Time for a walk! Our family dog, Chance, perks right up when he hears that phrase. Taking your dog out for daily walks is a fantastic way to get some much-needed exercise. So grab one of the best dog leashes and get going!
Depending on how often you walk your dog, investing in a great leash may be something to consider. A recent study found that the average dog owner takes their pet out ten times a week, with each trip lasting about 34 minutes. The average length of these walks is just under two miles, although most owners say they walk the same route almost every time.
Walking your furry friend kills two birds with one stone: you get a workout and so does your dog. A poll of 2,000 dog owners found 45 percent believe their dog is in better shape than they are. Meanwhile, one in five (21%) believe the opposite – that they’re in better shape than their dog. Whoever is in better shape, almost half the poll (44%) exercise with their dogs at least once a week on average.
Whether you’re taking a hike in the woods, or a jaunt around the neighborhood, you’ll need to pick the right type of dog leash. So, what should you look for when choosing a dog leash for your four-legged companion? StudyFinds compiled a list of the five best dog leashes, from ten expert websites, to find the best leashes to keep your pup safe on walks. As always, we’d like to see your own recommendations in the comments below!
The List: Best Dog Leashes, Top 5 According to Expert Reviews
1. PetSafe Premier Nylon Dog Leash
At under $10, this low-cost, basic dog leash comes in a variety of colors.
“Sturdy enough to last you for years, the strap cleans easily after a muddy hike and sports a 360-degree swivel clip to prevent tangle when out and about,” according to HiConsumption.
“Options include 4 and 6-foot lengths, plus variations from its standard 3/4-inch width, including a 3/8-inch version for small dogs and a 1-inch for large breeds,” adds The Spruce Pets. However, if you have a teething puppy on your hands, this might not be the leash for you as it’s easy for puppies to gnaw.
“If you’re looking for a budget-friendly leash to get you and your dog from point A to point B, this might be it,” writes Forbes. “Just know that this pick is best for smaller breeds.”
2. Tug 360 Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash
This 16-foot retractable dog leash features an anti-slip handle. The cost? $17.99.
“The retraction is very reliable which reduces the likelihood of frustrating jamming. The handle is very comfortable and ergonomic, and it allows for control in any direction, so you’ll maintain control even if your dog meanders while you walk,” notes Hepper.
Popular Science points out, the Tug 360 “comes in four sizes and six colors. The different sizes work for dogs under 26 pounds and up to 110 pounds.”
Keep in mind this leash can fray, so if your dog is a leash chewer, this may not be the best option.
Runners Athletics point out, “If your dog finds an off-path area they want to investigate, you can stay where you are while you let them explore. But the leash’s 360-degree functionality allows you to safely pull them back from any angle.”
3. Max and Neo Double Handle Reflective Dog Leash
For $15.99, this leash is affordable and comes in a bunch of different colors.
“Thanks to a second handle situated 18 inches from the bolt-snap collar clasp, this leash gives you greater control over your pooch, making this option ideal for city dwellers and those who walk their dogs along more crowded roads. Plus, both handles are fully padded in neoprene so you don’t have to worry about this leash hurting your hands,” according to Forbes.
Runner’s Athletics notes the, “reflective quality makes this leash a good investment for night-time walking. Cars and other vehicles will be able to see you and keep their distance,” notes Runner’s Athletics.
The Spruce Pets‘ final verdict: “The durable nylon Max and Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash is a great overall choice with reflective stitching, a second handle, and a D-ring to hang poop bags and gadgets.”
4. RUFFWEAR Knot-a-Leash Dog Leash
This option is durable and suitable for larger dogs. However, the Knot-a-leash is a bit pricey, at $39.95.
“Inspired by professional climbers, it’s made with a tough, knot-free, reflective rope with a secure carabiner. A silicone stopper makes it easy to get a good knot. The whole thing is very lightweight, and available in a range of vibrant colors,” points out Active.
“As far as basic leashes go, many owners find rope easier to hold and manipulate than nylon. And this leash has a tubular webbing handle that makes it especially comfortable,” according to USA Today.
The Spruce Pets notes, “The Ruffwear Knot-a-Leash is only available in a 5-foot length, placing it on the shorter side of the leash spectrum. It does come in two different widths, however, with a thin version that’s 7 millimeters wide, and a heftier, 11-millimeter model which is more appropriate for large or strong dogs.”
5. BAAPET Dog Leash
You can snag this leash at the very budget-friendly price of $10.89.
“The BAAPET 5ft Strong Leash stood out for its sturdy feel, affordability, and comfortable foam handle. This leash provided easy and sturdy control of all the dogs it was tested on,” notes GearLab.
“Made from durable nylon rope, this leash is built to last and also includes silver reflective stitching to improve visibility for nighttime walks. Lastly, this leash comes with a clip-on poo bag carrier with a full roll inside to boot,” according to Betterpet.
“Rope leashes are more popular than they’ve ever been due to their outdoorsy aesthetic and unmatched sturdiness. This nylon leash from BAAPET is made from rock climbing rope that’s a half-inch in diameter and has a durable swivel clip to match,” adds HiConsumption.
Some reviewers noted the foam handle is a bit large and susceptible to wear and tear.
Sources:
- HiConsumption
- The Spruce Pets
- Forbes
- Hepper
- Popular Science
- Runner’s Athletics
- Active
- USA Today
- GearLab
- Betterpet
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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This post may contain affiliate links.