What’s The Best Retractable Dog Leash? Reviews & Buyer’s 2022 Guide
Taking your dog out on a walk is an excellent way to get you up and off the couch and get your pet out of the dog crate. To ensure your canine friend can really tire himself out, it may be wise to take your dog to places like the field to run or to the park.
However, strict leash laws can prevent a pet owner and his pup from having off-leash fun by demanding you to have your furry friend tethered at all times.
Using a retractable leash, dog walkers will have the power to keep their dogs close or give them some slack, depending on whether they are taking a more scenic route or going on a long walk downtown. The best retractable dog leash for you and your pup will depend on the weight and size of your dog as well as the handle and material of the leash.
Contents
- Our 8 Best Retractable Dog Leash
- 1. Flexi Comfort Nylon Tape Retractable Dog Leash
- 2. Frisco Nylon Tape Reflective Retractable Dog Leash
- 3. TUG Nylon Tape Retractable Dog Leash
- 4. Petmate Walkabout Glow In The Dark Retractable Leash
- 5. Wigzi Dual Doggie Retractable Dog Leash, Green
- 6. Hertzko Nylon Retractable Dog Leash
- 7. DOGNESS Smart Retractable Dog Leash Kit
- 8. Coastal Power Walker Dog Retractable Leash
- Benefits of a Retractable Dog Leash
- Important Features to Consider
- Tips When Walking with a Retractable Leash
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
We already did all the research for you. If you’re in a hurry and just want to see the best retractable dog leashes, here are our top choices.
PRODUCT / PRODUCT DETAILS
PRODUCT
PRODUCT DETAILS
- Heavy-duty retractable dog leash for large dogs
- Trendy two-color options and comes with its own canine waste bag dispenser
- Conveniently long at 26 feet
- Offers a highly efficient quick-stop braking system
- Ergonomic handle with comfortable and soft grip
- Adjustable leash offers more freedom and control
- Designed with a locking button and retractable system to prevent tangles
- Ergonomically designed leash handle offers a natural grip
- Reflective material to increase visibility in the dark
- Caters to all dog sizes from extra small to large breed size
- Nylon leash can move 360 degrees
- Features TUG’s patented tangle-free construction
- Strong internal retractable coil
- Weather-resistant chrome-plated hook
- Multiple sizes and assorted colors
Our 8 Best Retractable Dog Leash
1. Flexi Comfort Nylon Tape Retractable Dog Leash
The Flexi Retractable Tape Dog Leash is one of the best retractable leashes for large dogs. This retractable leash has an impressive maximum length of 26 ft., which offers freedom and control during training in an open field or walking on the beach.
The extendable dog leash is made of a durable nylon leash that is powerful enough for dog sizes that weigh up to 110 pounds. The small and medium sizes have cord leashes, with the large size using a retractable leash with a wide tape.
This Flexi large dog retractable leash also features an ultra-bright white LED flashlight and red rear light for added convenience. Meanwhile, the other version like the Flexi Neon Leash exhibits a high-visibility neon yellow color to help keep your pet safe in dim lighting conditions.
The retractable tape dog leash is designed with an ergonomic shape grip and an easy-to-use lock button for handle comfort as well. What’s more, the Flexi brand is also trusted worldwide and has earned several awards like “Brand of the Century,” making this leash the best retractable leash, especially for large dogs.
PROS
- Offers versatility due to extendable leash, comfortable tape, and handle
- Offers night visibility thanks to its LED flashlight system
- Quick-reacting and intuitive braking system
- Ambidextrous storage box for treats or waste bags
- Made by the most trusted brand
CONS
- Problem with the retraction and release button as it stiffens with time
2. Frisco Nylon Tape Reflective Retractable Dog Leash
Your mutt needs some freedom, even when walking with you. Just a bit of space for exploration is necessary to satisfy his curiosity, which can be curtailed whenever needed using this retractable tape dog leash. With its automatically adjusting design, you have the choice to lock down your preferred leash length with the aid of a push button.
The assortment of color options enables the trendy pet parent to match colors to its pet’s personality and even get matching harnesses and collars. Also, this leash handle has a soft material with reflective threading for increased visibility while an excellent ergonomic grip helps reduce any strain on your hand.
Given all, the price it comes in at and what it’s able to offer, there is no doubt that the Frisco Reflective Retractable Tape Dog Leash is the best retractable dog leash on this list.
PROS
- Has soft and ergonomically designed leash handle
- Adjustable locking system
- One-handed, quick-braking system
- Reflective material for visibility in the dark
- Comes in various sizes accommodating all dog sizes
CONS
- Leash gets stuck and the retraction spring mechanism doesn't function efficiently at times
3. TUG Nylon Tape Retractable Dog Leash
Considered the strongest retractable dog leash, dog owners can expect great functionality in TUG’s overall design. The construction is durable and sturdy, featuring high-quality internal parts that are developed to ensure comfortability to both dog owners and their pets.
The brake and lock system enables you to control your mutt’s movements, keeping him within a safe distance of yourself. It also gives you the option to free the coil to your preferred degree. Regardless of your pooch’s antics, the handle doesn’t slip from your grip and minimizes the strain on your hand. Plus, the buttons are easy to operate and very smooth.
The ability of the leash to move 360 degrees and the thoughtful addition of the extension tape is proof of the time and thought TUg has invested in functionality, safety, and efficiency of making this the best retractable dog leash, especially for medium breeds.
PROS
- Rubberized tape for ease of operation
- Has extra extension tape in case the original one was chewed
- High-quality, durable and sturdy nylon material
- Features patented tangle-free design from TUG
- Weather-resistant offers its use for all-year-round
CONS
- Extra extensive has a heavy clasp that touches the ground
4. Petmate Walkabout Glow In The Dark Retractable Leash
Available in medium up to 50 lbs and large up to 110 lbs, Petmate Walkabout Glow in the Dark Retractable Leash allows your pet greater freedom while still remaining under your supervision. This lightweight dog leash is designed ergonomically to comfortably fit any hand with less straining.
The leash features tangle-free inlets to keep the webbing from getting twisted inside the housing while a trigger-style index finger control is designed for quick action. Made with glow-in-the-dark technology, this pet leash glows instantly so you and your canine friend can enjoy a relaxing and safe walk under the night sky.
PROS
- Smooth retraction
- Patented index trigger control
- Tangle-free inlets keep the webbing from tangling
- Glow-in-the-dark, perfect for night time walks
- Quick action break release
CONS
- Only comes in one color and in medium and large size
5. Wigzi Dual Doggie Retractable Dog Leash, Green
Wigzi has the best retractable leash for two pets. If you are tired of your dog’s leash getting twisted and you have to spin him around in order to untangle them, then this will be the ideal retractable cord dog leash for you. You can stop each pet separately, so if one pooch likes to explore more than the other you can control both of them.
The brakes and leashes are color-coded, so you know exactly which one you need to control. The only downside is that these are only made for dogs up to 50 lbs each, with 10 feet of lead per pet, so if you have a larger dog, this isn’t the leash for you.
PROS
- Color-coded leashes and brakes
- Built-in untangling mechanism
- Works well for small and medium-sized dogs
- Extends up to 10 feet per dog
- 1-Year Limited warranty
CONS
- Only for dogs up to 50 pounds each
- No place to put poop bag holder
6. Hertzko Nylon Retractable Dog Leash
Featuring a belt feeder that prevents tangling and operates smoothly, the Hertzko is a heavy-duty retractable dog leash that promises to offer owners optimum control over their pooches’ activities even if the pet is approximately 16 feet away. While the Hertzko has the same features as that of the TaoTronics, the Hertzko pet leash is several dollars more affordable than similar designs.
Available for small, medium, and even large dogs, it’s great for dogs that weigh up to 110 pounds. Thanks to its superior anti-slip grip design, holding the Hertzko is comfortable too. Plus, it features the same brake and locking mechanism found in other dog leash designs. However, it does not offer the same perks as HappyDogz that provides a 10-year money-back guarantee.
PROS
- 16-foot high-strength, tangle-free nylon ribbon
- Single-button, easy-to-use, brake-lock-and-retraction system
- Durable, non-slip, ergonomic, and comfortable handle
- Maximum pet weight capacity: 110 lbs
- Available in small and large size
CONS
- Material can be chewed
- Down Button can stick
7. DOGNESS Smart Retractable Dog Leash Kit
DOGNESS Smart Retractable Dog Leash Kit comes with everything pet owners need to take their pooches for a walk. This set comes with a Bluetooth speaker, LED light, retractable leash, and a convenience box. Made out of durable stainless steel, the dog leash has a metal switch that can withstand pulling strength five times that of your dog’s weight.
It features a streamlined belt outlet and a unique retract function to ensure smooth expansion every time. The convenience box can be filled with snacks or poop bags to keep your pockets and hands-free. Available in Medium (up to 55 lbs), Large (up to 90 lbs), and X-Large or Giant (up to 120 lbs).
PROS
- Features a metal switch made from sturdy stainless steel
- Comes with an LED flashlight, Bluetooth speaker, and a convenience box
- Includes replaceable faceplate
- Comes in an assortment of colors and various sizes: M, L, XL
- Comfortable ergonomic grip
CONS
- Not suitable for small-sized dogs
- Some customers mentioned the leash length is short for large dogs
8. Coastal Power Walker Dog Retractable Leash
Extend your horizons with Coastal’s Power Walker Retractable Dog Leash featuring reflective stitching on the web and all-web construction for durability and safety. Made with a robust ABS plastic case to hold the leash, this easy-to-operate retractable pet leash has an easy-to-use one-button stop-and-release action with a comfortable grip handle.
Available in Extra Small size (up to 16 lbs), Small (up to 32 lbs), Medium ( up to 64 lbs), and Large (up to 110 lbs), Coastal’s retractable leashes enable your dog to explore without becoming slack or tangling the leash. All Coastal products are Quality Guarantee while other retractable dog leashes are only covered for a limited time.
PROS
- Easy to operate retractable all-web lead
- Features high-quality, durable construction
- Sleek styling and comfortable grip handle
- Allows pet to explore 2' and 16' away from the owner
- One Button Stop and Release action
CONS
- The leash may fray if the dog pulls it hard
Benefits of a Retractable Dog Leash
Dog’s Movements are not Limited
As the owner adjusts the leash to let the dog roam, a pooch on a retractable leash has more freedom to explore safely. Allowing your pup to walk sei-unrestrained allows him to respond better to commands and gives him more confidence. The walk becomes an enjoyable experience for both you and your mutt. Plus, you can always set the pace.
Useful for Training
Teaching your pet to come to you when you call his name is a significant task for any serious pet owner. Whenever they are outdoors, this increases the safety of your pooch. A well-trained dog will immediately run to its owner when it is being called. Like any other dog training, recall training, for example, can take a while to master.
The trick is to allow your mutt to wander or move progressively farther away from you. This is where a retractable dog leash can certainly assist you as it terminates the need for multiple leads. You can opt to hire a dog trainer if it’s your first time training your dogs in getting comfortable with the leash and you like taking them out both together on a walk.
Better Control of Your Dog When Walking
Leashes provide you complete control over your dog. By allowing you to remain in charge of the walk, you can avoid most of the unnecessary accidents that may happen to the parents and their pups when out on a walk. You can prevent your pooch from running into the road or an electric fence or ingesting toxic substances. Besides, you can steer your dog away from canine fights on the street.
Good for Persons with Disabilities
When they have assistance dogs, individuals with physical limitations can benefit a lot with their dogs that are put on a retractable dog leash. While well-trained assistant dog breeds don’t necessarily require a leash for the simple fact that they are trained to obey their masters, there are still those who may need some form of control [1].
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Important Features to Consider
Materials Used
When the leash is fully retracted, a retractable dog leash can wind up tightly inside the case and can easily be pulled from the case to extend, in some cases, over 20 feet. It is vital to look for a leash that has a strong, durable, and flexible material to help lessen tangles and ensure the lead has the durability and strength to prevent the pooch from breaking it.
Common materials used to make a retractable leash include thick polyester, heavy-duty nylon, and woven cotton. Despite its lightweight appearance, nylon is a robust material resistant to breaking, tearing, and fraying.
Polyester is not quite as durable as nylon, though it is more resistant to changes in temperature, making it a great option for very cold or very hot days. Woven cotton is not a tough material and should only be used for tethering small-sized breeds that weigh less than 10 pounds.
Depending on the temperament of your dog or on the use of the leash, you must go for the most functional leash for your circumstances. For instance, a rope leash is thicker with strength, while a tape leash offers you more space to maneuver and can have additional attributes like reflective material.
Length of the Leash
Depending on the product, the length of the retractable dog leash can vary significantly. Short retractable leashes may extend only around 10 feet, while extra-long leads can exceed a length of 20 feet.
Bear in mind, there is no point in investing in a 25-foot leash if the pooch will only ever be permitted to explore 10 to 15 feet away. Instead, you can save some money by selecting a leash with an appropriate length.
City living can come with a lot of constraints on dog ownership, dog houses, and dog walking, so it is a good idea to check local leash laws to seek a leash that doesn’t extend beyond the maximum leash length requirements.
If you would still like to buy a longer leash, for hiking or camping, think about buying a retractable dog leash with a built-in locking system; this will keep the lead at a specific length to either allow the dog to roam free or keep it close.
Handle Comfort
Consider the size and weight of the dog, the length of an average walk, and the dog’s tendency to pull before choosing a grip and handle. This part of the leash has the capacity to make a walk more enjoyable and comfortable, or it can lock up with exposure to snow or rain or bite into your hand.
Find ABS plastic handles that are flexible, strong, and durable. These products are commonly ergonomically designed to make it easier to hold the leash and control your pooch.
Rubberized grips offer a forgiving and soft material to hold and will not become slippery with rain, sweat, or snow. Active owners who like to run or jog with their pets may prefer a hands-free solution that can be strapped around their waist and then connected to the harness or collar of the pooch to ensure the dog remained secured at the desired distance.
Strength of the Leash
The clip quality, in particular, is crucial because it is the part of the dog leash that actually attaches to your pooch. If your dog is very strong and large, you’ll need a very durable clip, particularly if he is prone to jerking the leash and running off quickly. If the clip is weak, it will break easily and if your mutt is not connected to the leash, you will not be in control of them! The best clips are made out of stainless steel.
Number of Dogs the Leash Can Hold
In a multi-dog lead, smaller dogs are easier to manage because there is less weight to control with the single leash handle. As the size of the pooch increases, it becomes less advisable to use a multi-dog lead with a retractable dog leash, as the combined strength of more than one large breed may pull the owner or break the leash, causing possible injury.
Additional Features
- Reflective components are basically positioned down the length of the leash and on the handle so the dog walker and the pooch can be seen in poor lighting conditions. This simple addition can make your nighttime walk much safer.
- A locking retractable leash offers the dog walker better control over the mutt. Retract the leash and lock it in place for walking down a busy sidewalk or across the road, then release the lock to enable the pooch to roam free after reaching the beach, park, or field.
- Waste bag storage generally takes the form of a simple hook at the base of the handle where a full bag can hang until reaching the right place to throw them away. Some retractable dog leashes may also have a new bag storage container that can be connected to the leash so owners are never without a fresh bag when their mutt has to go.
Tips When Walking with a Retractable Leash
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
Think of yourself as the center or the pivot of a large wheel. On the periphery of this wheel is your pup. You will need to assess and inspect what is inside this ‘wheel’ as well as its immediate vicinity. This way you can make adjustments to the cord’s length.
Don’t Overextend the Leash
The shorter the length of the leash the more control you have over your dog. Try to figure out the length of lead that you are most comfortable with. If you are confident that you can still be in charge of your dog at maximum distance, then, by all means, do it.
Don’t Use a Retractable Leash Aside from Walking
Retractable leashes are not meant for use while you’re mobile. If you are on a bike, skateboard, or in a car, it is not safe for you or your pooch to use the leash. These types of dog leashes are only for walking purposes.
Make Sure Your Dog is Always Visible
When walking at night, ensure your dog leash is reflective, as bystanders may not notice the lead otherwise. This is specifically true if they are pacing at high speeds such as on a bicycle or a car, and the lead has no lighting or reflectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are retractable dog leashes safe?
Yes, retractable dog leashes are safe as long as it is used properly. Like any other equipment used to care for and train a pooch, a retractable dog leash must be used properly, with vigilance, common sense, and responsibility. If the leash prevents the dog from running out into the road and is used the proper way, leaping up at passing strangers or bolting toward a strange dog, it can be considered safe.
How long is a good length for a retractable leash?
Depending on their manufacturing style and design, a retractable leash comes in various lengths and sizes. Typically, a dog’s leash length can vary from 6 ft. to 26 ft., to suit your dog’s size (where 6 ft is for smaller dogs, 16 ft for medium, and anything beyond that is for larger breeds). However, you can use any leash length for your pooch. Just make sure it doesn’t exceed the recommended weight limit.
When is a retractable leash dangerous?
Experts advise to not wrap the leash around any body part and keep it short in crowded places. It is also essential to use retractable leashes correctly to keep bystanders and yourself safe. You can do this by reading and researching documents included with retractable leashes.
Conclusion
These top 8 best retractable dog leashes are excellent tools for training and walking your dog. However, it is crucial that you are knowledgeable about how to use these to help avoid the dangers associated with faulty usage.
Understanding how to use retractable leashes, especially learning how to walk your dog using these, also optimizes the several benefits that they can offer for you and your pooch. Only by utilizing these types of leads in the correct manner can you realize the functionality of such devices.
Editor's Choice
Flexi Comfort Nylon Tape Retractable Dog Leash
- Heavy-duty retractable dog leash for large dogs
- Trendy two-color options and comes with its own canine waste bag dispenser
- Conveniently long at 26 feet
- Offers a highly efficient quick-stop braking system
- Ergonomic handle with comfortable and soft grip
