The 4 Best Dog Leashes
Dog leashes are one of the most essential tools in the dog owner's toolbox. In most places, it is illegal to walk a dog without a leash. In addition, it can be dangerous for both you and your dog to walk without a leash, or with a subpar leash. What makes a good leash? One that's strong enough to hold a big, active dog. One that will last for many walks. One with a handle that allows you to maintain a tight grip without hurting your hand. Comfort, durability, and safety are the main categories in which we evaluated a number of the top dog leashes on the market. We came away with 4 we believe are the best available.
BAAPET Strong Dog Leash
Like A Rock
For big and active dogs, BAAPET has made a leash that will hold them all. This leash is constructed from thick rock climbing rope. That means the rope is strong enough to hold a 200 pound human falling off of a cliff. So this leash is definitely strong enough for your dog and will last a long time. It also has a very soft padded handle for your hand. If you hold the rope, you might get rope burn if your dogs pulls on it a lot. But with the foam handle, your hand will be safe and comfortable. It has reflective threads sewn in to increase visibility at night and keep you and your dog safe while walking on the street. This leash comes with a 100% money-back guarantee, but you won’t need it once you experience this incredible leash.
Pros
- Strong rock-climbing rope
- Soft padded foam handle
Cons
- If you machine wash this leash, the metal clasp may damage machine
- Might be overkill for tiny dogs
TUG Patented Retractable Dog Leash
Gives Many Length Options
For those dog owners who enjoy the flexibility of a retractable dog leash, this patented leash from TUG is one of the best out there. Sometimes you’re walking down a sidewalk with other pedestrians and their dogs and you want to keep your dog close. But then sometimes, you’re in a park and want to give your dog more space to roam. A retractable leash provides you with those options. One issue that many people have with retractable dog leashes is that the brake is hard to work or jams or doesn’t do its job and hold the leash in place. This leash’s brake is very easy to work; it has a nice, large button that you can easily push on and off with just one thumb. It doesn’t jam and is extremely effective in holding the leash in place. The other issue people have with retractable leashes is that they tangle easily. This leash has a patented tangle-free design that prevents tangling and works whatever angle your dog is at. TUG has done an excellent job at addressing all of the common issues with retractable leashes and delivered a superior product.
Pros
- Easy and effective brake
- Patented tangle-free design
Cons
- If your dog is big and wild, practice with this leash first inside. If you panic outside and press the button at the wrong time, it could lead to trouble.
Primal Pet Gear Dog Leash
2 Leashes in 1
Primal Pet Gear has created a great leash for dog owners who like the different length options of a retractable leash but don’t like dealing with the whole brake system of a retractable leash. This leash has two handles – one at the end of its 6 feet length and one 1 foot from the clip. So it’s basically two leashes in one – a 6 feet leash and a 1 foot leash. The leash itself is made from thick nylon, which is very strong. The handle is lined with soft neoprene, which protects your hand from friction caused by constant pulling of the leash. A unique design makes this leash a terrific option for dog owners who want something in between a regular leash and a retractable leash.
Pros
- 2 handles and 2 lengths
- Soft neoprene handle
Cons
- Not chew-proof
Max and Neo Reflective Nylon Dog Leash
Great Leash and a Great Cause
For dog owners who love helping rescue dogs and dog rescue shelters, this is the leash for you. For every leash that is purchased, Max and Neo donates a leash to a dog rescue shelter. Dealing with so many dogs, rescue shelters always need leashes, so buying one of these leashes will make a big impact. Max and Neo asked the workers at rescue shelters, who walk more dogs than anyone, what they wanted in a dog leash. From the answers they got, Max and Neo constructed an amazing dog leash. Heavy duty nylon webbing will hold your dog, a soft neoprene handle will hold your hand, and reflective stitching will hold passing motorists at bay. Feel good about helping other dogs while using this stellar leash from Max and Neo.
Pros
- 1 leash donated for each leash bought
- Strong metal clasp
Cons
- Not the best for really wild dogs if you have to keep grabbing other parts of the leash because only the handle is padded
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a big/small/strong/weak dog. Which is the right leash?
Read our reviews and check the size guide on the product page. Generally speaking, these leashes are designed for bigger and stronger dogs. They might be more than you need for a little dog, but it is better to have a leash that is too strong than a leash that is too weak.
How long will the leash last?
How long the leash lasts depends on how you use it. It depends on how big and wild your dog is, how much force is pulling on the leash, and if the dog is chewing on it or not. For relatively well-behaved dogs, these lashes will last for years. If the dog is a terror and constantly chewing on the leash, it will last for a lot shorter.
If a leash says it’s reflective, does that mean it glows in the dark?
No, a reflective leash does not glow in the dark. If you are in complete darkness you will not be able to see the leash. A leash that is reflective means when light is shined on it, the light reflects off of the leash and makes it more visible. So when a car approaches, the light from its headlights will reflect off of the leash; the driver will see the leash and realize there is someone walking a dog and not run into you.
Why Trust Us
Since 2008, DogTime has served as a leading resource for millions of dog owners and pet lovers alike. Our goal is to give every dog and pet a happy, healthy home by providing owners with all the information they need to be the best pet parents possible. Our experts share their insights and recommendations to make caring for your beloved pets a breeze.