Note: All leash reviews are based on small or medium sizes if there are multiple options.
In this article
A Quick Comparison of Our Winners in 2025
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall
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Frisco Personalized Dog Leash |
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Best Value
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PetSafe Premier Dog Leash |
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Premium Choice
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Weaver Pet Leather Dog Leash |
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Check Price |
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Mendota Products Solid Rope Dog Leash |
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Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Bungee Dog Leash |
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Check Price |
The 10 Best Dog Leashes for Puppies
1. Frisco Personalized Dog Leash – Best Overall
| Dimensions: | 6 feet x 5/8 inch (Small) |
| Leash Material: | Nylon |
| Closure/ Clip: | Metal Bolt Snap |
| Recommended Weight: | Up to 35 pounds |
The Frisco Solid Nylon Personalized Dog Leash is a traditional style leash that’s perfect for puppies. The leash material is high-quality nylon, which is durable enough for boisterous puppies. It has a nickel-plated bolt snap closure that attaches easily to your puppy’s collar loop, allowing you to take your best friend anywhere. The Frisco Personalized leash comes in multiple sizes and colors, so make sure you find the right size for your dog’s weight and build. The best feature about this leash is that it comes with a personalization option, including name, telephone number, and address. One potential issue is that the nylon itself is on the thin side, which can be uncomfortable with puppies that like to pull. Aside from that, the Frisco Nylon Personalized Dog Leash is our pick for the best overall leash.
- High-quality nylon material
- Nickel-plated bolt snap closure
- Comes in different sizes & colors
- Personalization option
- Can be uncomfortable with pullers
2. PetSafe Dog Leash – Best Value
| Dimensions: | 4 feet x 3/8 inch (smallest size) |
| Leash Material: | Nylon |
| Closure/ Clip: | Bolt Snap |
| Recommended Weight: | Under 30 pounds |
The PetSafe Premier Nylon Dog Leash is a basic type of dog leash for those looking for a good bargain. It features a wedded nylon material, which is weather and water-resistant. It has a lightweight bolt snap closure, so it’s perfect for smaller puppies and dogs that can’t have heavy leashes. The PetSafe Nylon Dog Leash comes in multiple sizes and colors, matching perfectly with their other pet accessories like collars and halters. It is also a budget-friendly leash, especially comparing it to big-name brand products. However, the thin nylon may not be comfortable or durable enough for extreme pullers, so it may not be a good option for your puppy. Otherwise, the PetSafe Premier Nylon leash is a great product and the best leash for the money.
- Webbed nylon material
- Lightweight bolt snap closure
- Comes in multiple sizes/colors
- Budget-friendly leash
- Not for extreme pullers
3. Weaver Pet Leather Dog Leash – Premium Choice
| Dimensions: | 4 feet x ¾ inch |
| Leash Material: | English Bridle Leather |
| Closure/ Clip: | Bolt Snap |
| Recommended Weight: | 20 to 90 pounds |
The Weaver Pet Savannah Leather Dog Leash is a serious upgrade from the normal leashes at the pet store. The leash material is English bridle leather, which is a type of premium, high-quality leather that is supple and durable. The leather is also soft and comfortable to hold and use, unlike thin leashes that cut into the hands. It also features a beautiful Western-style design with Swarovski crystal accents, making it a real show-stopper at the park and in town. Although this is a beautiful leash, it’s a premium leash that runs on the expensive side. It’s also not suitable for small puppies and dogs, specifically designed for medium and large breeds only. If you are looking for a premium leather leash for your big-breed puppy, the Weaver Pet Savannah Leash will exceed expectations.
- High-quality premium leather
- Comfortable to hold and use
- Western design with Swarovski crystals
- Made for medium and large breeds only
- On the expensive side
4. Mendota Products Solid Rope Dog Leash
| Dimensions: | 4 feet x 3/8 inch |
| Leash Material: | Polypropylene, Rope |
| Closure/ Clip: | Bolt Snap |
| Recommended Weight: | Up to 50 pounds |
The Mendota Products Small Snap Solid Rope Dog Leash is a rope-style leash for everyday use. The leash material is a waterproof rope, which is great for outdoor use in the elements. This leash is interesting in that it has an extra-wide loop for easier handling, so it’s great for hands and grips of all shapes and sizes. The best part of the Mendota Rope Leash is that it has an extra-small and lightweight snap, making it a perfect leash for small dogs and growing puppies that can’t have heavy closures on their leashes. However, it’s not suitable for larger dogs, especially large dogs that may bolt or pull excessively. Another issue is that there are some coloration inconsistencies, so don’t be shocked if the color you choose is slightly off from the photo. Otherwise, the Mendota Small Snap Rope Dog Leash is a good option for you and your smaller-sized puppy.
- Waterproof rope material
- Wide loop for easier handling
- Extra-small & lightweight snap
- Not suitable for larger dogs
- Colors might be off
5. Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Bungee Dog Leash
| Dimensions: | 48 inches (60 inches expanded) |
| Leash Material: | Bungee Cord, Nylon |
| Closure/ Clip: | Bolt Snap |
| Recommended Weight: | 25–110 pounds |
The Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Bungee Dog Leash is a hands-free type of leash for dog owners who live active lifestyles. It features a belt loop that attaches around the waist for a hands-free leash design, allowing you to run and hike without grappling with your puppy’s check cord or leash. The bungee cord helps absorb shock if your puppy tries to bolt or pull, reducing the chance of dragging you as you’re running or walking. It also has two built-in loops for hands-on control in case you need the leash loop option. While the Tuff Mutt hands-free leash is meant for dogs up to 110 pounds, it may not be durable for extremely strong puppies and dogs. On the other hand, the snap closure might be too heavy, so it’s only for puppies over 25 pounds. If you’re looking for a hands-free leash for your medium or large puppy, the Tuff Mutt Bungee Dog Leash is a good option to try.
- Hands-free leash design
- A Bungee cord helps absorbs shock
- Two loops for hands-on control
- Not durable for extremely strong puppies
- Only for puppies over 25 pounds
6. Frisco Reflective Rope Dog Leash
| Dimensions: | 6 feet x ½ inch |
| Leash Material: | Polyester |
| Closure/ Clip: | Bolt Snap |
| Recommended Weight: | up to 50 pounds |
The Frisco Reflective Rope Dog Leash is a rope-style everyday leash for indoor and outdoor use. The leash is a polyester rope material, which can handle pulling and inclement weather. The “broken-in” feeling of the rope is comfortable and gentle on the hands, which is important for handling boisterous puppies. It also has reflective material along the entire rope, which is good for nighttime visibility and safety. However, the snap might be too big for tiny puppies, especially breeds like chihuahuas that need extra-small leashes. Another issue is that the rope texture may encourage chewing, especially if your puppy has rope toys at home. If your medium-sized puppy isn’t an extreme chewer, the Frisco Reflective Rope Dog Leash could be a good option.
- Polyester rope material
- Comfortable and gentle on the hands
- Reflective material for safety
- Snap might be too big for tiny puppies
- Rope texture may encourage chewing
7. Flexi Classic Tape Retractable Dog Leash
| Dimensions: | 16 feet (small) |
| Leash Material: | Nylon |
| Closure/ Clip: | Bolt Snap |
| Recommended Weight: | up to 33 pounds |
The Flexi Classic Nylon Tape Retractable Dog Leash is a tape-style retractable leash. It’s retractable up to 16 feet, using a nylon tape to give your puppy more freedom to roam. The plastic unit has a brake button on the outside while keeping the extra tape on the inside to prevent tangling. It’s also available in different sizes and colors so that you can choose the right options for your pup’s weight. While retractable leashes like the Flexi Leash are great to prevent knots, they are not suitable for extreme pullers. They’re also not waterproof or weatherproof, requiring drying time to prevent odor or bacteria from forming. If you have a calmer puppy that wants to roam safely, the Flexi Nylon Tape Retractable Leash could be a good option.
- Retractable up to 16 feet
- Plastic with a brake button
- Available in multiple colors/sizes
- Not suitable for extreme pullers
- Not waterproof/weatherproof
8. Li’l Pals E-Z Snap Dog Leash
| Dimensions: | 6 feet x 3/8 inch |
| Leash Material: | Polyester, Plastic |
| Closure/ Clip: | Push-button |
| Recommended Weight: | up to 20 pounds |
The Li’l Pals E-Z Snap Patterned Dog Leash is a unique type of traditional leash. It features an innovative design with a push-button clip, which makes it easy to use with one hand. The leash and clip are super lightweight and comfortable to use, so it’s perfect for toy-sized and small-sized puppies that can’t handle bulky metal clips. It’s also available in a wide array of colors and patterns so that you can enjoy the smart design in style. While it is a great idea, the extra-small clip may not fit some collar rings, especially double-ring harnesses. It’s also not durable enough for hyper puppies that want to pull or lunge due to the plastic clip, which can break from repeated stress. It’s a good option for tiny or calm puppies, but it may not hold up to your puppy’s energy levels.
- Innovative clip design
- Super lightweight and comfortable
- Multiple colors and patterns
- X-small clip may not fit some rings
- Not durable enough for hyper puppies
9. Flexi Classic Cord Retractable Dog Leash
| Dimensions: | 16 feet (small) |
| Leash Material: | Nylon cord |
| Closure/ Clip: | Bolt Snap |
| Recommended Weight: | up to 35 pounds |
The Flexi Classic Nylon Cord Retractable Dog Leash is a cord-type of a retractable dog leash. The tether is a lightweight nylon cord instead of nylon tape, so it’s lighter and more comfortable to use. It gives your dog up to 16 feet to roam, which is longer than regular non-retracting leashes. It also has a brake button on top of the plastic unit, which can control the distance of your puppy. While the Flexi Leash is lightweight, it’s not nearly as durable as the tape version and is not safe for dogs that pull, bolt or lunge. The cord itself may tangle and jam inside the plastic unit, making it unable to retract safely. The Flexi Cord Retractable Leash may be fit for very small puppies, but we recommend using traditional leashes or the tape version instead.
- Lightweight nylon cord
- Up to 16 feet of retractable cord
- Plastic unit with a brake button
- Not as durable as the tape version
- May tangle or struggle to retract
10. 4id LED Lite-Up Dog Leash
| Dimensions: | 5 feet x 2 inches |
| Leash Material: | LED, Nylon |
| Closure/ Clip: | Bolt Snap |
| Recommended Weight: | 4 to 70 pounds |
The 4id LED Lite-Up Nylon Dog Leash is a type of safety leash for all day and night use. It features a rechargeable LED light strip for visibility at night, which lights up bright for motorists and other pedestrians to see from a distance. The outer part of the leash that holds the LED light strip is a waterproof nylon material, which protects the LED strip in the rain and snow. While the 4id LED Lite-Up Leash is a good nighttime leash for puppies, it’s not durable enough for strong puppies that love to pull. It has a bigger closure, so it’s too big for smaller puppies like toy-sized breeds. It’s also fairly stiff and inflexible except for the loop due to the LED lights, which can be uncomfortable to grab if your dog decides to pull. If you have a calmer puppy or dog that won’t pull everywhere, the 4id LED Lite-Up Nylon Dog Leash might work for you.
- Rechargeable LED light
- Waterproof nylon material
- Not durable enough for strong dogs
- Too big for smaller puppies
- Stiff and inflexible material
Buyer’s Guide: How to Select the Best Dog Leash for Your Puppy
The right puppy leash can make all the difference in their safety, comfort, and training success. When choosing a dog leash for your energetic and curious puppy, their size, activity level, and behavior, as well as your lifestyle, should be considered. This will make walks and training sessions as pleasant as possible. Here are some things to keep in mind when you pick a dog leash for your puppy.
Types of Leashes
There are several leash styles for puppies, offering different benefits and uses.
- Standard Leashes: Straightforward and sturdy. Great for everyday use, controlled walks, and basic training.
- Retractable Leashes: Allow for freedom to explore while keeping your puppy safely tethered. Less suitable for pullers or training sessions.
- Hands-Free Leashes: Worn around the waist, giving the owner some flexibility. Ideal if you want to jog or hike with your puppy.
- Training Leashes: Usually longer and used for recall training and teaching commands at a distance.
Material
Leashes are made from a variety of materials, each with different levels of comfort, durability, and maintenance required.
- Nylon: Lightweight, affordable, and weather-resistant, nylon is a versatile and practical option. It may be less durable for heavy chewers.
- Leather: Durable, stylish, and comfortable, leather leashes can last a long time with the proper care. However, they come with a higher price tag.
- Rope: Basic and strong. Waterproof ones are extra durable and great for outdoor adventures. Not as comfortable as other materials.
Key Features
When weighing up puppy leashes, keep in mind that some have essential features to improve your leash-walking experience and keep your puppy secure and comfortable.
- Length: Standard leashes are typically 4 – 6 feet long to provide sufficient control without restricting movement. Training leashes can be as long as 30 feet.
- Clip Quality: A sturdy but functional clip will keep the leash securely attached to your puppy’s collar or harness at all times. Lightweight clips are best for smaller breeds.
- Comfort: Handles with a good grip and soft padded material will prevent straining your hands during long walks.
- Safety Features: Reflective stitching or LED lights are beneficial for nighttime walks for better visibility.
Matching the Leash to Your Puppy
Your puppy’s unique needs, such as their size, breed, activity level and behavior should be taken into account when making your decision.
- Small Breeds: Look for a light leash with a smaller clip that won’t overwhelm your puppy.
- Active or Strong Puppies: Leashes with shock-absorbing features (like bungee cords) will help to reduce strain on you and your pup.
- Calmer Puppies: A retractable leash gives your puppy more freedom to explore while still maintaining some restraint.
Our Selection Process For the Best Dog Leashes for Puppies
To create this buyer’s guide, our writing team and editorial staff checked customer reviews, brand reputation, and veterinary approval ratings to present the best dog leashes for puppies we think should be highlighted for our readers. In some cases, we conducted hands-on testing along with seeing how much our dogs liked the dog leashes. All these factors were considered when selecting these listed dog leashes to help you make the best purchase for your furry friends.
Why Trust Dogster?
Since 2004, Dogster has been a trusted brand for dog owners online, which means we have a lot of experience with dog leashes for puppies. We take pride in promoting the well-being of all dogs—from toy breeds to giant canines. Our in-house veterinarians, writers, and editors examine each product on our lists, ensuring its quality and reputation. As pet owners ourselves, we only want the best for our furry companions. At Dogster, we are transparent about the products we promote. The nutritional information, overall brand reputation, and customer reviews are all considered for these lists. We inform you how we want to be informed.
Conclusion
When it comes to buying things for your new puppy, it can be quite stressful to find everything. It’s important to prepare for your puppy, which includes buying a leash. For the best overall leash for puppies, we chose the Frisco Solid Nylon Personalized Dog Leash. Not only is it a practical and well-designed leash, but it can also be personalized. For the best leash for your money, we found that the PetSafe Premier Nylon Dog Leash is the best option. It has a lot of similar features of brand name leashes, without the premium price to go with it. When in doubt, try out a few different leashes to see which one works best for you and your new companion.
- See Also: 10 Best Dog Leashes– Reviews & Top Picks
Featured Image Credit By: dandaviddesigns, Pixabay
