Guide to choosing the right dog leash
Dog leads come in all sizes, colors, and materials, but one thing never changes: they’re your physical connection to your dog, and that link must never fail. From a casual walk in the city to holding back adrenaline before a race, this simple piece of gear ties you together for safe, shared adventures.
At Non-stop dogwear, we understand the trust you place in that safety line. That’s why we’ve developed a range of dog leashes that meet every need, without compromise on strength, comfort, or quality.
In this guide, we’ll help you choose the leash that fits your dog, your activity, and the way you move together.
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Use the table below to compare sizes, locks, handles, and reflectivity across our full range.
What matters when choosing a dog leash
While most dog gear is chosen to fit your dog’s body, the leash has to fit you, too. It’s in your hand every day, moving with your pace. Some prefer the feel of soft rope, others need the reassurance of a wide webbing leash. What feels “right” is something only you can decide. But alongside that gut feeling, your choice should also be guided by your dog’s size, behavior, your environment, and what you’ll be using the leash for.
8 things to consider when choosing your dog leash
- Static vs elastic lead
Traditional leashes, also called static leashes, are best for everyday walks, obedience training, high-traffic areas, dog events, or leash-only areas. They are a daily tool that offers a safe, direct connection.
Elastic leashes, also called bungee leashes, are for dogs that pull in a harness. They absorb shock, reduce strain, and support a smoother, more comfortable connection for both of you, which makes them ideal for hiking, and essential in mushing sports like canicross, bikejoring, or skijoring.
In this guide, we will focus on static leashes only.
2. Leash handle types
As your everyday tool, your leash is an extension of yourself, starting with the handle:
- Neoprene padding: Found on the Move leash and Trail quest leash, this material feels soft in your hand and stays comfortable if your dog pulls or makes sudden movements. This quality of padding is highly appreciated when handling large or strong dogs. Neoprene resists water and wear, offering a durable option day after day of use.
- Soft rope grip: Rope handles provide a natural hold and enough give to reduce jarring tension. They are a top choice if you favor lightness and flexibility. Our Rock leash and Rock adjustable leash offer a thicker rope that is more comfortable for dogs who pull on the leash, while our Trekking rope leash and Retriever leash offer the most lightweight options.
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Adjustable handle: Exclusive to the Rock adjustable leash, this design lets you change the loop size or convert it into a hands-free leash or double leash for two dogs. It's versatile and ideal when you want one leash that can do it all.
- Webbing handle: Built tough for demanding use, the handles on the Solid leash WD and Security strap WD are made of strong nylon webbing. These are the tools of choice for working dogs, or anyone who values function and durability above all.
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No handle: Long lines designed as drag lines are designed without a handle to prevent snagging on vegetation or obstacles. The Friction long line is flat with rubber inserts for a solid, non-slip grip, while the Protector round long line features an easy-to-grab PVC sheath that resists wear and tear and stays lightweight in wet conditions.
3. Connection point
Every leash clip is used thousands of times over a dog’s lifetime. It’s a simple motion, often done without thinking. But the strength and reliability of that clip must be absolute to avoid the worst fear of any dog owner: your dog running after something, with the risk of getting hit, lost, or at the mercy of another danger.
That’s why all our clips are tested to handle up to 300 kg (661 lbs) of pulling force. Whether you have a 3 kg (6.6 lbs) or a 60 kg (132 lbs) dog, our carabiners are designed to hold, every time. They are lightweight, yet built for durability, function, and peace of mind.
Nearly every leash in our collection features a carabiner mounted on a swivel. It follows your dog's movements and prevents tangling or twisting, especially when walking two or more dogs.
- Twistlock carabiner: A self-locking clip that secures automatically after a simple twist and release. It is ideal when wearing gloves or handling an energetic dog.
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Small screw-lock carabiner: Featherlight at only 17.4 g (0.61 oz), yet with the same 300 kg (661 lbs) resistance as our larger carabiners. To open, twist the locking sleeve with your thumb and slide the gate. It locks securely with a simple twist back. Perfect for small dogs and puppies who need strength without the weight.
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Screw-lock carabiner: A simple, robust design that you twist to secure, it is a go-to if you want the feeling of a strong carabiner.
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Bolt snap: Heavy-duty and easy to clip in fast to a collar or harness, even during active use. Commonly used with working dogs, it gives instant access with full strength.
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No carabiner – all-in-one leash: A slip lead, like the Retriever leash, is a different kind of connection point, without a collar or a carabiner. It slides easily over your dog’s head and adjusts with dual stoppers. This simple rope system is fast, simple, and reliable, perfect for handling dogs without gear, quick stops, training for retrieving, or obedience competitions.
4. Rope leash vs flat leash
Though the feeling of the type of leash is very personal, here are what differentiates rope leashes from flat leashes:
- Rope leashes: Slightly elastic and soft to the touch, they offer a bit of give that helps absorb small movements and sudden pulls. Coming from the climbing industry, ropes give a feeling of sturdiness and increase trust in them. They are a favorite leash for puppies and small dogs because of their featherlight design and gentle feel. Thicker versions also give a sense of security with larger dogs. All our rope leashes are made from 100% recycled polyester, offering both sustainability and performance.
- Flat leashes: Made of strong nylon or polyester, they provide stability for training and high-control situations. It offers less flexibility than rope but remains lightweight and durable. Webbing leashes can be ultra soft, and designed with various patterns.
5. Length & width
Which leash width is best for you?
Though our narrowest 6 mm/0.24 in leashes hold as much as the widest 26 mm/1.02 in ones, comfort, practicality and safety feeling always matter:
- Dogs under 10 kg: prefer a thin leash to avoid unnecessary weight, especially if attached to a collar and not a harness.
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Dogs between 10 and 20 kg: quite a personal choice! Assess if your dog pulls on the leash or not, and if you favor lightweight or safety feeling.
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Dogs over 20 kg: wide leashes add reassurance if your dog suddenly pulls. They are also more comfortable for dogs who pull on the leash.
Which leash length is best for you?
Whether you want control, room to roam, or something in between, the right length gives you and your dog the space you need.
- Short leashes: Ideal for crowded areas, road walks, obedience training, or anywhere you need close contact.
Available options: Security strap WD: 27 cm (10.6 in), Strong leash: 1 m (3.3 ft), Move leash: 1.5 m (4.9 ft)
- Medium leashes: A perfect balance between freedom and connection, they work great for park walks, warmups and cool downs, toilet breaks before a race or competition, or jogging with your dog.
Available options: Move leash: 1.7 m (5.6 ft), Rock leash: 1.8 m (5.9 ft), Retriever leash: 1.6 m (5.2 ft), Trekking rope leash: 2 m (6.6 ft), Trail quest leash: 2 m (6.6 ft)
- Long leashes and lines: Ideal for free running, hiking, recall training, scent work, or giving your dog freedom in leash-only zones and periods.
Available options: Friction long line: 10 m / 15 m (32.8 ft / 49.2 ft), Protector round long line: 10 m / 15 m (32.8 ft / 49.2 ft), Strong leash: 3 m (9.8 ft), Trekking rope leash: 2.8 m (9.2 ft)
6. Reflectivity
In low light, and especially along busy roads at night and foggy conditions, your leash becomes a lifeline. Most of our leashes include reflective details to catch and reflect light, making both of you more visible to drivers and other trail users. In those conditions, it is highly recommended to use highly-visible gear, like a reflective vest or an orange and reflective harness.
7. Hands-free or traditional hold?
A traditional leash with a handle allows a fast and direct connection with your dog, but can become cumbersome when multitasking. A hands-free leash allows you to stay connected to your dog without holding a handle.
We have developed the Rock adjustable leash to be as multifunctional as it can get: it adapts to your needs with a swivel snap hook on both ends that can be attached to an aluminum buckle. Easily slide this buckle along the rope to fit your personal needs!
Using a hands-free belt is also a great alternative, especially if your dog pulls, or simply for greater comfort. Some belts are designed for specific activities like daily walks, canicross, or skijoring.
8. Waste bag dispenser loop
Sometimes, it’s the small details that make life easier, like always having dog waste bags with you. The Move leash, Trekking rope leash, Retriever leash, and Trail quest leash all include a built-in loop designed to hold a waste bag dispenser. No more worries about forgetting it!
Which leash is right for your dog
Let’s bring it all together. Below are our top leash picks, depending on your needs:
Best leash for urban and city walks: Move leash – The most comfortable leash, its well-padded handle and soft touch, might surprise you! The long reflective stripe is a must when navigating busy traffic.
Best leash for running with your dog: When your dog is running alongside you, the short version of the Trekking rope leash allows for minimum bouncing and you barely feel it, while the Rock adjustable leash across your chest provides hands-free comfort on jogs or trail runs. Explore our bungee leash guide for running while your dog is pulling you.
Best leash for puppies and small dogs: Trekking rope leash – Ultra lightweight (70g – 150g/2.5-5.3 oz), soft in hand, easy to pack, and equipped with a small screw-lock carabiner, it won’t weigh your dog down.
Best leash for hiking with medium to large dogs: Rock adjustable leash – Strong and versatile with snap hooks at both ends, it clips to trees, packs, or your waist for hands-free exploration.
Best leash for hiking with small dogs: Trail quest leash Rachel Pohl edition – Lightweight, comfortable, and long enough for trail freedom, with a pattern that reflects the most stunning sunrises and sunsets.
Best leash for working dogs and large dogs: Strong leash – Durable, wide, and built for power, it holds steady no matter the force. Prefer rope? The Rock leash offers equal strength with a soft feel.
Best leash for walking with two dogs: Touring double - A double-ended Y-leash that connects directly to your leash or bungee system. Rock adjustable leash - Adjust the loop and clip two dogs with one leash.
Best leash for free running/emergency use: Retriever leash – All-in-one leash for dogs roaming free without a collar. It ends with an adjustable collar, secured with stoppers. Perfect to quickly get your dog close when meeting other trail users or wildlife.
Best line for recall practice/running on a long line: Protector round long line – Ultra durable with a Dyneema® core, it slides smoothly across grass, forest, or snow.
Best line for tracking: Friction long line – Rubber inserts give you an excellent grip, in any condition, while letting the line glide freely through the terrain.
Still need help? Our experienced customer service team is always ready to help you. Contact them here.