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10 Best Dog Leashes (2021 Reviews): Leashes for All Shapes & Sizes

If you’re a dog owner, you know that having a good quality dog leash is more important than one would think. The best dog leashes need to be sturdy enough to keep hold of your dog, but also gentle enough not to hurt it in any way.

In choosing a dog leash, many pet parents tend to overlook important considerations such as the age of the dog and its weight. Most often than not, pet parents buy a leash only to realize afterward that it doesn’t fit what their pooches want at all.

Why Do Dogs Need a Leash?

Part of being a responsible owner requires you to put your dog on the leash. For the most part, there are legal rules in cities all over the world requiring that dogs need to be on the leash whenever they are out in public. The reason behind such a law is for everyone’s safety. You and your dog need to be safe, and the general public does too.

However, a dog leash is not only recommended during outdoor walks and runs. There are many benefits that a dog leash provides:

– Useful during training sessions
– Keeps your dog safe from wandering around and getting hit accidentally by cars
– Prevents your dog from pooping anywhere
– Controls your dog whenever unwarranted situations arise that may cause behavioral changes

Things to Consider when Buying a Leash

Buying a leash for your lovely pooch does not need to be a difficult process. However, you must keep some considerations in mind when browsing through the best dog leashes in the market.

Leash Material

The material used to make the leash is an important consideration. It can either make your dog comfortable or not. The most common leash type is a nylon dog leash. However, some owners go for other materials, such as a leather dog leash, chain leash, or a leash made of reflective ropes.

Leash Type

Knowing the different types of dog leashes allows you to choose which one suits your pooch the best. People nowadays prefer the retractable best dog leashes because it allows the dogs to wander around while keeping the owners in control with just a click of a button.

However, other leash types are also convenient on their own. For owners with multiple pets, a hands free dog leash or multiple dog leash may be a good choice. It allows you to simultaneously walk two dogs using one leash conveniently.

Leash Length

The length of the leash gives your dog the freedom to roam around freely. But make sure that you only get a length that is desirable and safe for your surroundings. You do not want a really long leash that gives your dog the freedom to cross the street while you are still several feet away. You also don’t want a shorter leash that gives your dog little opportunity to walk comfortably.

The standard leash length for dog leashes is 6 feet. It is long enough to give your dog the chance to explore without dragging the leash.

However, retractable leashes may be designed for longer lengths since you can easily control your dog’s movement with just a click of a finger. The length of the leash also varies when training your dog. Dog training may require a longer leash for the dog to train efficiently.

Leash Width

The width is as important as the length. Some people disregard the width thinking that it does not affect the pooches at all. Unfortunately, it does. You need to have a wider leash when your dog is a chewer or strong enough to pull hard. A thin leash will break as soon as a big dog pulls hard or chews on it consecutively.

On the other hand, if you have a small dog breed, you do not need a wide leash. A leash that is too wide can be uncomfortable and restrictive for a smaller dog.

Best Dog Leashes

1. iYoShop Hands-Free Dog Leash with Zipper Pouch

 

The convenience of iYoShop’s hands-free dog leash makes walking and running easier with your dog. Since you do not need to hold on to the leash, you can freely exercise the way you want. This leash secures your dog by attaching it to your waist. It has a belt-like design that attaches the leash to your waist so that you can freely use your hands to check your phone or read a paper when walking.

But is a waist leash considered safe? Fret not. The leash has two extra handles so that you can have the control you want when necessary. There is a built-in waist handle that allows you to guide your dog while running through the park, and a traffic handle that gives you more control whenever you cross the street or on the sidewalk.

Additionally, it has reflective threading, which is a great addition! A reflective leash can provide safety and visibility at night. It also features not one but two shock absorbers to help lessen the amount of tugging during the walk.

Specifications:

• Length of Waist Belt: 27 to 48 inches
• Length of Leash: 51 to 68 inches
• Medium/Large (18-150 lbs): 1 inch wide with large clasp
• Small (8-18 lbs): ¾ inch wide with small clasp

Pros:

• Removable zipper pouch
• Hands-free
• Dual shock absorbers
• Available for all dog sizes
• Many colors to choose from

Cons:

• Leash is too long

2. BAAPET Slip Lead Dog Leash Anti-Choking

 

The slip lead leash has a real leather stopper to provide you with a tighter and stronger grip. It also features a new solid rope cover that does not make use of glue. This leash is specialized with a non-choking mechanism to ensure your dog’s safety and breathability while doing your regular run. You can easily adjust the clasp depending on the size of your dog for a better fit as well.

The leash also boasts of a soft padded handle so that your hands won’t burn while holding on to the leash. The strong nylon rope that makes up the entire leash is 6 feet long and came from ½ inch rock climbing rope. Thus, you can ensure its durability and strength. It also comes with a reflective thread that allows safe walks and runs even during nighttime.

As a freebie, it comes with one matching bag dispenser that can hold up to 20 lemon-scented poop bags. The bag dispenser has a sturdy metal clasp, which keeps all the bags secure in one place.

Specifications:

• Width: ½ inch
• Length: 6 feet
• Dog Size: 18 to 120 lbs
• Material: Nylon

Pros:

• Comfortable padded handle
• Reflective threads
• Comes with a bag dispenser for poop bags
• Anti-choking mechanism

Cons:

• Limited leash length at 6 feet

3. IOKHEIRA Multifunctional Dog Leash with Car Seat Belt

 

One of the best dog leashes comes from IOKHEIRA. Its multifunctional use serves a convenient purpose. You can use it as a leash and a dog seatbelt too. Hence, you can be assured that your pooch is also safe in the car whenever you are traveling. It also features a D ring that you can use to hang accessories like bowls and poop bags.

Despite being a heavy-duty leash, it is considered lightweight at only 15g. Thanks to the aviation aluminum alloy carabiner. The lightweight yet super durable carabiner has a maximum force tension of up to 450 kg. It also has an ergonomic curved design that holds the D ring easily.

The Zero Shock Technology absorbs shock as a result of your dog pulling. This will allow you more control over the situation and make the walk safer.

And while we’re at the topic of safety, it is important to note that this also comes with reflective threads that ensure safe and sound night walks. It also comes with two handles – a walk handle and a traffic control handle. The safety of your canine is truly the inspiration of this leash’s amazing features.

Specifications:

• Length: 4 to 6 feet
• Dog Size: Up to 200 lbs
• Material: Super Nylon, Alloy Steel

Pros:

• Multifunctional dog leash
• Acts as a car seatbelt
• The lightweight and durable carabiner
• Adjustable dog leash
• Great for all dog sizes

Cons:

• Clips may not be sturdy as other leashes

4. WIGZI Two Dog Reflective Retractable Pet Leash

 

Walking two dogs may be a hassle, but not for this two-dog pet leash. You can walk two of your small breed pooches with just one leash! The innovative design allows pet parents to enjoy the walks and runs as conveniently as possible.

It has a 360° automatic untangling technology. You can walk two dogs at the same time without worrying that the leash will get twisted or tangled up with each other. It does not limit your dogs’ freedom too. Both dogs can walk in any direction for 10 feet as the leash spins automatically to cater to their movements.

It also provides you with a sense of individual control for each of your little pooch. The leashes are color-coded with green and orange. The color matches the stop buttons accordingly so that you will know specifically which dog you need to control.

Safe night walks are also made possible by the reflective leads which shine brightly whenever a car approaches.

Specifications:

• Length: 10 feet for each leash
• Dog Size: Up to 50 lbs for each leash
• Material: Nylon

Pros:

• Automatic untangling technology
• Each dog can walk up to 10 feet freely
• Color-coded leash and stop buttons
• Reflective threads
• Rust-proof
• Soft touch handle
• Lightweight and compact

Cons:

• For small dogs only

5. Fida Retractable Dog Leash

 

Fida is one of the leading brands for the best dog leashes in the market today. The quality of Fida products is exemplary. The key component for each Fida product is the core spring, which provides 30,000+ tensile than other leash brands, keeping consistent retraction as well as more control.

This retractable dog leash from Fida lets small breed dogs walk and run up to 16 feet. It allows more freedom and leeway for your dog to enjoy the walk and run safely.

It further comes with 360° tangle-free nylon tape. The swivel hook is also durable and rust-proof. You do not have to worry about being rained on while outdoors since it won’t rust.

As for safety concerns, it comes with reflective materials that increase visibility at night. Moreover, it has an anti-slip handle that boasts of an ergonomic design with a soft handle for a comfortable grip while walking. The button that provides control over the quick-lock, unlock, and pause functions is easy to use with its simple roll-on and roll-off mechanism powered by your thumb.

Another reason why we included this leash on our list of the best dog leashes is its many certifications. It is certified by ISO9001, SMETA, and UL. Hence, you can be assured by its quality and how it follows and passes national certification requirements.

Specifications:

• Length: 16 feet
• Dog Size: Up to26 lbs
• Material: Polyresin

Pros:

• Available in different colors
• 360° tangle-free
• Durable and rust-proof swivel hook
• Impact-resistant ABS material
• Reflective threads
• Soft and comfortable handle
• Easy to use control button

Cons:

• Limited to small dogs only

6. TUG Patented 360° Tangle-Free, Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash

 

TUG has made its mark on the world of pets, especially when it comes to providing effective and best dog leashes. This retractable dog leash from TUG can hold up to 110 lbs of dog weight. But if you need something for your smaller pooch, you can also choose from the different available sizes.

The leash allows your pet to wander off safely for up to 16 feet. It features an easy adjust retraction without the worry of tangling rope. It also boasts an easy roll-on and roll-off thumb control button for the quick lock and unlock feature.

Since walking is important for dogs, they tend to walk for longer distances. That is why TUG came up with an ergonomic, comfortable, and anti-slip handle. You can enjoy long walks comfortably and without the worry of losing your grip whenever your dog runs suddenly.

Specifications:

• Length: 16 feet
• Dog Size: Small (Under 35 lbs), Medium (Under 55 lbs), Large (Under 110 lbs)
• Material: Nylon

Pros:

• Available in different colors and sizes
• 16 feet long
• Retractable leash
• 360° tangle-free
• Quick lock and brake system
• Consistent retraction
• Comfortable anti-slip handle

Cons:

• Not chew proof

7. Taida Strong Durable Nylon Dog Training Leash

 

If budget is a consideration, then go for the most basic leashes without any other features. The best dog leashes do not compromise durability even with a cheaper price. That is why we choose Taida’s strong and durable nylon leash. This leash is perfect for dog training as well.

The lightweight and simple design of this leash are compatible with all dog collar types. It provides an easy on and off hook. Despite being the most basic from our list of the best dog leashes here, Taida’s dog leash serves its purpose well.

It keeps dogs comfortable while ensuring they enjoy their freedom when taking their regular walks and runs. Moreover, it allows easy and smooth training for your precious canine. Without the distraction of other leash features, you can take manual control easily.

Specifications:

• Length: 6 feet
• Width: 1 inch
• Dog Size: Small and Medium Dogs
• Material: Nylon

Pros:

• Available in various colors
• Soft and durable nylon
• Affordable
• Lightweight and simple design
• Great for dog training

Cons:

• Limited features
• Not suitable for large breed dogs

8. Friends Forever Extremely Durable Mountain Climbing Rope Leash

 

Another affordable pick is this extremely durable leash from Friends Forever. Your dog will forever be your friend, so the best way to ensure your friend’s safety is to keep it on a leash whenever you are outdoors.

What makes this leash one of the best dog leashes is its mountain climbing quality-grade strength that can hold up to 1000 lbs of strength!

It guarantees the heavy-duty leash is durable enough regardless of the size of your pooch. You can use the leash easily and conveniently as well. The one size fits all feature makes it a good purchase for multidog owners.

Moreover, you do not need a collar or harness to use this leash. All you have to do is to slip the leash on your dog’s neck and adjust the loop accordingly to secure the hold.

The leash is beneficial for crate transfers, training, and potty breaks. It is also water-proof and lightweight. Hence, you can make use of this anywhere at any time under different weather conditions.

Specifications:

• Length: 6 feet
• Width: ½ inch
• Dog Size: One size fits all
• Material: Mountain climbing rope

Pros:

• Available in various colors
• Reflective rope
• Affordable
• One size fits all
• Water-proof
• Lightweight and simple design

Cons:

• Needs to purchase anti-choke clasp separately

9. AUROTH Heavy Duty Bungee Dog Leash

 

The durable and sturdy makeup of AUROTH’s heavy-duty bungee dog leash provides strong control for your canine. The bungee design of the nylon material improves tensile strength and can cater to large weight capacity.

It gives you easy controls with its two-handle feature. One handle located at the top of the leash helps with comfortable walking, running, and jogging. Meanwhile, the bottom handle gives you more control of the situation, especially in crowded areas, sidewalks, or bike lanes. It also provides additional safety when crossing the street as you can control your dog from wandering off the pedestrian lane.

AUROTH takes your dog’s safety into consideration when designing one of the best dog leashes in the market today.

The inclusion of clip hook and metal eye-splice gives you more control even during hard pulling. Another feature that this dog leash boasts is the inclusion of a car seat belt accessory. Hence, you can keep your dog safe during travels.

Specifications:

• Length: 6 feet
• Dog Size: Medium to Large Dog Breeds
• Material: Nylon, Metal and Leather

Pros:

• Available in various colors
• Bungee design
• Two handles for better control
• Lightweight
• Doubles as a dog car seatbelt

Cons:

• Not useful for small dogs

10. Ruff ‘N Ruffus Retractable Dog Leash with Easy Lock Anti-Slip Handle

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The best dog leashes must withstand fraying, chewing, and the wear and tear of daily use. Such features can be found with Ruff ‘N Ruffus Retractable dog leash. The leash features an extra strength nylon ribbon combined with a chrome-plated snap hook.

It also gives you more control with its Brake N Lock System without limiting your dog’s personal freedom. The system allows your dog to roam freely, but with just one click from you, you can lock the leash or reel it back in. Additionally, the handle also provides a non-slip grip while enhancing a comfortable hold.

It further boasts a premium retracting spring that works well even at freezing temperatures. You do not need to worry about seasonal changes from summer to winter since this leash will ensure that your dog can get its daily dose of exercise regardless of seasons.

We also love the additional freebies that this brand offers! Purchasing a leash includes several accessories such as a travel bowl, a bone-shaped dog poop bag dispenser, an LED light-up charm, as well as one roll of poop bags. You get all of these things at such an affordable price. So what more can you ask for, right?

Specifications:

• Length: 16 feet
• Dog Size: Up to 110 lbs
• Material: Nylon

Pros:

• Available in various colors
• Reflective tape
• Affordable
• Free accessories
• Can withstand even freezing temperatures
• Chewing-resistant
• Advanced Brake N Lock System

Cons:

• Thin leash

Takeaway

A dog leash secures your pooch whenever you are outdoors. It is important that you get the best dog leashes to ensure your canine’s safety all the time.

However, you also need to take into consideration the size of your dog and how strong the dog is. That way, you can pattern your dog’s ability with the specifications of the leash you are looking for.

Keep in mind that no matter how expensive or great your leash, your dog still needs to be leash trained. If not properly trained on how to behave with a leash, you will not be able to control your pooch even if you have it on a leash. Do not be afraid to show your dog that you are in control. After all, you are doing this to ensure your dog’s safety at all costs.