Are you trying to find the best leashes for Shih Tzus?
Shih Tzu
It’s easier said than done! There are tons of different materials, sizes, colors, and features to choose from! I’ve included options for every need and budget, so you can find one that works for you.
11 Best Leashes for Shih Tzus:
#1. FLEXI Comfort Retractable Leash for Dogs
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If you want a leash that gives your dog the freedom to move while maintaining a connection with them, a retractable leash may be the right option for you. Most retractable leashes for Shih Tzus are built similarly. A plastic case with a handle holds a rolled length of nylon, which is clipped to your dog’s collar. Then, a brake and release system allows the nylon leash to move as your dog walks.
One of the best benefits of a retractable leash is that you can let your dog move as far away as the leash allows. The freedom gives them the opportunity to go to the bathroom or sniff around without you following a few feet behind.
Despite the convenience and benefits of retractable leashes, they do have a major downside. You have much less control with a retractable leash, and the nylon is usually thinner and breakable. If your dog suddenly decides to chase after something, the leash or brake may fail, causing injury or allowing your dog to run away. So, you should only use a retractable leash if you know your dog will listen to your voice commands. And, you SHOULDN’T use a retractable leash if your dog regularly pulls or chases.
Positives:
- Convenience – you can allow your dog to run and play without following closely behind.
- Freedom – your dog can sniff, wander, and use the bathroom without feeling like you’re hovering.
Negatives:
- Retractable leashes don’t offer the same level of control as standard leashes, meaning they aren’t as safe to use. Especially large, heavy dogs or dogs that pull and chase shouldn’t use them.
#2. Ruffwear Flat Out Dog Leash
If you need a durable leash for your Shih Tzu, the Ruffwear Flat Out leash is one of the best! The heavy-duty nylon webbing is long-lasting, even with heavy use. The lobster-claw collar clip is lightweight but made of durable aluminum.
The Ruffwear Flat Out Leash comes in many fun colors and patterns, so you can get one that matches your dog’s personality. It coordinates with the matching collar too! You don’t have to sacrifice style for functionality with this leash. 🙂
Positives:
- The heavy-duty materials are strong enough to stand up to adventurous pups and heavy use.
- The range of sizes and colors means you have plenty of choices.
- The collar clip is a claw design, making it easy to use and durable.
Negatives:
- EXPENSIVE: this is the most expensive leash on our list, even more than the leather options.
*If you like this leash, the MATCHING collar is available HERE!*
#3. Soft Touch Collars Leather Braided Two-Tone Handle Dog Leash
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The Soft Touch Braided Leather Leash is perfect for Shih Tzus who are used to a little luxury. 🙂 This soft leather leash has a padded handle that coordinates with a matching collar, making it one of the most attractive options on our list.
Because it’s leather, it’s also incredibly long-lasting. In addition, the hardware is solid brass, adding another level of durability. The traditional collar clip is easy to use, and the padded handle is comfortable even on long walks.
Positives:
- This leash is durable enough to last for years with regular use.
- The range of sizes and colors means you have plenty of choices.
- The padded handle is comfortable no matter how you hold the leash.
Negatives:
- Because of the premium leather and brass craftsmanship, this is one of the most expensive leashes on our list.
*If you like this leash, the MATCHING collar is available HERE!*
#4. Logical Leather Heavy Duty Dog Leash
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If the perfect leash for your Shih Tzu contains no frills and is made from sturdy leather, then this leash is for you! It comes in various colors, but the design is the same: a thick, durable leather band with nickel-plated brass hardware. This leash will give you peace of mind when you take your dog out on walks, lending control and stability.
I especially like that the handle and clip ends are connected with rivets for extra strength. Clip this leash to any collar with the traditional collar clip, and head out for an adventure with your pet!
Positives:
- The riveted design and thick leather mean this leash will last even with heavy use.
- There are tons of colors to choose from.
- This leash has a no-frills design that makes it a workhorse for heavy use.
Negatives:
- It is one of the most expensive leashes on our list.
- The handle isn’t padded, so some may find it uncomfortable for long walks.
#5. Illumiseen Light-up LED Dog Leash
The Illumiseen LED Dog Leash takes nighttime safety up a notch from reflective leashes. This unique leash for dogs actually lights up! The rechargeable LED leash comes in six different colors and two lengths, making it one of the most versatile options on our list. The battery pack is concealed under the leash’s nylon, protecting it from curious pups. Just plug the USB charger into the battery pack to charge.
The manufacturer states that one hour of charging will give you five hours of light, which is plenty of time for evening fun! In addition to the LEDs, the Illumiseen leash has a sturdy metal clip to attach to any leash. You can even match your leash to the coordinating Illumiseen collar!
Positives:
- The LED strips provide visibility and safety for your dog during low light.
- Six color and two length options provide plenty of choices.
Negatives:
- Some buyers mentioned that the battery didn’t last as long after a few uses.
- There are three light modes, and the flashing options may be too intense for some users.
*If you like this leash, the MATCHING collar is available HERE!*
#6. Black Rhino Padded Dog Leash
The Black Rhino Padded Leash is a great option for Shih Tzus because it combines some incredible features into one package. The neoprene padded handles are comfortable and durable, and the webbed nylon with reflective stitching makes this leash a perfect choice for safety. If you take an evening or early morning walk, a reflective leash is a must, and you can’t do much better than this one.
The traditional collar clip is made of coated metal to prevent rusting. As a result, you can have confidence that this leash will last through years of regular use. In addition, this leash comes with a bag holder for cleaning up after your pet and a D-ring near the handle to clip on a flashlight or wallet. The Black Rhino Padded Leash strikes a perfect balance between durability and comfort!
Positives:
- The neoprene padding in the handles is soft and durable, giving you added comfort even on long walks.
- This leash is well-constructed of quality materials, so it will last for years.
- The two-handle design gives you a range of options for control – you can hold the handle at the end of the leash to give your dog more freedom or the one near the collar to keep them safe and close to you.
- The included bag holder makes cleaning up after your pet during walks easy.
Negatives:
- The high-quality materials mean this leash is more expensive than other options.
*If you like this leash, the MATCHING collar is available HERE!*
#7. LupinePet Original Designs Dog Leash
LupinePet’s standard nylon leash for Shih Tzus comes in a seemingly endless number of colors and patterns! The leash is made of sturdy webbed nylon with a padded handle and a traditional collar clip. In addition, they’re available in two different lengths, which gives you customized control over your pet.
The no-fuss design and quality materials make LupinePet leashes highly recommended. If you want a simple leash for everyday use, this is the one for you!
Positives:
- Despite being inexpensive, this leash is made with durable materials.
- Endless colors and patterns mean you can pick a style that truly fits you and your pet.
Negatives:
- Even though it’s durable, it may not last as long as some more expensive options.
*If you like this leash, the MATCHING collar is available HERE!*
#8. Mighty Paw Two-handle Dog Leash
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For a dog owner looking for the perfect balance between durability, comfort, and price, it doesn’t get better than the Mighty Paw Two-handle Leash. The heavy-duty metal hardware, tough nylon webbing, and neoprene padding come at a reasonable cost. You can even choose from two color options!
Instead of the traditional clip used on most leashes for Shih Tzus, this leash has a carabiner-style clip, which is sturdy and long-lasting. Despite its reasonable price, Mighty Paw doesn’t skimp on details. From the secure stitching to the reflective thread woven into the fabric, this leash is built to impress!
The greatest benefit of a two-handled leash like this one is the extra control it provides. If you have a puppy or a dog prone to pulling, the leash near the collar can be used for greater control and training. Then, when you don’t need as much control, you can use the full length of the leash.
Positives:
- This leash is high-quality without breaking the bank.
- Two color options provide personalization.
- The neoprene-padded handles keep you comfortable, even on long walks.
Negatives:
- The carabiner-style collar clip might take some time to get used to if you haven’t used one before.
*If you like this leash, the MATCHING collar is available HERE!*
#9. Mighty Paw Waterproof Dog Leash with Reflective Stripe
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If your main priority when choosing a leash is visibility, this model from Mighty Paw is one of the best options. The wide reflective stripe runs the entire length of the leash, meaning it can be seen from nearly every angle.
Another benefit of this leash is that the nylon webbing is PVC-coated, meaning it’s waterproof and easy to clean with a damp cloth. In addition, it doesn’t retain odors, so it will remain in great shape through any weather. The durability and safety features make this leash perfect for dogs and their owners!
Positives:
- This leash is high-quality without breaking the bank.
- Two color options provide personalization.
- The reflective stripe offers more visibility than other reflective leash options.
Negatives:
- Unlike other models from Mighty Paw, the handle of this leash isn’t padded.
#10. MayPaw Heavy Duty Rope Dog Leash
You’ll notice right away that the main difference between this leash for Shih Tzus is its shape. The braided nylon of the MayPaw leash creates a rounded shape that can withstand even the strongest dogs! This is a fantastic all-purpose leash with an even better price.
One of my favorite things about this leash is the variety of colors and patterns offered. You can choose something that fits you and your dog perfectly!
Positives:
- This leash is heavy-duty and made of braided nylon to stand up to any size dog.
- Plenty of color and pattern options.
- The handle is padded with a rubber grip for extra control.
Negatives:
- Because the leash and handle are rounded, it might be uncomfortable for some people or take some time to get used to the shape.
#11. PetSafe Nylon Dog Leash
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If you’re trying to find an INEXPENSIVE leash for your Shih Tzu that works well, you can’t do better than the PetSafe Nylon Leash. This leash is made of basic nylon webbing with a loop handle and a traditional collar clip.
Although it’s a basic option, this PetSafe leash is durable and easy to use. Plus, there are seven color options to choose from, so you can choose the color that best fits your pet!
Positives:
- Price – this leash is the least expensive option on our list by far.
- Seven color options provide personalization.
Negatives:
- This is a basic leash without the bells and whistles some others on this list have.
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What leash do you use for your Shih Tzu?
Let us know in the comments below!