The Best Leash for Dogs That Pull – 7 Great Choices For You
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As adorable as they are, dogs can be excitable. As soon as they see something of interest, their first instinct is to chase after it—leash or not. If you have a dog that has not yet been trained not to pull, or is in training, you'll need a no-pull leash.
To help you out, we've put together this comprehensive review of the best leashes for dogs that pull. We'll explore their features, especially their durability, value, and adjustability, to help you rein in your excitable pup.
OUR TOP PICK
Our top pick is theThunderLeash Standard Leash For 2 Dogs. This easy to use no-pull leash gives you the option of walking two dogs at the same time. It easily connects to two no-pull extensions that provide a soft-gentle pressure to the dog’s torso to help him learn not to pull.
This ThunderLeash is the perfect no-pull leash that has the added advantage of walking two dogs at the same time. Its patented design converts from a standard leash to a no-pull strap in seconds, without added harnesses or head collars. The 20-inch handle also easily connects to two no-pull extensions and is comfortable to handle.
Key Features
Simple no-pull design to support two dogs
Tangle-free design
Soft-touch handle for comfort
Weight: 1.2 lbs.
What We Like
We like the simple design that requires no added head collars, harnesses, or straps to support no-pull actions for your dog. It's also easy to put and, at least in our experience, tangle-free—a must for dual-dog walking.
What We Don’t Like
The hardware is too large and heavy for smaller dog breeds.
Pros
Tangle-free action
Easy to put on and take off both dogs
Perfect for all dog breeds and sizes
Simple no-pull training without the need for head collars or harnesses
Cons
Some leashes don’t anchor onto the dog’s chest area
It is not suitable for dogs with sensitive tracheas
If you walk more than one dog at a time, this is the leash to purchase. It is our top choice because it has a simple no-pull action, it's not complicated and can easily handle two dogs without snapping.
The ThunderLeash is designed to make walking with your dog, hassle-free. It is a functional and straightforward option that is easy to put on and take off your dog.
Key Features
Simple no-pull solution
Comfortable paddle handle
2-in-1 leash and harness solution
Weight: 5.9 oz.
What We Like
This leash is designed especially for dogs that pull during walks. While training your dog not to pull, you wrap the leash around their torso and slide it into the harness slot. When your dog pulls, the strap around their torso will tighten. As dogs dislike this sensation, your dog will instantly stop pulling, making this leash our top pick for training dogs not to pull.
What We Don’t Like
The hardware is slightly weak. The hook that attaches to the leash needs to be tightened with pliers to stay in place and may need further adjustments the longer you use it.
Pros
Easy to put on and take off
High quality and durable materials
Does not use complicated straps or head collars
Works as a practical training leash
Gently encourages your dog to stop pulling without hurting them
Cons
The hooks can unlatch on some occasions
Clasp is slightly heavy
The ThunderLeash provides a simple, gentle, but effective solution for training your dog to stop pulling. It’s also nice that, with this option, you don't need head collars or straps to support your dog's training.
The 2-Hounds Design Freedom No-Pull Harness has a martingale loop on the back of the harness that tightens gently around your dog's chest. This action prevents pulling for the ultimate control over your dog.
Key Features
Effective no-pull design
Multifunctional no-pull and exercise action
Dual connection handles for greater control
Weight: 7.2 oz.
What We Like
Steer your dog in the direction you desire with minimal effort. This double-ended leash connects the front and back of the harness simultaneously, allowing you that steering control. You may also use the accompanying leash to connect to a harness and collar for additional control points.
We love that this no-pull leash and harness system provides support for animals with injuries, suffering from arthritis, or have any other injuries.
What We Don’t Like
The stitching on the harness and leash could be better. After a few uses, some fraying can be noticed. Worse, it’s no chew-proof. Be careful letting your dog wear it unattended.
Pros
No-pull design minimizes or eliminates pulling, neck strain, and escape
Dual handles provide greater control over your dog
Light-weight and comfortable to wear, yet durable
Comes in 19 attractive colors
Cons
Slightly expensive
It is not chew-resistant
This leash and harness system is perfect for puppies and dogs of all sizes. It also works perfectly with dogs that suffer arthritis or have undergone amputations.
The SlowTon dog harness and leash set is the perfect leash for small dogs that pull. The harness is comfortable to put on and take off, reassuring your dog, and avoiding their irritation.
Key Features
4-foot leash with padded harness
360-degree rotation metal buckle to connect the leash to harness
Comes in three sizes – xx-small, x-small, and small
Reflective stitching for low-light conditions
Weight: 4.8 oz.
What We Like
We love the soft padding on the leash and harness that keeps the dog comfortable while wearing the harness. It reassures the dog and is especially useful for nervous small dog breeds. This leash can also be connected to harness via the 360-degree rotation metal buckle.
What We Don’t Like
The Velcro closures could be made stronger and be coupled with clip mechanisms for more strength.
Pros
Soft flannelette material prevents chafing and irritation
Specifically designed for smaller dogs
Reflective material allows for high visibility in low-light conditions
The 2-in-1 affordable solution of both leash and harness
Cons
The Velcro can come apart after a while
Harness and leash are not chew-resistant
This harness and leash set is perfect for small dogs and puppies, and useful in training them not to pull as they walk. The padded harness adds comfort, and the 4-foot leash is the perfect size for smaller dogs that pull.
This leash is an excellent choice for walking, training, and running. The dual handles give you greater control over your dog in normal walking conditions and high-traffic areas.
Key Features
Wear-resistant nylon material
4- to 6-foot extendable bungee leash
Two Soft Padded Handles
D-ring near handle
Reflective stitching
Car seat belt buckle
Weight: 8 oz.
What We Like
It has a 4- to 6-foot extendable bungee section for flexibility and stretching when your dog pulls. Reflective stitching also provides high-visibility in low-light conditions.
The dual handle design is genius, too. The lower traffic handle is designed to allow for better control of your dog when passing high-traffic areas, or during training. For casual walks or jogging, the upper handle will suffice.
The tension at the bungee section can be overpowering for some dogs. It also tends to lose it’s elastic over time.
Pros
High-quality materials that are sturdy and durable
D-ring allows for you to clip poop bags or other accessories
A durable leash that has the shock-absorbing capability to reduce strain and pulling
The car seat belt buckle allows for safe restraint during car journeys
Cons
The bungee mechanism will wear out over time
Lock mechanism malfunctions on occasion
This leash is THE leash for medium to large dogs who love to pull. The materials are strong and durable. It also is very multifunctional and can be used when walking, in the car, or at the grooming service.
The WalktoFine retractable leash is made of premium nylon materials with robust two-layer construction. It has a durable safety catch-lock mechanism that keeps your dog secure, with no chance of escape as you go out and about.
Key Features
Two-layer premium-grade material
Safety lock catch for easy on-off action
Dual handles
360-degree rotating clasp
10-foot leash
Weight: 5.4 oz.
What We Like
The length is perfect for large dogs that pull, and dual handle control helps to keep your dog under control. We also love the safety lock action that is easy to clasp on and take off. The company offers a 100% money-back guarantee, too, which is a nice touch.
What We Don’t Like
This leash is well constructed and suitable for large dogs, but the bungee action may be too intense for some medium-sized dog breeds.
Pros
Long and thick enough to support the pulling action of large dogs
Easy to put on and take off with one-clasp effect
Extremely comfortable and light-weight
Comes with a 100% money-back guarantee
Cons
Not suitable for smaller dogs under 25 lbs.
The bungee action can be too strong for some medium dog breeds.
This leash is perfect for larger dogs. The length is ideal, and the bungee section and dual handles are sufficient to keep your sizeable canine friend under control.
This anti-pull bungee leash is an excellent value for the money. It has extra durable stitching and strong metallic hooks that keep it together despite the strain and stress exerted by your dog.
Key Features
Made of thick nylon rope and elastic leather joints
Shock absorbing bungee section
3-inch leash length
Weight: 8.8 oz.
What We Like
We love the price! This leash is excellent value for the quality. The natural leather joints and braided nylon rope also add to its durability.
What We Don’t Like
This leash can be too long for some breeds and dog owners. They should make two variations for those who could benefit from shorter leads.
Pros
Provides extra stability for unexpected pulls
Affordably-priced
Chew-resistant
Reflective stitching perfect for low-visibility walking or running
Gives enough space (43 inches) between you and the dog
Cons
The handle closest to the collar is slightly weak
Some dogs find the bungee action too stiff and uncomfortable
For the price, this leash presents excellent value for money. If you are on a budget, it’s a great cost-effective option for leash training.
Overall Rating - 4.4/5
Buying Guide – What You Need to Know Before Buying the Best Leash for Dogs That Pull
A dog that pulls requires a specially designed leash that will gently train them not to pull and not hurt them in the process. There are specific features to look for when searching for the best leash for a dog that pulls.
Below, in our concise buying guide, we will break down what to look for when getting these unique anti-pull leashes.
Types of Leashes
Head Collar Leashes
Headcollars are a standard anti-pull solution for dogs. They attach to the dog's head, providing heightened control over the dog. It's near impossible for a dog to slip out of this collar.
This leash works by gently pulling the dog’s head upwards and backward, communicating to the dog to stop pulling. Headcollars are ideal when used with short leads.
No-Pull Harness Leashes
Another leash that controls your dog’s pulling is the no-pull harness leash. These leashes come with a harness that is worn over the dog's chest and belly area. They reduce pressure in the neck area and avoid your dog choking as you stop their pulling behavior. No-pull harness leashes are ideal for smaller dogs.
Choke and Prong Collars
Caution – only use this type pf anti-pull collar if you are a professional. These collars work by constricting or poking the dog’s neck as soon as they pull.
We do not recommend these collars. They can end up hurting the dog or causing emotional trauma. Instead, here are some helpful tips for teaching your dog not to pull during walks the right way.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Leash
Shock Absorbance
As your main objective is to stop your dog from pulling, your leash should incorporate sufficient shock absorbance in the bungee section. This section will absorb any strain from unexpected pulls saving both you and your dog from injury.
No-Choke, No Pull Harness Design
This design factor is significant for all dogs, but especially so for smaller dogs who are predisposed to collapsed trachea injuries. The harness should sit squarely on the chest and belly area, and reduce strain on the neck area.
Leashes can be attached at the front and back of the harness as you walk your dog.
Durability
A significant consideration to take into account when looking for the best leash for dogs that pull is how strong the lead is. You don't want to get a flimsy leash that will snap as soon as your dog pulls.
Durable rope, nylon, and leather leashes feature prominently on the market and will save you money in the long run.
Visibility
At night or in low-lit conditions, visibility equals safety. When shopping for an anti-pull leash and harness, make sure that it either has 3M reflective material or LED lights woven into it if you often walk in the early morning or evening. Some manufacturers also supply an LED light if they have not yet incorporated this feature into their leash.
Final Thoughts
We hope you found our review of the best leash for a dog that pulls helpful. These leashes are strong enough to withstand the strain of an aggressive puller, and most contain a bungee shock-absorbing section to mitigate any pulling forces. They’ll certainly help your arms and shoulders. You can also combine these leashes with the appropriate head collars or harnesses for your particular breed of dog to keep your dog comfortable.
But if you're still undecided because you like them all, we recommend you get the ThunderLeash Standard Leash For 2 Dogs. It features a comfortable, soft-touch padded handle that easily connects to two extensions that allow you to walk two dogs while, at the same time, gently training them to stop pulling. Eventually, your dog will get better at walking without pulling and you'll enjoy a stress-free walk with your beloved pup.
If we have missed any worthy mentions, or you have other excellent suggestions, we’d love to hear about it. Drop us a comment!
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