Most of us need to carry a few essentials when we step out. Whether your dog is a repeat offender or an occasional weaver, gliding waist belt clips allow the leash to slide back and forth freely without tripping you up. Some canines just can’t seem to decide if they prefer to walk on the right or the left, while others may suddenly veer off track when something interesting catches their attention. Wide, padded handles generally deliver superior grip and comfort. Having one handle near you will help with gentle steering and changes in direction, while another handle placed closer to your dog will provide better control in excitable or potentially risky situations. This means that you won’t easily get yanked off course when Fido gets ahead of himself and you can rest easy knowing his neck is protected.Ī couple of well-placed handles will make it easier to rein in enthusiastic pups and keep them on track. Shock-absorbing bungee leashes lessen the impact of sudden lunges on both ends of the leash. Pulling, tugging, and unexpected changes in direction are not only uncomfortable for you but can also place pressure on the delicate bones and joints in your dog’s neck. Look for a straightforward fastening system with a sturdy buckle and large, easy-to-grip carabiners for fast one-handed release. Either way, a leash that goes on with ease and comes off quickly is a must. In the same vein, struggling to take a leash off is not only frustrating but can put you at risk if your dog suddenly decides to take off after a squirrel or overthrow the current neighborhood alpha. Having to fiddle with leash fasteners and adjustments every time you go out can be off-putting. For extra visibility, consider pairing your leash with a reflective dog vest.

Vivid colors and reflective strips or stitching instantly boost visibility in low lighting or inclement weather conditions. Keeping your pooch visible can help prevent accidents if you run close to the road and will also make you easier to find in the event of an emergency. If you frequently take your dog out in the evening or early morning, using a leash that’s easy to spot is absolutely essential. Pay attention to fastening points, and go for a hands-free leash with metal hardware if possible. In terms of the finer details, plastic D-rings and carabiners are more likely to snap under pressure, especially if you have a large dog. To avoid accidents and canine scuffles, opt for a well-made leash that's constructed from sturdy materials like nylon webbing or leather. Flimsy materials and shoddy craftsmanship open the door to product failure – something most of us would rather not contemplate when out and about with a four-legged friend.

They typically consist of a metal arm that is attached to the rear axle or seat post of your bike and a sturdy but flexible leash.ĭurability is perhaps the single most important consideration when choosing a hands-free leash. Bicycle leashes come equipped with unique features to boost cycling safety for you and your dog. Many can be used as a tether when it’s time for a break, and some will even accommodate more than one dog so you can walk or run with your pack.īicycle: Although these leashes are in a class of their own, they still bear mentioning – they are hands-free after all. While some simply convert from crossbody to handheld, others can be fastened around your waist as well. If your dog is large or particularly enthusiastic, this style can provide some extra stability.Ĭonvertible: Convertible hands-free leashes can be adjusted and used in multiple configurations, conveniently delivering several leash styles in one.

Many can quickly be adjusted and used as a conventional handheld leash as well. Because they’re comfortable to wear and there’s little chance of getting tripped up by a weaving dog, waist-secured leashes tend to be the go-to choice for joggers and runners.Ĭrossbody: These courier-style hands-free leashes loop over your shoulder and across your torso. Waist belt: Rather than having a wrist loop or handle, waist belt hands-free leashes feature an adjustable belt that’s secured around your waist.

Hands-free leashes are available in a few different styles. Key considerations Types of hands-free leashes Sizing adjustments on waist belts can vary, so if your waist circumference is smaller or larger than average, be sure to check the minimum and maximum measurements before you buy a waist belt hands-free leash.

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