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7 Best Dog Running Leashes, According to Pet Experts

You and Fido will be completing that half marathon in no time.

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woman running with dog on hands free leash
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What's a better combination than your furry best friend and a brisk morning jog? For avid runners, or those of us who are just starting to try our hand at a quick trot around the block, bringing your dog along for the ride can make exercise that much more fun, and offer an exciting bonding opportunity for you and your fur baby.

Whether you're a marathoner looking for a replacement for your 15-year-old ragged leash, or a new pet owner just starting out, finding the right running leash for you and your pup can make all the difference. From hands-free leashes that tie around your waist to bungee leashes and those with built-in storage pouches, these leashes will have your back no matter what your run brings.

The Good Housekeeping Institute tests everything you need as a pet parent, and has over a century-long history of testing some of the best products out there and providing reliable information. From dog harnesses to dog carriers to dog sunscreen to keep them protected while out and about, our experts have evaluated over a half dozen leashes (and a half dozen harnesses) in our Lab along with our team of consumer testers for factors like fit, comfort, control of the dog, ease of use and more. To make our list, we researched dozens of dog running leashes, read through hundreds of five-star reviews, evaluated products in our Lab and with consumer testers, and considered products by our expert-favorite brands.

1
Best Overall

RUFFWEAR Roamer Bungee Dog Leash

Roamer Bungee Dog Leash
Credit: Ruffwear

Pros

  • Can be worn hands-free or in your hand
  • Bungee leash helps increase shock absorption

Cons

  • Reviewers report bungee can stretch out over time

This leash by Ruffwear is designed to keep you and your active pup comfortable and safe while hitting the trails. Choose between holding it in your hand like a traditional leash, or wearing it around your waist for a hand-free experience, making it a great option for both extremely well-trained pups and those that may need a bit more direction.

The extending stretch webbing in the bungee leash makes it fairly shock absorbent, and can be paired with the Ruffwear front-range harness if you've got a dog that doesn't pull, since the harness may rub against them and irritate their body.

Online reviewers say this leash is great for dogs that tend to tug their owners, noting that they found the bungee helped decrease the pain in their shoulders. They also say that the clip connecting the leash to your dog is "strong, sturdy and reliable."

2
Best Value

iYoShop Hands Free Dog Leash with Zipper Pouch

Hands Free Dog Leash with Zipper Pouch

Pros

  • Zippered pouch is removable
  • Features reflective thread

Cons

  • Takes some getting used to

Looking for a fanny pack and leash in one? For legging wearers and those who need a bit more storage space while on their morning jog, this hands-free option with a built-in zipper pouch is a great pick. Not only is it budget friendly so you don't have to break the bank, but it has enough space to hold your phone, keys and dog treats.

"This leash is nice because of the built-in bungee that has some stretch if you slow down or your pup speeds up," says one pet parent we spoke to. "We really like the elastic portions, so if our dog happens to dart there's a little bit of give," says another. But keep in mind that as with most hands-free leashes, they take a bit of getting used to, especially if your pet isn't the most well trained pup.

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3
Most Versatile

Fable Pets Magic Link

Magic Link

Pros

  • Available in a variety of colors
  • Can be worn in many different ways

Cons

  • More expensive than other options

Made for minimalist dog owners, the Magic Link by Fable Pets is sleek and extremely convertible. Choose between wearing it around your wrist, holding in your hand, using it as a crossbody and more. You can slip the leash over your pup's neck as a 2-in-1 collar, or attach it to a collar they're already wearing.

One pet parent we spoke to particularly adored this leash because of its versatility. "I like to walk my dog with my leash crossbody and my boyfriend uses to around his waist to run with," they said. "It's hands-free and really versatile." Plus, it's available in nine colors and two sizes so it's easy to personalize for pets of all styles and breeds.

4
Best for Dogs That Pull

SparklyPets Hands Free Dog Leash for Medium and Large Dogs

Hands Free Dog Leash for Medium and Large Dogs
Credit: SparklyPets

Pros

  • Features a quick-release button
  • Can be used for two dogs at the same time

Cons

  • Difficult for pups that aren't fully leash trained

Sometimes you want to take a quick run with your pup, but you aren't quite 100% confident in their training skills. If you're worried that they might go running off after a squirrel or barrel down that hill, the quick-release button on this leash means you can get the leash off your waist as fast as possible and switched to a hand-held version in seconds to avoid being pulled or dragged down the street.

Online reviewers said that "the bungee on this leash feels extra strong and is longer than other bungee leashes I've used." If you've got multiple pups, it comes in a two dog leash version that online reviewers appreciate can be separated into two leashes if necessary. Plus, the cord and clasps design helps keep the leashes from tangling up in each other.

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5
Best Leash and Harness Combo

Kurgo 6 in 1 Hands Free Dog Leash and Journey Air Dog Harness

6 in 1 Hands Free Dog Leash and Journey Air Dog Harness

Pros

  • Incredibly adjustable in length and style
  • Features reflective trim

Cons

  • Materials aren't as strong as some other options on this list

Versatility is king when it comes to this leash by Kurgo and the Air Dog Harness that can be used with it. The 6-in-1 leash can be used in six different ways including as a hand-held leash, worn as a crossbody and fastened around the waist for a hands-free experience.

With a six-foot length, your pup will have no trouble exploring the path around you while on this leash. The reflective trim, padded handle and the bottle opener on the adjustable carabiner are just the icing on the cake. Plus, it seamlessly transfers between a running and regular leash so it can be used in all circumstances (even while training when adjusted to the three-foot training leash style).

Our testers found that they liked the mesh the harness was made from as it seemed more comfortable for their pup, which is especially important when running since the harness can rub against their body and irritate them. They also liked the ability to connect the leash to the front or back of the harness depending on what you're using it for.

6
Best for Multiple Dogs

Pet Dreamland Double Dog Leash

Double Dog Leash
Credit: Pet Dreamland

Pros

  • 360 swivel splitter keeps both dogs from tangling leashes
  • Bungee cords function as shock absorbers

Cons

  • Can't be used as a traditional hand-held leash

Multi-pup families who want to run with both dogs at the same time will appreciate this pick that lets you bring the whole furry family along.

Available in a variety of colors and styles (good for small or large dogs), it's easy to personalize this leash to your needs. The 360º swivel splitter is designed to keep the two leashes from tangling up or crossing and causing trouble amongst your two pups, and the bungee cords are shock absorbers that will help keep from wrenching your shoulders out if you or your dog make any sudden movements.

Online reviewers found that this leash helped limit the amount their hands and shoulders were tugged on while walking and noted that while it takes a few walks for you and your pups to get used to the new system, it's not too difficult to grow accustomed to.

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7
Best for Long Runs

RUFFWEAR Trail Runner System

On Sale
Trail Runner System

Pros

  • Exceptionally stretchy bungee leash
  • Pocket stores a large quantity of items

Cons

  • Not great for tight quarters or dogs that aren't well leash trained

Serious runners and trail trotters can snag this runner system by Ruffwear that will make jogging with your pup a breeze. The attached hip bag features a zipper pouch great for snacks, pet treats, your phone and even features a key ring for keeping track of your keys.

It also has a water bottle holder (and included water bottle) and additional elastic pouch space for items that need quick access. Our experts appreciate the quick-release leash attachment and locking clip that ensures your pup won't accidentally bonk the carabiner that attaches them to the leash and break free. "This belt is well designed and I would be comfortable running with it long distances," says one online reviewer. "I love the pockets and designated water bottle holder," says another.

Reviewers also note that the bungee leash is exceptionally stretchy, so it's great for absorbing shock from pups that tend to dart around, but can be a bit less helpful if you're running in tight quarters where your dog only has a narrow spot to stay in (like tiny sidewalk or near a busy street).

How we test dog running leashes

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The Good Housekeeping Institute reviews pet products of all kinds, from dog toys to cooling dog beds. While picking our favorite dog running leashes, we read through hundreds of five-star reviews online to see which were worth considering, researched top trusted brands and styles and spoke with our in-Lab and consumer testers.

We based our recommendations on extensive research of the market, assessments of expert-trusted brands and materials and real-life testing from experts and consumer testers. Over 1,500 dog owners gave us feedback on attributes related to dog harnesses and leashes, and over 65 testers helped us review the physical products.

Our experts have tested over a dozen leashes and harnesses in the past few years considering factors like how well the leash fits, how well it performs to help you maintain control over your pet, how easy it is to use (including securing on your pet and yourself, and adjusting the straps) and the extra features like storage space and reflective materials.

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What to look for when shopping for a running leash

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There's a few things you'll want to keep in mind when choosing the right dog running leash for you and your pooch. Before picking one out, consider the following factors:

✔️ Leash type: Hands-free leashes that fasten around your waist or in a crossbody style over your shoulder are great options for runners who want use of their hands, but can be a bit of trouble for dogs that pull a lot or aren't completely leash trained. A hands-free leash will make it easier for your pup to pull you over, so you may prefer a classic hand-held choice.

There are also a variety of choices on the market that let you switch between different styles so you can use a handheld one day and switch to hands-free the next. Bungee leashes are another popular style that help absorb the shock if you or your dog dart quickly in a different direction so you won't choke your pup and they won't tug you down.

✔️ Harness or collar?: Dogs that run a lot may prefer a typical flat collar since the harness can rub up against them after extended repeated movement like vigorous running. Choke collars are dangerous to use while running due to the quick movement so they're best to avoid during this type of activity.

✔️ Size: It's important to use the correct size for your pet and ensure that the leash and collar aren't too big or too small for your furry friend's neck since it can be uncomfortable or dangerous. If you're using a hands-free leash, you'll also want to make sure that the waist band is comfortable around you body and doesn't cause any chafing or slip off.

✔️ Additional features: Some leashes come with exciting additional features, like built-in storage pouches or water bottle holders. Others can be used with two dogs, have reflective trim or have bungee leashes.

Do you need a running leash?

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If you're a very active person who plans to bring your dog on runs with you, investing in a running leash may be a good idea. Unlike classic leashes, running leashes have a few extra features that make them more comfortable and easier to use for both you and your dog.

Many are hands-free, meaning they're fastened to your body so you don't have to worry about holding the leash or accidentally letting it go while running. Some models also feature bungee leashes so you don't have to worry if you and your pup aren't 100% in sync. With a bungee leash, if you or your dog move quickly in one direction you won't jerk the other one along uncomfortably.

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Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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For decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been providing expert reviews and advice on everything a pet parent needs, including dog running leashes.

In her role as Parenting & Pets Reviews Analyst, Jamie Spain brings years of journalism experience to the Institute, having reviewed, researched and tested a variety of pet products for Good Housekeeping, from dog treats to pet GPS trackers.

Headshot of Jamie Spain

Jamie (she/her) is the former parenting and pets reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute. She has also worked a BuzzFeed and People. She's a graduate of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and psychology and a master’s degree in journalism.

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