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If you are like me, you like to bring your dog along on your adventures. Whether that’s running, hiking, or kayaking, dog owners don’t want to leave their favorite adventure partner behind. But running and hiking can be hard when you have to hold onto a leash the whole time, especially when running but also on some of those more rugged trails that require your hands to be free in order to scramble over boulders.
You can use your backpack waist strap as a belt (I have certainly done it) but now companies are catching on and beginning to understand that there is a huge need for hands-free leashes. Using a traditional leash just doesn’t cut it in most scenarios. So what are your options? I’m going to help you decide which of the hands-free dog leashes is best for you and your athletic pup.
What to look for in a good hands-free leash
These are the top things to consider when looking at hands free dog leashes:
- How big is your dog? Large dogs that are strong are going to need a more durable material than some of the smaller pooches
- You want a comfortable waist belt that isn’t going to dig in or cause unnecessary chaffing during your run’s or hikes
- Ease of use – this is a big one, if it’s complicated you will quickly grow to hate it
- Make sure it has reflective stitching. If you are going to be running or hiking during dusk or dawn and depending on where you are you need to have reflectors to let others know (especially cars) that you are there
- Make sure it has a quick-release button. If something goes wrong, your dog gets tangled in a tree branch or wraps dangerously around the leash of another dog they can get hurt. Having a quick release button on the leash attachment could save your furry friend from injury
- You want to find the perfect length. Too long and you will never be able to reign them in when another dog is coming or a bike or car. Too short and walking and running could get awkward.
- What type of dog harnesses do you use? And I do recommend a harness. A collar hooked up to a leash is not a good idea. The harness distributes pressure over their body so if they get pulled back to heel suddenly there is less pressure on a given area and it is safer for them. You can cause serious damage to the trachea (airway/windpipe) tugging on a collar with a leash system.
Best leashes for trail runners and road runners
Many of the top ranked leashes out there for 2024 are hands-free bungee leashes, like the Lanney Hands Free Dog Leash or the Pet Dreamland Hands Free Leash for Running. These leashes are a great option. The Lanney Hands Free Dog leash has a fanny pack with it that allows you to bring poopy bags and treats, and store used poop bags until you find a garbage (do not leave your bags on the trail, this attracts wildlife and does not biodegrade in nature and is still littering). The Dreamland I really like because it has hands along the leash itself that allows you to bring your pet closer to you for tighter areas or to keep them away from other dogs who may not be as friendly.
Both of these are great for longer runs, but the Lanney, in my opinion, is better for these just because there is also storage. My only complaint about the bungee leashes is I prefer a more rigid leash with less give because you have better control. Too much give can cause problems and make it more challenging to quickly get them close to you if needed.
Best leashes for hikers
When doing outdoor activities or on long hikes you need something a little different. Why? Because often you are also going to be carrying a pack and if it has a hip belt, adding more things will get uncomfortable.
A great choice is hands-free Iron Doggy leash. This has the handles I love for more control and a clip at the belt that slides around to allow your pooch to wander a bit more back and forth. It’s also adjustable to three different lengths, so you decide what works best for you both and is heavy duty, for those bigger guys and gals.
Concluding Thoughts
Finding the best dog leashes can be a challenge but knowing how you and your best friend work together when running or hiking can help you decide what lengths and styles are a good option for you.
Looking for some good dog-friendly hikes around Seattle? Check out my post here for my top picks.
