A leash for your dog seems like such a simple item to look for and purchase, but really there are so many different options out there now.
Some people enjoy the range of a flexi-leash, others prefer an old school leather one, and then there’s the standard nylon leashes you can find anywhere.
So what are all the different types of leashes for dogs?
By Allison Salonko.
Allison is a Veterinary Technician in the state of Indiana. She graduated from International Business College and Vet Tech Institute of Indianapolis with a degree in Animal Science and Technology in 2011.
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If you’re in the market for a cute new dog leash for your pooch and want to know what the different types are, then you’ve come to the right place!
Below is a list of the common dog leashes that you can find online or at the pet store.
How Do I Know What Kind Of Leash Is Best For My Dog?
When it comes to finding a leash for your dog, you should consider your pet’s size and breed, their personality and how hard they pull.
These things are important because they will help you decide which leash is truly best for you and your dog.
Size and Breed
Your dog’s size and breed is a key ingredient in choosing their next leash.
If you have a tiny chihuahua that doesn’t go far from you and just needs quick potty breaks outside then a leash that is long and flexible is ideal.
However, active breeds that go running with their owners and have more freedom would want a leash with more range.
Big dogs that are slow but strong can have shorter and thicker leashes.
Dog’s Personality
Your dog’s personality should certainly be thought of when purchasing a leash.
A dog that is reactive and tends to run towards people should be on a leash that is shorter and easy to control.
Long and flexible leashes for reactive dogs tend to lead to unwanted situations where your dog can be in the wrong place too quickly, not giving you enough time to correct them.
How Hard They Pull
A dog that is prone to pulling on the leash and dragging their owner from one place to the next should never be on a flexible (retractable) or long leash.
Pullers should be on short and strong leashes that allow for more control from the owner.
What Are Some Different Types Of Leashes For Dogs?
There is always a plethora of options on the internet and pet stores for leashes, so I understand how someone can find it difficult to decide.
You can find leashes in a variety of styles and designs like slip leads, flexi-leashes, nylon leashes, double leashes and rope leads.
If you’re not sure which one you would like the most, here is a list of some of the most popular kinds of leashes broken down into categories.
Slip Leads For Dogs
Slip leads are typically a rope like design that has a loop that slips right over their head and gently tightens.
No need for a collar or clip.
2 Slip Leads For Dogs
Lynxking Dog Leash Slip Lead
Lynxking Dog Leash Slip Lead (Amazon.com)
This braided dog leash is meant to go right over the head without the need for a collar. Not to say that you can’t have one on them, it’s just not necessary here.
The high quality braid is strong and durable, making it a suitable option for many dogs that have a habit of pulling.
This leash comes in multiple sizes and colors and should be a solid option for any sized canine.
Pet’s Company Slip Lead Dog Leash
Pet’s Company Slip Lead Dog Leash (Amazon.com)
This rope slip leash is durable and was designed after the same material that rock climbers use.
It’s unlikely that your dog will be able to break it or chew through it fast enough to escape when out on a walk or at the park.
Rope And Nylon Leashes For Dogs
Both of these leashes are essentially the same, only the nylon leash is the traditional style of leash many people are familiar with.
Both of these styles are strong and durable, however, the thinner nylon leashes can be chewed through quickly.
4 Rope And Nylon Leashes For Dogs
BAAPET Strong Dog Leash With Comfortable Padded Handle
BAAPET Strong Dog Leash With Comfortable Padded Handle (Amazon.com)
This leash is durable and can be appropriate for any dog and any situation.
It comes in several different lengths so you can choose how far you want your companion to get ahead of you on your walks.
The ergonomic, padded handle is nice for an easy grip that doesn’t tighten on your hand if they pull too hard.
Speaking of pulling, this leash would be a great fit for any strong dog that likes to take their owner for a walk instead of the other way around!
Max And Neo Double Handle Traffic Dog Leash
Max And Neo Double Handle Traffic Dog Leash (Amazon.com)
The Max and Neo nylon, double handle leash is another great option for those owners that want to have a little more control over their companion when on the go.
The double handle allows for a convenient two handed option, keeping those powerful dogs from tugging too hard or getting out of hand.
PetSafe Nylon Dog Leash
PetSafe Nylon Dog Leash (Amazon.com)
This leash is one that is a standard look and material. It is a good, faithful dog leash that should work for any canine.
It’s traditional style with the bolt clip is exactly what you need to take your pup on a walk.
PetSafe also provides this leash in a variety of different colors, lengths and widths as well.
Hi Kiss Dog/Puppy Obedience Recall Training Agility Lead
Hi Kiss Dog/Puppy Obedience Recall Training Agility Lead (Amazon.com)
This extra long leash is one that is great for active owners and dogs that want to give their companion the extra freedom to run without worrying about them disappearing.
This leash is also a great resource for “off-leash” training as you and your pup can get the feel for them being far away while also not leaving your line of sight.
You can find this particular leash in different lengths ranging from 15 to 100 feet long.
Hands Free And Double Leashes For Dogs
Hands free leashes are a must have for joggers, runners or bike riders who enjoy taking their dog with them for their daily routine.
The hands free option makes holding onto the leash while running a thing of the past and forget about using two leashes for your canine duo.
Now you can clip them to the same lead while also giving them their own space to walk or run.
2 Hands Free Leashes For Dogs
iYo Hands Free Dog Leash
iYo Hands Free Dog Leash (Amazon.com)
This leash is an excellent option for regular everyday use for walking or going to the vet.
But it is also a great leash for people who enjoy running with their dog and need a hands free option.
The leash can be secured around your waist with a convenient fanny pack pouch for your phone, poop bags or other necessities.
It doesn’t stop there though!
This leash has a unique bungee quality to it that will help to reduce the tugging and pulling from your dog during running and other activities.
iYo Dual Dog Leash, 360 Degree Swivel
iYo Dual Dog Leash, 360 Degree Swivel (Amazon.com)
The dual dog leash is great for those of us that have more than one dog. You won’t have to worry about your two leashes getting tangled either with the single lead design!
The bungee extensions that clips to their collar reduces the feeling of being pulled with two dogs, making it more comfortable for you to walk at your own pace.
Flexi-Leashes For Dogs
Flexi-leashes, or retractable leashes, are great for some dogs, but not for others.
If you have a dog that is strong, big and likes to pull, you should avoid these leads at all cost!
However, flexi -eashes are excellent options for small or medium sized dogs or for dogs that have good leash manners.
3 Excellent Flexi-Leashes For Dogs
TUG 360 Tangle Free Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash
TUG 360 Tangle Free Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash (Amazon.com)
This heavy duty flexi-leash is a popular choice for many owners. These leashes work well for many dogs that are well-controlled and don’t have a habit of pulling too much.
They don’t allow for a lot of control in situations where dogs suddenly take off or drag their owners.
Many medium and small breed dogs do well with a flexi-leash like the TUG 360.
Fida Retractable Dog Leash
Fida Retractable Dog Leash (Amazon.com)
Here is another good option for small and medium sized dogs. They do come in larger sizes as well!
This retractable leash has reflective material with a soft, easy-grip handle design to prevent the leash from being yanked out of your hand.
Pina Retractable Dog Leash
Pina Retractable Dog Leash (Amazon.com)
Another well rated flexi-leash, this retractable lead can stretch up to 26 ft!
The sizes range from small to large and the bigger size can withstand up to 110 lbs.
Like the other flexi this one also has a reflective material in the leash itself, making you and your dog easier to see in the dark.
Conclusion: Finding The Right Leash For Your Dog
There’s no need to spend too much time deciding which leash is a good fit for you and your dog.
Hopefully this list helped you narrow down your search options!
You can’t go wrong with a traditional leash or a rope lead, so if you just can’t decide then choosing one of those should work out great!
Photo by: Nick.