The 10 Best Retractable Dog Leashes to Buy in 202
Dogs are like excited children who always want to go outside and play. Unlike children, however, they never really grow up and they never, ever stop chasing squirrels and birds. Throughout the years, they teach us all about patience, unconditional love, and responsibility. So, it’s only right that we pay them back by keeping them safe, happy, and healthy.
Dogs like walks as much as they like table food, but since we can’t always give them the latter, we choose to spoil them with quality time out on the town instead. Going out for walks with our best friend has been made easy thanks to retractable dog leashes, so we want you to find the best one for your family, too. But, there are a few things you should know before making your pick.
- What You Need to Know About Retractable Dog Leashes
- Top 10 Best Retractable Dog Leashes 2024
- 1. Best Overall Retractable Dog Leash: QiMH Retractable Dog Leash
- 2. Best Premium Retractable Dog Leash: Flexi Giant Tape Leash
- 3. Best Retractable Dog Leash for First-Time Dog Owners: Ruff ‘n Ruffus Retractable Dog Leash
- 4. Best Retractable Dog Leash for Small Dogs: TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash
- 5. Best Budget Retractable Dog Leash: Fida Retractable Dog Leash
- 6. Best Retractable Leash for Leash-Chewers: Triton Retractable Dog Leash
- 7. Best Retractable Dog Leash for Freezing Temperatures: MigooPet Retractable Dog Leash
- 8. Best Retractable Leash for People With Small Hands: Beastron Retractable Leash
- 9. Best Retractable Dog Leash for Old Dogs: TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash
- 10. Smoothest Retractable Dog Leash: Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash
- A Guide to Buying the Best Retractable Dog Leash
- Final Thoughts
What You Need to Know About Retractable Dog Leashes
There’s a lot to consider when selecting a retractable dog leash, and we want to make sure that you have all the information you need. We’ll go over exactly what a retractable dog leash is, how beneficial they are for your pet, how safe they truly are, and which factors we chose to focus on while building our list.
What Is a Retractable Dog Leash?
Retractable dog leashes were created for dogs who love to roam. They are much longer than traditional dog leashes and some can even extend to 30 feet. This allows doggos to walk ahead of their owners and freely explore the grounds around them. Retractable dog leashes wind up into a plastic handle, and the length of the leash is then controlled by a button that locks it into place. Dog owners can lengthen or shorten the leash as they see fit.
How Will My Dog Benefit From a Retractable Leash?
There are a lot of benefits to using a retractable dog leash which is why they have become so popular within the community. These leashes allow us to give our dogs the freedom they crave during their walks. This way, they’re free to follow their nose and explore at leisure, which does a lot for their self-confidence.
For a dog, there is nothing more important than stopping to smell the roses. Sniffing everything and anything is how they experience the world, and the different smells they take in improves their cognition.
All in all, retractable leashes give dogs extra freedom at the push of a button. Retractable leashes are beneficial for dog owners, too. After all, they lessen the load on our arms and backs.
To find out more about the pros and cons of retractable dog leashes, check out our full guide.
Are Retractable Dog Leashes Safe?
Before taking your dog out for a walk, it is highly recommended that you take the time to master your retractable leash. This can prevent any injuries from happening and will give you plenty of time to familiarize yourself with the walking and locking process. Like traditional leashes, retractable dog leashes are safe as long as you use them correctly. They’re also best suited for disciplined dogs who don’t take off running and know how to heel without too much back and forth.
When putting our list together, we made sure to keep safety at the forefront of our minds. All of our picks have passed the safety test, and they’ve been fabricated with quality materials, too.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Retractable Dog Leash
Dogs come in all different shapes and sizes, and so do retractable dog leashes. We want you to choose the best retractable dog leash for your pet, so we considered the following factors when making our picks.
Length: We’ll let you know what the maximum length of each retractable dog leash is before diving into other features. This way, you’ll know right off the bat if it’s what you’re looking for.
Weight: We’ll also reveal the maximum weight that each dog leash can successfully carry. This will help you locate the most durable and safe retractable leash for your best pal.
Extra Features: To ensure that you know exactly what you’re walking into, we’ll also dive into the extra features offered by every dog leash on our list. Some retractable dog leashes come with extra buttons, special handles, and grips — or other fun perks.
Whether you’re walking a young pup or teaching an old dog new tricks, we’re confident that there’s a retractable dog leash on this list that will enhance your dog’s walking experience as well as your own.
We’re about to reveal which retractable dog leashes made the grade. So, if you have any more questions, we advise you to check out our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Top 10 Best Retractable Dog Leashes 2024
1. Best Overall Retractable Dog Leash: QiMH Retractable Dog Leash
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: We love how the QiMH Retractable Dog Leash offers a 360° tangle-free feature, giving pups an extra boost of confidence.
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 ft
- Weight Limit: Up to 110 lbs
The QiMH Retractable Dog Leash is super affordable and easy to use. Its locking system is one of its most appealing features, as it offers quick release and one-handed locking technology. This means that it automatically adjusts to new leash lengths, allowing your dog to sniff around unphased.
This leash is perfect for you if your dog isn’t that much of a tugger. It offers 16 feet of play so it can easily be used during nature walks or other adventures. If you’re a first-time dog owner who is looking for a retractable leash to transition to, the QiMH is a great starter leash.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that despite this leash being advertised for dogs up to 110 pounds, we would label it as perfect for medium-sized dogs. This is because if you have a larger dog who is known for spontaneously taking off to chase a squirrel, this leash will not last you for as long as you’d hoped.
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty leash that is suitable for larger canines, we highly recommend checking out the Flexi Giant Tape Leash. This leash is slightly more expensive and doesn’t come with any fun perks, but it’s built to last and offers a much longer leash length.
Extra Features
On top of having a 360° tangle-free leash, a one-button lock system, and an ergonomic non-slip handle, the QiMH Retractable Dog Leash also has a reflective ribbon that helps promote visibility at night. Most alluring, however, is the fact that this leash comes with a few gifts. The leash comes with a free collar (not to be used with the leash), a collapsible water bowl, and a bone-shaped waste bag holder with two rolls of plastic bags. All of these items can be attached to the handle, which makes taking your dog out for a walk a one-handed operation.
Pros
- 360° tangle-free leash
- One-button lock system
- Ergonomic non-slip handle
- Reflective nylon ribbon
- Includes fun gifts
Cons
- Better suited for medium-sized dogs
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: With 26 feet of play, the Flexi Giant Tape Leash gives big dogs the illusion that they’re free to roam on their own. This heavy-duty leash is easy to operate and most importantly, it keeps your dog safe!
Quick Facts
- Length: 26 ft
- Weight Limit: Up to 110 lbs
If you have a large dog who is notorious for snapping his retractable leashes, you might be feeling like you’re running out of options. The Flexi Giant Tape Leash is bound to restore your faith in retractable dog leashes in just one short walk around the block. Flexi Giant is slightly more pricey than some of its competitors, but that’s a small price to pay for some good old peace of mind and besides, this leash should go on to last you for years. It’s very easy to use and although it is perfect for larger doggos, smaller dogs have no issues with this leash.
The Flexi Giant Tape Leash is our number one pick because it does exactly what it’s supposed to: it protects your dog while giving him loads of freedom. If you have smaller hands, you might notice that the black handle is quite large. However, within a week you should get used to its size and forget all about this little con. We chose to give this retractable dog leash 5 stars for its safety, durability, and practicality.
Extra Features
The Flexi Giant Tape Leash is equipped with a convenient brake button that you can operate with just one hand. This is made easy thanks to the leash’s ergonomic soft-grip handle. Its nylon ribbon belt is a startling neon green, which helps promote visibility at night time.
Pros
- Single-handed brake button
- Neon-colored nylon belt for enhanced visibility
- Extremely durable
- Extra-long nylon leash
- Ergonomic soft-grip handle
Cons
- Large handle
3. Best Retractable Dog Leash for First-Time Dog Owners: Ruff ‘n Ruffus Retractable Dog Leash
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The Ruff ‘n Ruffus is an inexpensive retractable dog leash that comes with tons of perks. Once you master its brake and lock system, it’s a total game-changer.
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 ft
- Weight Limit: Up to 110 lbs
While most dog leashes are a boring shade of black or grey, the Ruff ‘n Ruffus attracts dog owners with vibrant shades of purple and green. However, it’s not its vibrancy that makes people stick around. If your dog is constantly getting tangled around trees or the leashes of other dogs, you might have noticed that your leash has begun to fray. This is one thing the Ruff ‘n Ruffus seeks to put in the past, thanks to its fray-proof nylon ribbon, of course.
The Ruff ‘n Ruffus has a wide handle that is often praised by men and women with larger hands. So, if your hands are on the small-side, it might not fit like a glove. For this reason, and the fact that its locking mechanism can take some getting used to, we love the Ruff ‘n Ruffus Dog Leash.
This retractable dog leash is suitable for larger dogs. However, if your dog is close to 100 pounds and tends to pull like there’s no tomorrow, we recommended checking out the TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash. You’ll feel much more secure with that one.
Extra Features
The Ruff ‘n Ruffus Dog Leash is made with a fray-proof nylon ribbon that was designed to prevent tearing. It has a high-quality brake and lock system and an anti-slip handle for extra safety. This leash also comes with some fun freebies like a bone-shaped waste bag dispenser, a roll of plastic bags, and a collapsible water bowl. The Ruff ‘n Ruffus comes in fun shades of green and purple.
Pros
- Fray-proof nylon ribbon
- High-quality brake and lock system
- Anti-slip handle
- Includes fun gifts
Cons
- Brake and lock system can be difficult to get used to
- Large apparatus
4. Best Retractable Dog Leash for Small Dogs: TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash was built to last. It's tough and durable and made with high-quality materials so that you and your dog both get the care you deserve — especially on long walks.
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 ft
- Weight Limit: Up to 35 lbs (S), 55 lbs (M) or 110 lbs (L) lbs
The TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash is super reliable and sturdy, giving us some extra peace of mind. It’s very comfortable to hold and has all the makings for you and your dog to experience a lovely walk.
Unlike many of its competitors, the TUG comes in three different sizes, making it a top contender for smaller pets. It also comes in different colors, so if you have more than one dog at home, it’ll be easy to mix and match sizes with specific shades.
We gave the TUG a total of 4.5 stars because although it might come off as perfect, there are two little factors that knock it down a notch. For starters, if you do get the larger size you might be surprised at how big the handle is. But, even then, the handle is very comfortable and easy to use. Secondly, the leash ribbon can twist on the inside and prevent the retraction feature from working its magic. However, this rarely ever happens, seeing as the 360° tangle-free feature often comes into play.
If you’re looking for a retractable leash that is best suited for medium-sized dogs, check out the QiMH Retractable Dog Leash. It has many of the same features as the TUG but also comes with a few fun gifts — all for a similar price.
Extra Features
The TUG has a 360° tangle-free leash and an ergonomic anti-slip handle — for extra mobility and safety. It also has a quick lock and brake system that is super easy to operate and an ergonomic anti-slip handle, too.
Pros
- 360° tangle-free leash
- Quick-lock and unlock
- Ergonomic anti-slip handle
Cons
- Larger sizes have larger handles
- Leash ribbon can be prone to twisting
5. Best Budget Retractable Dog Leash: Fida Retractable Dog Leash
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The Fida Retractable Dog Leash offers so many perks it’s hard to wrap our minds around its super low price. With so many sizes and colors available, it’s easy to pick the best and more reliable leash for your lovable doggo.
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 ft
- Weight Limit: Up to 18 lbs (XS), 26 lbs (S), 44 lbs (M) or 110 lbs (L)
The Fida leash gives your dog 16-feet of play no matter which size you order. The smallest size is so lightweight that you can use it to walk cats, too. Whatever size you pick, you can relax knowing that this leash is made with heavy-duty materials that promote safety. The locking system is so straightforward and effective that you can confidently walk your dog on busy sidewalks without fearing for the worst.
The Fida is so affordable that it comes at a price: the leash itself can feel quite cheap, which is why it came shy of a perfect score. However, despite its cheap feel, the leash is heavy-duty. We also want to add that the retraction on this leash is quite strong. So, if you’re thinking of buying the Fida for a pet that is lighter than 10 pounds, we recommend checking out the TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash instead — it’s simply the best leash for tiny little pets.
Extra Features
The Fida Retractable Dog Leash has so many features that we don’t know where to start. Not only does it make pulling your dog in any direction possible thanks to its 360° tangle-free leash, but it also has a strong nylon ribbon that’s built to last. The nylon ribbon is reflective, which is perfect if you’re someone who frequently walks their dog at night. It also has an internal coil spring for easy retraction and an ergonomic anti-slip handle for maximum safety.
Pros
- 360° tangle-free leash
- Heavy-duty nylon ribbon
- Internal coil spring for retraction
- Reflective ribbon for enhanced visibility
- Ergonomic anti-slip handle
Cons
- The leash can feel a little cheap
- Retraction can be too strong for pets under 10 pounds
6. Best Retractable Leash for Leash-Chewers: Triton Retractable Dog Leash
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: A retractable dog leash that is both chew-resistant and tangle-free? Say no more! The Triton is a breeze to operate, and we love how it comes with a free collapsible water bowl for easy hydration.
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 ft
- Weight Limit: Small or medium-sized dogs (no weight specified)
Does your dog chew every single leash he encounters? Does he manage to tangle himself (and you) in just a matter of seconds? Well, you’re not alone. In fact, so many of us encounter these issues that Triton chose to take care of it — for good. Their retractable dog leash is both chew-resistant and tangle-free — what a relief!
Although we love the Triton, we do have a few bones to pick with it, especially when it comes to specifications. Unlike most retractable dog leash suppliers, the Triton doesn’t specify the maximum weight it can safely carry. However, it does state that it’s most suitable for small or medium-sized dogs. Another thing to mention is that the handle itself is quite small. So, if you have medium or large-sized hands, you’ll want to reconsider. If this is you, check out the Ruff ‘n Ruffus, it’s fray-proof and has a large anti-slip handle!
Extra Features
The Triton is jam-packed with extra features, which is why it’s managed to build up such a stellar reputation. It’s one of the few dog leashes that labels itself as chew-resistant and tangle-free: and for some, that’s all they need to know. It has a 1-touch locking system and an ergonomic anti-slip handle, making it very easy to operate. Lastly, the Triton comes with a little gift: a collapsible water bowl that clips onto the handle of the leash.
Pros
- Chew-resistant
- One-button locking system
- Ergonomic anti-slip handle
- Tangle-free
- Free collapsible water bowl
Cons
- No specified weight limit
- Small apparatus
7. Best Retractable Dog Leash for Freezing Temperatures: MigooPet Retractable Dog Leash
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: MigooPet Retractable Dog Leashes are made to last thanks to their tough plastic casings. In other words, they won’t crack if you drop them. Bringing a large dog to heel is an easy thing to accomplish thanks to MigooPet’s built-in retraction springs.
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 ft
- Weight Limit: Up to 45 lbs (S/M) or 115 lbs (M/L)
If you need a durable dog leash that won’t crack open as soon as it hits the ground, the MigooPet Retractable Dog Leash is here to save the day. Oddly enough, despite being super sturdy, the apparatus itself is very lightweight. Thanks to its stainless steel retraction springs and heavy-duty plastic casing, this leash is a must-have if you live in a colder climate. After all, it won’t crack in freezing temperatures — even when your dog suddenly pulls with all his might. For enhanced mobility, the MigooPet also has a snap hook with a reinforced 360° swivel.
We chose to give the MigooPet Retractable Dog Leash a total of 4 stars despite all of its strengths. This is because the MigooPet doesn’t have the best catch and release system. It’s prone to getting stuck, especially when the leash itself gets retracted. For these reasons, we recommend using this leash in more secluded areas — like a snowy field or a bike path.
If you’re looking for a dog leash with a locking mechanism that just won’t quit, check out the Flexi Giant Tape Leash.
Extra Features
The MigooPet is made with a tough ABS plastic casing that prevents it from cracking under pressure. It offers a one-handed operation that is very easy to master, and its retraction springs make it easy to bring your dog to heel. Inside the casing are extremely efficient stainless steel retraction springs that promote a rust-free environment. Lastly, the MigooPet has a comfortable ergonomic handle that is made with soft anti-slip rubber for maximum comfort.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Snap hook with reinforced 360° swivel
- Built-in retraction springs
- Ergonomic and non-slip rubber handle
Cons
- Catch and release button may get stuck
- The leash may get tangled when retracting
8. Best Retractable Leash for People With Small Hands: Beastron Retractable Leash
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: We love how inexpensive and durable the Beastron Retractable Leash is. Finally, a tough leash with a smaller handle — perfect for big dog owners with smaller hands!
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 ft
- Weight Limit: Up to 110 lbs
True to its name, the Beastron Retractable Leash offers maximum hold while allowing your furry friend to roam freely. Its one-button operation can be mastered in seconds, and in the heat of the moment, simplicity is key. We chose to give the Beastron 4 stars because it offers excellent value for an amazing price.
We had to dock a star from its rating because of two important factors. One, if you’re someone who has medium or large-sized hands, you might find yourself in a jam. And two, if your dog is prone to chewing leashes, you might find out the hard way that the Beatron’s nylon leash isn’t exactly chew-proof, despite all of its might. If your dog has a professional degree in leash-chewing, we recommended looking into the Triton, it’s a chew-resistant leash, after all!
Extra Features
The Beastron Retractable Leash is made strong thanks to its ABS plastic casing and nylon ribbon. It has an easy-to-use one-button operation, allowing for a swift leash length overhaul. Its ergonomic anti-slip handle makes walking the dog a comfortable experience. It comes with a gift, too: a pre-stocked and bone-shaped waste bag holder that clips onto the leash handle for easy access.
Pros
- ABS plastic casing
- Ergonomic anti-slip handle
- One-button operation
- Free waste bag holder + bags
Cons
- Small handle
- Not chew-proof
9. Best Retractable Dog Leash for Old Dogs: TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash is super affordable — perfect for families who don’t want to invest in a leash they won’t use multiple times a day. We love how comfortable the handle is, too!
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 ft
- Weight Limit: Up to 110 lbs
The TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash is so affordable and easy to use that it’s often bought as a backup leash — but that isn’t to say that it can’t be used as your primary leash. The TaoTronics Dog Leash is best suited for medium or large-sized dogs. However, if your furry friend is close to the weight limit and enjoys pulling your arm, this leash won’t last you very long.
The TaoTronics is a basic leash that is often loved by older dogs because it does not have a robust retracting system. If you’re someone who frequently lets your dog out in your backyard, you might not be looking for an everyday heavy-duty leash, so why pay for one? That’s where TaoTronics comes in — it’s perfect for casual walks.
If you’re searching for a dog leash that can withstand the consistent pull of larger dogs, we suggest looking into the Flexi Giant Tape Leash, it offers a longer roaming length and a wider handle, too.
Extra Features
The TaoTronics is a simple yet effective retractable dog leash that offers a one-button brake and lock feature. Its nylon ribbon is tangle-free and its ABS plastic casing makes it quite durable. TaoTronics comes with a free waste bag holder and a round of bags. However, keep in mind is that the waste bags supplied by TaoTronics may not be as durable as you’d like, so be sure to bring your own bags just in case. Like all good retractable leashes, it has an ergonomic anti-slip handle.
Pros
- ABS plastic casing
- Ergonomic anti-slip handle
- Free waste bag holder + bags
- Tangle-free nylon ribbon
Cons
- Waste bags can be problematic
- Not suitable for everyday heavy-duty use
- Small handle
10. Smoothest Retractable Dog Leash: Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash
Editor’s Rating:
Why we like it: The Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash gives you and your dog confidence no matter your environment. Its retracting system is so smooth your doggo will think he’s walking freely.
Quick Facts
- Length: 16 ft
- Weight Limit: Up tp 110 lbs
Whether you’re walking a Boston terrier, a pug, or a husky you can feel comfortable knowing that the Hertzko dog leash was made to accommodate all sorts of dog breeds. It’s made strong and has a tangle-free feature that makes managing your dog while out for walks an easy thing to do. With 16 feet of play, your dog will think he’s walking himself.
We chose to give Hertzko 3.5 stars because of its handle and nylon ribbon. The leash itself frays quite easily and stands no chance against a teething puppy. The handle, on the other hand, is quite small and the lock feature itself can be awkward to operate. If you have small hands then look no further, but if you’re looking for something larger then check out the TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash.
Extra Features
The Hertzko has a built-in secure locking mechanism that makes adjusting the leash length a total breeze. It also has an anti-slip handle that is very comfortable to hold and a tangle-free nylon ribbon!
Pros
- Tangle-free nylon ribbon
- Smooth retracting system
- One-button locking system
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs who chew leashes
- Small handle
A Guide to Buying the Best Retractable Dog Leash
Your dog is your best friend — no matter how many pairs of your shoes he chews. It’s only normal for us to want the best for our dogs, which is why learning about different types of leashes and their many pros and cons is always a good place to start. Afterward, we’ll move on to cover which factors you should consider when making your pick, followed by some frequently asked questions.
Pros and Cons of Retractable Dog Leashes
There are two sides to every coin, which is why both retractable and standard dog leashes have their own lists of pros and cons. We’re going to focus on the successes and shortcomings of retractable dog leashes first, keeping the cons for last.
Pros of Retractable Dog Leashes
One thing to note is that it’s important to train your dog on a standard leash before attempting to use a retractable leash. This is especially true if your dog is of the hyper variety. If your new best pal was a rescue and you’re not too sure what leash training he’s been subjected to, bring him to a secluded and safe area to test out your retractable dog leash before attempting to bring him out on the street. Below are some of the pros that make choosing a retractable leash a no-brainer.
- Well-behaved dogs are rewarded with extra freedom, allowing them to roam freely.
- Dogs have access to a larger pool of smells.
- The extra freedom helps build their confidence.
- Your dog can run ahead of you without pulling your arm or straining your back.
- Dogs get a better workout and can mark their territory where they please.
- You don’t have to go for a walk to let your dog out during rainstorms or bad weather. You can simply stand at the door and let your pup do his business.
Cons of Retractable Dog Leashes
Like anything in life, there’s always a flip side. For some dog parents, retractable dog leashes can be a little problematic. Keep reading to find out why retractable dog leashes aren’t suitable for everyone.
- High-energy dogs may be hard to manage on a retractable leash.
- If your dog frequently runs off only to get pulled back he can injure himself.
- Dogs who frequently pull on their leashes can break the mechanism, causing it to have a short lifespan.
- Dogs who frequently chase squirrels or jump at other dogs may be challenging to reel in.
- The longer the leash, the more likely a dog can get tangled. If your dog wraps around someone and takes off running, this can potentially give them a friction burn.
- The more ground your dog can explore, the more dangers he can encounter, which is why it’s so important to stay alert while walking your dog on a retractable leash.
What to Consider When Selecting the Best Retractable Dog Leash
There are so many factors and features to consider when choosing the best possible retractable dog leash for your family. We’ve laid them out for you so that by the end of this list, you’ll know exactly what you’re searching for. Let’s jump right in, starting with what makes the world go round: pricetags.
Price: You might have noticed that retractable dog leashes can be very expensive, especially at a pet store. Luckily, you can shop around online and get a top-quality leash for just a fraction of the price you would pay in stores. Most of the leashes on our list revolve around the 20-dollar mark. So no matter your budget, you’ll have plenty of options.
Lifestyle: Before selecting a retractable dog leash and checking out all of its features, it’s always a great idea to take a step back and evaluate your lifestyle. If you live in an apartment or a condo, you’ll be used to taking your dog out for a walk multiple times a day. So, by default, you’ll need a heavy-duty leash. However, if you have your own backyard and simply need a retractable leash to get from point A to point B, a basic one will do just fine.
Local Regulations: Perhaps one of the most important factors to consider is whether or not your municipality allows retractable dog leashes in the first place.
Family: Are you the only member of your family who takes your dog out for walks? Or will you and your family be taking turns walking the dog? When selecting a retractable dog leash, be sure to consider the size of the apparatus. Depending on the size of your hands (and the size of your family members’ hands), you might need to order more than one leash. You can also opt for a leash with a larger handle. This way, everyone can slip their hand through.
Weight: All of the retractable dog leashes on our list have a weight limit of 110 pounds, more or less. If your dog weighs more than this, it’s important to seek a different leash option, as their weight and speed could cause a nylon ribbon to snap. If your dog is on the smaller side, there are plenty of leashes that cater to different weight groups, like the TUG 360° Tangle-Free Dog Leash.
Length: Nearly all of the retractable dog leashes on our list are 16-feet long. However, the Flexi Giant Tape Leash offers an astounding 26 feet of play. Determine which length is best for your pup before making your pick. If you enjoy going out on excursions with your dog, a longer leash may be beneficial.
Durability: Durability is one of the most important factors because it tells you whether or not your pet is well protected. We shopped around to make sure that every single retractable leash we put on our list was durable. Some are even made with ABS plastic casings to prevent systems from cracking under pressure.
Handles: Not all walks are short and sweet — quite the opposite, really. If you’re someone who enjoys going out on long walks with their best pal, choosing a retractable leash with a comfortable and safe handle is key. Every single one of the leashes on our list has an ergonomic handle for increased comfortability. Simply consider the size of your hand and the size of the handle for the best fit possible.
Leash Material: There are so many different types of leash materials, leather being the most trustworthy and heavy-duty. However, when it comes to retractable dog leashes, the most often used material is nylon. Nylon is a safe and reliable material as long as the proper weight group has been selected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Now that we know what to look for in a retractable dog leash, it’s time to follow up with some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding this topic.
Are retractable dog leashes suitable for big dogs?
Retractable dog leashes are suitable for every type of dog, as long as they fit into the weight class specified by the manufacturer. The larger the dog, the more strength the leash will need to have and this is especially true if your pup takes off running full-speed the second he sees a squirrel. Take your dog’s weight and temperament into account when selecting the best retractable dog leash for your family.
Are retractable dog leashes suitable for puppies?
It’s important to buy a special leash for puppies, especially when you’re just getting started, as they are generally more hyper and unpredictable than older and wiser dogs. Additionally, puppies tend to chew through their leashes very quickly, so investing in a more expensive retractable leash right off the bat isn’t always economical. Once your puppy has learned to heel and obey standard commands, you can switch them over to a retractable dog leash. We especially like the Triton because its nylon leash is chew-resistant.
Should I use a harness or a collar with a retractable dog leash?
Whether you’re using a retractable or standard dog leash, your dog should always have a collar with clear identification on while out for walks. You can attach the leash to their collar or choose to purchase a harness instead. Harnesses have a lot of advantages and in truth, they’re a lot safer for your dog. With a harness on, your pet cannot wiggle free and the blunt force of being pulled back won’t be focused around their neck. Using a harness will be a lot easier on your arms and back, too. On top of that, harnesses offer more control and it’s actually easier to train a dog on a harness than it is with a collar.
Can I use a retractable dog leash on other pets?
Some retractable dog leashes have a heavy-duty recoil that isn’t suitable for smaller pets. However, there are plenty of leashes and harnesses that fit smaller animals, allowing them to go on little walks. The TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash is available in three different sizes, the smallest size being a perfect option if you’re looking to leash-train your cat or rabbit.
Final Thoughts
We can’t say it enough: our dogs are like our children. So it goes without saying that they deserve the best. Although retractable dog leashes aren’t for everyone, dogs can be trained to welcome them into their routine. Once they’ve learned the ropes, they’ll enjoy the extra sense of freedom a retractable dog leash can offer them. Pairing the right leash with the right dog makes going out for walks a pleasant experience, and there’s nothing that your pup wants more than to spend some quality time with the person they love the most: you.
