Dogs are wonderful companions, but some can be challenging to walk due to their pulling habits. A good leash is key for controlling your dog and making walks more enjoyable. Leashes for dogs that pull are designed to give owners more control and discourage pulling behavior.
Regular leashes may not offer enough support for strong pullers. Specialized leashes use different designs and materials to reduce strain on the owner’s arms and shoulders. They also help teach dogs to walk calmly beside their owners instead of lunging ahead.
When choosing a leash for a dog that pulls, it’s important to consider the size and strength of your dog, the leash material, and the type of handle. The right leash can make a big difference in walk comfort and safety for both you and your dog. We tested many leashes to find the best options for dogs of all sizes who tend to pull.
Best Leashes for Dogs That Pull
We’ve tested many leashes to find the top options for dogs that tend to pull. Our list includes durable, comfortable leashes that give owners more control. These products can make walks easier and safer for both you and your dog.
PetSafe Gentle Leader
We think this headcollar is a great choice for dog owners struggling with pulling issues.
Pros
- Stops pulling quickly
- Comfortable for dogs
- Easy to put on
Cons
- Takes time for dogs to adjust
- Not for short-snouted breeds
- May not work for all dogs
The PetSafe Gentle Leader really impressed us with how well it stopped our dog from pulling. As soon as we put it on, we noticed a big change in our walks. Our dog stopped trying to drag us down the street and started walking calmly by our side.
We like that it’s made of soft materials that don’t seem to bother our dog. The padded nose loop is a nice touch. It was pretty simple to get the right fit too. We just had to adjust a couple of straps and we were good to go.
One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs might not like wearing it at first. Our pup tried to paw it off a few times. But after a few short practice sessions with lots of treats, he got used to it. Now he doesn’t mind at all when we grab it for walks.
Taglory Rope Leash
We think this leash is a great choice for dog owners who need a sturdy, comfortable option for medium to large breeds that pull.
Pros
- Strong climbing rope material
- Padded handle for comfort
- Reflective threads for nighttime visibility
Cons
- May be too thick for small dogs
- Some users report fraying over time
- Reflective feature could be brighter
We recently tested the Taglory Rope Leash with our energetic Labrador, and we were impressed by its durability. The 1/2-inch thick climbing rope felt solid in our hands, giving us confidence even when our dog got excited and pulled.
The padded handle was a standout feature for us. During long walks, we noticed less strain on our hands compared to standard nylon leashes. The foam grip provided extra comfort, which we really liked when our pup decided to chase after a squirrel!
We appreciated the reflective threads woven into the leash for added safety during evening strolls. While they did catch some light, we felt they could’ve been a bit brighter for optimal visibility. The 6-foot length gave our dog plenty of freedom to explore without wandering too far.
Joytale Tactical Leash
This leash is a great choice for owners of large, strong dogs who need extra control and comfort during walks.
Pros
- Strong, durable clip for secure attachment
- Bungee design absorbs shock from pulling
- Two comfortable handles for different situations
Cons
- May be too heavy for smaller dogs
- Bungee section might be too stretchy for some
- Clip placement not ideal for use as a car restraint
We tested this leash with a big, energetic Lab and were impressed by its strength. The heavy-duty clip held firm even when our furry friend got excited and pulled hard. It’s made of tough aluminum, so we didn’t worry about it breaking or coming loose.
The bungee part of the leash was a game-changer. When our dog lunged after a squirrel, it stretched and took some of the force. This made the walk more comfy for us and seemed easier on the dog too. We liked having two handle options – the padded one was nice for regular walking, while the traffic handle let us keep our pup close in busy areas.
At night, the reflective bits on the leash helped cars see us. This made us feel safer on evening walks. We also tried the seat belt clip for a short car ride. It worked okay, but we’d prefer a proper car harness for longer trips. The D-ring was handy for attaching a poop bag holder. All in all, this leash made walks with our strong puller much more pleasant.
Pet Dreamland Hands-Free Leash
We highly recommend this leash for active dog owners who want a comfortable, hands-free option for their large dogs.
Pros
- Shock-absorbing bungee design
- Comfortable waist belt
- Durable and weatherproof
Cons
- May be too long for some users
- Not suitable for very small dogs
- Waist belt might feel bulky
We tried out the Pet Dreamland Hands-Free Leash and were impressed by its quality and comfort. The waist belt felt secure and didn’t dig into our skin during long walks. We loved how the bungee part of the leash absorbed sudden pulls from our energetic Lab.
The leash’s 43-inch length gave our dog plenty of freedom to explore without straying too far. We found it perfect for jogging and hiking. The sturdy nylon material held up well in rainy weather and muddy conditions.
We appreciated the extra handles on the leash for quick control when needed. The black and red color looked stylish too. While it’s a bit pricey, the 3-year warranty makes it a good investment. If you have a large, active dog and enjoy outdoor activities, this leash is a great choice.
Chioratree Tactical Bungee Leash
We highly recommend this versatile leash for owners of strong, pulling dogs who want more control and comfort on walks.
Pros
- Shock-absorbing bungee reduces strain
- Two padded handles for different control options
- Reflective stitching for nighttime visibility
Cons
- Heavy metal clasp may feel bulky
- Bungee stretch takes getting used to
- Limited color options
When we tested this leash, the bungee feature stood out right away. It absorbs shock from sudden pulls, making walks more pleasant for both dog and owner. The stretchy section gives dogs a bit of freedom while still maintaining control.
The two padded handles are a smart design. We liked using the end handle for regular walking and the traffic handle for close control in busy areas. The soft padding prevented hand strain even with a strong puller.
At night, the reflective stitching really shines. It made us feel safer on evening walks. The sturdy metal clasp clips securely to collars and harnesses. While it’s on the heavy side, it can hold up to 800 pounds – perfect for large breeds.
We found the car seatbelt attachment handy for keeping dogs secure during drives. The D-ring near the handle is useful for attaching poop bags or other accessories. Overall, this leash offers great functionality for owners of medium to large dogs who pull.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a leash for a dog that pulls, we recommend considering a few key factors:
Material
Choose a strong, durable material that can withstand pulling:
- Nylon
- Leather
- Rope
Length
Pick a length that suits your needs:
- 4-6 feet for regular walks
- 10-30 feet for training or open areas
Handle
Look for a comfortable grip:
- Padded
- Ergonomic design
- Non-slip material
Attachments
Consider useful features:
- Reflective strips for visibility
- Traffic handle for quick control
- Shock-absorbing bungee section
Size and Weight
Match the leash to your dog:
- Wider leashes for larger dogs
- Lighter options for smaller breeds
We suggest trying different styles to find what works best. A good leash should feel sturdy and comfortable for both you and your dog.
Remember to check the leash regularly for signs of wear. Replace it if you notice fraying or damage to keep your walks safe and enjoyable.