12 Best Cute Dog Leashes in 2023

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A good leash is a necessity for any walk, but finding a stylish yet functional one can be tricky. When you're looking for cute dog leashes, there's a lot to think about beyond just patterns and colors. Finding the best dog harnesses to attach a leash for walks and the best dog collars to hold ID tags are important considerations as well. The good news is that there are so many leashes that are as adorable as they are useful.

We put together a selection of cute leashes for dogs that are safe and durable, with expert input from Dr. Alejandro Caos, a veterinarian for at-home veterinary service The Vets, and Dr. Kate Anderson, a veterinarian and assistant clinical professor at the Duffield Institute for Animal Behavior at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. With their insight, we've compiled a collection of the best leashes. The ones that made our list are sturdy, safe, and of course, cute.

Length: Anderson recommends using a leash that is 4 to 6 feet in length. She says this standard size is good for training and regular walks.

Type: We recommend using a standard, flat leash that is not retractable and does not have a spring. Retractable leashes create tension and possible strain that can be dangerous for both dogs and their owners, so it's best to stay away from them, according to Anderson. With spring and bungee leashes, you have less control over your dog. They allow the dog a greater range of movement, which can be hazardous in situations like crossing a road where you want a firm handle on your pup.

Material: Leashes with a strong material are generally good picks. Nylon or rope are options that won't break easily under tension.

While there are many types of leashes, there is no perfect leash that will work for every dog and its owner, says Anderson. Knowing your dog's physical size, limitations, and potential behavioral issues are important considerations when choosing a leash. However, Anderson says most owners can feel confident in a standard, flat, 6-foot leash.

Flexi-leads — also known as retractable leashes — should be avoided because they are a safety hazard. "Those can be very dangerous," Anderson says. "A flexi-lead can be problematic because there's always tension on those types of leashes that can create unnecessary strain on both you and your dog."

Caos says that it is best to keep dogs on a leash in most cases. Leashes add an extra layer of safety in busy public areas or parks that may have wildlife roaming around. "We still have to be very aware of any dangers that might exist," he says.

That doesn't mean your pup must always be clipped in. Caos emphasized the importance of reliable recall training for dogs on and off the leash so they can feel comfortable and safe. For some pet parents who may be concerned about their dogs off-leash but want to give their pups more freedom, Anderson recommends experimenting with a long-line leash. However, you should always check the leash laws in your area before letting your pup roam free.

A hands-free leash is a type of lead that connects to a dog's harness and is attached to the person walking via harness or waistband. These types of leashes have grown in popularity over the last few years, and while they might not be for everyone, Caos says they're safe to use.

Caos likes the flexibility of hands-free leashes while walking his dog because they provide greater freedom of movement while still keeping a dog secure. He also mentioned the added safety benefit for the owner. "I like them when I'm jogging or just generally hiking because it presents both of my hands in case I fall, so it's kind of an added safety feature for myself," he says.

However, Caos says these leashes might not be the best option for walking larger dogs. There is always the potential for a pup to take off running on a leash, and large dogs may have the strength to drag their owners behind them.

Our experts describe a no-pull leash as a training tool that works to stop dogs from pulling. They say there is no perfect product to completely stop a dog from pulling — the best way is to engage in effective training. But there are some things to look out for when it comes to a no-pull leash.

Caos says gentle leads, or the type of leash that loops around the muzzle, can be used to redirect a dog's attention on walks. These types of leashes typically connect to a collar. With gentle leashes or any type of leash, it's important to know how they could impact your pup. "One of the things that I like to tell my clients is you have to be aware of your dog's age and musculoskeletal [system]," he says. For some breeds, like French bulldogs, a gentle lead won't work due to the lack of a pronounced snout and one of the best no-pull dog harnesses may be a better option.

Anderson says absolutely. Leash training can be accomplished with any type of leash, although she recommends a standard, flat, 4- to 6-foot leash. Bungee and flexi-leads can be problematic and unsafe for several reasons, but they are especially poor products to use when leash training because there is constant tension on those types of leashes, Anderson says. A lead capable of going slack is an important component of proper leash training.

We recommend opting for a harness over a collar for walking your pup. Caos says a lot can go wrong if a collar is improperly used. Damage to the neck and spine may arise from a collar that puts pressure around a dog's neck. The risk of choking is also higher.

Harnesses may take longer for your pet to get accustomed to, but Anderson says it's worth trying to get your dog comfortable in a harness because they can be safer. She notes that owners want to make sure they're finding the right harness for their dogs. The best dog harnesses won't obstruct the shoulders or be too tight or loose for your dog.

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