The Best Hands Free Dog Leashes
One skill that the modern world forces us all to hone is multitasking. However, multitasking is hard to do when you're walking your dog. The vast majority of dog leashes demand at least one of your hands at all times, while the other is designated for the eventual poop pickup. The best way to be able to multitask while walking your dog is with a hands-free dog leash, which allows you to attach the end of the leash to a belt, leaving both hands unencumbered. These products are also extremely helpful for professional dog walkers who need to keep multiple dogs leashed up at once. In this piece, we've assembled a list of the best hands-free dog leashes the market has to offer. In our search for the best of the best, we asked ourselves three important questions: Is this leash strong enough to rely on, even for large, energetic dogs? Is it easy to put on and take off? Does it have features that set it apart from the competition, such as reflective stitching or the ability to be used during runs? With those criteria in mind, we landed on a few favorites. We loved Hertzko's hands-free leash, which is well-priced, durable, and features a versatile bungee design and shock-absorbing properties. But Mighty Paw's leash also won our respect for its premium-quality materials and its runner-friendly design. We had a few other favorites, too, so to learn about why we liked each of them so much, keep on reading.
Hertzko Weather-Resistant Hands-Free Dog Leash
Hands off
One of the most frustrating things about dog walking is the need to hold the leash constantly. With Hertzko’s weather-resistant hands-free dog leash, you can take your dog on a nice enjoyable stroll without the need to hold onto the leash. The flexible bungee material gives your dog some elasticity to work with while on the walk. What’s more, the waistband features shock-absorption technology that prevents strain on your waist should your dog decide to make an abrupt movement. Not to mention, the waistband can be adjusted up to 48 inches thanks to Hertzko’s ergonomic Tri Glide Adjuster.
Pros:
- The leash is adorned with reflective stitching all along its length, which we truly appreciate. This makes it easier for others to see your dog during nighttime walks, as well as easier to find the leash in your own home when it’s dark.
- The cross-stitched design ensures this leash is strong enough to rely on.
Cons:
- We wish the bungee leash was a bit more flexible.
SparklyPets Hands-Free Dog Leash
Dog walker's delight
For responsible dog owners, safety is of the utmost importance while walking your dog. Every owners’ nightmare is their dog getting loose on a walk and running away. SparklyPets’ hands-free dog leash can provide you with some much-needed peace of mind thanks to its hyper-durable security clips. Unlike many other hands-free dog leashes, this pick makes security the number one priority in construction. SparklyPets’ security clips are stainless steel clasps that attach to the leash’s waistband, relieving tension from the plastic buckle. And to top it off, the leash is offered in four vibrant color options.
Pros:
- While we’re plenty impressed by this option, the company also offers a premium purchase option that includes a durable and stylish drawstring bag.
- There’s also an option available that will accommodate two dogs at once. If you live in a multi-dog home, this might be a great pick for you.
Cons:
- In our humble opinion, the shock absorption could be improved.
iYoShop Hands-Free Dog Leash w/ Zipper Pouch
Multitasking made easy
Finding a good place to keep your poop bags while dog walking can be difficult. Digging into your pockets to find them can result in the roll unraveling and causing a big mess. Thankfully, this convenient hands-free dog leash from iYoShop features a zipper pouch on the waistband made specifically for holding rolls of poop bags. Not to mention, the zipper pouch has more than enough room to hold small personal belongings such as your smartphone, keys, and wallet. The leash also utilizes a bungee construction that absorbs shock from abrupt movements and makes walking a much more comfortable experience for your dog.
Pros:
- Though this leash not that much different than some of our other favorite options, we love the attention to detail with this one. Between the storage compartments, spacious zipper pouch, and the bungee’s versatility, it’s clear that this leash was designed thoughtfully.
- The color variety is pretty impressive here. The leash is available in ten color options, so there’s bound to be something that will catch your eye.
Cons:
- The leash may be a bit too long for very small dogs.
Oneisall Hands-Free Dog Leash
Unleash your possibilities
One of the most unique features that sets this hands-free leash from Oneisall apart from the pack is its over-the-shoulder design. Unlike the majority of hands-free dog leashes that utilize a waistband construction, the over-the-shoulder orientation helps distribute weight and pressure more evenly along your body. Instead of putting all the pressure around your midsection like other hands-free dog leashes, this one uses the entirety of your upper body to absorb shock and movement from abrupt pulling and jerking. It also features a soft velvet handle that prevents chafing and irritation on your skin while walking.
Pros:
- The over-the-shoulder design is pretty uncommon, and some people prefer it. If you’re one of those people, we recommend this leash in particular.
- Another feature we really like with this pick is that it can also convert into a traditional dog leash with a quick adjustment. Sometimes you don’t need the hands-free orientation, so it helps to be able to choose.
Cons:
- While some folks prefer the over-the-shoulder design, others don’t like it at all.
Mighty Paw Hands-Free Dog Leash
Walk this way
If you’re a professional dog walker, finding a leash that allows you to work with multiple dogs hands-free is essential. With Mighty Paw’s hands-free dog leash, you can hit the streets with your pack of pooches without worrying about keeping a hand on the lead. One feature that sets this leash apart from the rest of the market is its built-in traffic handle, which allows you to convert the lead into a traditional dog leash if your dog gets rowdy. Plus, with a universal-fit waistband and flexible bungee material, this leash excels in comfort, performance, and shock absorption.
Pros:
- If you often walk your pup at night, you’ll appreciate the reflective stitching on this leash.
- Aside from going on normal walks, this is a great leash for those who enjoy running with their dog.
Cons:
- The leash is a bit heavy, so if you plan on going on super-long walks, it may weigh you down a little.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using a hands-free dog leash?
Hands-free dog leashes are exceptionally helpful for owners who need to use their hands while out on walks. These products make it easier to use your phone, go to the store, or jog while walking a dog. Hands-free dog leashes are an excellent way to give your dog the exercise they need without giving up the use of your hands for the entire walk.
Why do so many hands-free dog leashes use bungee material?
Bungee material gives the leash some elasticity, which can be helpful when dogs pull while walking. Bungee material is also more comfortable for the owner, providing some shock absorption to the waistband that can reduce strain when dogs pull abruptly.
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