You’ve just chosen your new puppy from Pawrade and can’t wait for her to arrive! Like any proud pawrent, you want to give your puppy the very best leash on the market within your budget. Off to the pet store you go!
You round the corner to the leash aisle and stop in your tracks, soaking it all in. There are rows and rows of leashes. How do you know where to even begin? You already have “analysis paralysis” as you start on one side and walk all the way to the end of the aisle checking out the variety of dog leashes you see. But when you hoped you’d gain clarity by the end of the aisle, you are only more confused as you see at least 6 different types of dog leashes.
As a new puppy parent, you might be completely overwhelmed by the sheer amount of variety when looking at types of dog leashes. Walking a dog may seem like a basic task, but so much more goes into it! Here are some tips for how to pick the best dog leash and the 6 best leashes to walk your puppy.
How to Choose the Right Leash For Your Puppy
Several factors go into deciding which leash is the best fit for you and your puppy. Breed size and strength, dog activity levels and prey drive, current training methods, and personal style are some of the most important factors in choosing a dog leash.
Breed size and strength
Puppies grow so quickly that it’s hard to tell how large your dog will be in the first year of its life. As you realized when you were thinking of how to prepare your home for a new puppy, you chose a dog breed size to suit your living space, so you probably already have a good idea of your puppy’s estimated adult size and weight. A puppy may be cute and cuddly the first month you get her, but she’s grown into a floppy puppy with long legs practically overnight! A bigger dog will need a sturdier leash than a small dog that doesn’t tug at your arm socket.
However, sometimes a dog’s size doesn’t necessarily indicate its strength. More compact and muscular breeds can surprise you with their strength while walking, even if they’re not very tall. For example, Boston Terrier puppies, Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies, and Rat Terrier puppies can catch you off guard with all that muscle in a small, compact body.
Breed activity levels and prey drive
Regardless of your dog’s size, you also want to take into account your dog’s activity level and prey drive. While all puppies can be boisterous, some breeds are naturally more laid-back or high-energy than others. Some dogs would be chomping at the bit to chase a squirrel, while others would give a lazy glance in its direction and pay it no mind. Knowing the general energy level and prey drive of your puppy’s dog breed will help you choose a great leash.
If your dog is a hyper and high-energy dog such as a Mini Australian Shepherd puppy, a Border Collie puppy, or a Siberian Husky puppy, you know you will need to choose a leash that offers more control to contain such exuberance. The great news is these types of dogs are usually extremely smart, so you can successfully train them (if they aren’t too stubborn).
In contrast, if you have a dog breed that tends to be more mellow, such as an English Bulldog puppy, a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy, or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy, you may be able to choose a leash that allows for more slack and freedom. You know they won’t bound off somewhere in the pursuit of a chipmunk!
Dogs with a naturally high prey drive will catch a scent and literally run with it. They may be generally well-behaved until they catch the scent of something that piques their interest. When your puppy detects that first enticing whiff, she may try to dart away and chase it with you holding on for dear life! If you have a puppy with a naturally high prey drive such as an Italian Greyhound puppy, a Beagle puppy, or an Akita puppy, you’ll definitely want to make sure the leash you choose is the correct strength and fit.
Training methods
If you are enrolled in a puppy obedience training program, your instructor will most likely have a preferred leash style to use and will demonstrate how to use it effectively with your puppy.
Some trainers prefer you begin with a basic leash attached to the collar, leading their class of puppies to learn to walk nicely on a regular leash while teaching the “heel” command. Others may pair a certain type of leash in conjunction with a special harness or collar. You may opt for a longer lead to teach recall and do fieldwork.
Personal style
Dog leashes don’t have to be boring! Do you have a distinctive style? Perhaps you are known for wearing something orange every day and want your pooch to match you. Maybe you are a diehard sports fan and want all leashes and other accessories to show your support for your favorite team. You may enjoy keeping up with seasonal fashion. There’s a specialty leash out there for every taste!
Take Your Puppy on a Walk with These 6 Trending Dog Leash Styles
| Best Overall | Runner Up | Most Bang for the Buck |
Specialty | Classic | Versatile | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Padded Handles and Reflective Threads | Multiple "Handles" | Chained Leash | Bungee Leash | Leather Dog Leash | Retractable Leash |
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| Favorite Feature | Light reflection for visibility High-quality material Suitable for all dog breeds |
More control points Good for obedience training Better for larger breeds |
Lightweight Most durable Weather resistant |
Shock absorption Waterproof Protects arm/hand joints from strong pulls |
Resistant against wear-and-tear Sophisticated look |
Lets a dog explore freely Easily used with training Suitable for smaller dogs |
| Price | $10 to $20 | $10 to $30 | $15 to $25 | $5 to $25 | $25 to $50 | $10 to $20 |
| Amazon | BAAPET Dog Leash with Comfortable Padded Handle and Highly Reflective Threads | Fostanfly Heavy Duty Dog Leash with 3 Padded Handles | CtopoGo Heavy Duty Metal Dog Leash Dog Chain with Padded Handle for Large & Medium Size Dogs | AUROTH Heavy Duty Bungee Dog Leash for Medium Large Breed Dogs | FAIRWIN Braided Leather Dog Leash | TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash with Anti-Slip Handle |
| Chewy | Doggy Tales Braided Rope Dog Leash | Leashboss Original Heavy Duty with 2 Handles | OmniPet Chain Dog Leash | Shed Defender Shock Absorbing Bungee Three Padded Handles Reflective Leash | Logical Leather Dog Leash | Frisco Nylon Tape Reflective Retractable Dog Leash |
Best Overall: padded handle, reflective material
This style of dog leash is designed to provide optimum comfort for you and your pup. The neoprene-padded handle ensures a comfortable grip, while the reflective feature helps ensure visibility when walking at all times of the day. With different lengths available, you can find the perfect option to keep your puppy safe and secure at all times. Plus, its durable construction ensures long-lasting use no matter where your adventures take you! Whether it's on a casual stroll or an off-leash trek through nature, this dog leash will help ensure that your pup is always ready for whatever comes her way. So go ahead – explore with confidence!
Runner up: multiple handles
A dog leash with multiple handles is an ideal tool for control when walking large breeds. The two or three handles provide control points, giving you more command over the dog's movement and direction. This helps to keep your puppy safe and prevent them from getting into dangerous situations.
Additionally, having multiple handles can make it easier to divert your dog's attention away from other animals or people that may trigger bad behavior. With this type of leash, you'll be better equipped to handle any situation while out with your pet.
Bang for buck: chained leash
A chain dog leash is a durable, heavy-duty leash that allows you to keep your pet securely in public. Often made from durable materials like chrome-plated steel or stainless steel, these leashes are built for strength and longevity. Additionally, their sleek design makes them stylish and easy on the eyes.
Chain dog leashes come in various sizes, allowing you to find one that fits your pup perfectly. They provide optimal control without sacrificing safety, making them an ideal choice for owners of large and powerful dogs who need some extra security when out on walks. Whether you’re looking for something reliable and strong or sleek and stylish, a chain dog leash is sure to fit the bill!
Specialty: bungee leash
Bungee dog leashes are considered safer for you and your pup than traditional leashes. The bungee material provides shock absorption, which reduces the risk of injury to both you and your pet when tugging or if the dog suddenly changes direction. This makes it easier for both of you during those energetic walks!
Additionally, the bungee leash absorbs most of the strain from pulling, further decreasing stress on your arm or shoulder. Your pup can wander without feeling restricted by a stiff leash while still staying close enough that you have full control. With a bungee leash, every walk can feel like an adventure! Safety is a high priority – get a bungee dog leash now and experience safer walks with your furry friend.
Classic: leather leash
Leather dog leashes are a durable and sophisticated choice for any pet owner. Not only do they come in attractive and stylish designs, but they are also known to provide extra strength when needed.
Leather leashes can last for years, making them a great long-term investment. The material also feels pleasant against the skin, keeping your pup comfortable while out on walks. A leather leash will not wear easily and is designed to withstand even the most vigorous of play sessions and walks with your beloved pooch. Investing in a quality leather dog leash today can help ensure you have many happy strolls with your furry companion for many years to come!
Versatile: retractable leash
Retractable dog leashes are a great choice for small dog breeds as they give your pup the freedom to explore while still allowing you to maintain control. They are convenient, easy to use, and can also be an effective tool in training your small dog to recall commands.
With their timely sensitivity to adjustable lengths, you can customize the leash to fit the environment you’re taking your pup into, giving them a better walking experience. Now you can have fun without losing sight of them or having them get too far away. For small dogs looking for a chance to sniff around and adventure outdoors with their owner by their side, retractable leashes are an ideal option.
Walk a Pawrade Puppy
When you’re looking at Pawrade puppies for sale, it’s easy to imagine yourself walking your sweet pup on the new nature trail or showing her off around the neighborhood. Pawrade pledges to ensure every puppy is raised with the utmost attention, love, and care. Let us help you find the perfect puppy for you!
*Paid partnership with our friends at Chewy
