You love camping, and your dog does too. The problem is that there is a lot more stimulation out there than at home. Lots of new smells to investigate and new sounds and sights too.
This could result in Fido running off in excitement and possibly getting in trouble. The solution, especially if you enjoy hiking with your pooch, is a camping dog leash.
In fact, some national parks and many campgrounds require you to keep your dog leashed or confined at all times.
Portable crates and fences can do the job, but they don’t work for hiking and exploring, and they don’t give your dog much freedom. Let’s look at how to pick the best dog leash for camping and at some of our top picks.
How to Choose a Camping Dog Leash?
A good camping leash for dogs should be at least 4-6 feet long and made of a durable material such as climbing rope. For long hikes, a padded handle will be appreciated.
A retractable leash is a good idea; it will allow you to keep Fido close by and under control when needed and give him some freedom to explore when it’s not.
If he’s not used to a retractable leash, practice before you leave so he will learn not to pull or tug. This is for his safety and yours.
Even if your destination allows dogs off leash, think twice unless you are confident in his training and that he will listen to a “leave it!” command should he encounter snakes or other wildlife.
When you’re back at camp, a tie-out will let your dog roam and explore while staying safe, and give you a break to get other things done or just relax.
The swivel feature will help keep the leash from getting tangled up. A 10 or 20-foot lead is usually more than enough to keep Fido happy. If your dog is especially excitable or just not so good at leash training, get him a harness to attach his leash to for added control.
Our Best Picks
Best Overall Pick – Leashboss 10 or 15 Foot Dog Leash with Padded Handle
The 10, or 15ft length make this an excellent camping leash for dogs. Either is an ideal length for letting your dog explore while being able to take control if needed.
The handle is padded with soft neoprene to stay comfy for hours of hiking, and the added D-ring lets you attach pick up bags or make a quick tie-out.
The company’s 5-year warranty even covers chewed up leashes! It comes in red or gray and is made of tough, high quality nylon designed to be durable and stand up to the elements.
It makes an idea long dog leash for camping, whether you’re on the trail or want to attach it to a tie-out at camp to let your dog have some freedom while you relax or take care of chores.
Users said it was great for helping control their dogs and that they appreciated the length and versatility the D-ring provides along with the durability.
What We Liked
What Could Have Been Better
Leashboss 10 or 15 Foot Dog Leash with Padded Handle
Best Value Pick – Lifetime Leash by Atlas Pet Company
This is a good choice to tether your dog in camp or on hikes. It’s made of heavy duty, high quality mountain climbing rope so you know it can stand up to just about any challenge. It’s reflective for added safety and visibility at dusk and after dark.
The handle is padded to make long walks and hikes more enjoyable, and it comes in a variety of colors to suit every taste. The 5-foot length is great for camping and everyday use at home, and it’s strong enough to use for stakes and tie-outs. The company offers a 100% cash back guarantee.
For added convenience, a dog waste bag dispenser is attached to it with a roll of bags inside, for no extra cost. The leash clasp includes a safety lock that will prevent your dog from slipping out of the leash.
Customers raved about the padded handle, high quality and how well it controls pullers. They also loved the included waste bag dispenser.
What We Liked
What Could Be Better
Lifetime Leash by Atlas Pet Company
Best Budget Pick – Shed Defender Shock Absorbing Bungee Leash
This camping dog leash features a specially designed soft handle for comfort on hikes and long runs, and reflective stitching for safety and increased visibility.
The handle is thick and strong enough to handle a pulling dog, and the 6ft length is perfect for camping, tie-outs and to tether your dog to a stake for a little breather. It’s made of out strong climbing rope that is UV resistant and doesn’t absorb moisture or mildew. It’s guaranteed not to stretch out.
This leash makes walking your dog, either on the trail or at home more pleasant as it gives you more control and comfort. It has a tensile force of 350lbs and has a durable Zinc Alloy snap. All the materials used to make the leash are eco-friendly.
It comes in 5 different colors and is perfect for dogs up to 140lbs. Customers love how it doesn’t show dirt and how it absorbs shock and helps eliminate overextension, and raved about how it stands up to tough weather and remains lightweight.
What We Liked
What Could Be Better
Shed Defender Shock Absorbing Bungee Leash
Conclusion
All of our picks are smart choices, and for a safe and happy camping trip, a good leash is a must. Leashes made from climbing rope offer incredible durability, and any leash with a padded handle is a winner in our book. Shock absorption, reflectivity, and resistance to chewing are all must have features.
Our top pick is the Leashboss 10 or 15 Foot Dog Leash with Padded Handle. It’s available in 10 or 15-foot lengths and its included D-ring allows you to loop it through your dog’s collar to make it half the length for walks and hiking, then return to full length back at camp so you can tether your dog to a stake or tie out for a little freedom to explore while you do other things.
The padded handle makes dealing with a pulling dog a lot less unpleasant and makes long walks more comfortable too. If your dog chews through it, no problem! It’s covered under their 5-year warranty!
Last update on 2024-12-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
