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Retractable Dog Leashes Give Your Dog Just A Bit Of Freedom To Roam
Retractable dog leashes (aka flexible leashes) are a great addition to a dog owner’s arsenal, particularly if the dog loves to run.
A flexible leash does as it sounds – the leash can extend to a certain amount of feet, typically 16 or 26 feet, and then will retract into the handle.
All retractable dog leashes that retract into a handle have a ‘brake’ mechanism which is very easily operated by one’s thumb. Just click a small lever and the leash will only go out so far. The leash won’t retract until you click the brake again to release it.
Note: I have heard (more than once) of a dog on a flexible leash getting hit by a car. This is due to operator error on the part of the owner. When walking on a sidewalk, you should set the amount of brake on the leash so that the dog can still have a bit of play on the leash but will not get into traffic. You can also lock the leash with the brake so the dog has no play on the leash at all – this is what I do when walking the dogs through a crowd.
Flexi Brand Retractable Dog Leashes
The best flexible leash, imho, is by Flexi. I’ve owned Flexi dog leads most of my life.
I’ve never had a Flexi leash break although I have worn a few out – after 5 years or so, the retractable mechanism failed.
But, the Flexi leash has one of the smoothest mechanisms inside so, the dog only has to pull a bit for the leash to come out of the handle. And, as the dog moves closer to you, the leash automatically retracts.
Flexi leashes come in various sizes so make sure the leash you buy supports the weight of your dog. That is, a large german shepherd may break a flexible leash meant for dogs up to 25 lbs.
Flexi leashes also come in a cord or the classic tape leash style. I have no preference having owned both.
Note: A flexible leash may be confusing to a dog you’re trying to train to stay by your side. If you don’t care if your dog runs to and fro, a retractable leash will serve both you and your pup well.
Flexi Dog Leashes For Small Dogs
Check the specs before ordering one of the Flex dog leads for small dogs – they vary in the maximum weight of the dog.
Flexi Freedom Retractable Cord Leash Dog Leash , Extra Small, 10-Feet Long, Supports up to 18-Pound, RedX-Small Freedom Dog Leash Color: Pink 10 feet
Flexi Classic Cord Leash, Small Cord, 16-Feet – Black
Flexi Classic Tape Leash, Small, 16 ft, Black
Flexi Neon Retractable Dog Leash (Cord), 16 ft, Small, Black/Neon
Flexi Vario Retractable Dog Leash (Tape), 16 ft, Small, Anthracite
Flexi Tape Leash, Small, 16-Feet – Pink
Flexi Explore Grip Retractable Cord Dog Leash, Small, 23-Feet Long, Supports up to 26-Pound, Red
Flexi Hawaii Retractable Belt Dog Leash, Small/Medium, 16-Feet Long, Supports 33-Pound, Yellow Hibiscus
Flexi Dog Leads For Large Dogs
Most of these dog leashes support dogs up to 110 lbs but make sure you check before ordering. Also, these leashes for large dogs come in 16 or 26 foot lengths.
Flexi Explore Retractable Belt Dog Leash , Large, 26-Feet Long, Supports up to 110-Pound, BlackFlexi Neon Retractable Dog Leash (Tape) , 16 ft, Large, Black/Neon
Flexi Giant XL Retractable Dog Leash (Tape), Extra-Large, 26 ft, Black/Neon
Flexi Vario Retractable Dog Leash (Tape), 26 ft, Large, Blue
Flexi Freedom Soft Grip Retractable Belt Dog Leash, Large, 16-Feet Long, Supports up to 110-Pound, Red/Black
Flexi Vario Retractable Dog Leash (Tape), 16 ft, Large, Red by Flexi North America
Other Flexible Leashes On The Market
All of these flexible dog leashes work on the same principle as the Flexi brand of dog leashes. Some of these are less expensive than the Flex so, if you’re on a budget, you might do better with the below leads.
Bestgoo Retractable Auto Pet Dog Lead Leash Extend Flexible Safe Lock Strong Lead, Lightweight Yet Sturdy, Secure & SafeHertzko Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash with 16 Feet Nylon Ribbon Extends for Small, Medium and Large Dogs up to 110lbs
Dog Leash Retractable [FREE Waste Bags] Premium Quality Auto Flexible Dog Leash For Medium & Large Pet Puppy – Best Retractable Dog Leash Traction for Walking & Running (Red & Black)16 FT Rope
LENDOO Retractable Dog Leash 16-Feet Flexible Puppy Belt Cord with Bite-proof Nylon Ribbon & Safety Lock Guard for Small & Medium Dogs Up to 50lbs (Blue)
Keep Poop Bags On Board With A Handy Poop Bag Dispenser For A Leash
You can’t have enough poop bags on hand so you’ll never be without if you have them attached to the leash. And, the first link below is a light for any flexible leash. If you walk at night, you’ll be glad to have it along.
Flexi LED Lighting System, One Size, BlackOxGord 1000 Black Pet Dog Waste Bags for Poop Removal Disposal with Walk Leash Bone Dispenser and Leash Clip Compostable Disposal, Black
Earth Rated® Green Dog Waste Bag Dispenser for Leash (Includes 15 scented bags)
Pogi’s Poop Bag Dispenser – Includes 1 Roll (15 Bags) – Large, Earth-Friendly, Scented, Leak-Proof Pet Waste Bags
Dog Poop Bag Dispenser Leash Attachment By Paw Lifestyles – Fits Any Dog Leash – Includes Free Roll Of Doggy Bags, Perfect for Dog Walking, Running or Hiking