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 Zee.Dog Airleash, our best dog for leash pullers, and two others, the Max & Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash and the Thunderworks Thunderleash. 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
Ruffwear Roamer Bungee Dog 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
Ruffwear Front Range Dog Leash
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
Zee.Dog Airleash
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
Orvis x Fishe Wear Leash
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
Fido Pro Remi Runner Leash
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
TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog 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
Herzog Silicone Dog Leash
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
Timberwolf Alpine 2-Dog Adjustable Lead
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
Thunderworks ThunderLeash
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
Max & Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash
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
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 |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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