The 15 Best Retractable Dog Leash of 2023

by Tom Ken

If you are a pet parent with a dog that likes to wander and explore every time you take it out for a walk, you need to get the best retractable dog leash. This leash ensures you can still keep the pup in control without denying it the freedom to explore.

Retractable dog leashes have a long tape or rope anywhere from 5 to over 30 feet coiled inside a plastic handle. This tape extends when you need to give the dog more freedom to roam and retracts to ensure you get closer control.

These leashes are ideal for recall training, pet owners with disabilities, and when you want to promote a dog's natural behavior. For the pet parents on the market for one, our detailed review and buying guide below make it easy to narrow down your choices.

7 Best Retractable Dog Leash: Review

IMAGE PRODUCT FEATURES
TUG 360° Tangle-Free, Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash for Up to 110 lb Dogs; 16 ft Strong Nylon Tape; One-Handed Brake, Pause, Lock (Large, White)

1. TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash (Best Overall)

  • Strong nylon tape with 360° movement
  • Quick-lock/unlock feature
  • One-handed brake
  • Anti-slip handle
Fida Retractable Dog Leash

2. Fida Retractable Dog Leash (Best Budget)

  • Budget-friendly
  • Embedded with reflective material
  • Ergonomic anti-slip handle
Flexi New Classic Retractable Dog Leash

3. Flexi New Classic Retractable Dog Leash (Best for Large Dogs)

  • 26-foot leash support dogs up to 110 pounds
  • Intuitive handling design
  • One-handed braking system
Upsky Retractable Dog Leash

4. Upsky Retractable Dog Leash (Best for Nighttime)

  • Bright flashlight for visibility
  • Convenient one-button brake & lock
  • Ergonomic anti-slip handle
Flexi Giant Tape Leash

5. Flexi Giant Tape Leash (Best for Single Hand Use)

  • Convenient one-handed handling
  • Extremely robust 26-foot tape
  • Highly visible neon color
Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash

6. Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash (Best Heavy-Duty)

  • Strong & durable nylon ribbon
  • Secure locking mechanism
  • Smooth belt feeder
Idepet Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash

7. Idepet Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash (Best Round Rope)

  • 360° tangle-free rope
  • Reliable lock button
  • Anti-chew stainless steel chain
  • Skin-friendly ABS handle

1. Best Overall: Tug 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash

TUG 360° Tangle-Free, Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash for Up to 110 lb Dogs; 16 ft Strong Nylon Tape; One-Handed Brake, Pause, Lock (Large, White)
TUG 360° Tangle-Free, Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash for Up to 110 lb Dogs; 16 ft Strong Nylon Tape; One-Handed Brake, Pause, Lock (Large, White)
  • Fit For Dogs: Up to 110 pounds
  • Length: 16 ft.
  • Material: Nylon
  • Size: T - L

Tug Retractable Dog Leash is our top overall option as it is heavy-duty, flexible, and both easy and comfortable to use for any pet owner. The construction includes a tough nylon tape and ABS casing to make it highly durable.

Besides being tough, the tape is tangle-free and with 360-degree movement that allows you to control the pet from any direction.

With the quick lock/unlock feature, this leash makes roll-on/off a breeze. Braking is also more effortless, and you can do it with just one hand. What's more, there is a spacious handle with a non-slip surface that allows for more comfortable use.

Although this leash is a little heavier than it appears, the extra weight does not affect its performance or usability. Also, the leash is not suitable for chewing but this should not be an issue provided you keep a keen eye on the dog during walks.

Pros:

  • Heavy-duty leash
  • More flexible tape movement
  • Simple roll on and off
  • Easy braking with one hand
  • Super comfortable and non-slip grip

Cons:

  • A little heavier than it looks
  • Not suitable for chewing

2. Best Budget: Fida Retractable Dog Leash

Fida Retractable Dog Leash
Fida Retractable Dog Leash
  • Fit For Dogs: Up to 110 pounds
  • Length: 16 ft.
  • Material: Polyresin
  • Size: XS - L

For the pet owners shopping on a tighter budget, the Fida Retractable Dog Leash is a fantastic choice. But, there is still more to it, such as the high visibility from the embedment of highly reflective material on the tape.

The leash includes a more comfortable handle with an anti-slip surface to ensure users maintain a fantastic grip. What's more, it is an easy-to-use model that rolls on and off with ease and has other functionalities like pause or quick lock.

While this leash might not be entirely tangle-free, it often untwists as it retracts. The brake system could also be more secure, but it still works well enough.

Pros:

  • Suits most pet owner budgets
  • Reflective tape for more safety
  • More comfortable handle
  • Easy to use design

Cons:

  • Not entirely tangle-free
  • Brake system needs improvement

3. Best for Large Dogs: Flexi New Classic Retractable Dog Leash

Flexi New Classic Retractable Dog Leash
Flexi New Classic Retractable Dog Leash
  • Fit For Dogs: Up to 110 pounds
  • Length: 26 ft.
  • Material: Nylon
  • Size: L

If you have a larger dog, the Flexi Retractable Dog Leash is a fantastic option as it is a 26-foot long leash that supports dogs up to 110 pounds while still giving them more than enough freedom to move around.

Besides being one of the best retractable leashes for large dogs, this product allows for a fast and reliable response with a short-stop and one-handed braking system. Additionally, the leash provides more intuitive handling with a convenient brake button and ergonomic handle.

The grip is not rubberized, but the handle is still comfortable enough. Also, the brake seems to be quite noisy, but this does not affect its performance.

Pros:

  • Supports large dogs with enough freedom to move
  • Fast and reliable response
  • Brake button and ergonomic handle for easy handling
  • Accommodates various accessories

Cons:

  • Grip is not rubberized
  • Brake can be noisy

4. Best with Flashlight: Upsky Retractable Dog Leash

Upsky Retractable Dog Leash
Upsky Retractable Dog Leash
  • Fit For Dogs: Up to 33 pounds
  • Length: 16 ft.
  • Material: Nylon

The Upsky Retractable Dog Leash ensures maximum visibility and safety when walking the dog at night by including a bright detachable flashlight in the housing. What's more, it has a one-button brake and lock for comfortable length adjustment and a secure lock in place.

There is also a more ergonomic anti-slip handle that ensures pet owners get a comfortable hold of the leash. When connecting the dog's collar, the heavy-duty clasp ensures the pet is super comfortable.

This leash's maximum weight capacity is just 33 pounds, but it is still one of the best small retractable dog leashes as it can accommodate most small and medium breeds.

Pros:

  • Adequate illumination for night use
  • Comfortable and ergonomic handle
  • Easy adjustment and secure lock
  • Comfortable collar clasp

Cons:

  • Cannot handle a lot of weight

5. Best for Single Hand Use: Flexi Giant Tape Leash

Flexi Giant Tape Leash
Flexi Giant Tape Leash
  • Fit For Dogs: Up to 55 pounds
  • Length: 26 ft.
  • Material: Nylon
  • Size: M - XL

You do not want always to dedicate both your hands to handle the dog during walks. Therefore, a single hand use leash like the Flexi Giant Tape Leash is very convenient. Better still, the leash has a longer and more robust 26-foot tape that gives the pet more freedom of movement.

The tape also comes in a bright neon color for maximum visibility to improve safety. Many pet owners love that the tape retracts and extends more smoothly, and the leash has an ergonomic, non-slip grip.

Compared to other options on our retractable dog leash review, this model seems a little more expensive, but it is longer and heavy-duty to ensure you still get value for money.

Pros:

  • Easier and more convenient single-handed use
  • Longer, robust tape
  • High visibility for improved security
  • Smooth retraction and extension

Cons:

  • Relatively pricier

6. Best Heavy-Duty: Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash

Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash
Hertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash
  • Fit For Dogs: Up to 110 pounds
  • Length: 16 ft.
  • Material: Nylon
  • Size: S - L

The Hertzko Retractable Dog Leash is our best heavy-duty retractable dog leash, and it features a strong nylon ribbon and ABS housing to ensure many years of excellent service. The 16-foot leash can handle up to 110 pounds and includes a smooth belt feeder to ensure the tape never tangles.

You can quickly retract the tape with this leash as there is an easy brake and lock button. Other things like the secure, non-slip handle and locking collar attachment make this an even better option.

For pet owners with smaller hands, this leash can be a bit fiddly to use. But, this should not be an issue once you get used to its feel.

Pros:

  • Heavy-duty ribbon and housing
  • Belt feeder prevents tangling
  • Easy brake and lock button
  • Secure, non-slip handle
  • Locking collar attachment

Cons:

  • A little fiddly for small hands

7. Best Round Rope: Idepet Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash

Idepet Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash
Idepet Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash
  • Fit For Dogs: Up to 10 pounds
  • Length: 16 ft.
  • Material: Nylon

With round rope tape like what you get on the Idepet Retractable Dog Leash instead of a flat one, you can be sure of a more tangle-free operation. The leash has an easy to brake and lock button for simple leash length adjustment.

Additionally, the leash has a secure and comfortable ABS handle. What's more, it includes a stainless steel chain that ensures the dog does not chew on the rope.

The chain's inclusion can make the leash a little heavier for small dogs like Chihuahuas, but many pets hardly notice the extra weight as it is not much.

Pros:

  • Round rope does not tangle
  • Secure and comfortable handle
  • Easy to brake and lock
  • Chain prevents dog from chewing rope

Cons:

  • A little heavier

Other Good Recommendations

Other Good Recommendations
Other Good Recommendations

8. Flexi Medium Retractable Dog Leash

Flexi Medium Retractable Dog Leash
Flexi Medium Retractable Dog Leash

The Flexi Medium Retractable Dog Leash gives you the freedom to make your leash even better as you can accessorize it with things like an LED lighting system or a multi-box. It also has an ergonomic handle and brake button to ensure more intuitive handling.

You can be sure of a fast and reliable response when using this leash as it has a short-stop one-handed braking system. What's more, the design includes a heavy-duty metal clasp that allows for a secure and comfortable connection to the collar.

Key Features

  • Can be accessorized
  • Ergonomic handle and brake button
  • Short-stop one-handed braking system
  • Heavy-duty metal clasp

9. MigooPet Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash

MigooPet Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash
MigooPet Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash

Everything about the MigooPet Retractable Dog Leash is meant to ensure you get a long service life. It is one of the strongest retractable dog leashes on our review, thanks to a tough ABS shell and strong nylon tape. Better still, it is secure and reliable as it uses a fantastic one-button lock system.

Using the leash is guaranteed to be more comfortable, thanks to the rubbery handle that also provides a non-slip grip. Pet owners never have to worry about tangles as the U-shaped tape inlet eliminates them.

Key Features

  • Tough ABS case for maximum durability
  • Strong nylon woven tape
  • Secure and reliable one-button lock system
  • Rubbery handle provides non-slip grip
  • U-shaped tangle-free tape inlet

10. Peteast Retractable Dog Leash

Peteast Retractable Dog Leash
Peteast Retractable Dog Leash

With the 360-degree tangle-free tape on the Peteast Retractable Dog Leash, you can easily control your pet from any direction without ever having to worry about the line tangling. Braking, pausing, and locking are also easy and convenient with the quick one-handed lock.

This model is ideal for those who love to walk their pet at night as the highly reflective tape maintains high visibility for maximum safety. Furthermore, the leash has an ergonomic and non-slip rubber handle for comfortable use.

Key Features

  • 360-degree tangle-free tape
  • Convenient one-handed brake and lock
  • Reflective tape for high visibility
  • Ergonomic rubber handle

11. Pet&Cuddle Retractable Dog Leash

Pet&Cuddle Retractable Dog Leash
Pet&Cuddle Retractable Dog Leash

It is all about ensuring pet owners get something heavy-duty for long service life with the Pet&Cuddle Retractable Dog Leash. The leash has a robust tangle-free tape, sturdy housing, and a stainless steel collar clip.

Using the leash should be comfortable enough as there is a soft grip handle that keeps it steady on the hand even when you have a strong puller. Additionally, the leash has a convenient and straightforward one-touch lock or release button.

Key Features

  • Heavy-duty tangle-free nylon tape
  • Stainless steel collar clip
  • Soft grip handle for comfort
  • One-touch lock/release button

12. TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash

TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash
TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash

The TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash is built to last as it includes an ABS casing and a durable nylon leash. Also, it has other heavy-duty components like a chrome-plated snap hook and reinforced plastic joint.

Retraction and extension are smooth and easy as this leash has a strong spring. Better still, there is an ergonomic handle with a non-slip grip for comfortable use. When you buy the leash, you get free waste bags as a bonus.

Key Features

  • Sturdy ABS casing
  • Strong spring for smooth retraction
  • Ergonomic handle with anti-slip grip
  • Free waste bag cone

13. Ec.Teak Retractable Dog Leash

Ec.Teak Retractable Dog Leash
Ec.Teak Retractable Dog Leash

With the Ec.Teak Retractable Dog Leash, you get everything you can wish for in these leash types, from durable construction to comfortable use. The built includes heavy-duty housing and sturdy, tangle-free nylon tape.

This dog leash includes a TPE anti-slip handle that is more ergonomic for comfortable and secure use. Other things like the stainless steel clasp that allows you to connect it to a collar with ease and a one-touch lock or release mechanism make this an even better leash.

Key Features

  • Heavy-duty tangle-free tape
  • TPE anti-slip handle is more ergonomic
  • Stainless steel clasp
  • One button brake/lock

14. Cleebourg Retractable Dog Leash

Cleebourg Retractable Dog Leash
Cleebourg Retractable Dog Leash

Cleebourg Retractable Dog Leash is a great dog leash made for broad applicability as it can work for a wide variety of small and medium-size dogs up to 88 pounds. Furthermore, the design includes an anti-slip handle to ensure you have an easy time and comfortable experience controlling the pet.

For the tape, the manufacturer uses a strong nylon material that never breaks or tangles. This leash is also made for one-handed operation whether you want to pause, brake, or lock the leash in place.

Key Features

  • Wide dog applicability
  • Anti-slip handle for comfortable use
  • Strong nylon tape
  • One-handed brake, pause and lock

15. Emperor Pets Retractable Dog Leash

Emperor Pets Retractable Dog Leash
Emperor Pets Retractable Dog Leash

The Emperor Pets Retractable Dog Leash is a sturdy and comfortable leash that retracts and extends consistently with the high-quality internal coil spring. The tape also never disappoints as it is a heavy-duty nylon material that does not tangle and is 360-degree for convenient dog control.

A one-button brake system on this leash makes other things like locking or pausing easier. The grip handle is soft and anti-slip to allow for all-weather use, and this leash has a nice collar clip.

Key Features

  • Durable internal coil spring for consistent reaction
  • 360-degree tangle-free tape
  • Simple one-button brake system
  • Tough and robust collar clip

How to Buy the Best Retractable Dog Leash

How To Buy The Best Retractable Dog Leash
How To Buy The Best Retractable Dog Leash

1. Length

You need to make sure you pick the right retractable dog leash length for it to work for you. Something that is too long can be dangerous for your dog, while a short one can make it hard to control the dog.

These leashes can be anywhere from 5 to over 30 feet long, and here the dog type or size you have should help you determine the ideal size for you.

Something that can extend to at least 16 feet like the Upsky Retractable Dog Leash and many others on our list should be good enough for most dogs. However, for those with large breeds or who wish to give their pet even more freedom, a 26-foot one like the Flexi Retractable Dog Leash is perfect.

2. Materials

A dog's leashes material determines its durability and hence the value you get from it, and so you should never compromise on it when shopping.

The most crucial material here is the tape or cord, as you need it to be sturdy enough and flexible to retract with ease. While there are different tape materials available, nylon is often the best option.

High-strength nylon can take more of the abuse that comes from regular extension and retraction. It is also essential to make sure the leash shell or housing is solid enough, and the best ones are a heavy-duty plastic material.

3. Dog's Weight and Temperament

As you shop for the best retractable dog leash, you need to keep your dog's weight and temperament in mind to get something appropriate.

You have to make sure you get a stronger leash if your dog is larger and more aggressive. Something sturdy that can handle a lot of weight (up to 110 pounds) like the Fida Retractable Dog Leash is perfect in such situations.

4. Functionality

The functionality of a retractable leash also matters as it determines its usefulness. That said, a multi-function model that can accommodate two dogs at once is often more useful for those that have several dogs.

5. Comfort

Any leash you choose needs to be both comfortable for you and the pet. Those with a smooth handle that provides a firm but still comfortable grip is always the best as it makes holding the leash easy and ensures minimal hand strain or fatigue.

Also, a bungee tape material that dissipates most of the tugging cord's force is more comfortable to use. The material ensures the leash is more gentle on the dog's neck and both your arms and shoulders by reducing the pressure.

6. Visibility

For those that plan to use the leash for night walks, you need to make sure motorists can see your pet. Therefore, the leash you pick should provide enough visibility with more reflective features.

A reflective material like what is embedded on the Fida Retractable Dog Leash is perfect as it ensures maximum visibility even in the darkest nights.

Safety Tips When Walking with a Retractable Dog Leash

Safety Tips When Walking With A Retractable Dog Leash
Safety Tips When Walking With A Retractable Dog Leash

1. Plan Your Route

You cannot use retractable leases just anywhere as they can be dangerous when used in an unsuitable environment. It is imperative to ensure the route you use does not have heavy traffic or obstacles that can entangle the leash.

2. Practice Using the Leas

Even if you have been using a regular leash to walk your pet for many years, you still need to practice using a retractable one in a controlled environment. Practicing ensures you know precisely how the leash works before exposing the pet to riskier situations.

3. Never Allow Dogs to Walk on Opposite Side of the Road

As you walk your pet, you need to make sure it never strolls on the opposite side of the road. Allowing your dog to walk on the opposite side of the road leaves it more exposed to a greater risk of injury if a speeding vehicle was to hit the leash.

4. Use a Length you Can Control

Even if you want to give your dog more freedom to wander when walking, it is vital to make sure that you do not overextend the leash. Doing so makes it harder to control the pet. Therefore, it is crucial to determine the length you are most comfortable with when walking the pup.

Buy on Etsy

Fida Retractable Dog Leash, 16 ft Dog Walking Leash for Small Dogs up to 26 lbs, 360° - Walmart Link

TUG 360° Tangle-Free, Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash with Anti-Slip Handle; 16 ft - Walmart Link

PetiFine Retractable Dog Leash with Dispenser and Poop Bags, 10FT/16FT Heavy Duty - Walmart Link

Retractable Dog Leash for Medium Large Breed and Small Cats with Anti-Lost ID Tag Bonus, - Walmart Link

Retractable Dog Leash, Pet Walking Leash with Anti-Slip Handle, Strong Nylon Tape, - Walmart Link

Babyltrl Upgraded Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash, 360° Tangle-Free Large Dog - Walmart Link

Tug Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the Fida Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the Flexi Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

The Upsky Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the Flexi Giant Tape Leash - Walmart Link

The Hertzko Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the Idepet Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

The Flexi Medium Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the MigooPet Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the Peteast Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the Pet&Cuddle Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

The TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the Ec.Teak Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

Cleebourg Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

The Emperor Pets Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the Upsky Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

the Tug Retractable Dog Leash - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Fida Retractable Dog Leash, 16 ft Dog Walking Leash for Small Dogs up to 26 lbs, 360° - eBay Link

TUG 360° Tangle-Free, Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash with Anti-Slip Handle; 16 ft - eBay Link

PetiFine Retractable Dog Leash with Dispenser and Poop Bags, 10FT/16FT Heavy Duty - eBay Link

Retractable Dog Leash for Medium Large Breed and Small Cats with Anti-Lost ID Tag Bonus, - eBay Link

Retractable Dog Leash, Pet Walking Leash with Anti-Slip Handle, Strong Nylon Tape, - eBay Link

Babyltrl Upgraded Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash, 360° Tangle-Free Large Dog - eBay Link

Tug Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the Fida Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the Flexi Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

The Upsky Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the Flexi Giant Tape Leash - eBay Link

The Hertzko Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the Idepet Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

The Flexi Medium Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the MigooPet Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the Peteast Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the Pet&Cuddle Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

The TaoTronics Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the Ec.Teak Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

Cleebourg Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

The Emperor Pets Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the Upsky Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

the Tug Retractable Dog Leash - eBay Link

Conclusion

If you are a pet owner on the market for the best retractable dog leash to help keep your dog in control during walks while still giving it enough freedom, there is a good option for you on our list.

But, to help narrow down your choices, the Tug Retractable Dog Leash is our top overall recommendation as it ticks every box from being well-built with a strong tape to easy one-handed operation.

However, for pet parents shopping on a budget, the Fida Retractable Dog Leash is what we recommend.

About Tom Ken

Tom has worked with many veterinary surgeons as a nurse at different veterinary clinics throughout his life.

There, he provides care for sick animals; such as: dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, and sometimes reptiles.

He has good work ethics and gentle hands; hence, the doctors as well the pet owners have come to love his presence alot.

With this site, he aims to help the readers ensure their pets' wellbeing, learn how to care, and proivide medical treatment as needed.

Joshua received Veterinary Technician Degree at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN.

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