The Best Dog Leashes of 2024

Whether it’s a quick jaunt around the block or a 10-mile trek into the wilderness, having one of the best dog leashes is key. The ideal leash keeps dogs safe and out of trouble and allows owners to maintain control in the event of an emergency.

Hundreds of different leashes are available, so it can be difficult to know exactly what to choose for your pet and your lifestyle. We did the research to narrow down the best leashes on the market today so you and your dog (or your whole pack) can get outside and have a worry-free adventure.

Lead tester Meghan LaHatte meticulously tested most of these leashes on countless walks and jogs with her two rescue pups, Ellie and Opa. From long hours spent on the desert singletrack to jaunts down to the local farmer’s market, she used each leash as a vital connection point between her and her furry ones. Each product was carefully rated on its durability, performance, and functionality.

Take a look at our picks for the best dog leashes on the market so you and your dog can start on your next adventure. Learn what differentiates dog leashes by checking out our comprehensive buyer’s guide, comparison chart, and price and value section.

Editor’s Note: We updated this guide on October 10, 2024, by adding three new products, including the Z ee.Dog Airleash, our best dog for leash pullers, and two others, the Max & Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash and the Thunderworks Thunderle a sh. We added a price and value section and expanded our buyer’s guide by adding information on anti-pull tech and length.

The Best Dog Leashes of 2024

Best Overall Dog Leash: Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash
Best Budget Dog Leash: Ruffwear Front Range Dog Leash
Best Dog Leash for Pullers: Zee.Dog Airleash
Best Dog Leash for Small Dogs: Orvis x Fishe Wear Leash
Best Hands-Free Dog Leash: Fido Pro Remi Runner Leash

Specs

Materials: Nylon, aluminum clasp
Length: 5.5 ft, 7.3 ft (both stretch)
Best For: Everyday use, hiking, running
Unique Features: Bungee, hands-free

Pros

Hands-free capabilities
Bungee webbing
Padded handle

Cons

Price
Might be too heavy for smaller breeds

The Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash ($40) stands out as our top pick for several reasons. It offers hands-free capabilities, thanks to its bungee webbing and padded handle. This leash is versatile in terms of length and color options and converts, allowing for secure hands-free control of your pooch.

Made from durable nylon webbing and Ruffwear’s proprietary Wavelength stretch webbing, with a heavy-duty plastic buckle and aluminum clasp, this leash proved itself against our tester’s strongest pullers. The padded handle provides a comfortable grip for owners, and the waist belt can extend to 48 inches when in hands-free mode. This leash is available in three color schemes and two lengths — 5.5 feet that stretches to 7 feet and 7.3 feet that stretches to 11 feet.

Over the course of about 2 months, our tester used this leash with her two rambunctious German shepherd mixes. It was up to the unique challenges presented by all three dogs — pulling, a little chewing, and a lot of frolicking — and looks as good today as it did on day one. The “talon” swivel clasp allows for more movement with less tangling, and the leash can be secured around a post or tree using the waist clip without removing the leash from your dog.

Similar to the Thunderworks ThunderLeash, this leash offers decent versatility and adjustability while also preventing the harsh shock you get from a dog that can’t help but pull all the time.

The Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash is great for wilderness use, and its integrated traffic handle also makes it ideal for city use when you need to keep your dog close at hand and out of danger.

Specs

Materials: Nylon
Length: 5 ft.
Best For: Small to medium breeds, low-intensity walks
Unique Features: Lightweight, affordable price

Pros

Affordable
Lightweight
Locking clasp
Traffic handle
Padded handle

Cons

Thin
Small clasp

Looking for a quality everyday leash at an affordable price? Look no further than the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Leash ($20). It is light enough for small breeds, and the locking clasp provides extra security. If you’re walking your dog in the city, the integrated traffic handle lets you keep dogs close in traffic or crowds. Made from tough, fade-resistant nylon webbing, the colors stay vibrant even after prolonged use.

Ruffwear’s Tubelock jacquard webbing prevents fraying and fading and should last a lifetime with proper care. This leash is quite thin and not suitable for unruly dogs, dogs who chew, or dogs who like to walk themselves by holding the leash in their mouth. Our tester found that the Front Range Dog Leash wasn’t ideal for her German shepherd mixes but worked great for her young mixed-breed and geriatric, laid-back boxer.

It’s available in seven colors but only one width (¾-inch) and length (5 feet). Similar to the Orvis x Fishe Wear Leash, the handle is a bit stiff on first use but softens and becomes more comfortable over time.

Best for small to medium breeds or low-key adults who don’t pull, the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Leash is an affordable option for everyday use. Matching harnesses and collars are available so your pup can be extra stylish and coordinated.

Specs

Materials: Nylon
Length: 3.3 ft., 5 ft.
Best For: Pullers, excited walkers
Unique Features: Shock absorbing technology, locking carabiner

Pros

Shock absorbing mechanism helps soften the impact of pullers
Padded handle is comfortable enough for prolonged walks
Two lengths and plenty of unique colorways are available

Cons

Anti-pull mechanism is heavy, can cause leash to hang down in front of dog
Expensive
Rubber handle easily dirty

While many bungee-style leashes are advertised as “shock-absorbing,” they very rarely do the trick. The Zee.Dog Airleash ($44) lives up to the hype.

With a patented technology called Flowtex, Zee.Dog Airleash has a rubber-wrapped mechanism near the clip that absorbs the impact from an eagerly pulling dog. This tech uses a nylon-wrapped elastic to contain the jolt you typically feel if your dog suddenly yanks you.

We were able to put the Zee.Dog Airleash to the ultimate test while on several local walks with our 65-pound German shepherd mix, Opa. And while Opa is typically a good girl on our strolls, unfortunately, she is easily distracted by small animals or rodents.

And you can imagine how she responded when she saw a bunny hop through a yard just 30 feet away from us. She immediately lurched for the cottontail, but thanks to the Flowtex, we weren’t yanked too. And while the mechanism works well to lessen this impact, it won’t actually stop your dog from pulling. Using this as a tool for training alongside some yummy treats would work well to break those old habits.

The Flowtex also doubles as a handle for when you need to keep your canine close. The rubber handle feels nice in your hand and won’t strain your fingers. Other leashes, like the Max & Neo one, usually offer a looped handle, but we actually preferred the rubber grip on the Airleash more.

One of our few qualms with this leash was the weight of the shock-absorbing mechanism due to the heavier rubber surrounding it. On every one of our walks, the leash would fall in front of our pup’s front legs, causing her to step on it and become tangled.

Despite this, we were still impressed with the design and ingenuity of the Zee Dog Airleash. It is great for seniors struggling to handle reactive or pulling dogs. The shock absorption works as advertised, and the locking carabiner provides extra security for you and your canine.

Specs

Materials: Polyester
Length: 6 ft.
Best For: Small breeds, daily use
Unique Features: Beautiful patterns

Pros

Lightweight
Beautiful patterns
Alligator-style clasp

Cons

Expensive
Limited designs

The Orvis x Fishe Wear Leash ($45) combines beauty and functionality into a great leash for mellow walks around town. Its lightweight polyester weave and small clasp make it the perfect choice for a park stroll or a neighborhood walk. This line is a collaboration between Orvis and Alaska-based, woman-owned fishing gear company Fishe Wear.

The pattern our tester tried out, Dolly Vee, is a rainbow trout-inspired print of vibrant oranges and greens, sure to catch the eye of any outdoors person. It showed no signs of fading during testing, and the polyester weave did not fray.

This leash is not suitable for dogs who like to pull or pups who need a lot of freedom on walks. The edges of the handle are a little stiff, initially making for an uncomfortable hold, but they soften up with time. It is available in two patterns and two widths (¾-inch and 1-inch) and is 6 feet long. The leash is expensive for a pretty bare-bones item with no additional features besides the collab patterns.

The Orvis x Fishe Wear Leash is best for everyday use and low-intensity walks. And, if you’re an angler or just love a stylish leash for your pup, this could be the leash for you and your dog.

Specs

Materials: Nylon
Length 5.5 ft.:
Best For: Hiking, running, and backcountry adventures
Unique Features: Hands-free, dual handles, extenders

Pros

Rugged construction
Hands-free option
Bungee
Dual-handles

Cons

Expensive
Not suitable for small dogs

If you’re looking for the perfect way to keep your dog contained on your backcountry adventures, the Fido Pro Remi Runner Leash ($49) is definitely the leash for you. This leash has so many valuable features, it’s hard to list them all. The hands-free option is great for any activity that requires you to use your hands — cross-country skiing, hiking (with poles), and running, to name a few. And the waistband is adjustable up to 46 inches, so it’s versatile enough to be used by multiple dog parents.

Our tester loved walking her country property using the waistband, leaving her hands free to snap photos of critters. She also loved that the bungee provided a little extra give. As a result, she didn’t feel like her spine would snap if her dog flushed a bunny from the underbrush.

This leash has two handles: one traffic handle for more control closer to the dog and a second one farther up. The leash comes with webbing extenders for greater length and a little more freedom for your pup to roam. On the other hand, there are D-rings along the length of the leash if you want to shorten it up a bit. The leash is about nine feet long and fully extended with the bungee stretched and extenders in place.

Our only gripe is that the leash handle is very stiff and uncomfortable to hold. The logo placement attaches in a place that allows it to dig into your palm or wrist, depending on how you hold the leash. This leash is unsuitable for small dogs and only available in red and black.

If you take your pup on hikes, runs, or overland adventures, you’ll love the convenience and durability of the Fido Pro Remi Runner Leash.

Specs

Materials: Nylon, plastic
Length: 10 ft., 16 ft., 26 ft.
Best For: Everyday use, normal walks
Unique Features: Easy-to-use locking mechanism

Pros

Smooth retraction
Long total length
Easy lock/unlock feature

Cons

Ribbon mesh tends to twist as it re-enters the slot in the body of the leash
Smallish hand opening may not comfortably accommodate larger hands or gloved hands in winter

The TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash ($22) is a sleek, modern-looking alternative to traditional retractable leashes. Utilizing flat tape instead of the more common rope, this leash is less prone to kinking and knotting and less likely to cause injury, such as rope burns.

This leash has a one-button lock/unlock mechanism and a guard at the mouth to prevent the tape from tangling as it reenters the handle. Retraction is smooth and not fast enough to jerk on the dog’s collar. It is available in multiple sizes and colors. The length varies by size ranging from 10 feet (XS) to 26 feet (XL).

Our tester used this leash with her medium-sized mixed breed and experienced some tangling and kinking when the leash was retracted from the fully extended position. She also noted that the handhold is small and may not comfortably accommodate large or gloved hands.

The leash is heavier than other retractables, mainly because it needs to house a tape leash instead of a rope leash. It is not thick enough to withstand chewing, but a small extension comes with it to clip onto the end of the leash and protect it from overzealous chewers.

If your pack is pretty mellow (we’re looking at you, dogs of destruction/chewers!), the TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash will work well for you.

Specs

Materials: Silicone, recycled ripstop
Length 4 ft., 6 ft.:
Best For: Rainy days, regular use
Unique Features: Lovely design, waterproof

Pros

Waterproof silicone construction
Ripstop joinery and handle
Locking carabiner clasp

Cons

Expensive
Swivel connection feels flimsy
Handle is stiff and uncomfortable to hold

For rainy days or wet climes, the Herzog Silicone Dog Leash ($59) is a top choice. Its waterproof silicone and quick-drying ripstop construction won’t even blink in the heaviest rain or splashiest puddles, and the color stays true forever.

The locking carabiner clasp will keep your dog secure, and the heavy-duty construction will not fray like webbing leashes. The design is where this leash really shines, though. Beautiful colors and striking black hardware will definitely make your pup stand out in a crowd.

The silicone is soft and flexible and doesn’t stretch or become misshapen, and the recycled ripstop handle and clasp attachment are rugged enough to withstand pretty much any punishment your dog can put them through.

Our tester found the ripstop in the leash handle to be too stiff and uncomfortable to hold. It softened some over time but ultimately was not as easy to hold as a nylon handle, and some of the stitching in the seams began to fray after a month of constant, heavy use. An added foam handle, similar to the one on the Zee.Dog Airleash, would work well here.

There is also some concern about the swivel attaching the carabiner to the leash. It showed no sign of breaking during testing, but it felt loose and flimsy.

The Herzog Silicone Dog Leash is ideal for you and your canine companions if you enjoy laid-back walks in the rain or live in a humid or wet place (Pacific Northwest, we see you). A matching collar is available.

Specs

Materials: Double braided rope
Length: 4 ft., 6 ft.
Best For: Walking two dogs at once
Unique Features: Slidelock, comfortable handle

Pros

Slidelock coupler
Comfortable handle
Multiple sizes

Cons

Expensive

The Timberwolf Alpine 2-Dog Adjustable Lead ($50-69) has everything you could want in a coupled leash. The braided rope offers a lot of security for even the biggest dogs, but smaller sizes are available for walking your little guys side by side. The handle is padded, quite comfy to hold, and does not dig into your palm.

It’s available in multiple colors and sizes, but the most unique feature is the Slidelock. This gizmo allows owners to adjust the distance between the two dogs. One dog can be in front of the other, or the mechanism can slide down to keep the dogs close to one another if the situation demands it, like on a crowded sidewalk.

This leash is available in three diameters(3/16, 5/16, and 7/16 inches) and two lengths (4 and 6 feet). Our tester appreciated the ability to allow her alpha to lead the way while still keeping the dogs close to one another. The swivel attachment also did a good job of preventing the dogs from getting tangled up together.

This leash is quite expensive, but the heavy-duty hardware and unique features provide plenty of value. The Timberwolf Alpine 2-Dog Adjustable Lead shines while walking two dogs pretty much anywhere, though individual threads in the rope do catch and pull on thorny or rough undergrowth.

Specs

Materials: Polyester
Length: 6 ft., 7 ft.
Best For: Training pullers
Unique Features: Leash wraps around dog’s torso and clips back to collar to create an anti-pull harness

Pros

Can convert from a standard leash to a training harness
Reflective elements for nighttime visibility
Easy to adjust

Cons

Large clip may be bothersome for some dogs when in standard mode
Can be a bit challenging to slide leash into “no-pull” position
May be painful for your dog if incorrectly used

A hybrid between a training mechanism and a standard leash, the Thunderworks ThunderLeash ($30) is a solid option for folks needing a 2-in-1 option for their pup. The leash essentially doubles as a harness and lead, depending on what mode you slide it into.

As a training device, the Thunderworks ThunderLeash loops around your dog’s chest and clips into their collar, creating redirection if your pup tends to pull. We tested this leash on our 75-pound husky mix, who is oftentimes reactive and a certified yanker on neighborhood strolls. While this leash didn’t physically stop her from pulling, it did help redirect her due to the mechanism located at the connection point.

Along with positive reinforcement and some treats, this training leash can help your puller cross that coveted training threshold. Once your dog has stopped pulling, it can be easily transformed back into a 6-foot leash without the need to buy a new one. We particularly love this aspect, as many training devices get discarded after the instruction is finished.

It is important to note that in regular leash mode, the Thunderworks ThunderLeash attachment point may be a bit heavy and bothersome for your pooch, and you will likely prefer the Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash. However, the metal is quite sturdy and reinforced, making it a secure option.

We want to reiterate that the instructions on the ThunderLeash need to be followed closely when using it in training mode. If the “harness” function is incorrectly used or configured, your dog may find itself injured or in serious discomfort while on a walk. The metal safety bracket is easy to adjust to prevent your dog’s lungs from being constricted by the webbing.

Aside from the training aspect, the Thunderworks ThunderLeash has some expected leash features at this price point. In a similar fashion to the Max & Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash, there are reflective elements for nighttime use and a padded handle. The webbing is decently soft and thick enough that our hands stayed painless during all of the training sessions.

If you have a young pup that you’re ready to start training on walks or maybe a middle-aged dog that needs to break a pulling habit, definitely consider the Thunderworks ThunderLeash for its functionality as an educational tool and secure design.

Specs

Materials: Nylon
Length: 6 ft.
Best For: Non-pullers, daily walks, and hikes
Unique Features: Two padded neoprene handles, reflective threading, D-ring for clipping accessories

Pros

Two handles for added control and security
Reflective threading for improved visibility
Different lengths available

Cons

Material is thin
Requires some break-in to soften up
Handles smaller, may not fit gloved hands

At 6 feet, the Max & Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash ($17) is a good leash for pups who don’t pull but like to walk ahead on jaunts. The length provides plenty of space for your dog to sniff and explore without any doubt of security or strength.

This leash is sewn with reflective threading, making it ideal for use at night when you want cars, bicyclists, and others to see you distinctly. It is available in an array of vibrant colors and two different lengths.

We appreciate that the Max & Neo leash has two handles for when you want to keep your pooch a little closer on busy streets, around fellow dogs, or for training a dog to heel. However, the handles are quite small and may not accommodate larger hands or fingers.

This leash appears to be well-made, but we struggled with grasping the thin nylon material. With a few more millimeters of thickness, it would be much more comfortable in hand. While trying out this leash, our dog had a few sudden lurches a few times. The leash held strong, but our hands were a bit sore from the pressure of the thinner fabric. We found that the similar material on the Thunderworks ThunderLeash was much more gentle and supple in use.

The Max & Neo leash has an extra D-ring located near the main handle, perfect for clipping poop bags and other training accessories too. This D-ring also allows it to be converted into a slip lead. This can be used to help rescue a stray dog or if you accidentally forgot to grab your pup’s collar before heading to the trailhead.

Overall, the Max & Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash is a good, affordable leash for well-trained pooches and night owls, however, if your pup pulls or lurchesa lot, you’ll prefer the Zee.Dog Airleash. The two handles offer ideal functionality, and the reflective thread gives some much-needed security.

Dog Leash Comparison Chart

Dog Leash	Price	Materials	Best For	Unique Features
Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash	$40	Nylon, aluminum clasp	Everyday use, hiking, running	Bungee, hands-free
Ruffwear Front Range Dog Leash	$20	Nylon	Mellow dogs, low-intensity walks	Lightweight, affordable price
Zee.Dog Airleash	$44	Nylon	Pullers, excited walkers	Shock absorbing technology, locking carabiner
Orvis x Fishe Wear Leash	$45	Polyester	Mellow town walks, daily use	Beautiful patterns
Fido Pro Remi Runner Leash	$49	Nylon	Hiking, running, and backcountry adventures	Hands-free, dual handles, extenders
TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash	$22	Nylon, plastic	Everyday use, normal walks	Easy-to-use locking mechanism
Herzog Silicone Dog Leash	$56	Silicone, recycled ripstop	Rainy days, regular use	Lovely design, waterproof
Timberwolf Alpine 2-Dog Adjustable Lead	$50-69	Double braided rope	Walking two dogs at once	Slidelock, comfortable handle
Thunderworks ThunderLeash	$30	Polyester	Training pullers	Leash wraps around dog’s torso and clips back to collar to create an anti-pull harness
Max & Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash	$17	Nylon	Non-pullers, daily walks, and hikes	Two padded neoprene handles, reflective threading, D-ring for clipping accessories

Not all dog leashes are created equal. We tested the best leashes to meet all your needs; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

How We Tested Dog Leashes

Our Expert Testers

A lover of rescue animals and self-acclaimed dog gear extraordinaire, lead tester Meghan LaHatte is no stranger to a good and long walk with the pups. With two rescues of her own and previous experience as a dog walker for a local kennel, Meghan had no hesitation in taking on this buyer’s guide.

GearJunkie editor Chris Kassar’s pup, Nala, also stepped in for some testing, and we enlisted the help of a guest tester named Cache to get another opinion. Contributor Kristi Pahr, an OG dog person who currently has four dogs to snuggle with, also helped get this guide started in 2024.

Meghan and her furry best friend Opa tackled testing these leashes on all sorts of adventures; (photo/Cas Naugle)

Our Testing Grounds & Process

To test each leash, Meghan tested it on her two large-breed shepherd and husky mixes. While her two pups are mature and well-trained, they still have a knack for pulling when a certain smell excites them or if they see some neighborhood wildlife (aka, the local bunnies).

Meghan knows the importance of finding the right leash for you and your pup. A proper leash is the source of connection between a human and its canine companion, making it vital for training, building trust, and ensuring the security of your beloved furry friend. For this guide, we tested a variety of leashes with different functionalities.

Over the course of three months, Meghan tested leashes daily. From the hilly trails to the maze of sidewalks in her neighborhood, she paid attention to how well each leash served its intended purpose, how the material felt in her hand, its durability, and more.

Chris, Nala, and Cache also took these leashes on walks around town and pushed their limits on big hiking, running, and wandering adventures in the mountains to see how they performed.

After months of tireless testing, we are sure these leashes are the best on the market. We will update our guide as new awesome leashes hit the shelves.

Need a complimentary collar? Check out our guide to the best dog collars. Or, if your dog needs more guidance while on a walk, consult our guide to the best dog harnesses. And, if your pup needs a solid rest after all the adventures you go on, check out our guide to the best dog beds.

Tester dogs like Cache were dedicated to putting these leashes through the wringer and were also pretty good at letting us know when it was time to take a hike; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Leashes

We walk our dogs all the time, so the leash we use is important. Understanding the difference in leashes, how they work, what they’re capable of, and how to best use them can make all the difference in how much you enjoy spending time with your dog outdoors.

A leash that works for strolls around the park may not be the best bet for a rugged backcountry hike. And a leash that works for your German Shepherd is probably not the best choice for your neighbor’s Yorkie.

We loved the lightweight feel and the stylish design of the **Orvis x Fishe Wear Leash** for mellow walks around the neighborhood; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

How Will You Use It?

Consider your lifestyle and the activities you like to do with your dog. If your walks consist of a two- or three-times daily walk down the city sidewalk with a mellow pup, the leash that will serve you best is likely something lightweight like the Orvis x Fishe Wear Leash.

Hiking or cross-country skiing? Go for the Fido Pro Remi Runner Leash. Two-dog household? Try a double leash like the Timberwolf Alpine 2-Dog Adjustable Lead. And if your dog loves nothing more than a dip in the lake or a splash in a puddle, a waterproof leash like the Herzog Silicone Leash is exactly what you need.

The **Timberwolf Alpine 2-Dog Adjustable Lead** allows you to adjust the distance between your two pups; (photo/Kristi Pahr).

Materials

With the dog leash options seeming endless, you will also find that they are manufactured from a wide array of materials. Most companies opt to use reinforced nylon webbing, while others may choose leather or smoother silicone options.

Leashes should be strong enough to withstand pulls and tugs but soft enough not to destroy your palms when you hold them. Strong nylon webbing is a great choice that holds together and will keep your dog on the end of the leash instead of tearing across the park or, worse, a busy city street. We were particularly impressed with the durability and strength of the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Leash’s nylon webbing and padded handle.

You may want to opt for a waterproof or water-resistant option if you live in a wet climate or have a pup that loves romp in the local river. Meghan’s hometown has a water ditch system alongside every sidewalk and during the summer she can’t keep her pup out of it on those long scorcher walks. So, she certainly appreciated the waterproofing on the Herzog Silicone Dog Leash on every sun-kissed stroll.

Our budget option, the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Leash is made of durable nylon ideal for walks with well-behaved pups like Cache; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

Length

An important factor to consider when selecting a dog leash is length. Do you want to keep your pup closer to you for training or security reasons? Or do you like to let him or her roam a bit for good sniffs on those long hikes? Being able to answer these questions will certainly help in the shopping process.

Some leashes have bungee systems that allow them to stretch several inches during use whereas others sit at a stationary length. Deciding on length and stretch depends on your own preferences and your dog’s personality on walks or runs.

Short: Less Than 5 Feet

Folks with dogs that may be smaller or need extra security on walks should typically opt for a shorter leash. Shorter leashes help keep your dog close to you and can be imperative for teaching commands like heel or guard, since the proximity helps with training. Furthermore, if you live in a heavily trafficked area, keeping your dog close to you and away from rushing cars will certainly provide some peace of mind.

For shorter selections, we recommend the Timberwolf Alpine 2-Dog Adjustable Lead in the 4-foot option or the Zee.Dog Airleash in the 3.3-foot option.

Depending on your dog’s size and girth, the length of the **Thunderworks ThunderLeash** will vary while used in training mode; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

Medium: 5 Feet to 7 Feet

Most dog leashes will fall into the average range of 5 to 7 feet. These options are great for well-trained pups and regular walkers who don’t need anything too generous or constrictive on walks. We particularly love this length for local strolls where you want to give your pup a little bit of freedom for sniffs but still maintain solid control. This length is also solid for runners and joggers, as it is less prone to get tangled and gives your dog some space from your stride.

Long: Over 7 Feet

Longer leashes are ideal for pups you like to let roam on hikes or are ready to start training for recall. They are best used with well-trained and non-reactive canines who are easily controlled. If used incorrectly, longer leashes can become quite tangled and make it harder to gather control of your pup in an unideal situation, so we recommend using them with strong precautions.

Stretching to almost 11 feet, we loved the bungee-style Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash for its ability to give our dogs some freedom to explore. The TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash also provides plenty of distance at up to 26 feet and can be a great tool for training off-leash commands

Features

A backcountry leash doesn’t need the same features as a daily walk leash, though some, like rings for attaching pick-up bags, are ideal for both. Hands-free leashes like the Ruffwear Roamer Leash are great for multitasking, and the addition of a stretchy bungee makes it easy to control your dog without hurting yourself.

Retractable leashes, like the Tug Retractable Leash, are also great when you want your pup to have more freedom, but we don’t recommend these for dogs prone to pulling.

Our best overall choice, the **Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash** is ideal for active pursuits; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

Training

Will you be using your new leash for training purposes? A long leash is ideal if you’re attempting to teach your dog off-leash obedience. Long training leashes provide dogs with lots of additional space to roam (some even up to 150 feet long, though 20-30 feet is more common) while allowing the owner to maintain control. These leashes work well for training, staying at a distance, or giving your dog extra freedom in areas with few people.

These leads are also great for training working or hunting dogs in the field. Ideally, you’ll get an adjustable leash like the Fido Pro Remi Runner Leash, which allows for freedom in certain situations but also allows your pup to be reigned in when the situation warrants it.

Long leashes can take a bit of getting used to and are not recommended for beginners or use in crowded situations like walks down a busy city street. Ideally, owners will consult with a trainer to learn how to properly use a long leash to avoid frustration and potential injury to the dog.

Both Nala and her mom (GJ editor, Chris) loved the freedom to run afforded by the hands-free **Fido Pro Remi Runner Leash**; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

Anti-Pull Tech

One of the hardest training thresholds to cross is breaking the common habit of pulling on walks. With consistent lessons and discipline, your dog can be taught to walk alongside you on strolls, but sometimes, you need a leash that will help directly with this process.

And while no leash can physically stop your dog from pulling, some companies have created unique technologies that help absorb the shock of a yank or provide redirection for your eager pup.

For folks who want to lessen the impact from a strong pull of their dog, we recommend the Zee.Dog Airleash. Within the rubber handle is a bungee mechanism that helps absorb any shock due to pulling. Our tester used this leash countless amount of times on her 65-pound shepherd mix, finding that it did stand up to the test of all sorts of lurches and yanks. Her typically sensitive hands were grateful for that.

Within a rubber encasing is the shock-absorbing Flowtex on the Zee.Dog Airleash; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

If you are looking for a leash that is versatile while also being training-specific for pullers, we found that the Thunderworks ThunderLeash served that purpose well. The Thundreleash doubles as a standard nylon leash and a redirecting harness.

With a few quick motions, the leash wraps around your dog’s chest and clips to its collar. Whenever the dog pulls, it causes their torso to be turned adjacently to the intended direction, helping distract your pup from being so fervent. Combined with some treats and a few “Good girl!’s,” this tool is quite effective for breaking that undesirable habit.

Type of Closure or Clasp

Most standard leashes have a metal clasp that attaches to the collar. This clasp, called a snap hook, is usually spring-loaded and thumb-operated. These clasps are fine for most dogs, though owners of very small dogs and very large dogs, as well as dogs who pull, should opt for a different closure.

Locking carabiners have grown in popularity because they are generally stronger than snap hooks and lock closed, preventing any accidental escapes. Carabiner leash clasps like on the Herzog Silicone Leash are ideal for hiking and running and also for rambunctious dogs who pull or jump while leashed.

The locking carabiner found on the **Herzog Silicone Leash** adds extra security while walking your pup; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

Take your dog’s size into consideration when choosing leashes. A clasp that will accommodate the strength of even a medium-sized dog will likely be too heavy for a toy breed to wear comfortably, and a clasp that is strong enough to keep your Aussie safely on leash will be a piece of cake for a Mastiff or Great Dane to break through. One of the reasons we chose the Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash as our Best Overall was because it worked for various sizes, strengths, and breeds.

Most dog leashes on the market are priced under $50; (photo/Cas Naugle)

Price & Value

Purchasing a dog leash doesn’t need to break the bank, but it is an important investment you’ll need to make for that beloved puppy in your life. Depending on the price tag, a dog leash may offer more robust materials or added technologies for training. Whichever dog leash you choose to buy, be sure it’s a suitable fit for both you and your pup.

Budget

At $20 or less, it is possible to find a budget-friendly dog leash that is durable, secure, and comfortable to handle. More affordable options may not offer fancy technologies like shock absorption, but they will still provide a strong connection point between you and your canine companion. These leashes will usually be made of nylon or polyester, but they may lack in other areas.

For the lower price tags, the Ruffwear Front Range Dog Leash ($20) and Max & Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash ($17) both made it into our buyer’s guide for several reasons. These leads are simple but provide durability and longevity when needed most.

Finding the right leash for your pup doesn’t have to be a daunting task; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

Mid-Tier

Our mid-tier leash selections cost between $20 and $40. These leashes typically offer an array of lengths and colors and are durable. Some of these mid-tier options offer added training tools and anti-pull mechanisms. If you are paying over $20 for a leash, you can trust that it is probably made with reinforced webbing, reflective stitching, and metal hardware.

Offering an ideal balance of affordability and quality, the Thunderworks ThunderLeash ($30) and Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash ($40) are excellent choices for their anti-pull mechanisms and adjustable elements.

Premium

For dog owners willing to spend a little extra cheddar on a leash, consider the premium options that cost over 40 bucks. Typically, these dog leashes are made with the highest-grade materials and offer lifelong durability. They also may have patented technologies or elements for training, adjustability, and more.

At our highest price points are the Timberwolf Alpine 2-Dog Adjustable Lead ($50-$69) and the Herzog Silicone Dog Leash ($59). While the Timberwolf leash is a 2-in-1 deal, the aesthetically pleasing Herzog Silicone Dog Leash is highly durable and waterproof, making it a solid investment for your pup. Other leashes offered in the $40-50 range, such as the Zee.Dog Airleash ($44), are superb options as well.

The **Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog Leash**, which is a mid-tier option in terms of price, was our overall pick due to its versatility across dogs and activities; (photo/Elk Raven Photography)

Frequently Asked Questions

When a dog pulls too strongly on their leash, it can cause injury to their neck, throat, and sometimes their face or eyes if there is enough pressure. Choosing the right collar can help, but ultimately, pulling is a behavior you want to stop as soon as possible, so consider consulting with a trainer or using a no-pull harness.

Most leashes can be cleaned up with a little warm, soapy water and a good rinse and air dry. Some are machine washable, but check the manufacturer’s instructions before tossing it in the washer to ensure it’s color-safe and won’t shrink or become misshapen.

Nylon is always a safe bet when it comes to leashes. The material is tough and durable and able to withstand the elements. Silicone leashes are great for water dogs. Leather leashes are attractive but stretch over time and may become brittle if not cared for properly.