The Best Dog Leashes

The best dog leash is one that fits your dog’s size, your walking style and the place you walk. For most people, we like the Kurgo Quantum Leash 2.0. It adjusts from 48 to 72 inches and works hands-free too. Below are four picks and how to choose.

Our picks at a glance

• Best overall: Kurgo Quantum Leash 2.0
• Best for close control: Max and Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash
• Best slip lead: Mendota Slip Leash
• Best simple everyday leash: PetSafe Nylon Leash

The best dog leashes

Best overall

Dog leashes

Kurgo Quantum Leash 2.0

Best for: Walkers who want one leash for many uses

Kurgo says this leash can be used six ways, including a 6-foot lead, a 3-foot training lead, and a hands-free style worn over the shoulder or around the waist. The length adjusts from 48 to 72 inches. It also comes with a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects. Skip it if you want the simplest leash possible.

• Pro: Adjusts from 48 to 72 inches
• Pro: Can be worn hands-free over the shoulder or around the waist
• Pro: Backed by a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects
• Con: More parts to adjust than a plain leash
• Con: Hands-free wear is not ideal for dogs that pull hard

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Best for close control

Dog leashes

Max and Neo Double Handle Heavy Duty Reflective Leash

Best for: Crowded sidewalks and large dogs

This 6-foot leash has two padded handles. The second one sits 18 inches from the clasp, so you can shorten your hold fast near traffic or other dogs. Both sides have reflective stitching. Max and Neo says the 1-inch nylon webbing suits large dogs. Small dogs may find it heavy.

• Pro: Padded traffic handle 18 inches from the clasp
• Pro: Reflective stitching on both sides for visibility at night
• Pro: D-ring for clipping on accessories
• Con: The 1-inch width may feel bulky on small dogs
• Con: Not adjustable in length

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Best slip lead

Dog leashes

Mendota Slip Leash

Best for: Dogs who slip out of collars and handlers who need speed

A slip lead is a leash and collar in one. The loop adjusts to any neck size. Mendota makes it from braided rope in 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch widths, and says the small suits dogs up to 50 pounds. The AKC says slip leads work best for trained dogs. Skip it for puppies or dogs who pull hard.

• Pro: Adjusts to any neck size
• Pro: Waterproof rope that is machine washable (air dry only)
• Pro: Two rope widths and two lengths to match your dog's size
• Con: Not meant for dogs who pull hard against the loop
• Con: Needs a correct, careful fit around the neck

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Best simple everyday leash

Dog leashes

PetSafe Nylon Leash

Best for: Basic walks and loose-leash training

This is a plain nylon leash with a metal clasp. PetSafe offers 4-foot and 6-foot lengths in three widths. Its size chart pairs 3/8 inch with dogs under 30 pounds, 3/4 inch with 30 to 75 pounds, and 1 inch with dogs over 75 pounds. It has no padding, so skip it if you want a cushioned handle.

• Pro: Sizes for small, medium and large dogs
• Pro: Choice of 4-foot or 6-foot length
• Pro: Works with harnesses and headcollars
• Con: No padding or extra handle
• Con: Few extra features

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How to choose a dog leash

Pick the right length

The AKC says standard flat leashes are usually 4 to 6 feet long. Ruffwear notes that shorter leashes suit crowded areas, and longer ones suit running and hiking. Local leash laws differ. Six feet is common, so check the rules where you live.

Match the leash to your dog’s size

The AKC says small dogs do best with light leashes, while a thin strap or light clasp can fail on a large, strong dog. Big dogs also benefit from a padded handle. Always pick a sturdy metal clip.

Choose a material

Nylon is tough, washable and inexpensive, according to the AKC. Leather is comfortable but needs special care. Chain resists chewing. The AKC also lists reflective materials, which help you be seen at night.

Think about your walks

Ruffwear says hands-free leashes work well for running and hiking, while hand-held ones give better control of direction. Stretchy bungee leashes can soften sudden stops for dogs who often pause to sniff. Beginners should start with a standard 4 to 6 foot leash, per the AKC.

What about retractable leashes?

The AKC advises against them for dogs that haven’t learned to walk politely, because they reward pulling. We left them out of our picks for that reason. If you use one, the AKC says to choose a tape style over a thin cord, and use it only in open spaces, not on sidewalks or in crowded places.

Safety tips

• Check the clip and stitching often. Replace a leash that is frayed or has a weak clasp.
• Don’t use a retractable leash in busy places. The AKC warns that dogs can run into traffic or get hurt at the end of the line before you can step in.
• Keep thin cords away from skin. The AKC says thin leash cords can burn or cut if they wrap around people or dogs.
• Use slip leads with care. The AKC says they work best for trained dogs, so skip them for dogs still learning to walk on a leash.
• Pair the leash with a well-fitted harness if your dog pulls. See our guide to the best no-pull dog harnesses.