11 Best Dog Leashes of 2024

When you're training a new pup or just looking for a bit more control, this double-handled leash may be what you and your pooch are looking for. It gives you the option of two-hand control with its second handle halfway down the length of the leash — no more wrapping the leash around your wrist for extra control. Our testers liked how this leash gave them a bit more control over their dog with the second handle, and also appreciated the reflective details.

The stitching along both sides is reflective for low-light walks, while the D ring at the handle can clip on waste bags or other walking accessories. For every leash purchased, Max and Neo also donates an identical one to a dog rescue. While our testers appreciated the feel of this leash, they did note that the leash can be a bit long for smaller dogs that walk slower and they have to pick up the slack while walking for longer durations.

For everyday walks, this basic nylon dog leash by PetSafe is a budget pick that comes in seven different colors and five widths/lengths. Our testers found that while it does the trick for most pets, if you have large dogs that tend to pull, the handle is not as comfortable in your grasp as some more padded options. Our experts like that it is available in a variety of widths and lengths so you can get a narrower leash for smaller pups and a slightly longer leash for larger ones that prefer to roam. "This leash was lightweight and connected easily to my dog's harness," says one tester. "The nylon material feels durable, is easy to clean and won't stain," notes another.

Fashionista pups will hit the streets in style with this leash and collar set from Wild One. This kit includes a matching leash, collar and poop bag carrier. While testing, we found the flex-poly coated nylon leash feels supple and durable in your hand and smooth enough to prevent from cutting into your palm if your pup pulls. Our testers appreciated the wide variety of color options available in vibrant, lush tones like limeade green and orchid. We also like that there's two leash sizes for smaller and average pups. If you're more of a harness type of family, their walk kit includes a harness, leash and poop bag carrier. We also found their classic dog harness to be one of our favorite dog harnesses while testing due to its cushiony fabric, variety of attachment points and sizing range.

While many vets and experts don't particularly encourage the use of retractable dog leashes for a plethora of reasons (it can get tangled up in your legs and trip you, or cause issues if your pup runs too far away and you can't pull them back quickly enough), if you're confident in your retractable leash handling, this one by TUG is a great option. It's available in five sizes and seven color combinations and features a comfortable, ergonomic handle that's easy to grip and won't cramp your hand or be uncomfortable, per the brand.

According to online reviewers, the leash has a comfortable weight to it, lives up to its name as "tangle-free" and the locking mechanism functions smoothly and without delay. Sizes small, medium and large feature a 16 foot tape while the XL has 26 feet of leash and Tiny has just 10 feet. Unlike traditional leashes, when not in use it slips right back into the handle so you don't have to worry about it tangling up while in your bag.

This classic rope style leash will impress all types of pet parents. Unlike some other more boring leash options, our testers loved the bright color of this six-foot leash (it also comes in green). The woven rope is sturdy and has a little give to it for stronger pullers, too. It's woven with reflective thread for visibility and has a padded handle for extra comfort. Our testers did feel like the carabiner that attaches to your pup was a bit loose and were worried that they could knock it open since it doesn't lock, but online reviewers have noted that it's easy to swap it out with a locking one of your own if you need that extra peace of mind.

If you're used to get pulled all the way down the street by your pet, this harness and leash combo might be the best thing to change that routine. Our experts found this leash and harness to be one of our favorites for training your pup since the double leash can connect to two points on the harness at the same time to help train your pet and keep them from pulling. The back loop helps make sure the pressure is evenly distributed across your dog's body while the front loop makes it easier to control and lead them. The brand notes that they tested this harness and leash on up to 3,800 pounds so they won't be able to drag you down quite as easily as before.

Break a sweat without worrying about your pup pulling you over when you take a run with this bungee dog leash by Ruffwear. As our overall favorite running leash, this pick can stretch up to seven feet long (or 11 depending on which size you pick). While we haven't gotten a chance to test this leash, online reviewers note that the clip connecting it to your pup is strong and sturdy, and found the bungee made it less jarring on their arms and body when their pup pulled.

It has many of our favorite qualities that the other leashes on this list have, like a second handle near the collar of your dog for better control, the ability to wear it around your waist hands-free and a padded handle for a comfortable grip. It's also available in a few different colors and two lengths. Online reviewers note that if you're planning on wearing it around your waist, the length comes out of the leash size so it's better to size up to the longer leash to ensure your pup still has enough space to roam.

Rope leashes are popular for many reasons, like their cool style and their durability. If you've got a strong dog on your hands, hook them up with this heavy-duty rope leash by BAAPET. Made with 1.2-inch rock climbing rope, it comes with a cushy handle and a strong clasp that will last and last. It's perfect for night runs with reflective thread and will withstand both daily neighborhood strolls and strenuous hikes. Online reviewers found it to be great quality and able to withstand even some of the strongest pullers. One thing to keep in mind is that for those whose pups tend to walk with a little bit more slack, the thick rope is more difficult to manipulate than a thinner, flat leash and requires two hands if you plan on keeping control.

Your fur baby deserves only the finest things in life, and that includes a butter soft, luxurious and high-quality leash. This leather leash by Molly and Stitch features solid brass or steel hardware and elegant braided accents at the clasp and handle. This 4.6-foot leash is available in seven colors and three widths. It can also be purchased alongside a matching collar or harness, or in 3x length which is 6.5 feet long and adjustable to two different lengths. We found this leash to be sturdy and supple while testing in the Lab, and appreciated the attention to detail, like the packaging, sturdy hardware and rich color. The leather feels strong enough to withstand your daily walk while also being soft to touch. It is also comfortable to grip in your hand and leather will stand up to the test of time without fraying.

Holding your dog's leash in your hands is so last season, and this wrap around leash slips right over your waist (or shoulder), leaving your hands free to text, carry groceries or just swing at your side. Our Lab experts loved the texture of this leash and the added sling bag that comes with it. We found the neoprene bag to be soft to touch, and large enough to carry all of your necessities while being lightweight and easy to tote around. We also appreciated the addition of the designated built-in poop bag dispenser and mesh design to keep from getting too sweaty while pressed up against your body. Don't feel like wearing the bag? You can simply unclip the leash, and clip one end to the ring on the leash to create a handle for a standard leash. The sling bag is also cute enough to carry around all on its own, so when you unclip the leash after your walk you don't have to swap everything over to another purse for the day.

Earning top marks from our testers on handle comfort, this dual-handle dog leash has thick neoprene padding lining the interior of each of the handles so you can walk all day. Testers loved the padded grip, which works especially well for sensitive hands. Our testers found this leash to be made with "comfortable and durable materials," and noted they "love the feels of the handles and the length was great."

If you take your dog on long excursions, this comfortable leash is for you: it's comfy to hold all day, and you can grab the bottom loop for quick control of your dog on the trail. Reflective stitching spans both sides of the leash, so you'll stay visible even at dawn and dusk. It's also six feet long, so your pup can roam a bit farther without pulling your arm out every time they go to sniff a tree or bush.