Dogs are curious creatures who are prone to wander and explore their surroundings. This can become dangerous, especially when you’re in a public place like a beach, park, or public place. Do you feel a bit uneasy about letting your dog run around without a lead? If so, a retractable dog lead is just the thing for you.
A retractable dog lead will allow your dog to safely roam a little further from you, thanks to the spring-loaded cord in the lead. This will allow your dog to explore at a radius that you’re comfortable with while allowing maximum control at all times. In situations where your dog could be in danger, you can quickly retract the lead by pressing a button on the handle.
What to Consider When Buying a Retractable Dog Lead
You’ll want to consider multiple factors when it comes to picking the best lead. Some of these features contribute to the product’s effectiveness, while others are just nice to have included. Here’s what we’d recommend looking for in a retractable dog lead:
- The type of lead you are going for (for example, tape or cord)
- Length of the lead
- The designated weight limit for the lead
- Accessories that come with the lead
- Does it have a tangle-free design?
- Does it have brake controls?
- What are the lock controls on your lead?
- Does it have recoil control?
Retractable Dog Lead Reviews
We have picked out our favourite retractable dog leads available in the UK.
1) TUG Patented 360° Tangle-Free, Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Lead
The TUG Patented 360° Tangle-Free, Retractable Dog Lead is a great option for controlling your dog. This heavy-duty dog lead is made from nylon tape that is super sturdy and strong. Its bright colours improve its visibility, making it easy to spot your dog in the dark. It comes in 4 sizes, making it suitable for all dogs (large is suitable for dogs weighing between 55-110 pounds). The tape is 16 feet long which will give your dog plenty of room to explore.
The most important feature of the TUG Patented 360° Tangle-Free, Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Lead is its patented, tangle-free design. It’s centred around the opening where the lead exits the handle. Combined with an easy-to-use locking control button, this lead makes a great training tool. You can quickly adjust the length of the lead when you need to. It helps keep control of a dog, especially while training them to walk with you. The buckle on this lead is chrome plated to improve its weather-resistance.
Key Features
- Has a patented no-tangle design
- The handle is super ergonomic
- The break controls are easy to access
- The durability of the nylon tape ribbon is very high
2) Flexi Giant M Cord Lead
The Flexi New Comfort lead is an impressive 8 meters long. In addition to this, it comes with an LED lighting attachment that improves your visibility in the dark. It is designed for medium-sized dogs that weigh up to 20kg. The handle is very comfortable and anti-slip. It also has hooks where you can attach your doggy bag containers.
Compared to other Flexi models, this dog lead ranks higher in functionality and ease of use. It is reasonably priced for all the features you’re getting, especially if you have a small or medium sized dog.
Key Features
- It is great for smaller sized dogs
- Easy to use and handle
- The handle is comfortable and anti-slip
- Has an 8-metre lead
3) Flexi New Classic Retractable Cord Lead
Another great value retractable lead made by Flexi. This lead is one of the cheapest on the market, but the quality can’t be questioned. It comes in 4 different sizes (the largest version is suitable for dogs weighing up to 50kg) and comes in 5 different colours (black, blue, pink, red or purple). Depending on the size of the lead, the lead itself is either made from cord or tape.
The lead is 8 metres long which will give your dog the freedom to explore, but you enough control to keep it as close as you need it. The lead comes with an LED light to aid you in the dark, and a brake button with separate permanent stop button.
Key Features
- Great for dogs up to 50kg
- Easy to use and handle
- The handle is comfortable and anti-slip
- Flexi multi box that you can attach to the lead for treats or poo bags.
4) Pet Magasin Retractable Dog Lead
The Pet Magasin Retractable Dog Lead has a smooth action while you are retracting or releasing the lead. It has a specially designed doggy bag holder for you to use on the go. The lead has a reflective stitching design making it easier to see both at night or day time because of the bright colours.
This dog lead is strong, durable and good for a dog that weighs up to 18 kg. It extends up to 4 metres which may be a drawback, but it doesn’t seem to limit your pup’s movement.
Key Features
- There is a specially designed dog bag carrier
- The brightly coloured handled improves visibility and makes it easy to find
- The hook is chrome-plated steel
- Reflective stitching and bright coloured lead
Benefits of Retractable Dog Leads
- Retractable dog leads provide a safer and simpler way to handle your furry friend during training and walking.
- It prevents your pup from chasing or lunging; potentially scaring other animals or people
- These products prevent your pup from chasing other animals and scaring them because you can control how far they can go
- They prevent your dog from wandering off where they shouldn’t
- Retractable dog leads can temporarily tether your dog to a specific place within a controlled radius as you attend to some quick business like a toilet break or enter into a building that does not allow pets.
- You can easily control your dog’s erratic movement like running into traffic or jumping up in public
Buying Guide for a Retractable Dog Lead
Dog leads are pretty important in the life of your four-legged friend. This functional piece of dog equipment is designed to be comfortable while allowing your dog freedom and yourself the control that you need. They can be stylish too, as well as durable. Below is a breakdown on how to get the best leash on the market. These four essential factors should direct your search for the best dog lead.
Grip
Your retractable dog lead should have an ergonomic design on its handle where you grip it. Most dog leads are fitted with anti-slip rubber to make it easier for you to hold on to, especially when your dog starts pulling. A good grip on your retractable dog lead should also minimize the pressure on your hand.
Visibility
Visibility is important for night walks. It gets harder to see at night, and a dog lead that provides a way to improve your night visibility should be a must on your radar. Some retractable dog leads have torches while others use reflective stitching instead. Either one will do a great job in helping you see and be seen at night, or in foggy conditions.
Material
The material for your lead is also important. You don’t want a flimsy, cheap quality material that will snap if your dog tugs too hard. Nylon, which is the main material in retractable dog leads, is a strong material but not all nylon is the same so make sure to read reviews to check the strength of the cord.
A Poo Bag Holder
You never want to be caught off guard when your dog has to go while you are on your daily walks. A retractable dog lead with a doggy bag holder is a convenient addition to your pet supplies and will always keep you out of sticky situations.
Conclusion
The products above are some of the best retractable dog leads that we found in the market. While they have many similar features, some have unique and interesting designs that place them a cut above the rest. Hopefully, getting your canine friend a good retractable dog lead won’t be too difficult now. Your next walk around the block should be a bit more fun now, without worrying if your dog will wander off.
