It’s the essential part of having a pet dog. It goes together with the dog collar and bowl being the first items you buy when you get a dog. For those new to the dog world, it might seem as if there aren’t many different types of dog leashes. It is all the same with different patterns and colors. But, it’s far from the truth. They might not be of use to everyone, but generally speaking, there are 7 different types of dog leashes people can use. It all depends on your needs, activities, and what feels comfortable for both you and your dog.

1. Basic Clip-on Leash

Unless you have a guide dog, this is probably the first leash you will buy when you get a dog. This is the basic type of a dog leash. It uses a snap hook to keep everything in place. The hook is attached to a dog collar and the other end has a loop for your hand.

 Depending on the size of a dog, you change the thickness of the leash and the strength of the clip. Be careful not to choose a hook that is too big if you have a smaller dog. This can put an additional strain on a lightweight dog.

The usual material is nylon, but it can be made out of leather as well. The latter are sturdier and can withstand even the strongest pullers. Once again, the material depends on your preferences and a dog’s size and habits.

2. Retractable Leash

This is another dog leash that dog owners often use. It has a snap hook on one side for the dog collar, and the other end has a plastic handle for your hand. As the name says, it has an option to retract the leash when you want it. They come in all kinds of colors and sizes, depending on the dog’s size. 

Be careful, though, because these types of leashes are usually not going to hold a very strong and reactive dog. If you have a Vizsla that has to run after a squirrel, it is best to use some other type of sturdier dog leash.

3. Hands-free Leash

This kind of leash is perfect for all active dog owners. It has a snap hook for the collar, elastic bungee-like rope, and an adjustable hoop with a buckle you can put around your waist or over your shoulder and under the arm. This combination is great for people who run, hike, or jog with their dogs. It is not recommended for crowded areas and reactive dogs because of the elasticity of the rope. It would be difficult to stop the dog if he sees something he shouldn’t chase. 

4. Multiple Dog Leash

The name says it all. It’s for dog owners who want to use one leash with “two endings” so that they can control both dogs with one hand. There are hands-free versions and regular versions of this leash. It usually contains hooks for two collars or two dogs, but there is another version, as seen in photo number 2. 

This version allows walking up to 4 dogs, but it’s not recommended for large dog breeds. The instructions state up to 30 pounds (each dog). In both cases, ropes for two dogs or four dogs, the point is to have tangle-free walks. But, the tangles can still happen so be prepared for that, just in case.

5. Slip-on Leash

If you need to quickly equip your dog to go on a walk, a slip-on leash acts as a collar and a leash at the same time. It is usually made of a Kernmantle rope that ends in a loop with two silicone stoppers. The stoppers are made for adjusting the length of a loop that acts as a dog collar. They also serve to keep the loop in place.

This kind of dog leash is also very useful when you’re outside with your dog and you want to let it run around freely. Just take off the hoop and let the dog go. When you’re ready, slip on the leash and you’re all set.

6. Short Leash

The short dog leash is perfect for walking your dog through crowded areas. Generally speaking, it is useful when you need full control of your dog’s movements. It keeps your dog close and safe. Of course, this kind of leash is not for everyday use, but it is a great choice for any crowded area or when you need to quickly transport your dog from a car to the vet and vice versa. They are usually from 12 to 16 inches (30 to 40 cm). It consists of a clip-on for a dog collar and a loop for your hand. It is sturdy and a good choice for controlling a big dog’s movements.

7. Multifunction Leash

This dog leash is a great choice when traveling or hiking. They are adjustable and quite sturdy even though they are usually made of lightweight nylon. You can change the length of the leash, change from hands-free to hand-held, collar-clipped, or two-clipped. 

Two-clipped means one snap hook gets attached to the collar and the other one to the chest buckle. Of course, for this to work your dog needs to wear a harness. It also usually comes with additional hooks for you to clip a bag with all you need for a longer walk.

Although not practical for a quick walk to the park, it is a must-have when going for longer walks or an outdoor adventure with your dog.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a good dog leash is important just like choosing a dog collar, bowl, bed, or a dog brush. It’s an essential part of dog equipment, and most of you will be using it every day. That’s why you have to choose the one that fits you and your dog’s habits best.

The basic clip-on leash is a good choice for anyone except those who need to navigate a dog through a crowded and unsafe place when you need to have your dog close to you and in control all the time. A multifunctional leash is, as mentioned, an excellent choice for hikers and all other active people who love to go on adventures with their dogs.

Whichever leash you choose, be sure it’s durable and, if possible, waterproof for all those rainy days when we have to go out and walk our dogs. 

Read next: Types Of Dog Collars – The Good And The Bad