Running with your dog is not only fun but also a great way to exercise and stay in shape (for both you and your furry friend). When you are running with your pet, however, it isn’t always simple to hold them whilst you do so, especially if they decide they want to move a little more quickly than you. It is essential to ensure that they are safe and that you are also as comfortable as possible. Running is energy-draining enough without worrying about your pet beside you.
When you decide to start running with your furry friend, you will need a suitable running dog lead. Unlike traditional dog leads, these leads have been made for running to ensure that your dog is safe during your run. Traditional leads are just not flexible and a dog tugging on a rigid lead could result in an injury. The constant yanking is also a lot of stress on your hands. Most running dog leads also come with other accessories you will need for your dog during the run. In this guide, we have put together a list of the five best dog leads for running you will find on the market currently to make your search easy and effective.
Our Best Pick, the Pecute hands-free dog running lead is a great place to start your search. It’s a strong double-bungee dog running lead with a wide back support belt that makes it ideal for larger or more active dogs. Incorporated on the wide support belt is a multi-pouch pack for all your running essentials like your dog’s poop bag or treats. You can also pack personal items in this pack such as your keys, phone and cards. This makes this running lead perfect for long runs or hikes with your dog. It also features two handles, giving you total control over your pet while you’re out running with them.
BEST PICK
Our Runner-up
Top 5 Best Dog Leads For Running Review
1. Pecute Hands Free Dog Running Lead
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
The Pecute hands-free dog running lead is one of the best ones you will find on the market currently. With this dog lead, you will be free to run without worrying about hurting your dog which could happen if you are using a traditional lead. This one has double shock-absorbent bungee cords that reduce the risk of your pet getting hurt by all the tugging when you are running with them.
This dog lead can be adjusted from 63cm to 122cm depending on what you are comfortable with. Take advantage of the two handles on the lead. The first handle is perfect when you are running with your dog and you don’t need to be restrictive, whilst the second handle will be handy when you need more control in a more crowded area or when you come across traffic. You can also use this lead as a double leash to walk two dogs at a time.
You can use this dog lead for dogs weighing up to 60kgs and it stretches to about 2.5m, a long comfortable range for when you are running with your furry companion.
This dog lead also comes with a broad back support belt to help reduce the stress on your back of your dog pulling on you during the run. It also has a breathable mesh fabric on the inside for your comfort.
Incorporated on the support belt is a multi-compartment pouch that you can use to hold your dog’s essentials and personal items such as your mobile, keys or cards. This would also come in handy when you are taking a hike with your dog. If you are a dog trainer, you can also use it to hold dog treats during training sessions.
To enhance your dog’s visibility, this lead has reflective strips on it. Your pet will be visible if you are going for an evening run which can help avoid accidents.
Pecute is confident that you will love this dog lead and that is why it comes with a 1-year warranty and 90-day money-back guarantee in case you don’t like it for any reason. This pretty much makes buying this model risk-free which I like.
Pros
- This dog lead has two handles depending on how much control you need on your pet’s movement.
- It features a wide back support belt that reduces the stress of the dog pulling at you.
- It features two strong, durable, shock-absorbent bungees that reduce the likelihood of injuries from your dog’s sudden tugging.
- It comes with multiple pouches for your dog’s essentials like waste bags or personal items like keys.
- The support belt has a breathable inner mesh that’s comfortable for you.
- It has reflective strips that enhance your dog’s visibility at night.
- It comes with a 1-year warranty and a 90-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- It’s a little heavy.
Why do we recommend it?
This running dog lead comes with everything you need for a run with your dog. The wide back support belt is a thoughtful addition and we also love the multi-compartment pouch on the belt. You can carry everything you need for the run, like the dog’s poop bags and personal items like keys and your mobile phone.
The lead comes with two shock-absorbent bungees which is a great feature that eliminate the risk of your pet getting hurt when they tug on the lead. To ensure that your dog is well visible at night, the lead has reflective strips on it. Don’t forget, the manufacturers are confident that you and your dog will love this lead and that is why it comes with a 1-year warranty and a 90-day money-back guarantee. Overall, this is a great choice and well worth considering.
2. One Trail Hands Free Dog Lead for Running
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
This is another ideal perfect choice for you if you are looking for a hassle-free running lead. It is a hands-free dog lead that has been built for use when you are running and hiking but also when you are simply walking with your pup. It comes in two sizes which makes it suitable for a range of dog sizes too.
To minimise the risk of injuries from your dog tugging on the lead, it features a shock-absorbent bungee cord which I think is an important feature. The bungee also reduces the stress of your dog tugging on you as explained previously.
This lead has two handles for different levels of control. The first handle is for when you are running and you want your dog to keep on track, and the second handle is for when you need closer control of your dog.
For all your running accessories like the dog’s poop bag and your own personal items (like your keys or your phone), this dog lead comes with a handy waist pack just like our previous pick.
The manufacturers have realised how uncomfortable it can be when you are running with a jiggling pack around so it has dual adjustable nylon straps with a heavy-duty buckle. The straps can be adjusted to fit up to 50 inches which means the pack can fit pretty much everybody too. The buckle also ensures that you can run freely without worrying about it coming undone when your dog tugs at the lead.
The pack is also water-resistant so your personal items will be safe if it rains whilst you are out taking a run with your dog. The inner side of the pack is using a breathable mesh material that ensures that sweat does not accumulate around it which can be uncomfortable which is also a good design feature often overlooked.
Pros
- The lead comes with a waist pack for items you need during a run with your pet.
- The lead has two handles for different levels of pet control.
- The inner part of the waist pack is made of breathable mesh material for your comfort.
- It features a shock-absorbent bungee that minimises injuries from your dog tugging on the lead.
- The pack is waterproof.
- The pack’s straps are adjustable to accommodate waist sizes of up to 50 inches.
Cons
- The waist pack could be a little larger to accommodate more items for longer runs or hikes.
Why do we recommend it?
This is an ideal running dog lead for you if you are looking for a hands-free dog lead. It features a strong shock-absorbent bungee that minimises injuries from the dog tugging at it. The bungee also takes the tugging stress off you and it has two handles for different levels of control.
For your running essentials like a dog’s poop bags, your phone, or keys, this dog lead comes with a well-constructed waist pack. It’s water-resistant which means its contents will stay dry if you are rained on whilst you are out. The inner part of the pack is also made of a breathable mesh material for your comfort.
3. LANNEY Hands Free Running Dog Leash
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
This is another dog lead you will find on the market currently thats worth considering. It’s made of a strong nylon material that is built to stand the test of time. The strong metal clips used for this leash rotate 360 degrees, which eliminates tangling.
To reduce the likelihood of your dog getting hurt from tugging on the lead, there is a shock-absorbent strong bungee. The bungee also takes the tugging stress off you, allowing you and your furry buddy to run safely and comfortably.
The dual handle feature allows you total control over your pet when you are out running with your dog. Use the first handle to gently keep your pet on track when you’re running and the second one to closely control your dog in traffic or crowded areas.
When you are out with your dog at night, the reflective strips safety feature on this lead will keep you and your pet well visible. This reduces the likelihood of accidents.
For your accessories, this running dog lead comes with a waist pack that has two pouches where you can put your dog’s waste bags and personal items like your phone, keys or your cards.
The pack’s straps are adjustable, allowing you to get a snug fit so that it isn’t bouncy and getting in your way during the run. The pack can accommodate a variety of waist sizes up to 46 inches. The buckle is also strong and won’t come undone even when your dog tugs on it.
The LANNEY dog leads manufacturers want to make sure you are satisfied with it and that is why if you have any issues with it, you can either get a replacement or your money back.
Pros
- It has a shock-absorbent bungee that minimises injuries from your dog tagging on the leash while you run.
- It comes with a 2-pocket waist pack for all your running accessories.
- The waist packs belts are adjustable, which allows you to get a snug fit and also accommodates different waist sizes.
- The lead comes with two handles for total control of your pet when you are out running.
- For your dog’s safety when you are out running at night, the dog lead has reflective strips on it that enhance visibility.
- Rotating metal clasps make this lead tangle-free.
Cons
- Pockets could perhaps be a little better quality.
Why do we recommend it?
This is a perfect running lead that has been made from a strong nylon material that is cross-stitched to ensure longevity. You and your dog will be using it for a long time. Unlike other running leads, this one uses rotating metal clasps that eliminate tangling.
The shock-absorbent bungee reduces the likelihood of your pet getting hurt from tugging at the lead and it also takes the tugging stress off your body, making all of your runs together safe and comfortable. With the two handles on this lead, you have total control over your furry friend. Keep them on track with the first one, and closely guide them in risky areas with the second one. The incorporated waist pack with two pockets to hold all of your essentials.
4. VIVAGLORY Hands Free Running Dog Lead
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
No products found.This is another great running lead that is perfect for you and your dogs’ runs. It has been made from a strong, durable nylon material so you can be sure you will be using it for a long time.
To reduce the likelihood of injuries that can occur when your dog tugs (at a traditional lead), this dog lead comes with a strong, shock-absorbent bungee. The bungee also takes the stress from any tugs off of your body. This bungee makes this running dog lead extendable from 4ft-6ft.
This lead gives you ultimate control over your pet with its two handles. Using the first handle you can gently guide your pet to keep them on track. The second handle, on the other hand, is meant to give you closer control when you need to restrict your dog’s movement to, for instance, avoid another dog or in traffic.
For a hands-free run experience, this dog lead comes with an adjustable waist belt that accommodates different waist sizes (measuring up to 44 inches), allowing you to get a snug fit.
The waist belt comes with a heavy-duty buckle and safety lock to ensure that it does not come undone when your dog tugs on it which can be dangerous. It also comes with two D rings, a fixed one and a movable one that lets you move the lead as you prefer. You can also attach a second lead to the second D ring.
For improved visibility when you are running or walking your dog at night, the lead has reflective strips, a feature that allows everyone to see you and your dog.
Pros
- This lead is made of a strong, durable nylon material.
- It features a strong bungee that absorbs the shock of your tugs to reduce the risk of injuries and stress on your body.
- A reflective strips safety feature makes your pet well visible when you are running or walking with them at night.
- The waist belt comes with a heavy-duty buckle and a safety lock that ensures that your dog is always linked to you.
- The waistband has two D rings, one fixed and the other one movable allowing you to position the lead where you are most comfortable.
- This lead has two handles that give you ultimate control over your pet.
Cons
- Unlike other running leads, this one has no pack but then it’s a more affordable choice.
Why do we recommend it?
This is a great running dog lead for you if you are looking for a good durable option on a budget. It is relatively cheaper but doesn’t give any less quality or durability. It comes with an adjustable waist belt that accommodates varying waist sizes up to 44 inches allowing you to get a snug fit. The waist belt comes with a heavy-duty buckle and a safety lock to ensure that your dog is connected to you at all times, even when they tug on you.
This lead’s strong bungee reduces the likelihood of injuries on your dog by absorbing all the shock from the tugs. The bungee also takes any tugging stress off your body. This lead comes with two handles, the first one for guiding your dog to stay on track, while the one is for closely controlling them when you need to.
No products found.
5. Pet Room Hands Free Dog Leash
Buy on Amazon.co.uk
This is another good running lead that you will find on the market for your dog. It has been made using a strong, durable nylon and it is definitely built to last for a long time.
It has two handles, the first one for guiding your pet to stay on track whilst you are running or walking with them, and the second one for controlling your pet closely when you need to.
To reduce the likelihood of your dog getting injured by tugging on the lead when you’re running with them, it has a strong bungee for shock absorption. The bungee allows this lead to extend from 49 inches to up to 69inches which is a lot of room for even the most active of dogs to be comfortable and safe when running.
For your dog’s safety, if you prefer to run with your dog in the early morning, evening or nighttime when it’s dark, this lead has reflective strips to enhance its visibility.
This running lead comes with an adjustable waist belt with 2 D rings for attachment. One of the D rings is movable, and the other one is fixed which allows you to choose the most practical point to attach the dog lead.
The lead also comes with a detachable pouch where you can put your phone, keys, or your dog’s poop bags. If you don’t want to use the pouch you can just slide it off the waist belt.
The manufacturers are confident that you and your dog will enjoy this running lead, and that’s why they offer you a full refund if you don’t like it for any reason.
Pros
- It comes with two handles, one for guidance during a run, and the other one is for closely controlling your dog when you need to.
- It has a shock-absorbent bungee which minimises the risk of your dog getting injured when they suddenly tug on the lead.
- The bungee extends from 49 inches to up to 69 inches, which is enough room for even the most active of dogs.
- It has a reflective strip safety feature that enhances its visibility in darkness.
- It comes with a pouch for your running essentials.
- The waist belt is adjustable which makes it suitable for different waist sizes and also allows you to get a snug fit.
- The waist belt has two D rings, one movable and the other one fixed, allowing you to position the lead where you are most comfortable.
Cons
- The pouch could be bigger.
Why do we recommend it?
This will be a good choice for a running dog lead; it has been made using a strong and durable nylon material. There is also a heavy-duty bungee that prevents your pet from getting injured from tugging on the lead. The bungee also helps take the pressure from your dog’s tugging off your body. To give you ultimate control over your pet, this running dog lead comes with 2 handles, the first one to guide your dog and keep them on track and the second one to closely control them when you need to.
The dog lead also comes with an adjustable waist belt that is suitable for different waist sizes and also allows you to get a snug fit. For your running accessories the dog lead comes with a detachable pouch where you can put personal items like your phone, keys and also your dog’s poop bags. The waist belt also has two D rings, one movable and the other one fixed, which allow you to position the lead where you are most comfortable or attach another leash. Overall, it’s a pretty good running dog lead. Your dog will love it.
Buyers’ Guide: What Makes a Dog Running Lead Great?
If you want to start running with your dog, the first thing you need to consider purchasing is a good running dog lead. If you are buying one for the first time, it can be a bit challenging to get a good one without knowing what to look for. If this is you, we have you covered. In this buyers’ guide, we outline everything you need to look for. These, we feel, are the most important factors to keep in mind.
Safety features
Before you can step out with your dog for a run, you need to make sure that they will be safe. While you could use a traditional lead, the tugging from the dog can lead to injuries. When you are buying a running dog lead, look for one with a good stretching bungee.
A bungee on the running lead absorbs the shock from tugs minimising the risk of injuries. This takes the pressure off your dog’s neck and also off your hands or waist if you are using a hands-free running lead.
If you’d love to go for runs with your dog in the early mornings or the evenings, look for a lead with reflective strips to improve your pet’s visibility in the darkness. This way, they are well visible, which can help prevent accidents.
Material and construction
Running leads are strained a lot, especially if you have a large energetic dog. When you’re buying one, make sure that you buy one made of a strong material that can withstand the stress of daily tugging.
Stitching is also something you should pay attention to is if the seams on the lead are joined with weak stitching as the risk of them becoming undone when your dog tugs on the lead.
Length
You want to make sure you buy a dog lead that is long enough for your dog to run safely ahead of you or beside you without being too restricted.
Control
If you are to keep your furry friend safe during a run then you need to be in control at all times. Most running dog leads, especially the hands-free ones, come with two handles. One for keeping your dog on track and another one for closer control which allows you to restrain your dog in dangerous situations.
My Conclusion
A good running dog lead is a must-have if you want to start running with your dog. In this guide, we have listed the five best ones you will currently find on the market and we hope you will find your next one from our list.
Our Best Pick, the Pecute hands-free dog running lead, is a great place to start your search. It’s a strong double-bungee dog running lead with a wide back support belt that is ideal for large or active dogs. Incorporated on the wide support belt is a multi-pouch pack for all your running essentials like your dog’s poop bag. You can also pack personal items in the pack like your keys, phone and cards. This makes this running lead perfect for long runs or hikes with your dog.
Our Runner-up the, One Trail hands-free dog lead for running is another perfect ideal option you will find on the market. It’s made of a strong durable material with an incorporated strong bungee for shock absorption and this reduces the likelihood of injuries for a dog during a run. This lead comes with 2 handles, the first one for guiding your dog to stay on track and the other one to control your dog in situations where you need to restrict their movement. It also comes with a waist pack that is water-resistant for your running essentials like your dog’s poop bags or personal items. The contents will stay dry even when you get wet.