Ever have that feeling you could use at least one more hand when you're walking your dog? We've all been there!
Juggling your leash and everything else to treat, train, safely walk, and engage with your dog can become quite the balancing act. That’s where hands-free leashes come in!
Designed to give dog parents freedom and flexibility, hands-free leashes can make your daily walks, jogging sessions, or more adventurous hikes far more convenient and doable in all kinds of circumstances.
What's the best hands-free dog leash for you and your pup?
We asked that same question in designing choices for our own Mighty Paw crew and yours.
Here are a few of our favorite options loved by dog parents:
Hands-free bungee leash set
We've pulled together key elements that make up a safe, smoothly-working hands-free system to make it easier for you to have the equipment you'll need. They work together to make sure you have your best hands-free experience.
Included in the set:
The set includes a lightweight belt and high-quality bungee leash, both designed to withstand the rigors of active use. The bungee portion of the leash extends from 16 inches to 56 inches, giving you a unique blend of strength and flexibility.
This allows the leash to absorb the force of your potentially excited dog while maintaining enough tensile strength to keep your pup securely by your side.
Other supportive features:
- High-quality material: Weather-resistant and durable for any outdoor adventure.
- Adjustable belt: Fits waists up to 42 inches with a lightweight design for comfort.
- Rotating D-ring: Ensures your dog stays in place without tangling.
- Reflective stitching: Enhances visibility during low-light conditions for safe early morning or evening walks.
- Multipurpose use: Designed for everyday walks and hikes, as a running leash, or for outside dining, this combo gives you the versatility to enjoy more adventures more smoothly.
Hands-free bungee leash set 2.0
Designed by physical therapists for optimal body mechanics, this leash set is engineered to provide you and your dog with the ultimate comfort, control, and safety during walks, runs, hikes, training sessions, just about any adventures.
Key support built in for you and your dog:
- Ergonomic design: The ergonomic waist belt optimizes your posture and body mechanics, reducing the risk of injury and fatigue.
- Durable construction: High-quality, weather-resistant nylon and reinforcing cross-stitching withstand the toughest outdoor adventures.
- Versatile use: The bungee leash stretches from 50” to 75”, giving your dog freedom to explore while you maintain control. The tri-glide attachment allows easy adjustment, while the rotating metal D-ring offers flexibility.
- Safe visibility: Reflective threading throughout this leash set enhances visibility during low-light conditions for optimal safety.
- Comfort and safety: With two neoprene padded handles, quick-release plastic buckles, and an easy access traffic loop handle, you have ultimate control and convenience anywhere, from busy urban streets to narrow trails.
2 other key pieces for your best experience...
Super-long leash
If your dog loves having more freedom to explore and you want the secure safety of a leash at the same time, try pairing our extra-long leash with your waist leash belt in place of the bungee leash. The leash handle unbuckles to attach to anything including your waist belt. You can let your dog sniff and check out nature with the entire leash length of either 15 or 30 feet while you use your free hands to take photos of your pup in the wild. And you're still in control to quickly reel your dog in if needed!
Pro tip: Certified professional dog trainers swear by super-long leashes for safe training sessions for key cues like "Come" for recall.
Durable, comfortable, sport dog harness
Whenever your dog is on-leash, whether hands-free or traditional, you'll always want to use a well-fitting, comfortable dog harness. While your dog's collar can put pressure on your pup's vulnerable neck with even light leash-pulling, a good harness distributes the weight of any pressure across your dog's shoulders and body.
Our harness is padded for comfort and has both a front chest ring attachment and a top back attachment to give you the option to choose which works best for your dog. (Front leash attachment is often best for dogs who tend to pull.)
What to consider in your hands-free leash
When choosing which hands-free leash set-up is right for you and your dog, here are a few key features to keep in mind:
- Length
Leash length plays a key role in maintaining control and giving your dog freedom to roam. Adjustable lengths provide flexibility based on where you’re walking. You can also get a range of lengths in a bungee-type leash. Or, if you want an extra-long option for exploring, you can add a super-long (15-30 feet) leash to your equipment. Whatever lengths you choose for going hands-free, you want a regular leash rather than a retractable leash (for good control and safety).
- Adjustability
A good hands-free leash should be adjustable to fit your waist size comfortably. Many leashes also offer adjustable tether lengths to adapt to different activities, like running or short-distance control.
- Material
Durability is key, especially if your dog is a chewer or you're adventuring in various conditions. A good option is a nylon leash made from high-quality nylon that's both lightweight and tough.
- Shock absorption
For active dogs or runners, a bungee-type leash can absorb sudden pulls, preventing strain on your hands and back or on your dog.
- Comfort
Comfort matters for both you and your pup. Lightweight and well-fitting waist straps prevent chafing, while soft leash handles offer a better grip when switching to manual use.
- Durability
Ensure the leash can withstand outdoor wear and tear. Sturdy clips, high-quality stitching, and reinforced buckles are essential for longevity.
How to choose the right hands-free dog leash
Finding the best hands-free leash for dogs is all about matching your lifestyle and your dog’s personality. Here are 4 key considerations as you decide on options:
Your dog's size and temperament
Larger, more active dogs need sturdy leashes with shock-absorbing bungee material, while smaller dogs can do well with lightweight, adjustable options as well as bungee-type leashes.
Your activity level
Are you a runner, hiker, or casual walker? Active dog parents should be sure to opt for waist and bungee-style dog leashes to make runs more comfortable and more smoothly in sync with your dog.
Functionality for your needs
Do you need reflective materials for walks at night? Or maybe waterproof materials for running or walking in and around the ocean or other water bodies? Look for features that add value to your daily routine and make your life easier.
Your dog’s training level
Dogs still learning leash manners may need a hybrid leash with additional manual handles for better control in key moments when needed, while trained dogs may be fine with a basic, totally hands-free leash option.
5 safety tips for using hands-free dog leashes
While hands-free dog leashes are convenient, safety is always a top priority. Here are 5 tips to keep in mind:
1) Test the leash
Ensure the leash attaches securely and is completely fastened before heading out to avoid unexpected detachments. (True for all leashes!)
2) Use a harness
A harness is important anytime your dog is on-leash, whether you're using a hands-free or a standard leash. Use a harness instead of a collar to reduce the risk of neck or throat injuries and choking. A harness distributes the weight of pulling evenly across your dog's body and away from your dog's neck.
3) Monitor your dog
Always keep an eye on your dog's body language and behavior. Excited dogs may unexpectedly lunge, so stay alert and be prepared to regain control. Going hands-free gives you more convenience when out and about with your dog and should enhance, not diminish, your focus and connection with your pup!
4) Stick to safe paths
Avoid high-traffic areas where you might need immediate manual control. Stay with more open areas with fewer potential triggers where both you and your dog can be comfortable.
5) Inspect for wear and tear
Regularly check your leash for signs of damage to ensure it remains durable and secure. (Again, true of all leashes, harnesses, and equipment for your dog.)
Try a "no-hands" leash and enjoy more adventures with your dog!
Hands-free leashes provide a world of convenience for dog parents, whether you’re out with your dog for a walk, jogging, running errands, or multitasking (like eating out together).
We're here to make it easier for you to have your dog with you for more adventures more often. And to make it safer and more comfortable for your pup.
If you’re ready to make your daily walks and adventures easier and even happier for both of you, try one of our "no-hands" options and have fun!
We're committed to creating high-quality products that are safe, healthful, and practical for everything you need for your dog, whether that's healthful supplements your dog loves or durable, comfortable equipment for your favorite times together.
