Leash Training

Best Leashes for Dogs That Pull – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

by Anoushka Shetty

Life With Dogs is reader-supported. We may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page.

When I first started taking my puppy out on walks, it felt like my arm was going to get pulled out of its socket! Then, I started using bungee leashes and trained my pup to heel a little better, and my shoulder was thanking me.

Walking can be a super stressful time for first-time dog owners, who may not be used to leash-pulling behaviors. 

That’s why you need a high-quality lead with extra features that will help you rein in your pup. We’ve found some of the best leashes on the market, specifically for dogs who tend to pull.

Here Are Our Top 8 Best Leashes for Dogs That Pull

1. Impact Dog LeashBest All-Around Dog Leash

2. Digss Dog LeashDurable, Heavy-Duty Dog Leash

3. Fable Signature LeashBest Minimalist-Designed Dog Leash

4. Auroth Heavy Duty Bungee Dog LeashBest Heavy-Duty Bungee Leash

5. Mighty Paw Retractable LeashBest Retractable Lead

6. iYo Dual Dog LeashAffordable Double-Ended Leash

7. The Love Leash Kid-Friendly Dog LeashBest Kid’s Leash

8. Neewa Shock Absorbing Dog LeashBest Shock-Absorbing Dog Leash

Top 8 Leashes Reviews

1. Impact Dog Leash

Impact Dog Leash

Made of chew-resistant nylon

Large loop handle

Secure steel carabiner

This is an all-around fantastic option if your dog loves to tug on their leash as you walk them. This leash is made of a high-quality material that won’t fray, even with consistent use.

So, you can use this leash for your daily walks without worrying about the nylon tearing, regardless of how big your pooch is.

This leash also has a super comfortable loop handle. I’ve used leashes that can cause rope burn & chafing if your pup pulls hard enough. However, this ergonomic handle won’t cut off your blood flow and will hurt much less than a lower-quality lead!

This leash has a very high-quality carabiner that won’t snap with heavy use. So, even if you have a larger breed like a Rottweiler, you don’t have to worry about the hardware breaking.  

What’s unique about this leash is the dual loop design. It has a secondary handle right near the clasp of the lead, so you can quickly shorten it in a dangerous situation.

For example, you may need to quickly pull your pup away from oncoming traffic. This feature could be a lifesaver for your naughty pup. 

However, the price of this leash runs a little high compared to other options. Plus, there aren’t many color variations available. 

Pros

• Military-grade ballistic nylon

• Durable metal hook

• Unique 2-loop feature for easy lead shortening

• Ergonomic handle

cons

• Pricey compared to other options

• Limited color options

2. Diggs Dog Leash

Diggs Leash

Comes in 2 size options

Large color variety

Waterproof & easy cleanability

If you’re looking for a simple, beautiful leash that your dog can use every day, then look no further. This gorgeous leash comes in 7 color options, which means you can definitely find the one that suits your canine’s style the best.

It also has 2 lengths that you can choose from: the normal size is 6 feet & the mini is only 4 feet. This is great if you want a customized leash to your dog’s size.

Your dog will love wearing this heavy-duty leash every day; it is made of soft & durable nylon that won’t chafe your dog’s neck.

The lead also has a 100% waterproof coating, which makes cleaning up a breeze.

We also love the understated metal accents on this leash that elevate the look & make it feel like a high-quality product. 

Speaking of metal hardware, this lead has a 360º swivel hook which means your dog won’t end up tangled in the leash right when they’re about to pee!

Some customers complained that light-colored leashed get pretty dirty pretty fast, so it’s better to opt for a darker color if you have an outdoorsy dog.

Others complained that it’s easy for your pup to start chewing up the lead, and they can rip out small rubber pieces.

Pros

• Lots of color and size options

• 100% waterproof coating that makes cleaning up really quick & easy

• 360º swiveling hook, so the leash doesn’t get tangled

• Affordable price

cons

• Light-colored leashes get dirty really fast & stain easily – better to opt for darker colors

• Puppies can chew up the leash easily

3. Fable Signature Leash

Fable Pets Signature Leash

7 color options & 3 size options

Durable cord

Security clip to prevent inadvertent opening

If you want a simple leash that has all the necessary features, is made of high-quality materials, and won’t break the bank, this is the option for you.

The Fable pets signature leash comes in 7 beautiful & unique colors. Plus, it also has 3 lengths to choose from, so you can choose the one that best suits your pup. 

The lead has a gorgeously minimalist design that is bound to go with any harness & collar style. The lead is coated with a waterproof material that makes it very easy to clean. It also has an ergonomic wrist loop for hands-free walking.

What’s unique about this design is the patent-pending security clip. The clip has an extra piece of plastic that acts as a lock, so the lever isn’t inadvertently pushed down. This is one of the most common ways that a dog escapes from his leash. So, this clip provides a bit of extra security for your puppy. 

This lead is secured with hardware bolts, which makes it super durable. 

One negative is that this is a bit of a pricey option when compared to other leashes on this list. Furthermore, some complained that the length of the leash runs a little short. Others said that it was easy for their dogs to chew through the leash material. 

Pros

• 7 color options & 3 lengths to choose from

• Sleek minimalist design with metal hardware

• Security clip for escape artist pups

cons

• Easy to chew through

• Runs a bit expensive compared to other options

• The leash is a bit shorter than expected

4. Auroth Heavy Duty Bungee Dog Leash

AUROTH Dog Leash Large Dogs

Extremely affordable option

Tons of color options

30-day no-questions-asked warranty

If your main concern is getting a high-quality leash for an affordable price, I would seriously recommend this heavy-duty bungee leash by Auroth. 

This leash has an elastic center that reduces the stress placed on your joints whenever your pup pulls too hard. The lead is made of a sturdy fabric with built-in reflective stitching, perfect for evening walks.

The lead also has a seat belt attachment, which is great if your pup loves long car rides. The metal hardware on this leash is durable & resistant, and it has a 360º rotating clasp, so the lead doesn’t get tangled. 

The leash also has a traffic handle to quickly shorten the leash, and an ergonomic wrist loop, so you have hands-free controlled walks.

While the bungee has adequate shock absorbance, it means that you can’t quickly jerk your dog back. So, this isn’t a good leash option if your dog is still learning his recall commands & you aren’t 100% confident in their walking etiquette. 

Plus, some Amazon reviewers said that this leash starts to fray easily with use & the stitching comes undone.

However, you can return this product 30 days after purchase; this warranty means you can try out the leash & see if it lives up to your standards. 

Pros

• Seat belt attachment is great for long rides

• Soft wrist loop 

• 360-degree rotating metal clasp

• Reflective strips

• Affordable price

cons

• Starts to fray easily with repetitive use

• Hard to pull – not suitable for dogs that lunge

5. Mighty Paw Retractable Leash

Mighty Paw Retractable Dog Leash

16′ length

Reflective tape

Quick-lock braking button

If you live in an area where you can let your dog roam free, a retractable leash is a great way to still have canine control. Whether you’re in an off-leash dog park, hiking, or in the countryside, a retractable lead lets your dog roam free but will stop him from getting into any trouble.

The retractable lead by Mighty Paw is definitely one of the best options available on the market. At a whopping 16-foot length, it gives your dog ample space to explore, but the strong retracting mechanism also keeps your pup safe from harm’s way. 

The lead also has reflective tape throughout, making it one of the best options for late-night walks. The leash also has a quick-locking mechanism that immediately stops the leash from extending. Plus, there is a 360-degree swivel clip that ensures you and your pup won’t be tangled together by the end of the walk!

Customers have stated that the leash runs very smoothly & doesn’t jam, thanks to the premium stainless steel coil. 

However, others complained that the retractability of this leash is not very strong. Instead of going straight into the handle, the leash ends up dangling; there is a foot or two of the leash left outside. 

Pros

• Very long – perfect for letting your dog roam around

• Heavy-duty clip swivels to prevent tangling

• Rubber handle for owner’s comfort 

• Quick-lock braking button

cons

• Doesn’t fully retract into the handle

6. iYo Dual Dog Leash

iYoShop Dual Dog Leash Double Dog Leash

Double bungee extension

Made of climbing rope & reflective threads

Padded handle for comfort

Walking two dogs with two leashes can be hectic & challenging at times. If you have 2 dogs of a similar size, you may want to consider this dual dog leash by iYo Shop on Amazon.

This affordable double-ended leash is also made of a bungee material. So if you’re worried about 2 dogs lunging away from you at maximum force, don’t be! The bungee design acts as a shock absorber, protecting your limbs & joints. 

This comfortable design also has a padded handle, so your fingers won’t hurt after a long walk. There is also a plastic protector over the stitching to prevent fraying. This leash will definitely last you a long time. 

This affordable lead also has reflective threads, so you can use it for night walks as well. There is a nice feature of the 360-degree clasp as well, which prevents the leash from tangling. 

However, some customers have complained that the distance between 2 dogs isn’t large enough. There isn’t enough leash in between them, which means that some dogs may not enjoy using it. Your canine companions may need some time to get used to this product. 

Moreover, some complained that the leash is prone to splitting down the middle, especially if your dogs are running in 2 different directions.

Pros

• Affordable

• Plastic protectors to cover stitching & prevent fraying

• Super durable material with reflective threads & padded handle

cons

• The distance between dogs isn’t large enough

• The leash is prone to splitting

7. The Love Leash Kid-Friendly Dog Leash

The Love Leash Kid Friendly Dog Leash

Dual-handle design

Heavy-duty metal clasp

2 length options

If you have a dog who partakes in some nuisance behaviors like pulling or lunging, you may be scared to let your child walk your dog.

However, this kid’s leash is a great way to make sure your naughty pup won’t yank your kid away! This type of design will involve your child in the care of your pup but also allows you to take the lead when necessary. 

If you feel like your puppy is about to engage in bad behavior, you can pull the handle of the leash & your child won’t feel any force! You could also use this with 2 children if you have a well-trained dog. 

This durable leash also has 2 available length options; you can choose the perfect one for your doggie, big or small! In terms of hardware, this lead has a heavy-duty metal clasp that isn’t likely to break with constant use.

However, there are no color options for this leash, so it may be hard to find the perfect one for your pooch. Also, some reviews stated that the 4-foot-long leash is a bit hard for an adult to hold because it’s so short, so that may be something to consider if you’re planning on using it. 

Pros

• Dual-handle design is easy to use for 2 kids or a kid and adult

• 2 length options: 4 feet & 5 feet

• Heavy-duty hardware

cons

• Very limited color options

• Hard to hold for an adult because they run a little short

8. Neewa Shock Absorbing Dog Leash

Neewa Shock Absorbing Dog Leash

High-quality bungee feature

Carabiner for easy attachment

2 length options

The Neewa shock-absorbing dog leash is an excellent choice for pups who love to lunge at every squirrel they see. This leash has a built-in bungee for shock absorption; this provides you with a bit of extra control over a dog that can’t completely heel yet. 

This design has an included carabiner that allows you to hook it onto your clothing or attach some poop bags. It also has an ergonomic wrist handle that won’t cut off your circulation. 

However, customers have complained that this leash runs pretty short. Also, there is only a black color option available.

Pros

• Unique bungee feature- great choice for dogs who perform aggressive behaviors like lunging & jumping

• Ergonomic wrist loop

• Reasonably priced

cons

• Limited color options

• Runs short – not ideal for dogs who like to roam

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do dogs pull on their leashes?

Some dogs have the habit of taking you on a walk every time you go outside! This is most likely because they are over-excited & it has become a habit for them to pull on their lead.

To prevent this, it is important that you teach your pup the “Heel. While you are out for a walk, keep a treat next to you. As your dog comes towards you, say “Heel” and then give them the treat.

Eventually, they will start to learn that heel means they must come to your side. Use the heel command every time your dog gets too excited and starts to drag you along.

If you notice that it is very hard to pull your dog back when going for a walk & that your dog is constantly trying to lead you, simply say “No” and turn around. This will show them that they are not allowed to drag you around. 

They will understand that if they drag, the walk is over.

Are harnesses better for dogs that pull?

A no-pull dog harness is a great way to get some additional control if your pup loves to yank on the lead. Since it holds your dog from his center of gravity, it gives you more control of his movements.

Moreover, the harness strap does not cut into your dog’s neck, so he won’t be rasping as much. I really recommend a harness while you try to teach your puppy not to pull on his leash. 

Should I get a retractable or a regular leash?

Both of these types of leads have their pros & cons. A retractable lead is very long and gives your dogs lots of freedom. This is the better option if you have a lot of open space for your dog to play in & your dog is pretty well-behaved.

However, the retractable leash still allows you to exert a little bit of control if your pup gets in trouble. 

A regular leash is a lot shorter and provides much more control of your dog’s movement. This is a good choice for puppies who aren’t fully trained or owners who must navigate through a lot of traffic. 

For more information, check out this article!

Conclusion

After careful consideration, we have found that the best leash on the market for dogs who pull is the Impact dog leash due to its military-grade nylon, the double handle that allows you to shorten it quickly, and the durable hardware. 

We believe that this leash will last you a long time due to its superior build quality. Another fantastic option is the Diggs dog leash. We love the large color variety, the affordable price, and the easy clean-up. 

We hope you found this article informative. If you have any questions or other leash suggestions, please leave a comment down below.

Thanks for reading!

Leave a Comment