Shih Tzu Expert

Here You can find everything about Shih Tzu dogs. Best dog Food, Grooming tips and advice, Training and Health issues of Shih Tzu and other small breed dogs

  • Food
  • Health
  • Dog Grooming
    • Dog Clippers
    • Other Grooming Tools
    • Grooming Products
    • Grooming Tips
  • Dog Safety
    • GPS Dog Collars
    • GPS Dog Fences
    • In ground dog fences
    • Wireless Dog Fences
  • Dog Training
  • About

Best Retractable Dog Leash

By Elma | Last Updated May 7, 2020

We may earn commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Learn more

When you’re trying to decide on a leash for your dog, there are many options. Do you want a traditional flat leash? A retractable leash? What leash works best for you depends heavily on your dog, where you tend to walk, and what stage of training your dog is on. As this article focuses on retractable leashes, let’s focus on who those leashes work best for first.

Contents

  • 1 Who are Retractable Leashes Best For?
  • 2 Pros and Cons of Retractable Leashes
  • 3 Are Retractable Leashes Dangerous?
  • 4 Flexi Giant Tape Leash
  • 5 Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash by Hertzko
  • 6 URPOWER Upgraded Retractable Dog Leash
  • 7 WIGZI Dual Doggie Pet Leash
  • 8 TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash

Who are Retractable Leashes Best For?

Retractable leashes are great for making walks more interesting for well-behaved dogs. They let your dog roam so they can investigate interesting smells, or explore the area more. However, this feature makes retractable leashes unsuited for some dogs. If your dog tends to lunge at squirrels or other dogs, you’ll have less control over them. If your dog might fight other dogs, they could even get hurt. Retractable leashes also aren’t safe to use while hiking, or in areas with lots of cyclists or runners since they might not see the line until it’s too late.

If your dog isn’t fully trained in walking on a leash, then traditional leashes are best. Retractable leashes give your dog a chance to ignore commands. They can also learn to pull on the leash, which can be dangerous as well. In general, retractable leashes are best for well-trained dogs who walk calmly on the leash, don’t lunge, and are generally walked in areas with little traffic. Retractable leashes are great to reward your dog for being behaved by giving them more room to explore safe areas.

Retractable leashes also aren’t a good option for puppies. Not only can they generally not handle chewing, but puppies aren’t trained enough to be able to walk safely on one. Puppies will try to run into the street or after animals and this can be a very dangerous situation. Always train puppies to walk on a traditional leash and consider a retractable leash only for specific training like recall training in public or after they have learned to walk nicely.

Pros and Cons of Retractable Leashes

As a quick overview, let’s go over the pros and cons so you can decide whether retractable leashes are for you and your dog.

Pros

  • Allows your dog more freedom during walks
  • Allows your dog to roam while still on the leash, making it great for dog parks when you’re still not sure about letting your dog off the leash.
  • Great as an advanced tool for trained dogs.
  • Good for training on skills like stay and recalling while in public.

Cons

  • Can cause injury when the longer lead wraps around the owner.
  • Not as much control as a flat leash.
  • The stop button might not pull your dog back fast enough to keep them out of danger.
  • The dog can get hurt when they try to run and get stopped suddenly.

Best Retractable Dog Leash

Are Retractable Leashes Dangerous?

Like many things, in the wrong hands, retractable leashes can be dangerous. They’re an advanced tool, and you need to learn how to use them properly. If you don’t know how to use the controls effectively, your dog could run off and get hurt. The most common injuries to dogs from retractable leashes come from when the dog runs off and gets up to full speed before the owner can hit the stop. The sudden stop from full speed can cause injuries to the spine and trachea. Another common injury is from fights started when the owner is far away.

Injuries to humans generally come from rope burns and lacerations caused by the leash wrapping around them. Other dangers include the dog getting into traffic and people not seeing the long lead and hitting it. Generally, it isn’t a tool for untrained dogs or inexperienced owners. If that doesn’t describe you or your pet, then read on for the best retractable leashes you can get. These issues can be lessened by buying a flat style retractable leash, but they can’t be removed entirely.

Flexi Giant Tape Leash

The Giant Tape Leash is a great option for large dogs. Designed for dogs that weigh up to 110 pounds, it comes in three sizes. The leash itself is neon yellow, for increased visibility. It has a comfortable handle and a quick stop button as well as the ability to restrict the amount of leash that is out at any time. The hook is chromed for better weather resistance.

Things to Watch For

Some owners have received used leashes when they bought new. One owner even received a moldy leash! Be sure to check thoroughly when you first get your leash so you don’t miss the return window. Owners have also reported the leash itself breaking in the exact same place after six months of use.

Pros

  • Flat tape style leash is stronger and less likely to get caught on things.
  • The leash automatically retracts so it’s less likely to get wrapped around the dog’s legs.
  • Easy to use stop button can be used with one finger, improving safety.
  • Neon leash makes night and evening walks safer.
  • Sturdy construction lasts for years
  • Open reel for the tape lets you fix tangles easily.

Cons

  • Has arrived broken or used
  • Large handle might be hard to hold for smaller hands.
  • Paint has been reported as smearing and getting everywhere if exposed to sunscreen.
  • Heavy.
  • Smaller dogs might have trouble pulling the leash out.

Conclusion

This is a great option for larger dogs. While the product has downsides, most owners seemed to love the leash and recommended it highly. The features make this safe and easy to use. It does seem like smaller dogs might have more issues getting enough length to roam, so maybe consider a different leash if you’re buying for a small dog. Flexi is one of the best brands for retractable leashes, so you can get years of use out of it.

Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash by Hertzko

Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash by Hertzko

The Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash by Hertzko is another great leash option. It has a 16ft long nylon leash, giving your dog plenty of room to roam. It has a non-slip grip and a thumb operated lock button. It retracts quickly, so you can get your dog back to your side when you need them.

Things to Watch For

The hook to attach the leash to your dog is very small. As it has an enclosed housing, if the leash gets wet and retracts, it can mildew and start stinking. The grip might be a bit too small for people with large hands. It also won’t work as well with gloves. The lock is also not particularly easy to use. The retraction mechanism can also wear out quickly. The leash also can’t take even mild chewing. It tends to get runs and rip further. The rubber on the grip can also peel off quickly. This is a common issue, but still an annoyance. It can be repaired with grip tape meant for tennis rackets.

Pros

  • Flat style is less prone to tangling.
  • Comfort grip.
  • Quick reaction.

Cons

  • Encased style can result in a wet leash getting mildew.
  • Grip isn’t the largest so it won’t work for big hands or winter gloves.
  • Lock can be difficult or fragile.

Conclusion

This leash can be a great budget option if you’re looking for a flat style of leash rather than the typical cord style. It has definite downsides, but if you have smaller hands and your dog isn’t a chewer, this leash could work for you.

URPOWER Upgraded Retractable Dog Leash

The URPOWER Upgraded Retractable Dog Leash is another great option. It features a 16ft nylon lead with an anti-tangle opening that works no matter where your dog is pulling the leash. It has a comfortable grip and a lock button that works with just your thumb. It has an anti-rust hook as well. It comes in 2 sizes, one for dogs up to 55 pounds, and a larger size for dogs up to 110 pounds.

Things to Watch For

One owner purchased the larger leash for a 55 pound dog and had the leash be destroyed when they tried locking it right after their dog started running. Several other owners reported a similar issue with the leash popping out when the dog reaches the end of the lead at a run. This means it wouldn’t be good for a large or strong dog. There have been reports of the leash getting locked at the full length and not retracting. This can be dangerous, if you need to retract the leash. The leash also can rip quickly.

Pros

  • Flat nylon leash with an anti-tangling feature.
  • Large comfort grip
  • Easy to use button that only requires one hand.
  • 2 sizes to match your dog.

Cons

  • Hook is small.
  • Leash can pop out of the case easily.
  • Lock brakes easily.

Conclusion

This is a cheap leash, but in this case you get what you pay for. If you have a larger dog, this one may not be for you. This is particularly true if your dog likes chasing squirrels or other animals. If your dog is smaller, this could be a decent option. Just keep a close eye on the leash and be sure your dog isn’t the type to run off.

WIGZI Dual Doggie Pet Leash

The Dual Doggie Pet Leash by WIGZI is a good option if you have two dogs that always walk together. It had two separate lines that are color coded along with the buttons so you can keep control of your dogs easily. Unlike the previous options, the leash is flat up to a point, but it uses a cord. These can be weaker than the flat style, so keep an eye out. Each line is 10 feet and can hold dogs up to 50 pounds. The leash is supposed to be able to spin to help prevent tangling.

Things to Watch For

The lock buttons can be stiff. This can make it harder to use, particularly if you have the leash in your off hand. The lock also can fail on one side, making it useless. The main issue seems to be quality. It’s made with cheap parts that result in it wearing out faster. Most owners are reporting that it doesn’t last a year. This style of cord can easily cause cuts on bare skin, so be careful. One owner certainly reported this.

Pros

  • Two leads let you walk two dogs at once.
  • Color coded so you know which dog you’re stopping.
  • Spinning feature helps prevent tangling.
  • Large grip for comfortable walks.

Cons

  • Cheap construction results in it being quickly.
  • Cord can be a safety hazard, particularly if your dogs run behind you.
  • Locks are stiff and difficult to use.

Conclusion

This leash isn’t the best. The cheap construction means it wears through quickly. It isn’t a very cheap leash to replace either. The main benefit is that it tangles less. If you have two smaller dogs, this might be a good option. Otherwise, two leashes make more sense.

TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash

TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash

The TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash is another great option. The leash is 16 feet and made of nylon in the same flat style as most of the other options on this list. It can handle dogs up to 110 pounds. The lock allows easy, one finger operation. It has a rubber grip for comfort. It also includes free waste bags and a bone-shaped carrying case for them.

Things to Watch For

The leash can break quickly, mainly the locking mechanisms. It’s also heavy for the size. The retraction is rather slow, which can lead to tangling. One owner also reported that the lock wasn’t strong enough and their dog was able to pull more leash out when with them actively pushing the button down. The dog this happened with was only 75 pounds. For larger, stronger dogs this would be even more of an issue. It is also noted as having a small handle, so it isn’t good for large hands or winter walks with gloves on.

Pros

  • Flat, 16ft leash gives your dog plenty of room to run without tangling.
  • Easy to use button.
  • Free waste bags and carrying case.

Cons

  • Heavy for the size, but the handle is still small.
  • Locking mechanism is weak and allows dog to pull out more lead.
  • Slow retraction.

Conclusion

This leash is cheap, so it’s a decent option on a budget. However, it is cheaply made and won’t work for large strong dogs given the issues with the lock. It also won’t work for larger games given the size. There are better options on this list.

More Shih Tzu Related Awesomeness

Filed Under: Dog Safety Tagged With: Best Retractable Dog Leash

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Dog Grooming Tools

Best Dog Dryers

Best Dog Dryers : Things to think about before purchasing!

Best Dog Clippers for Matted Hair

Best Dog Clippers for Matted Hair [Pet Safe]

Best Dog Clippers

7 Best Dog Clippers for Professional use 2021 [Ultimate Guide]

Best Dog Clippers for Poodles

Best Dog Clippers for Poodles 2021 [Safe & Easy to Use]

Best Dog Clippers for Shih Tzu

12 Best Dog Clippers for Shih Tzu 2021 [Fun & Easy Grooming]

How to find the best brush for Shih Tzu

How to find the best brush for Shih Tzu — it’s Easier than you think!

Dog Grooming Products

Andis Pulse ZR II 5-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper

Andis Pulse ZR II 5-Speed Detachable Blade Clipper

Most Popular

How Long Does it Take for a Dog to Digest and Absorb a Heartworm Pill?

Is It Okay To Bathe My Dog In The Afternoon?

Dog Food

A Detailed Guide To Understand Everything About Dry Dog Food

Why Is My Dog Suddenly Suspicious Of Its Food?

8 Week Old Puppy Always Hungry

Pet Safety & Training

why does my dog kick his back legs?

Why is my Dog So Cuddly All Of A Sudden?

  • About The Shih Tzu Expert and the Team!
  • Contact us
  • Terms of Services
  • Privacy Policy
  • How We Review
  • Dog Clippers
  • Wireless Dog Fences

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to
Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Privacy Policy

You can contact me at adam@shihtzuexpert.com

Disclaimer

We  shihtzuexpert.com do not intend to provide veterinary advice!.Even in our veterinary approved articles! Our comprehensive and well researched articles are for information purposes only.  Please always seek advice from your own veterinarian for any medical, health issues etc

 

Copyright © 2022 · ShihTzuExpert.com, All Rights Reserved. DMCA.com Protection Status