If you have a high-energy dog, you're constantly thinking of ways to keep it entertained. These types of dogs need consistent structure, exercise and training. A good way to exercise your dog is to lead it with a bicycle leash. You can travel farther to properly exercise your dog so it will be better behaved later.
If you are looking for a simple, easy-to-use dog bicycle leash, the Walky Dog Hands-Free Bicycle Leash is the top choice.
This style of leash attaches directly to your bicycle. It looks like a small metal rod with a flexible attachment and clip on one end. Once attached, it protrudes from the bike to keep your dog at a safe distance. The flexible end clips to your dog to let it run alongside your bike.
The best ones are made with metal. This provides the strength and durability you need for a leash of this style. It attaches with a metal clamp to your bike that secures it into place. On the other end, the one that clips on to your dog, there is a more flexible material. It may be metal that can move or a nylon/elastic combo strong enough to hold but able to absorb shock.
The dog bicycle leash you choose should be long enough to keep your dog at a safe distance from your bicycle when in motion. Some leashes come with extendable parts that let you keep your dog closer or farther away. Other leashes may need adjustments made or leash extensions added on.
Before taking your dog out with a bicycle leash, make sure they can handle the trip. High-energy dogs can greatly benefit from this style of exercise because they have enough pep to keep up, but not every dog falls into this category. It also may be easier for you to keep up with your dog's needs by using a bicycle to exercise them.
Quality bicycle leashes should keep your dog attached to your bike without putting either of you in danger. This means it does not wrap up in the tires and is not so rigid that there is no give when going over a bump or during your dog's regular running motion.
Don't attach your dog to a bike leash with a neck collar, especially when you're both learning how to ride together.
A dog bicycle leash should be strong and durable enough to hold your dog during any kind of weather. It should not be easily damaged by temperature, moisture or dirt from riding with your dog outside. It should also let your dog pull without breaking or the dog coming loose. Many can withstand at least over 100 pounds of pull.
It is important for your leash to be flexible. Your dog needs space to be able to move with you at a safe distance from your wheels. You don’t want the leash to extend too far, but there should be some room for shock absorption.
Your leash may come with its own instructions for installation, but many use a metal clamp to attach to your bicycle. This can also be detached by reversing the process. Remove the bicycle leash when not in use so that it's not damaged by anything else running into it.
They have a wide range of prices and can cost anywhere from $30-$150.
A. Take the training slowly. Let your dog get used to the pull of the bike with you walking alongside before you ride it attached to each other.
A. Attach the leash underneath your seat. This is the safest, most central place, and most bicycle leashes are designed to attach here.
Walky Dog Hands-Free Dog Bicycle Leash
What you need to know: This is a compact, sleek metal dog leash for large, high-energy dogs.
What you’ll love: You can easily install it on your bicycle in five minutes and ride safely with your dog running alongside. This simple design can withstand 500 pounds of pull from your dog and has a shock-absorbing system.
What you should consider: A few customers reported needing to add length to this leash to create a safe distance between the bike and the dog.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Ecoconut Unicam Retractable Dog Bicycle Leash
What you need to know: This is an affordable leash that can be attached easily to any style of bicycle.
What you’ll love: It keeps your dog a safe 16.5 inches from the bicycle and can extend to 30 inches if needed. It includes an elastic portion for shock absorption.
What you should consider: It may not be ideal for bigger or heavier dogs unaccustomed to using a bicycle leash.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: This bicycle leash is built for towing your high-energy dog without fear of becoming tangled.
What you’ll love: It is strong and can tow dogs from 10 to 185 pounds. It comes in bright red, orange, yellow and blue to help it — and your dog — stand out on the road.
What you should consider: It's designed to be on the left side of your bicycle and may not fit on the right side properly.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Erica Redding writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
