Keeping your dog safe when out for a walk while allowing them the freedom to sniff and explore is a tricky balance. Extendable leads, also known as retractable leads, are a brilliant solution. With lengths of up to 10 meters, your dog will be able to stretch their legs with the reassurance that they can quickly be halted or recalled around traffic, people and other pets.
This guide will help you to find the right extendable lead for your dog, with tips on safety, design and much more. We've even ranked the 10 best retractable dog leads in the UK from Amazon and Pets at Home.
Quick List - Top Extendable Dog Leads
TUG
Lead With Integrated Compartment for Storing Dog Poop Bags
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Nowadays, thicker tape-style retractable leads are the norm. Anti-tangle, or '360 degree' leash technology systems, allow wider leads to retract just as reliably as thinner ones. Plus, wider leads are obviously more visible, reducing the risk of tripping. If the worst happens, tape-style leads are less likely to result in a deep linear cut, which is a risk associated with cord-style leads.
However, if having a compact retractable lead is a top priority, a short cord lead measuring 3 metres or less could be the one to go for. These are less likely to cause injury as your dog will remain fairly close to you, and the reduced space taken up by the retracted lead means a much smaller casing, which could fit conveniently in your coat pocket.
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Busy lifestyles mean that many dog walks occur very early in the morning or late at night when visibility is poor. Not to mention the inevitability of bad weather! This makes hi-vis or brightly coloured gear a sensible choice to help keep you and your pet safe from traffic and other hazards.
Reflective stickers on the casing of the lead reflect street lights or headlights, resulting in a dramatic and eye-catching glow. Choosing a lead with reflective stitching will also offer some improved visibility. A neon coloured leash tape will let you and others see the extended lead in daylight, which can help avoid accidental trips and tangles.
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Being able to halt your dog's lead when needed is vital. All extendable leads have a brake button or two which you can use to pause the lead's outlay, lock it in a stop position or recall the dog towards you.
Most retractable leads only have one button. However, an extendable lead with two buttons may actually be easier to use. As there are dedicated lock and release buttons, you won't need to get the angle just right to ensure it's in the correct position.
Whichever braking system you choose, it's important to practise using it multiple times before allowing your dog to run on a longer lead. That way you will be confident in your ability to use it correctly in an emergency.
There are a number of attachments available to customise your extendable lead. Anything which makes your life easier gets a thumbs up from us, so it's definitely worth checking whether compatible accessories are available.
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Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Flexi Giant Professional Neon Dog Lead | ![]() | Extra-Long Lead Suitable for Big Dogs Up to 50 kg | |
2 | Flexi Medium Extending Dog Lead | ![]() | Extendable Neon Lead With High-Vis Casing for Safety in Low Light | |
3 | Flexi Small Extending Comfort Dog Lead | ![]() | Comfortable Braking System Suitable for Small Dogs | |
4 | TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Lead | ![]() | Lead With Integrated Compartment for Storing Dog Poop Bags | |
5 | TUG 360° Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Lead | ![]() | Bright Orange Lead With Push-Button Locking System That Reacts Instantly | |
6 | Fida XS Retractable Dog Leash | ![]() | Strong and Sturdy Extendable Lead Available in Sizes XS to L | |
7 | Pecute Retractable Medium Dog Lead | ![]() | Retractable Lead With 1 Year Guarantee and 90 Day Money Back Promise | |
8 | Kzoo 5m Retractable Dog Lead for Digs Under 15 kg | ![]() | No Frills 5 m Dog Lead Suited to Smaller Dogs | |
9 | AllPetSolutions Retractable Dog Lead Extending Leash | ![]() | Budget-Friendly Hot Pink Lead With Large, Comfortable Handle | |
10 | Flexi Classic Cord X-Small Leash | ![]() | Lightweight Retractable Cord Leash That’s Also Ideal for Cats |
The Flexi Giant Professional lead is really as big as advertised! Its German-made, retractable tape offers active and large dogs up to 50 kg the ultimate on-leash freedom, with a remarkable 10 metre length. Even more impressively, reviewers report that it retracts smoothly every time.
The sturdy one-hand braking and recoil system lets you maintain full control of your dog during walks and, thanks to the ergonomic grip, the lead is comfortable to hold. Best of all, the neon yellow casing pattern and tape means it'll be highly visible.
Suitable for medium sized dogs up to 25 kg, this reliable lead from Flexi has visibility at the forefront of its design. Not only is the 5 metre lead neon yellow, but the casing has fluorescent hi-vis stickers on either side.
For additional safety, micro prisms within each sticker make sure the lead visible when illuminated by headlights from up to 150 metres away. Handmade in Germany by a company with over 40 years experience, Flexi leads are rightly trusted by dog owners worldwide.
The Comfort Tape lead from Flexi sports an eye catching two-colour design, available in a variety of pastel shades. The soft grip and comfortable braking system encourage a relaxed partnership between owner and dog, whilst the 5 m length allows plenty of freedom for small dogs up to 15 kg.
As with all Flexi tape leads, it can be accessorised with optional extras, such as an LED lighting system to improve visibility, and a multi box attachment for holding treats or empty dog poop bags.
TUG's integrated dog poop bag holder really caught our interest. There's no need for additional pouches or attachments, instead you can fit up to three standard sized bags within the cavity inside the handle - just remember to refill it after each walk!
The 5 m tape-style lead is easily adjusted and promises 360° tangle-free movement. However, it should be noted that this lead is only suitable for dogs under 16 kg. Although, bigger sizes are available for medium and large dogs.
Out of the seven colours available from Tug, we recommend this colourway as it features a highly visible orange lead. A great option for larger breeds, the 5 metre tape is suitable for dogs up to 50 kg.
Useful to have when walking along the roadside or in an emergency, the push button lock reacts instantly. As an added bonus, owners with larger hands will appreciate the generous hand hole, making it a comfortable lead to hold even on long walks.
This lead from Fida is just 3 metres when fully extended and is suitable for small dogs up to 8 kg. A popular choice with many pet owners, reviewers love how smoothly and quietly this lead retracts.
While the leash is black, it does feature reflective stitching to provide an extra level safety during nighttime walks. With its 360° Tangle-free design, rustproof swivel hook and impact resistant materials, this lead is built to last for years - as long as your pet doesn't chew it!
This medium-sized lead from Pecute is made from high strength nylon for better durability. For improved visibility in low light, the two seams use reflective stitching with a fluorescent yellow casing. It even with comes with a poop bag holder attachment and a roll of bags!
If you're unsure, Pecute include a 1 year guarantee and a money-back promise if you're not satisfied within 90 days of receiving your lead. According to reviewers, claims are upheld honourably, making it more than worth the small investment.
Kzoo's products are praised by the owners of smaller dogs (and cats) for their elegant and simple design. We certainly think that the all-red casing looks smart. Plus, it won't be easily lost amongst the usual dog paraphernalia!
However, it should be noted that, according to reviewers, the quick lock braking system can apparently be tricky to use with just one hand. Based on this issue, you may want to avoid this lead for training young puppies or less obedient dogs.
This hot pink lead from AllPetSolutions definitely caught our eye! Perhaps pleasingly of all, the lead tape matches the handle colour. The most budget-friendly option on on list, it has a length of 3 metres and is suitable for small dogs up to 15 kg.
Unfortunately, the anti-twist feeder lead mechanism isn't as robust as others we've compared. Therefore, we'd recommend it for calmer dogs who aren't prone to excessive pulling and jumping, as reviewers note that the lead won't always reliably retract in emergency situations.
This cord-style lead is Flexi's lightest and most compact design. It's ideal for small dogs and for cats weighing under 8 kg. The handle is quite petite too, meaning you can slip it into your pocket when not in use. Although, those with larger hands may find it a bit difficult to hold.
As a cord-style lead, it has been placed further down in our ranking as the design can be dangerous if not used correctly. In fact, the cord can cut into skin if it becomes too tightly wrapped. For this reason, we'd recommend it only be used with a well trained pet.
No. 1: Flexi |Giant Professional Neon Dog Lead
No. 2: Flexi |Medium Extending Dog Lead
No. 3: Flexi|Small Extending Comfort Dog Lead
No. 4: TUG |360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Lead
No. 5: TUG |360° Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Lead
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