Hello! This is Winona, a 25-pound French bulldog, and these past few months, I’ve been on a hunt with 17 of my best friends, who are French bullies as well, for the best retractable leash.
Retractable leashes are fantastic! So my friends and I decided to spill some beans. We want to give you some of our insights for you and your fur baby. I’ll be sharing with you our criteria and how we chose our favorite retractable leash.
So the journey of finding the perfect retractable leash started over a year ago. My friends and I tried several leashes, and we ultimately narrowed our list to five.
You’re probably excited to know what’s on our list. Let’s dig right in!
QUICK PICKS
TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash
Our affordable pick
Flexi Neon Retractable Dog Leash
Best overall
BC Retail 3 in 1 Retractable Dog Leash
All-in-one choice
Wigzi Dual Doggie Retractable Leash
Best dual leash
Flexi Giant Tape Retractable Dog Leash
Best for explorers
Do you really need a retractable leash?
If you’re a fur parent, you probably know how crucial it is for us, your dogs, to feel free while we’re out for a walk. That’s why we’d love it if you used a retractable leash.
Let me tell you my story when I first experienced my new favorite type of leash—the retractable one.
When my human put the retractable leash on me, it was a life-changing moment for us both!
I finally had the freedom I had always desired. I could brush up against every tree I came across and exert all that energy I stored up from sitting inside all day. And I’m incredibly hyper!
Besides that, retractable leashes are great for training your furry friends since it gives you the control you need, whenever you need it.
Most dog parents consider the comfort of their dogs when buying a lead for them, as well as the durability of the material used when manufacturing the leash. However, choosing the best retractable leash for your dog involves so much more than that—you really should be considering your needs too!
You need to consider many factors when getting a retractable leash, so here are a few pointers from my friends and me. Keep in mind; we’re all French bullies, so you can trust us!
In a hurry? If you need to take Baxter out for his walk and don’t have time for all the fluffy details, check out our quick picks.
The 5 Best Retractable Dog Leash - Our Full Review
1. Flexi Neon Retractable Dog Leash
Product Specifications
Brand: Flexi
Weight: 6.9 ounces
Leash Length: 16 feet
Maximum Dog Weight Capacity: 110 pounds
The Flexi Neon Retractable Dog Leash is perfect for dogs who want to run early in the morning or late at night. Why? Well, it’s equipped with reflective tape, including the handle, which helps keep you and your fur baby safe from harm.
Like the TaoTronics retractable leash, which is next on our list, this leash has a 16 feet long ribbon. But this one’s much lighter, only weighing in at 6.9 ounces.
Features
- Reflective 16 feet tape leash, stickers, and neon-colored components
- Can support dogs weighing up to 110 pounds
- Single-handed brake mechanism with permanent stop feature
- Lightweight
- Made in Germany
Pros:
Our fur parents really loved this leash because of its reflective tape feature. According to them, even at a far distance, the leash is extremely visible.
Cons:
Although our parents loved this leash, some reported that the tape snaps easily after a few months. Also, the handle for this leash is relatively small, so it may not be suitable for parents with large hands. See? I told you it’s not all about us. We’re looking out for your best interests too!
2. TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash
Product Specifications
Brand: TaoTronics
Weight: 12.5 ounces
Leash Length: 16 feet
Maximum Dog Weight Capacity: 110 pounds
The TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash, with a leash length of 16 feet, comes equipped with a one-hand brake release and recoil system. This leash helps us run freely with ease. Plus, it has a bonus bone-shaped container for plastics so our parents can quickly clean up after our mess.
Features
- One-hand braking, release and recoiling system
- Retractable dog leash nylon tape extends up to 16 feet
- ABS plastic casing with ergonomic grip and anti-slip handle
- Can support dogs up to 110 pounds in weight
- Comes with a free roll of plastic bags
Pros:
According to some fur parents, they loved this product because of its durable leash ribbon, which is also less prone to tangling than other leashes we tested. It’s easy to use and very convenient for those who bought it and continue to use it.
Cons:
Sadly, after a few months, the brake mechanism suddenly jams, rendering the leash useless, although such complaints are minimal (To be frank, I’m not sure I believe Fido’s parents about this one).
3. BC Retail 3 in 1 Retractable Dog Leash
Product Specifications
Brand: BC Retail
Weight: 12 ounces
Leash Length: 15 feet
Maximum Dog Weight Capacity: 50 pounds
Here’s another retractable leash with a visibility feature: the BC Retail 3 in 1 Retractable Dog Leash. Unlike the Flexi Neon leash, this one has a built-in LED light to see the road clearly while walking with your pup. And like the TaoTronic leash, it has a bag dispenser so that you can clean up after our mess.
However, unlike most retractable leashes, this one has a shorter tape that’s only 15 feet long, but it can support dogs up to 50 pounds.
Features
- Comes with an LED flashlight and a bag dispenser
- Superior locking mechanism to prevent jammed leash
- Heavy-duty plastic casing
- Comes with a free roll of plastic bag
- Supports dogs up to 50 pounds
- Ribbon-style leash with a length of 15 feet
Pros:
Well, our parents really loved this product because of the LED light and the bag dispenser. Also, since the light is detachable, you have a choice to use it or not.
Cons:
Some of our parents don’t like this leash because it isn’t as robust as it appears to be. Many also hate the fact that the light and bag dispenser is detachable because sometimes it falls off, even if they have been “locked” onto the casing
4. Wigzi Dual Doggie Retractable Leash
Product Specifications
Brand: Wigzi
Weight: 14.4 ounces
Leash Length: 10 feet
Maximum Dog Weight Capacity: 50 pounds each dog
I have 2 French bully friends—Rambo and Trigger. They’re brothers, and they really like this leash, and their parents really love it because they don’t have to buy a separate leash for each of them, just so they can walk together.
What’s incredible about this leash is that the tapes are reflective, just like the Flexi Neon leash, and even the brake buttons are color-coded for easy distinction.
Each leash can support dogs up to 50 pounds, but it’s only 10 feet long. However, since you’re walking two of your dogs, that’s understandable, right? Maybe?
Features
- Built-in untangling mechanism
- Color-coded leads and brake buttons
- Reflective strips
- Comes with two built-in leashes
- Handle filled with liquid gel
Pros:
The leash was loved by many of our bigger families due to the incredible invention of the leash’s mechanism, making it easier to walk two dogs. With the Wigzi, you no longer need separate leashes for each of your fur babies.
Cons:
Like the BC, many didn’t like this leash as much as the others we tested because it’s not as robust as it seems, and the tape snapped after a few uses in many cases. Also, even if there’s an anti-tangling mechanism installed, dogs can still end up being tangled together.
5. Flexi Giant Tape Retractable Dog Leash
Product Specifications
Brand: Flexi
Weight: 30.4 ounces
Leash Length: 26 feet
Maximum Dog Weight Capacity: 110 pounds
If your dog loves to wander, this leash may suit them best. Unlike most leashes that are 16 feet long, this one’s 26 feet long, perfect for Rover, the explorer! I personally like this one because I want to run a bit ahead of my parents and see what kind of mischief I can get into.
But the downside with this leash is that, well, it’s quite pricey. But I guess you can say that it’s worth it, given its superior length, compared to other leashes, right? Plus, it’s strip is also reflective, adding to its great visibility benefits.
Features
- Runs smoothly in and out
- Innerspring mechanism keeps the leash under slight tension
- One-hand braking system with chrome snap hook
- Ergonomically positioned braking button with constant lock lever
- 26 feet least
- Can support dogs up to 110 pounds
Pros:
Many parents love and highly recommend this leash, mainly because of its length. Their pups gained a sense of freedom, and the reflective strip is very helpful, especially for those wanderers like me, who love to walk early in the morning or run at night.
Cons:
Wow, this leash received mostly positive reviews, although some encountered a few manufacturing defects with this product. The main catch with this product is that it’s expensive, and it doesn’t come with a doggy bag container.
Our Pick for the Best Retractable Dog Leash
Flexi Neon Retractable Dog Leash
Overall, my friends and I choose the Flexi Neon Retractable Dog Leash as the best retractable dog leash. It’s not as pricey, it’s leash tape length is good, and it can support big dogs, like labs and huskies. Plus, this leash’s reflective design is very helpful in keeping you and your pup safe while enjoying your walk!
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Retractable Leash
My friends and I have shared our favorite retractable leashes on the market today. However, we also realize that you don’t all have French Bulldogs lying around the house. So, let’s discuss some of the factors you should consider when deciding which retractable leash is best for you and your furry friends.
Your Dog’s Comfort
Of course, your dog’s comfort is the first thing you should consider, more than anything else. Choose a leash that moves seamlessly, and one that allows your dog to move freely, especially if you have a hyperactive pup with you. If your dog can be jerky on a leash, you may end up hurting your dog with a retractable lead. Trust me, I know the feeling, and it hurts, especially when you attach the leash to our collars.
Your Comfort
Again, consider your needs too! Choose a leash that has an ergonomic handle design so you can grip it nicely. If your dog likes long walks, you’ll need a comfortable handle. Plastic handles can be uncomfortable, causing you pain, especially when your pup is extra hyper and pulls. Leather and rubber handles are best suited for you.
Also, consider the leash’s weight too. If you find it too heavy, and your dog is on the heavier side, chances are you’ll end up tiring yourself out. And we don’t want our parents worn out.
Leash Size
When we say “leash size,” we’re referring to your leash’s width and length. It’s essential to choose the correct leash size for your dog so that it can provide adequate support for your pup’s needs.
For instance, if you’ve got a big dog, like our American bully friends, you may need to get some bigger tape. Likewise, don’t buy some thick leashes for small dogs. I see so many parents do this. Think parents, think!
Also, if you’re dog’s quite aggressive, you may want to choose a shorter leash so you can always keep an eye on them. Sometimes, when dogs are more aggressive on a leash, they can get carried away, and this is when they tend to start fights with other pups. So the closer they are to you, the better.
Visibility
Visibility is essential, especially when you like walking at night. If so, I’d recommend getting a reflective leash, like the Flexi Neon and Flexi Giant Retractable Leashes I told you about earlier. Or, if you’re more interested in seeing the path you’re heading down, consider getting the BC Retail 3 in 1 Leash.
Your Leash’s Durability
You probably want a durable retractable leash, especially since leashes can be pricey. But if your dog’s quite a chewer, make sure to get them a durable lead. Or else, they may end up destroying their leash in mere seconds. Trust me, been there, done that!
Tips on How to Use Retractable Leashes the Right Way
Believe it or not, retractable leashes have actually become quite controversial because of the possible dangers they can bring to both parents like you and puppers like me. But if you use it the right way, not only will your dog love the experience, but you’ll also enjoy using your retractable leash whenever you head out for a walk!
- Keep your dogs off the road.
First of all, keep your dogs off the road, and be wary of cyclists too. I learned that one the hard way last week! That’s why a highly visible lead is advisable—you want to make sure that you and your furry ones are easily seen, especially at night. You wouldn’t want to risk you and your pup’s safety, so please be cautious.
- Keep your dogs off crowded areas.
Again, if your dog can be aggressive, be careful not to use this leash in crowded areas, especially if you have a long leash. Be responsible, and always keep an eye on your pup. Their sense of freedom might get them carried away, so be wary of that.
- Choose a leash length that you can handle.
If this is your first time using a retractable dog leash, I’d recommend sticking to shorter leashes to start. Not only does your dog need to adjust to the feel of their new retractable leash, but you also need to learn how to use it first. Retractable leashes can be tricky. Take note of that.
- Make sure that your dog can handle retractable leashes.
Not all dogs are capable of using retractable leashes. Just remember, we have our tastes and preferences too, so it’s best to assess your dogs first before buying a retractable lead. Or else, you’ll end up purchasing another leash after just one use.
Related Questions
- Why shouldn’t you use retractable leashes?
Some of our parents simply don’t like retractable leashes because they find it dangerous for their canines. But actually, the safeness of retractable leashes depends on both you and your dog.
Your dog probably won’t know how to behave during their first experience with this type of leash, and if you don’t know how to use it properly either, chances are you, and your pet will end up getting injured.
I’m not saying all this to scare you. Just do some proper research first before deciding to buy a retractable leash, and everything will be great!
However, if you’ve decided that a retractable leash is not for you after learning more, check out how some of our paw friends gave some insights about their favorite leashes.
Remember, there may be a specific type of leash that will best suit you and your dog—it isn’t a one-size-fits-all matter.
- What is the longest retractable leash length?
So far, the longest retractable leash length is 26 feet, and an example of such leash is the Flexi Giant Tape Retractable Dog Leash.
- Are retractable leashes better?
The nice thing about retractable leashes is that they give your pup a sense of freedom compared to traditional leashes.
Also, we dogs tend to have a lot of energy, and if left unused and stored up, we tend to misbehave. Because retractable leashes allow dogs to move freely, we can get our much-needed exercise, preventing such conditions from developing.
Retractable leashes may have received negative feedback from some fur parents, but trust me—it all comes down to using them correctly.