Not all dog leashes are appropriate for a specific use or purpose. A wrong choice can worsen behavioral issues or make dog training difficult. That’s why choosing the right leash for dog walking or training specific skills is important.
For instance, Labrador leashes are available in different styles, widths, lengths, and materials (more on this later), and each has its pros and cons to consider for a specific use intention.
You’ll find those to provide extra security, those for everyday life, and those to suit a specific application, like as a training aid.
Choosing the best leash for Labrador can offer you peace of mind, comfort, and convenience because one can help with a straightforward means of handling and communicating with your pet during walking or training.
A good dog leash can also prevent your pet from roaming around in places where they’re not supposed to and offers a means of tethering them safely on a lamppost or pole when needed depending on the chosen leash.
A training suitable leash can also help train your pup and prevent them from lunging and scaring other people.
So from puppyhood to being an adult dog, a leash is an essential tool, which you should give much thought into choosing the right one. Here’s a buying guide and reviews of the top five picks for you.
Types of Leashes (And Type Of Leash Suitable For Labrador)
Are you soon welcoming a new addition to your family and need to know what kind of leash to get? There are many of the best leashes out in the market that may confuse especially new dog owners.
But with this comprehensive guide, you won’t have to go around the pet store for over a minute. Here are the types of leashes and how to know what suits you.
Standard Leash
Standard leashes are flat and generally come as a package if you buy a generic collar or harness. They are an excellent first leash for puppies so that they can get used to the feeling of wearing a leash.
They are cheap but may not hold up to the teething stage of puppies. They are also not the most suitable for large dogs.
Chain Leash
Now if you are battling against an extreme chewer, a chain leash may be for you. It is also popular for owners with large to extremely large dogs. You can expect them to last even with constant tugging.
You may get concerned about the weight. Some chain leashes are thinner but still hold the same properties. They are suitable for large breeds but not so much for the medium to smaller types.
Leather Leash
Dog trainers and seasoned dog owners alike prefer leather leashes. They have fantastic grip and get grippier if your hands start to sweat. They also get softer, so they are more comfortable to hold.
Trainers and owners mainly prefer this type because of its durability, but they can get expensive. However, it is not chew proof and constant exposure to wetness can make it prone to breaking.
Slip Knot Leash
Slip-knot leashes are the absolute favorite of dog trainers. The slip knot already doubles as a collar as well. They work well for training all sizes of dogs.
You may be concerned that pulling on the leash may strain your neck, but the slip knot loosens as soon as you stop tugging.
It may be essential to note that if you live in an area with high traffic, an extra leash securely attached to a collar or harness is a must to avoid accidentally setting your dog loose.
Retractable Leash
Retractable leashes are very popular with families who walk one or more dogs together. They can vary in length so your dog can run a bit more freely without you having to chase them down. Some variations have two leashes in one grip so you can walk two dogs together.
They are better for smaller dogs that like to run straight but are also unsuitable in high-traffic areas since too long leashes could accidentally trip a person or let your dog run into traffic.
Braided Nylon Leash
The braided nylon is for those who look for durability, less weight, and on the cheaper side. Braided nylon can withstand chewing even by bigger dogs. You can also use them for smaller breeds without a problem.
They can cause rope burns if your dog likes to pull unexpectedly, so there are some with leather-wrapped handles to address this.
Best Dog Leash for Labradors
Labradors are usually well-trained and also love tons of exercise. You may want to buy a braided nylon leash as their leash from the age of puppy to 1-2 years old. They have an intense teething stage, so a braided leash is the way to go.
Consider investing in a leather leash as they get older and become more mature. They are more comfortable for you and can double for dog lead training. Leather leashes come in varying lengths, so you can train them to feel more independent during walks with one.
But then, your choice of dog leash for a lab can also vary based on personal preferences, so let us help you further by breaking down some factors to consider when selecting one in the next section.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Leash for Labrador
There are important considerations when buying a dog leash, not just about any stylish leash. Here are some of the considerations to think about.
Dog movement when in public
Do you want your Lab to have more freedom when walking? Or are you walking them typically on a busy sidewalk and you need more control?
For the first scenario, a longer leash is ideal. This is especially when out in nature and there are not a lot of people around. A longer dog leash will also give your furry pal more independence.
But for the second, I recommend using a shorter leash for safety when walking in a public place like a park or a crowded sidewalk where there are a lot of people.
Research about your local laws
Be sure to check the laws and ordinances in where you’re living. Typically, many localities will have laws about ways and places you need to leash your Lab. Perhaps, leash lengths? Check on these things before getting a dog leash to ensure you follow.
Determine your dog’s strength
A stronger and bigger doggie like a Lab will be able to handle a heavy and sturdy leash in which the weight is influenced by its material, thickness, length, and type of clip.
However, it would also help to carefully consider your strength because a longer dog leash could pull you off your feet if your Labrador retriever is much stronger than you or if the dog walker is an older person.
In this case, I suggest a shorter dog leash that is four feet in length. This is ideal for a lot of puppies and dogs especially for puppies/small dogs that are working on jumping up or pulling. Nevertheless, it is for those that still need more guidance from dog owners.
Style
There are different styles for a dog leash you can buy, but its style must be one that will also be what can give you comfort. I recommend comparing the different materials because each has their advantages and disadvantages.
Leather leashes are good because they’re durable while also being soft not to cause you a rope burn even if a strong lab dog would pull a lot compared to a nylon dog leash. However, a leather leash is not as durable as a nylon, especially if it gets wet often.
Material
Different materials are available for a dog leash, either for small or large breed dogs. The most common ones are chain, leather, and nylon.
Leather: Dog owners prefer a leather type of leash, which is durable although needs conditioning for maintenance. They also like that leather offers them comfort because it tends to soften as time goes by.
However, leather is not cheap, but you might want to check it out if you are willing to invest in a quality dog leash for big dogs like Labradors.
Nylon: It is the most popular one because it is heavy-duty and affordable and is rugged to deal with harsh conditions and climates that could make the leash wet.
A durable leash made with nylon is available in a wide range of colors, lengths, and patterns, so finding one won’t be difficult.
However, take note that most dog leashes made of it are not chew proof and might cause you a rope burn if your furry pal pulls a lot.
Chain: Does your dog chew through nylon or another leash material? If you have tried other dog’s leash material, and it couldn’t keep up with your lab’s behavior, chain leashes may be what you need.
This material is suitable for strong large breed dogs, too. Choose a lighter chain dog leash for a small dog or puppy.
Width
A thicker leash is good for large and strong dogs that pull and chew a lot, because it can offer more strength, while preventing leash from snapping if your dog pulls.
On the other hand, there are also thinner leashes that most pet owners use for a small pup. They’re slimmer and lighter than and not as restrictive as a thicker and heavier leash.
Dog’s Leash Length
Depending on your dog’s strength and age and purpose for using a leash, you’ll find ones available in different lengths.
Extended leashes
There are long line leashes, which are typically between 50 and 150 feet long, and are used for command training. It may be for pet owners that are training their labs for long stays or sits, while still having connection with each other.
4-ft
Dog parents that want to take their pet for a daily walk every morning in the neighborhood without much crowd choose this four foot long leash to keep their dog close by their side.
They have extra control over this leash, which will not also get into other people’s way. It will not also be wrapped around posts and poles.
Pet trainers recommend this leash for dogs that are still being trained to stay at their owner’s side.
Four-foot leashes are suitable for busy streets or sidewalks.
6-ft
Six feet long heavy duty leashes are the most common for dog parents who do everyday walks with their furry friend in less crowded places and neighborhoods.
A six-foot leash allows for more dog freedom in exploring but without being too long to tangle around your legs or dog’s legs.
8 to 10 feet Long
For dog training, this length range is ideal because it allows enough space between you and your pet and gives you better control of your pet.
Types
The best leashes come in different types like standard ones, which are typically a braided or solid material and are available in lengths from four to eight feet.
Another basic leash is the retractable dog leash that is quite controversial among owners for the limited control you’ll have over your dog with it. This type of dog leash might only be recommended for well-behaved dogs.
Refer to the section Types of Leashes (and type of leash suitable for Labrador) for a detailed discussion.
Leash clips
Carabiner Locking Clasp is a secure option even if it tends to be really bulky. It is also useful that you can easily tether your pet on a post or fence when needed.
Using this may be for excitable dogs because it gives you better control over them and prevents them from tugging the leash forcefully.
Trigger snap clip deals with much pressure with its reliable spring-loaded lever design.
Pet owners just have to push it inwards and then connect its clasp to the harness ring or dog collar. It’s a good choice for dog owners with strong dogs.
Bolt Snap Clip, which is the easiest to connect/disconnect from your dog’s collar, uses a spring inside its shaft in order to slide the bolt open and then connect it to the dog’s harness ring or collar.
However, I wouldn’t suggest this one if you have a large and strong dog that pulls on their leash a lot because the spring tends to weaken as time goes by.
Best Leash for Labrador: in-depth Reviews
1. Best Headcollar: PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar
This headcollar is a gentle and lightweight product ideal for harness and leash training, especially among labs that pull a lot. It can also help prevent choking while taking your lab for long walks and general daily walks.
This affordable headcollar, whose color is royal blue and material is nylon, is the best headcollar for larger dogs like Labradors, although you can get one for small and medium dogs as well.
One of the things I liked in this leash is its design that gives my dog the freedom to play and that aids in training for jumping, lunging, barking, and no pulling.
It also has a padded nose loop, which provides my dog more comfort in wearing it, and this leash is also fully adjustable for a custom fit, not loose or tight.
The solution-focused design is perfect to train your pet for dog walking. It’s one of the most effective around because it hinders your dog from pulling against pressure.
This dog leash is also with minimal straps for comfort with its padded neoprene nose loop, allowing your pet to enjoy their activities without feeling hot. In addition, this product is also durable because it is made with nylon material.
Overall, this Gentle Leader headcollar is the ideal solution for training dogs in the leash and improving your bond with a new dog. It’s most suitable for dogs that pull so much because it’s designed to interrupt this behavior. Finally, this product doesn’t work like a muzzle that could hinder their ability to drink and eat a treat.
Pros
- Neck strap and adjustable nose loop for quick fitting
- Ideal for big dogs with long snouts
- Durable nylon material
- Comfortable padded neoprene nose loop
- Solution-focused design
Cons
- Not for a furry pal with a short snout, like bulldogs and pugs
2. Best for training: Carhartt Shock Absorbing Dog Leash
Carhartt shock absorbing bungee leash is one of the best around for its solid features like durability and excellent design. I recommend this one for owners who want a reliable training dog leash.
This product is also designed with a trigger claw clasp, which is glove-friendly. It also has a D ring that offers options for adjustable attachments.
The one size leash, with dimensions of 5 by 5 by 0.7 inches and a length of six feet, is made of durable nylon webbing material. It can withstand heavy pressure and use, especially when used on a pup or dog that still pull in every direction possible.
Its nylon webbing has a duck canvas weave and reflective stitching, which works perfectly in low lighting conditions and promotes better visibility.
This reflective stitching can help you spot your Labrador easier at night.
I also noticed the excellent flexibility of this leash because of the elastic shock control feature in the design. This makes it better for dogs that pull a lot and should be trained to improve their behavior. The shock control zone can reduce the static jolting to you and your pet.
In addition, it can give owners better control for its bottom handle. For comfort, the dog leash is made with a lined handle as well.
Pros
- Perfect for dogs that pulls in every direction
- Made of durable materials for long lasting use
- Adjustable attachment options for its D ring
- Nylon webbing for added ruggedness
- Reliable training dog leash
Cons
- Can be a bit heavy for smaller dogs
3. Best Leather Leash: FAIRWIN Braided Leather Dog Training Leash
This 6-foot leather dog leash is available from small to X large sizes, so you will have more options in choosing the right size for your Labrador retriever. This particular model we’re reviewing is the medium variety.
Its primary material is leather, which is known for softness and comfort for both you and your lab. It is genuine leather that’s imported from Italy but assembled in China. It’s handcrafted for quality and has a tensile resistance for durability.
The dog leash is made with metal clip and is made with pure copper alloy casting. It has undergone a strict plating process for a lovely aesthetic finish. This metal clip is tested to support and handle up to 500 pounds of pull force. You can also tie it without any hassle on dog chest straps or collars.
This leash is suitable for military grade and professional training. However, be sure to choose the right size for custom fit and comfort. Refer to the size chart for guidance.
The FAIRWIN Braided Leather Dog Training Leash also offers you better control when walking your pet in the neighborhood or when you’re in public. It is long enough for controlling their behavior, promoting more relaxed daily walks.
Pros
- Average and ideal length for better control of a pet’s behavior
- Tough metal clip for added strength to support up to 500 lbs
- Handcrafted and made with genuine quality leather
- Comfortable and soft leather material
- Promotes comfort in everyday walks and training
Cons
- Not chew-proof
4. Smart Harness (Includes Dog seat belt): Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness
This pet walking harness with comfort and safety features is another cool choice for no-pull training. What’s better is that it includes a seat belt tether for more use options. It is available from x small to x large sizes, so measure your pet and choose the right size, each described by the manufacturer.
This large Smart harness with a seat belt tether is designed with quick release plastic buckles, which allows you to easily put it on and off to your lab in minutes.
That’s not all because this harness offers five adjustment options for the right fit and comfort of your lab in your daily activities. This ensures proper fitment for a wide range of dog breeds and sizes from smaller to larger dogs. Adding to the comfort is the padded chest as well.
The starter harness for new dogs also has front and back D rings for multiple attachment options.
The seat belt tether offers better restraining of your dog when compared to other leashes that do not have this safety feature. This tethering device makes it easy to attach the harness to the belt system of your car, making travels with them safer.
While this product looks tough, it is unbelievably lightweight that promotes comfort for you and your dog and makes your adventures together more fun.
It has two clips – front clip aids in training your pet to stop pulling, while its rear clip for daily walking training.
This Tru-Fit Smart Harness is also available in a wide range of colors to choose from and is also great for cats.
Pros
- Perfect for daily activities like walking
- Lightweight and comfortable harness
- Includes a seat belt for restraint
- Five adjustment points for better fit
- Quick release plastic buckles
Cons
- Harness not crash tested
5. Best Retractable Leash: Flexi Giant L Retractable Dog Leash (Tape)
This product is a 26-ft retractable dog leash with safety features. It is for large dogs and is made with rugged nylon material.
In addition, it is the best retractable leash that offers an extended length to give your pet more freedom to explore their surroundings. It includes a directions manual and a safety dog collar, too.
This Giant leash is made for dogs weighing up to 110 pounds. Check the sizing guidelines because this leash is only available in medium to extra large sizes.
For the comfort of pet owners, this dog leash and collar is designed with a soft grip handle for improved comfort.
It also comes with an exposed leash casing along with a retractable belt that can extend up to 26 feet. This length is ideal for large spaces and common walking environments.
It has an attractive and unique design that is not comparable with other leashes on the market right now. It’s known and tested for excellent durability to last for many years.
This Flexi leash includes an 8mm visible and neon colored heavy duty tape for superior visibility even when your dog is farther away from you.
I also appreciate that there is no jamming of the leash even if it can extend easily in all directions. In addition, this product is designed with a shortstop and one-handed braking system for a quick response, adding comfort and giving more control to the dog owner.
Overall, it’s a durable and easy to use long leash that extends much more to give more movement freedom to your pet. Check it out if you’re looking for a reliable, retractable leash for your Labrador.
Pros
- Includes a directions pamphlet
- Safety collar included for use while walking with the retractable leash
- Comes with a highly visible neon colored 8mm tape
- Can extend in all directions
- One-handed braking system
Cons
- Not for small dogs
FAQs
How long should a leash be for a Labrador?
Most dog leashes are six feet in length. This is the suitable size for dog walking in less crowded places and neighborhoods. This leash length allows your pet to have more freedom in movement and exploration, while not also giving much slack. It also prevents tangling in your legs or dog’s legs.
How often should I replace my Labrador’s leash?
Even the best leash and collar need replacement. Pet parents should watch out for signs when they need to buy a new dog leash and collar.
For instance, leather types of dog collars and leashes can be susceptible to damage when exposed to or be around water. If your lab chews on its leash, it can result in damage, which you need to check more often, because breaks in the leash could lead to your pet getting loose. Check for damage signs, like fraying as well.
A dog’s safety might also be compromised if the leash is of the wrong size. Your lab’s leash when they were younger may no longer be suitable as they gain more weight and grow. While leashes can be adjusted, one must be replaced to the right size to ensure it would fit your dog.
Try putting two of your fingers between the dog’s neck and the collar, and you can tell that it’s too small if you can’t easily fit your fingers in that space.
On the other hand, the collar is too big if your Labrador retriever tends to slip out the dog’s collar or you can fit more than two fingers between the dog’s neck and their collar.
Replacing the old dog collar and leash would be the way to go for your dog’s safety.
You must also consider replacement based on training needs. Buy them a new collar designed with a stronger clasp if your Labrador retriever tends to get loose from its collar, especially for strong dogs.
A short leash like a four foot length one is the perfect length if you’re training a puppy or new dog because a shorter one would keep your pet close to you and give you more control over them. Later, you can replace it with a long leash, as they progress in the training, to give your pet more freedom in exploring.
What type of leash is best for training my Labrador?
Slip leads or training leads are ideal for training your pup or dog. These may appear like common leashes.
However, they are designed with a metal ring that pet owners would pull in order to make a larger loop, which can slip around the neck of their dog.
But no matter the type of leash you’ve chosen, get a heavy duty leash for extra security and safety of your pet. As much as possible, it would be wiser to get a chew-proof leash, although there might not be a 100% chew-proof product.
Both you and your pet should also be comfortable with the leash. It must be lightweight enough for you to handle and control.
Regarding the design of a training leash, your choice would depend on the training type you’d use it for. If your dog pulls a lot, a bungee leash with shock absorption features can help. Or if you would like a better control, you might want to get a shorter leash.
Meanwhile, you might get a dog leash with dual handles, like a Primal Pet Gear leash, for an even better control when your pet is socializing with other dogs and you’re crossing the streets. On the other hand, there is also a hands free leash type, which can be attached onto the pet owner’s belt. This can be convenient for long walks.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a simple leash, a hands free leash, or other leashes, you must consider the comfort of both you and your dog in training, daily walks, and other activities in choosing among the best leashes.
In addition, think about your dog’s level of strength and type of behavior (pulling a lot, chewing on their leash), as well as the size of your pet (a small and lightweight leash is ideal for small dogs and puppies).
Nevertheless, you must buy a leash with safety features that is appropriate for your dog’s size and that is ideal for intended application. Check on the material and style, among other factors we’ve shared earlier.
Hoping you’d be able to buy the perfect leash for your pet and have a wonderful time with it when walking or training your lab.