from heavy-duty cotton with a swivel-style bolt snap that resists twisting.
Lab owner review: “I have been training my one-and-a-half-year-old Lab who loves to be chased when off leash. This long lead allows me to let him explore the woods at his leisure yet gives me the control to get him to come back when I call.”
Buy Now on AmazonBest Anti-Chew Leash for Labs: BAAPET Strong Dog Leash
Let’s face it: some Labs love to chew. If your Labrador has chomped through a leash, it’s time for something more heavy-duty. This chew-proof leash from GOMA Industries is made of nylon climbing rope, woven to be incredibly strong and shock absorbent. The padded handle and super-secure hook clasp ensure a comfortable and safe walk. And best of all, it’s chew-resistant.
Lab owner review: “My dog chews up the flat leashes, and they do not last. With the GOMA leash, it is very durable, so he does not try to bite it. It is the perfect length for my yellow Lab, and the hand ring is very comfortable.”
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