Are you a seasoned runner, or would you like to take up the sport? Do you also have a dog at home, and would like to get them involved?
Running with your dog can be challenging if you don’t have the right accessories with you. You also want to keep in mind that not all dog breeds are compatible with running outdoors. A Pug or Corgi might not run as well as a Labrador, for instance.
One of the essential pieces of kit to have with you is a dog running leash. These leashes attach to your waist and allow you to run comfortably, with your dog tagging along beside you.
So which is the best dog leash for running? We’ve compiled this informative review to get you all the information you need before buying one.
Table of Contents
Our top pick is the Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Dog Leash. This is the leash to go for if you want a versatile, durable, and flexible hands-free running leash. It is perfect for those who love running with their dogs.
Here are some other great options:
This running leash was created just for those who love running with their dogs in tow. It is stretchy and soft yet incredibly durable, and blends in beautifully with you and your dog’s running action.
We love the flexible glide belt clip that slides smoothly, allowing you and your dog to switch running positions effortlessly. The bungee section absorbs any pull, and the reflective thread gives you peace of mind on those low-lit evening runs.
With a waist belt that adjusts up to 42 inches, running with your dog will be a breeze. This leash also comes with a lifetime warranty against any manufacturer defects.
This leash is not chew-resistant, so be sure to keep it well away from your dog when not in use. Some users also complain that the bungee becomes a little less elastic over time.
This dog leash is sturdy enough to withstand every day or frequent runs, even in the low-light evening or early morning conditions.
The Paw Lifestyles Retractable running leash comes in three colors and features reflective threading for nigh-time or early morning running.
We love the smartphone pocket and the D-ring that can hold clickers and poop bags on the go. This feature is convenience at its best! The extendable bungee section also prevents any pull-force as you run with your dog, and the nylon material is weather-proof and durable.
The zipper on the pouch needs to be stronger to avoid constant repair. This leash also has a very long bungee section—almost 6 feet—which could be problematic depending on where you run and how well behaved your dog is on runs.
The Paw Lifestyles running leash is convenient, durable, and weather-proof. If you must have your phone with you at all times when running with your dog, then buy this leash. It also features a clip to attach a poop bag and clicker, two essential pieces of kit when outdoors with your dog.
This leash has an innovative design that makes sure there is always a safe running distance between you and your dog. It comes with a 1-inch wide adjustable belt with a quick-release mechanism. This feature makes it easy to reconnect or release your pet swiftly.
We love the price! If you are on a budget, this leash is well-priced for the quality. It also has a swivel hook that easily connects to rings and harnesses, making it an excellent training tool. Additionally, you get an LED light that fits snuggly onto the leash for night-time or evening walks.
This leash won’t work well for smaller dogs as it’s a bit heavy and may prove uncomfortable. Some users also complain that the waistband wrinkles and fits oddly over time.
If you walk, hike, or run with your dog as well as train them regularly, this affordable Road Runner leash is the one to buy. The leash and harness attachments make it easy to fit onto your dog during regular walks or training sessions.
This product is another excellent hands-free leash for running with your dog. It comes in several colors, with reflective material that will help with your visibility as your run in low-light conditions.
This leash is incredibly versatile! Quickly and effortlessly change the length of the leash via a side-release buckle, to wear it around your waist, hand, or shoulder. The design is lightweight and straightforward, making it perfect for small to medium dogs.
The bungee section can give the dog too much play, which is dangerous in high-traffic areas. This option is also on the spendy side.
If you’re looking for a versatile and comfortable leash to run with, this is it! The soft webbing on the leash prevents it from cutting into your body, and the side-release buckle means you can quickly switch how you’re wearing it.
This hands-free leash is of high quality and incredibly durable. The strap has been designed to hold two dogs with ease, and the bungee section built to withstand any strain or pull during the walk.
If you're a pet parent with more than one dog, then this is the leash for you. The dual handles give you greater control over your dogs, and the premium nylon material provides the leash with durability. It also comes with a zipper pouch that provides the ultimate convenience – place your smartphone, poop bags, or MP3 player in the pouch as you enjoy hassle-free walks with your dogs.
If one of the D-ring attachments could be made into a swivel attachment, this leash would work better, as it would avoid any tangling.
The perfect leash for walking and controlling two dogs simultaneously. What’s more, this leash also has a pouch for the ultimate convenience.
This leash has been designed especially for dogs weighing 10 – 150 lbs. The belt is fully adjustable and easily wraps around your waist.
The weight range over which this leash can be used is great. For small to medium dogs, this is the perfect leash. The waistband can also lock from 27 to 48 inches and, once buckled, will stay in place. You may also adjust the distance between you and your dog using the metal rings, and control your dog using the dual padded handles.
The clip has a slight curve to it, which makes it possible to secure reversed. Doing so creates tension in the clip that makes it hard to open.
If you have a small to medium-sized dog, this is the perfect leash for you. It is perfectly sized and weighs only 9 ounces, so it will work well with your dog as you walk, hike, or run.
This weather-resistant leash is durable and functional. It has bungee cables to extend the leash at 36 and 48 inches, depending on how far you prefer to let your dog run ahead.
The belt is generously-sized, making it perfect for plus size or bigger adults. Though it will also prove comfortable even for smaller adults. Reflective stitching allows you to run at night, too, and it also has a looped handle that can be placed on your waist or your dog's collar. This leash best supports dogs weighing 10 – 75 lbs.
The cord could be stronger to withstand the strain created from dogs that pull.
This is an affordable and functional leash. It does the job, is resistant to all weather conditions, and provides comfort, and durability.
There are plenty of things to consider when looking for the best dog leash for running.
Of priority are the comfort, safety, and durability of the leash. Your leash must also be long enough to work with you and your dog's running style, as well as the height and size of your dog.
Convenience is another essential factor. Leashes that cater for the attachment of useful accessories like water bottles, poop bags, clickers, and smartphones are a huge plus. Other factors that you should consider are:
This factor is essential as it will save you buying more leashes unnecessarily. You must also account for the strain your dog will exert on the leash; choose a leash that can stand up to these forces, and not snap.
It’s also a good idea to invest in a quality leash made with premium-grade materials that will be resistant to the elements. This feature will enable you to go out in all weather conditions.
Adjustability solves lots of problems and is an essential quality when looking for hands-free leashes.
Some leashes are elastic and stretch as per the demand, while others come with clips or buttons to allow you to easily and quickly change the length. You may also wear the leash on your hand, shoulder, or waist with some leashes.
Depending on your running style and needs, you can opt for the best leash that fits in with your running style and you and your dog's build.
Leashes come in varying lengths. For shorter people, longer leashes are not ideal as they’ll drag as you run, posing a hazard on which you or your dog can trip over.
On the other hand, if you’re tall, you should avoid getting a short leash. Short leashes can exert incredible pressure on your dog, making them uncomfortable or short of breath.
Consider your height, as well as your dog's height, before settling on an ideal length.
Lastly, you may want to check and see if your leash has hooks that make it compatible with a harness.
Harnesses take the pressure away from your dog's neck and collar and redistribute the load to their front legs and chest area. We highly recommend a leash that is harness-compatible as this is proper running gear for you and your dog. This quality is especially essential for small dogs, which are susceptible to tracheal collapse.
Hands-free leashes are indispensable if you lead an active outdoor life with your pet. Running does wonders for both you and your dog.
It keeps your cardiovascular and joint health in check, and also acts as a mood elevator for your dog. Dogs that aren’t exercised regularly act up, so running with your dog is an excellent way to keep them balanced.
The best dog leash for running is sturdy yet flexible and shock absorbent, allowing you to keep control of your dog as you walk, hike, or run. These leashes also come in-built with lots of safety features that ensure your dog is choke-free and ensures that no one trips over the leash as you're both running.
These handy accessories are an excellent investment that can improve you and your dog's life. Keep active with the peace of mind that your dog is close to you, and keeping out of trouble.
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