The Best Hands-Free Dog Leash

WHAT IS A HANDS-FREE DOG LEASH?

Hands-free dog leashes are a growing trend for dog owners. A hands-free dog leash is a leash that can be worn around the owner’s waist instead of holding it by hand or wrist. It can provide additional mobility for the owner and the dog. Hands-free dog leashes are great for those who want to hike, bike, run, jog, or walk with their dogs. They can also be a game-changer for anyone who has suffered an injury or disability to their hands, shoulders, or wrists.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN PURCHASING A HANDS-FREE DOG LEASH

So, what should you look for when purchasing a hands-free dog leash? Well, it really depends on what you are looking to get out of your leash and what is most important to you.

CONVENIENCE

Convenience is a huge reason why most dog owner’s switch to hands-free dog leashes. While the leash itself is already convenient, there are other convenient amenities and features that can be added to these dog leashes.

Compartments

Water Bottle Holder

It is important to keep a water bottle on hand while exercising with your pet. However, most people do not want to have to worry about carrying the water bottle—especially if running or biking. Some of the hands-free dog leashes will come with a small water bottle holder. If it does not come with one, there may be an option to buy a third-party attachment to add to the belt.

Versatility

Versatility goes along with convenience. For most owners it is important to have mobility and versatility in a hands-free dog leash. A few versatile options that some hands-free dog leashes include are:

• The ability to walk multiple dogs with one belt.
• An adjustable leash length and belt size.
• The ability to remove the leash from the belt to make it a traditional leash.
• Easy glide technology to allow the dog to maneuver side-to-side without tangling.

SAFETY

Safety is arguably the biggest concern for most dog owners, so it is no surprise that most who shop for hands-free dog leashes are looking for the products that provide the most safety.

Visibility

Shock Absorption

Owners who have experienced dogs who excessively pull understand the importance of shock absorption. Dogs and owners experience an unpleasant jolt when a dog pulls on a regular leash. If repetitive, this can cause injuries to both the owner and the dog. Hands-free leashes that are created with bungee material help absorb some of the shock. This allows you and your pet to have a more pleasant experience and offers mitigation of potential injuries.

SIZE AND STRENGTH OF DOG

Most hands-free dog leashes are designed specifically for a dog size. Larger dogs, or dogs with a lot of strength, will need exceptionally durable material. The tension in the bungee material should ideally be higher for larger dogs and lower for smaller dogs. Most hands-free leashes will have guidelines for the weight of dogs that it can withstand. It is important to double check these before ordering.

REVIEWS

With so many options available, we know that it is hard to decide on what product to buy. We have created a buying guide consisting of 8 different hands-free leashes. These products are listed in no particular order.

Furry Buddy Hands-Free Dog Leash

Overview/Features:

Performance:

The Furry Buddy Hands-Free Dog Leash was designed to be durable and can be used for dogs up to 180lbs. The leash comes with two foam padded handles to give users control of their dogs without the worry of rope burn. It is made with a bungee material to provide a shock absorbing functionality for dogs who pull. The material provides shock absorbance for both you and your pet.

Things to Watch Out For:

Even though the leash itself is durable, the plastic buckle seems to easily come unfastened or break. This is obviously an important part of the belt, so users have been concerned.

Pros:

• The length of the leash is adjustable.
• The waist size of the belt is adjustable.
• The belt is equipped with several waterproof compartments.
• The belt comes with a built-in water bottle holder.
• The product comes with a 3-year guarantee.
• The material has reflective stitching to make the leash more visible.
• The handle is padded to prevent rope burn.
• It is affordable.

Cons:

• The plastic snap buckle seems to break easily.
• The belt is bulky and not comfortable for everyone.
• The belt does not always stay in place—especially with high activity.
• It weighs more than most hands-free dog leashes.

ThinkPet Hands-Free Dog Leash for 2 dogs

Overview/Features:

Performance:

The two leashes are built with safety in mind. The reflective straps create visibility and the secondary handle helps keep your dogs close while in congested areas. The material has stainless steel D-rings to create a strong clasp for the leash.

Things to Watch Out For:

The material tends to break down easily. Most users would not recommend this leash for those walking large dogs or dogs who pull a lot. The D-rings are durable, but the material that they are connected to could rip.

Pros:

• This hands-free dog leash comes with two leashes so owners can walk two dogs at the same time.
• The reflective stitching provides additional visibility.
• The bungee material helps absorb shock for both the owner and the dogs.
• The waist size is adjustable.
• A secondary safety handle is provided to give owners more control.
• The belt is equipped with a convenient treat pouch.
• The belt comes with a built-in water bottle holder.

Cons: 

• The material is not exceptionally durable. The D-rings can rip through the material causing the leash to detach.
• The leashes that come with the belt are not long enough for some dog owners.
• The zipper on the pouch gets stuck and breaks easily.
• Some owners have mentioned that they have issues with the leashes crossing.
• Due to the amenities on the belt, it weighs more than most hands-free dog leashes.

Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Dog Leash

Overview/Features:

Performance:

This hand-free dog leash is one of the best options for active dog owners. The lightweight belt and the easy glide belt clip allow dog owners to continue to be active with little obstruction. It was designed for medium to large size dogs. The leash can still be used for smaller dogs, they just may not experience all the benefits of the leash.

Things to Watch Out For:

The elastic tends to break and fray after several uses with stronger dogs. This belt does not come with convenient compartments or a water bottle holder. A lot of hands-free dog leashes are designed with these amenities for an added convenience. Tuff Mutt created this belt to be as lightweight as possible for users, so these added features were not included.

Pros:

• The belt comes in a variety of colors.
• The easy glide belt clip provides more mobility for the dog.
• Lightweight, weighing only 9.6 ounces.
• The bungee material provides shock absorption for both the owner and the dog.
• This product comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Cons: 

• To maintain the lightweight material, this belt does not come with any added compartments or water bottle holders. Owners may be able to find attachable third-party water bottle holders to add to the belt.
• Some owners have stated that the leash is too long and presents a tripping hazard.
• The belt may loosen if it is repetitively pulled by the dog. This can become an annoyance to continuously adjust.
• The bungee and elastic material seems to fray and wear over time.
• The material is unfortunately not fully chew proof.

Mighty Paw Hands-Free Dog Leash

Overview/Features:

Performance:

The Mighty Paw leash is made from a durable, yet lightweight bungee material. This makes it great for runners so they can keep their pace even if their dog tries to pull off course. The shock absorption bungee material is not only great for owners, but it also provides a level of protection for the dog’s neck and spine by absorbing the shock.

Things to Watch Out For:

The tension in the bungee leash is high, so it is not a great leash for smaller dogs. Smaller dogs will not have the strength to pull the bungee leash and take advantage of the extra 16” that it offers when pulled. To keep the belt light, it does not include extra compartments or storage for keys, phone, or water bottles. A lot of runners like these features so they can conveniently store their personal items. However, adding those amenities may add additional weight. Some owners have also mentioned that the waist belt is difficult to adjust.

Pros:

• Exceptionally durable material. Great for large/strong dogs.
• The belt only weighs 7.2 ounces.
• Great for runners, bikers, walkers, and hikers.
• The reflective stitching allows the leash to be more visible.
• Users can add another leash if they choose to. The additional leashes can be ordered directly on the manufacturer’s website.
• The company is family owned.
• The company offers 100% money back guarantee within the first 90 days.
• The Mighty Paw website offers some great how-to videos for the leash.

Cons:

• The tension in the bungee is too high for some dogs.
• The belt can be difficult to adjust.
• The belt does not include any storage pouches or water bottle holders.
• The belt sometimes slides up while running.

TaoTronics Retractable Hands-Free Dog Leash

Overview/Features:

Performance:

The leash is designed with durability in mind. It was made for those who have larger dogs or dogs that pull a lot. The dual bungee material provides additional shock absorption, which can mitigate potential injuries for both the dog and the owner. The two handles also give owners more control of their pet and the option to make the leash shorter when needed. The reflective stitching gives owners a peace of mind if they are out with their dog while it is dark.

Things to Watch Out For:

This hands-free dog leash was designed for larger dogs. Smaller dogs may not get much benefit out of using it because they will have difficulty stretching the dual bungee material. It unfortunately does not come in another size for smaller dogs.

Pros:

• The leash and belt are both durable and sturdy.
• The material is lightweight.
• Great for large/strong dogs.
• Great leash to use for running, hiking, or walking with your dog.

Cons: 

• This leash is not ideal for smaller dogs.
• The leash itself is sturdy, but the clips seem to be made of a flimsy material.
• The belt does not come with any additional compartments for personal items.
• The leash sometimes gets tangled easily.

Pet Dreamland Hands-Free Dog Leash

Overview/Features:

 Performance:

The Pet Dreamland Hands-Free Dog Leash is one of the most versatile dog leashes on the market. It comes in two sizes to accommodate for small dogs and large dogs. The small size is designed for dogs that weigh between 10-35 lbs. The large leash is designed for dogs that weigh between 35-100 lbs. The leash can easily be detached from the waist belt and used as a traditional leash. The leash can also be adjusted in length without worrying about extra attachments.

 Things to Watch Out For:

This dog leash may not be the best option for dogs who are serious pullers. The elastic begins to break down in the bungee material, which leaves owners with a stretched-out leash. Owners who have dogs that have a history of pulling may need to purchase a leash made for dogs over 100 lbs. The leash may also be more difficult for folks who have shorter arms. Some owners have mentioned that they have had trouble reaching the handles.

Pros:

• The leash is versatile.
• The leash comes in two different sizes and both are adjustable.
• The leash can easily be detached from the belt to create a traditional leash.
• The leash has three bungee sections.
• There is reflective stitching on both sides of the leash to allow the leash to be more visible.
• The leash comes with two padded handles.
• The company’s customer service team has received praise from several customers.

Cons: 

• The belt does not have any padding and can be uncomfortable.
• The elastic tends to break down from dogs who pull often.
• Some owners do not like the knots that come with the leash to allow it to be adjusted.
• The belt does not come with added pouches for personal items.

RuffWear Flat Out Dog Leash

Overview/Features:

Performance:

The RuffWear Flat Out Dog Leash is designed with tubelok webbing for added durability. Some users have mentioned that the quality of the brand’s material is declining. However, there are many options available that RuffWear offers, so it is important to research all the options available to decide which RuffWear product is best for you and your pet.

Things to Watch Out For:

This hands-free leash was not designed with bungees, reflective stitching, or shock absorbent material. Most leashes that offer a hands-free solution have these features to promote safety and mitigate injury. It may be wise to look for a product with the shock absorbent material if your pet has a history of pulling. It will protect you and your pet from unwanted injuries—especially when using it around the waist.

Pros:

• The leash is multifunctional. It can be worn around the waist or wrist. It also can be easily tied to a stable object if needed.
• The leash comes in a variety of stylish colors.
• The leash weights less than 5 ounces.
• The accessory clip gives users the ability to attach and carry small items.
• The Talon Clips are unique to RuffWear and are easily secured to both the leash and the collar.
• The padded handle can help prevent rope burn.

Cons: 

• The plastic pieces on the leash can break easily.
• This leash does not come with elastic or bungee material for shock absorption.
• There is no reflective material included on the leash,
• A few repeat customers have commented that the quality of material has decreased recently.
• There are no added compartments for personal items.
• The leash cannot be adjusted.

Prosper Pets Hands-Free Dog Leash

Overview/Features:

Performance:

The Prosper Pets Hands-Free Dog Leash was built with safety in mind. The bungee material helps mitigate potential injuries for both you and your pet. The reflective stitching allows for you and your pet to be more visible to others. The is durable and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Things to Watch Out For:

The waist size is easily adjusted, but those with smaller waists have had trouble with keeping it in place.  The leash is unfortunately only available in one size, so there are not options for those who need a smaller waist size. The length of the leash has also been a concern for some owners. The bungee material has a high tension, so smaller dogs are not able to stretch the leash out to its full capacity.

Pros: 

• The leash is created with shock absorbent bungee material.
• The reflective stitching allows the leash to be more visible.
• The belt is adjustable.
• The leash is durable.
• There are two handles on the leash for added control.
• This product comes with a lifetime warranty.

Cons:

• There are no added compartments for personal items or water bottles.
• The bungee tension is too high for smaller dogs.
• The waist size is not small enough for some users.