Hands-free Leashes for Small Dog Adventures

· small dog

Does your small dog just love big adventures with you? Learn how to upgrade your equipment with a hands free leash for more adaptability on the go!

What is a hands free leash?

A hands free leash is a style that allows you to “wear” your dog’s leash instead of having to hold it in your hand or loop it around your wrist or arm. 

They are beneficial in freeing up your hands, while reducing the risk of dropping the leash. 

Going hands-free is a great option for adventuring dogs and their humans, letting you take photos or sip your coffee while enjoying the great outdoors.

Running with your dog is easier on a hands free leash too. Especially with small dogs, tugging on the leash as you swing your arms can be annoying for both of you. Not to mention the risk of dropping the leash if you switch hands mid-stride.

And if your dog gets excited by a squirrel or another dog while you’re being a good neighbor and cleaning up after them, you’ve got the leash anchored to you - no accidental escapees here!

Small dog waiting while their guardian picks up after them.

Comfort and convenience come in two standard styles:

  • A Cross-body Leash Strap is great for a smaller dog who is a good loose leash walker or runner. This over-the-shoulder style is convenient and easy to wear, leaving your hands free on your walks and runs. 

  • Got a puller? Go for a belt instead! Our most popular style is a Hands Free Waist Leash Belt. A comfortable belt takes the stress out of walking a dog that pulls and jerks on the leash.

  • Leash belts are also a great option if you have multiple dogs and all the gear. Waist leashes are an easy way to manage two leashes without turning yourself into a knot.

Can’t decide? Want both styles?

Convertible leashes can easily switch from cross body to waist belt to a handheld leash, and are the perfect “all-in-one” solution for your small pup.

Why use a hands free leash for your small dog?

  • Trainers love the cross-body style of hands free for its ability to reduce tension on the leash during training sessions, making treat delivery quick & easy, all while still keeping your pup anchored safely. 

  • Others love the ability to connect more than one dog to a leash belt, leaving both hands available to manage the leashes and not worrying about dropping one if their pups head off into different directions.

  • Leash belts also have the unique advantage of being able to carry all your gear, from treat pouches to poo bag dispensers to transporting your filled bags to the nearest waste can.

The Exceptional Dog Shop is unique in designing your leash belt or cross-body strap system with your choice in separate, clip-on leashes. These interchangeable leashes allow you to switch out your leash length and style as needed for your day’s adventure. 

Keep your pup safer on your travels by keeping them on leash while getting into and out of the car on your journey - easy to do with our detachable leashes.

What to look for when selecting gear for your small dog:

Strength & Size: don’t weigh your small dog down with heavy hardware, look for something sized for your dog’s weight. Our small snap bolts are rated up to 40lbs., while our baby snaps on extra small dog gear is perfect for dogs under 10 lbs.

Adjustability: Our small dog guardians love the adjustable leashes so they can get exactly the right length - no more dragging the leash on the ground or getting tangled in it! Even our multifunctional leashes are adjustable!

Bonus points for Reflective Webbing! Many of our webbing options have reflective stitching for safer nighttime walks.

Check out all of our options for Small Dogs.

Link to share

Use this link to share this article

Additional Articles