10 Best Retractable Dog Leashes in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

Retractable dog leashes offer plenty of benefits. Your dog can enjoy more freedom on walks, explore while you chat with a friend, and even learn how to “come” and “heel” with ease. However, with so many different retractable leashes available to try, it can be hard to know which is best for your pup.

While you might think all leashes are the same, that’s far from the truth. Instead, choosing the right retractable leash could be the difference between your dog staying safe by your side or running wild through the neighborhood. To help you sift through the seemingly endless options, we’ve put together reviews of the best retractable dog leashes currently on the market.

Let’s take a look at our favorites:

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2024

The 10 Best Retractable Dog Leashes

1. TUG Patented Retractable Dog Leash – Best Overall

If you want only the best for your four-legged friend, the TUG Patented 360° Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash is our top pick. The lead features an entirely tangle-free design and the handle is cushioned for your comfort. As for this retractable leash’s locking mechanism, you can easily pause, lock, or unlock your dog’s leash with the simple push of a button.

This retractable leash comes in three different sizes, with the largest version strong enough for dogs up to 110 pounds. The tape lead is 16 feet long, which allows plenty of freedom and exploration for your dog. You can also pick from several different colors to suit your dog’s existing accessories or your personal style.

While this retractable leash is one of the best on the market, you may still run into some issues. If your dog bolts while attached to the lead, it may snap. Also, the cloth tape lead can easily be chewed through, so you shouldn’t leave your dog unsupervised with this leash. Finally, even the smallest size might offer too much tension for toy breeds.

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2. Flexi Retractable Dog Leash – Longest Leash

Do you struggle to find leashes that are long enough for your dog’s adventurous spirit? If so, we suggest giving the Flexi CL10C8.250.S Retractable Dog Leash a try. This retractable leash boasts an impressive 26-foot lead, which is more than enough freedom for most dogs to explore their surroundings. However, this leash comes in several different sizes, so make sure to pick the appropriate size and length for your dog.

While the Flexi CL10C8.250.S Retractable Dog Leash is great on its own, you can also combine it with a Multi Box or LED Lighting System to truly get the most out of your new leash. The locking mechanism can be easily activated with the press of a button, so your dog is always within reach when needed.

Unlike most cloth leashes, this retractable leash catches a little bit when retracting. With time, the cord lead tends to wear down and be at risk of snapping. Also, the extra-long lead means it’s easier to get wrapped up in the leash when walking your dog.

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3. WIGZI Retractable Leash – Best Dual Leash

Shopping for one dog leash is already a challenge, so adding a second pup to the mix only complicates things even further. With the WIGZI STDDGV-GO Retractable Leash, however, you can walk two dogs at once with ease. This dual retractable dog leash features separate leads for dogs up to 50 pounds, each with its own locking mechanism.

Each 10-foot lead comes in a reflective, high-visibility color for safe walking almost anywhere. The specialized, 360-degree lead management system prevents the two leashes from tangling together.

While this retractable leash is designed to keep both dogs walking side-by-side, not all dogs enjoy walking right next to each other. Even with the tangle-free design, you might find that your dogs get tangled around each other, nearby obstacles, or even around you. The leads may also start to fray with continued use.

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4. Ruff ‘n Ruffus Retractable Dog Leash

The Ruff’n Ruffus Retractable Dog Leash isn’t just a high-quality leash for dogs up to 110 pounds. This leash also comes with an included clip-on poop bag dispenser and collapsible water/food dish. If you take your beloved pooch on long walks, then this set is one of the most versatile options out there.

The 16-foot lead is made from durable nylon, rather than cloth, and features a reinforced metal clip at the end. The locking mechanism offers three modes, allowing for complete freedom, locking into position, or reeling the lead back in. This offers a bit more flexibility than retractable leashes that just lock or remain completely free.

Despite the lead’s durability, though, it is quite thin. This thinness means it can easily cause friction burns or be chewed through when left attached to your dog while unattended. Also, the locking button is easy to press accidentally.

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5. TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash

The TaoTronics TT-PA001 Retractable Dog Leash is a simple lead that’s perfect for almost any situation where your dog could use a little more freedom. This leash is 16 feet long, is made of durable nylon, and can hold dogs up to 110 pounds. It also features an anti-slip handle for your own comfort and peace-of-mind.

The locking mechanism allows you to stop, release, and retract the lead all with one hand. Plus, this retractable leash comes with a clip-on poop bag dispenser.

While the handle is cushioned for comfort, it won’t work for dog owners with large hands. The locking mechanism sometimes catches for a moment when trying to stop the lead in motion. Also, the attachment clip is quite small and might not fit larger dog collars and harnesses.

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6. Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash

Like many of the products on our list, the Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash features a 16-foot nylon lead and holds dogs up to 110 pounds. The single-button locking mechanism lets you brake, release, and retract the leash whenever you need to rein in your dog.

This retractable dog leash features a tangle-free design. The handle is covered in rubber for a comfortable, no-slip grip when you need it most. The lead is also extremely smooth when moving in and out of the handle.

Like most fabric-style leads, this one is far from chew-proof. You’ll need to watch your dog closely to ensure they don’t chew through it. If the lead gets wet during use, mildew may develop inside the handle.

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7. Pet Neat Retractable Dog Leash

The Pet Neat Retractable Dog Leash is another simple version of the classic retractable leash, but it’s perfect for dogs and owners who don’t need any extra frills. The 10-foot-long lead can handle dogs up to 110 pounds and is made of durable nylon.

This retractable leash features a bright yellow handle made from non-toxic and eco-friendly plastic. The vibrant color also helps add visibility to keep you and your four-legged friend safe on walks.

With time, the handle rubber cushion may start to break apart and show other signs of wear. Also, the nylon lead is prone to tearing and can be easily chewed through. Finally, the metal clip is quite small and won’t fit on all dog collars and harnesses.

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8. Fida Retractable Dog Leash

Another simple yet worthwhile option is the Fida Retractable Dog Leash, which comes in a range of colors and sizes to fit you and your dog’s unique needs. The largest size can accommodate dogs up to 110 pounds and has a 16-foot-long lead. Each lead is also adorned with reflective markings for added visibility and safety.

This retractable dog leash features a rust-proof metal clip and on end and a tangle-free, 360-degree swivel on the other. The handle is designed for comfort, including a cushioned, no-slip grip.

Despite its ergonomic grip, the handle can be difficult to get a secure hold on. The retraction is too strong for some dogs and may pull your dog’s harness to the side during longer walks. Also, the lead may twist inside the handle as it retracts, even with the anti-tangle feature.

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9. Happy & Polly Retractable Bungee Leash

The Happy & Polly Retractable Bungee Leash might be best described as a tactical leash! Along with the leash itself, it comes with an attached flashlight, snack box, and poop bag dispenser for extra safety and convenience on your walks.

As for the leash itself, the 16.4-foot lead offers plenty of freedom for your dog to explore and sniff to their heart’s content. The small piece of bungee leash on the end of the lead also helps stop pulling and chewing. Plus, it will prevent painful, sudden stops for both you and your dog if you need to quickly activate the locking mechanism.

While the inclusion of a flashlight is a great idea, the included flashlight isn’t of the highest quality. The lead itself tends to twist during use and makes quite a bit of noise when retracting. Also, keep in mind that this retractable leash is heavier than most other options, so it might be tiring on long walks.

• What goes great with a retractble leash? A stylish bandana – find the perfect match for your dog.

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10. Bonna Retractable Dog Leash

Finally, the Bonna Retractable Dog Leash rounds out our list. This leash features a 16.5-foot lead and comes with a poop bag dispenser and collapsible food/water bowl. The handle has a cushioned, ergonomic grip that won’t slip from your hands and a two-button locking system.

This leash is made from reinforced nylon tape. The lead also includes a 360-degree, tangle-free dispenser so your dog can roam wherever they want without ever truly leaving your reach.

If you have a larger dog, then this leash will be too small and weak. The Bonna Retractable Dog Leash only holds small and medium-sized dogs up to 33 pounds.  The nylon tape is also prone to suddenly breaking, making this leash a potential safety hazard.

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Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Retractable Dog Leashes

Finding the right leash for your dog can take some trial and error. By asking the right questions, though, you can take some of the guesswork out of shopping for a leash that fits your dog’s needs.

Here are some things to consider when on the hunt for the best retractable leash for your dog:

Size

Arguably, the most important factor when shopping for a new leash is your dog’s size and weight. If your new leash can’t stand up to your dog’s weight, then you’re not much better off with the leash than without!

All high-quality leashes should have weight ratings listed for your reference. Generally, you want to err on the heavier side if you’re unsure of your dog’s size and strength.

However, when shopping for a retractable leash, you also don’t want to purchase a leash with too high of a weight rating. If you do, the retraction might be too strong for your pup.

Lead length

Different leash lengths have different uses. With a retractable leash, though, you have the option of several lengths all in one.

Typically, we recommend buying the longest retractable leash you can find for your dog’s size. While you might not use the full length very often, it’s always nice to have the extra freedom when you need it.

Durability

The best leash in the world won’t do much good if it only lasts a few days. Unfortunately, few retractable leashes are truly chewed- and tear-proof.

Along with purchasing the most durable leash you can, you should always supervise your dog when using a retractable leash. If left unattended, they could quickly chew through the fabric or cord lead before you know it.

Accessories

Many retractable leashes come with accessories that make walking your dog safer and more convenient. Although safety features like reflective or LED leads and flashlights should be your top priority, keep an eye out for other accessories like poop bag dispensers, food/water bowls, and treat containers.

Comfort

When shopping around for a new leash, your dog’s comfort and safety are extremely important. But don’t forget about yourself!

Make sure your chosen retractable leash features a handle that is both comfortable and easy to keep a secure grip on. If you and your pup tend to go on long walks, then your comfort is just as important as theirs.

When NOT to use a retractable leash

For some dogs, retractable leashes just aren’t the best choice. In these cases, we recommend sticking with a traditional leash.

For example, if your dog is reactive around strangers or other dogs, then a retractable leash offers too much freedom for their safety and the safety of others. While you might have the option to lock the leash and retract it, this process takes far too long in an emergency.

Training young dogs to walk on a retractable leash is more likely to create bad habits like pulling. While it’s fine to transition to a retractable leash later on, you should start your dog out with a traditional one first.

Conclusion

After comparing the top options on the market, our top choice for the best retractable dog leash is the TUG Patented 360° Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash. This leash comes in a variety of colors and sizes, features a worry-free locking mechanism, and also has a comfortable handle for you.

If you are looking for an extra-long retractable leash, then the Flexi CL10C8.250.S Retractable Dog Leash is by far the best option out there. The 26-foot lead is significantly longer than most retractable leashes and it’s compatible with Multi Box and LED Lighting Systems for customization. All-in-all, it’s a great retractable leash for dogs and their owners looking to enjoy a little more freedom.

Finally, for the two-dog household, our top suggestion is the WIGZI STDDGV-GO Retractable Leash. This leash combines the convenience of a retractable leash with high visibility, a tangle-free design, and, of course, the freedom to walk two dogs with one leash.

Whichever retractable leash you’ve chosen for your four-legged friend, we hope these reviews of the best retractable dog leashes helped make the search just a little bit easier. Now, grab a leash and explore the world!

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