5 Best Dog Leash Picks For Running (Updated 2020 Review)

Staying fit is pretty important to me. If you’re reading this article it’s likely that it’s important to you as well. Running with your dog can be a task. For starters, you have to make sure you’re compatible. For instance, if you have an English bulldog, it’s likely that you wouldn’t be able to drag them out on a 10 mile run—not comfortably at least.

Other than that you have to make sure you have the right gear; just like getting good running shoes, shorts, etc. you have to make sure you have the best dog leash for running. Luckily, we’ve looked into it quite a bit, and we have some suggestions that will work well for you!

**Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews; you can also click the links above to check prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.

This is a great leash for so many reasons it’s hard to count. First, this is a hands free leash that will allow you to preserve your running style while bringing your furry friend about with you.

It’s made from a strong, tightly woven material with a quick release and a quick connect mechanism included. The waist can be adjusted anywhere from 38 inches to 51 inches around the waste. However, if you’re smaller than that, it likely won’t be a big deal; it doesn’t have to be tight.

Another really cool thing about this leash is that it comes with an LED light to wear on the leash loop. LED lights are always a good idea when running at night, and this will safe you the trip to the sports authority store.

EzyDog Zero Shock Dog Leash

This is another great hands-free leash. It comes in several bright colors to help keep you safe while running at night.

The design is simple, light, and you won’t likely have to change your running style to use it with your dog.

Additionally, the leash is elastic and it can stretch from 37 inches to 55 inches. It’s a bit more expensive than the previous leash we reviewed.

We definitely recommend it!

Waggin' Tails Smart 3-in-1 Hands Free Dog Leash

This leash is made from a high-quality, tightly woven material that won’t break or tear.

It comes with a quick release buckle that will allow you the release your dog and reconnect as needed.

The waste is adjustable to virtually any size, and the leash can expand up to 57 inches. Both the leash and the belt are made of 100% nylon.

Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Bunge​​e Leash

This is a light, yet effective leash that you can comfortably use to take your dogs on a run or walk.

The size of the leash is incredibly versatile, and it can fit anything from the smallest waist to even over a winter jacket.

It comes with an elastic leash that can be extended up to 55 inches. The leash is also made a shock absorber elongation that helps keep the stress off your waist and your dog’s neck. It’s small and thin, but the design is excellent. 

Hands-Free Dog Running & Hiking Belt

This is an all-inclusive belt package with one or two leashes option. Also, you can definitely attach your favorite leash to the belt.

We figured we needed to include this one because it’s such a great belt to have when you’re out on a walk or hiking in the woods.

It has pouches in the front for you to store snacks, electronics, etc., even a bottle holder, and it comes with an extra strong carabiner that can hold a leash for one or two dogs (up to 180 lbs overall) with ease, depending on the option you choose. 

It also has an adjustable waist that can fit just about anyone from size 28” to 48”. It’s another great way to go hands-free while you’re out in the wilderness with your pup.

What to Look for in a Dog Running Leash

There are plenty of things to keep your eye out for when you’re looking for a leash for running. It’s mostly about just finding something that is comfortable for both you and your dog. First, you want a leash that is long enough to work with your running style, your height, and the height of the dog. The trick is to find the perfect amount of leash to suit you too.

Length

If you’re a shorter person, then a long leash probably isn’t the best decision because it will drag on the ground and leave a lot of slack for your dog to get ahead of you.

If you’re tall, it’s probably not best to get a short leash because you can pull up every time you and your dog are on a different cadence. This can choke your dog and make it uncomfortable to breathe while running.

Adjustability

Adjustability helps solve a lot of the problems created by the first variable we discussed. There are several ways that leashes can be adjustable.

There are leashes that can be adjusted by controlling a button Some are elastic, and some don’t have any features at all, instead, dog owners just tie a good old fashioned knot in it!

There are several different choices you can go with here; however, you need to find the best one that fits in with your running style and your and your dog’s build.

Durability

This is pretty important. I mean, if you don’t have a durable running leash, then with all the pulling and jerking, you could end up snapping it and risk having your dog run away.

It’s a good idea to invest in a quality leash that won’t likely snap when pulled on by a strong dog.

Color

This is something not many people consider. Just like with anything else, it’s best to invest in a color that is bright and reflective. This way you and your dog are able to be seen by drivers, rollerbladers, cyclists, etc.

Hands-Free vs. Not Hands-Free

You will also want to decide if you want to go with a hands free leash or not. This is actually a great little invention. It allows runners to run freely while bringing their dog around. These have gotten to be pretty big in the running community because of their hand-off benefits.

Also, they usually come with a bunch of other great features, such as: bright and reflective colors, sturdy design, LED lighting, and their wide range of size options for dogs.

Lastly, in addition to your leash, you may want to check and see if a harness is right for you and your dog. A harness is applauded by some, and loathed by others, but we think it’s at least worth a look when you’re shopping for proper running gear for you and your dog.

Final Thoughts

We sort of overloaded you guys with hands-free leashes, but these are definitely the way to go. They’re solid, they allow you to run on your terms while bringing your dog with you, and they help you keep control of your dog while you’re out and about.

They also come with great safety features to make sure you’re not hurting your dog. When you run with the leash in hand, it’s a bit easier to tell when you’re being rough on their neck.

However, when you run with the leash on your waist, it’s a bit harder. So it’s great they have these features built in. We definitely recommend you give one of these a try!

More Dog Running Leash

Image credits: Chewy.com, Amazon.com NicholeRunning