12 Leashes That Check Every Box on the Experts’ List

Just because the leash experts recommend following a fairly specific formula, that doesn’t mean that you can’t have fun with your choice. After all of the necessary safety precautions, durability testing, and clasp scrutinizing, “it comes down to color, length, and material,” Dr. Iovino says. Millennial cult-favorite brand Wild One has popularized adding a pop of color in your dog’s walk kit. Since it meets your rigorous standards, we don’t see a downside to adding it to your pup’s wardrobe.

With great power comes great responsibility. According to Annie Grossman, owner and co-founder of School For The Dogs, “You shouldn’t be using leashes or collars or harnesses to control your dog. Ideally, they’re only for emergencies.” If your dog isn’t properly trained, is reactive, or is just learning to walk on the leash, beginning with a hands-free leash may not be the right option. If your pup follows your commands and is ready for an upgrade to a hands-free experience, Fable’s Magic Link leash is an excellent choice. Made from an industrial-strength brushed cord and custom matte black aluminum hardware, it’s water-proof and easy to clean, making it a favorite among busy pet parents.

If you’re looking for a brand that combines trends in fashion with utility, look no further than Found My Animal. Beloved by pet parents and trainers alike, its staying power has been solidified through the rave reviews their rope leash has received. “For leashes, my favorite is the Found My Animal nylon rope leash,” Grossman shares. “The leashes are long enough that they can be worn around the waist, leaving hands free for giving treats.” Plus, they’re hand-crafted to be incredibly durable and come in tons of adorable colorways.

Not many people are a match for a pulling dog; whether they’re 100 pounds or 30, it’s tough to get a determined pup to reign it in. Although this behavior can be managed through training, having a leash that addresses the issue doesn’t hurt either. Bungee style leashes, while in favor as a hands-free option for dogs who know their commands, can actually have an adverse effect on training by encouraging a dog to tug when they have more leeway. Made from a climbing rope, the Atlas Lifetime Leash is extremely durable and made to stand up to the strength of heavy pullers both big and small. Whether you’re hiking or taking a stroll down the block, this leash will keep your pup from toppling you over.

Balancing walking your pup with seven unsent texts and a cold brew is no easy feat. That’s why hands-free leashes are so appealing — especially those that are adjustable. The key to a successful hands-free walk is to make sure the leash is at the proper length for your dog and in the most comfortable place for you (around your shoulders or waist). Maxbone’s Go! Leash can be worn in three different ways, so you can walk the way that is most comfortable for you. The only watch out to going hands-free? According to Dr. Iovino, “The hands-free leash only works well if the dog knows how to heel properly. If the dog is not good on a regular leash, they’re probably not going to be good on a hands-free leash.” If you’re good to go on the training front, opting for this practical, secure, and adjustable lead is a safe bet.

For reactive dogs, the best thing you can do for them is set them up with the tools for success. One of of those tools: ensuring you’re in control of their behavior at all times. “I really love the leash with two handles where you have one regular handle and a handle that is closer to the dog, because it helps you control them better in tight spaces, going past distractions,” says Murri. This helps point their eyes, ears, and nose in the direction you want them to, rather than allowing them to get overwhelmed by outside stimuli.

A leash that’s functional, stylish, and doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb in your entryway is hard to come by. One that meets all that criteria and ticks the sustainability box? That’s even more rare. Fortunately, Wanderruff matches all of the above. Made from recycled water bottles, the Lola Leash is 6 feet long, which makes it a sensible choice for most pups, comes in two widths for small and larger dogs, and is shipped using eco-friendly materials. Plus, the brand donates one percent of its profits to eco-causes, which we can all get behind.

When it comes to recall training, the leash itself isn’t as important as the physical space you and your pup are occupying. “You need to work in a big open space,” saying Murri, who suggests practicing recall training in low-density areas, such as a local park. “Central Park is going to be great, because [you] can have a 20-to-30-foot-long leash and work on their recall, and you’re not afraid that your dog is going to take off on you.”

Having to clean your pup after they take a sandy walk on the beach or roll in the mud on a hike is difficult enough without worrying about their accessories. If their brand-new leather leash gets caked in dirt on its first wear, it won’t make for a happy scene. Hunting Pony mixes style and convenience, with its vegan rubberized base that doesn’t stain and is easy to clean. All you’ll need to ensure that it stays pristine is a wet cloth. If you ask us, that’s pretty low maintenance.

Don’t let your pup be weighed down with a heavy leash. Ruffwear’s lightweight leash is designed with your dog’s size in mind. At 4 1/2 feet long and just half an inch wide, it’s ideal for small dogs and puppies who have yet to grow into a heavier lead.

The switch hitter of dog leashes, this product from Dog + Bone is extremely versatile. It can be used hand-held or hands-free depending on your preference. Plus, the military-grade buckle will ensure your pup never strays too far.

More often than not, your first thought is your best one — the same is true of leashes, so don’t overthink it. Dr. Iovino says the best options available have a few things in common: “It seems like all of them are made from a good durable nylon material (some of them are even made of leather), and it seems like all of them have a really sturdy buckle.” As they say on Love Island, this one is ticking a lot of our boxes.