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Shiba Inus were introduced to the United States in the 1950s and have only gained popularity since then. Known for their silly, boisterous personalities and signature smiles, Shiba Inus are alert dogs who enjoy lots of outdoor activities, especially walking.

These dogs were originally bred for hunting, so it makes sense that they enjoy outdoor activities. They’ve also got great dispositions and are known to be wonderful companions. Did you know Shiba Inu means “brushwood dog” in Japanese?

If you’re looking for the perfect leash for your Shiba Inu, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve curated a list of leashes based on a variety of different factors like energy level, temperament, and size to make sure you find the perfect leash for your unique Shiba Inu.

Best Leashes for Shiba Inus

Shiba Inu Leash Buyer’s Guide

We’ve compiled a few key aspects to note when buying a leash for your beloved Shiba Inu. From the type of leash to crucial features included, we’ve got a comprehensive list of how to know you’re buying the best possible leash for your companion.

Types of Leashes

There are many different types of dog leashes, so it’s important to know which are best suited for Shiba Inus. These dogs are categorized as “medium-sized” and need leashes that can handle that weight class.

Our list has many types of leashes, ranging from chain to leather to nylon and everything in between. However, using choke chains and electronic collars when training your Shiba Inu is highly discouraged because it only emphasizes pain and not learning.

Each leash on our list denotes the type of dog it’s compatible with. While all leashes are suitable for Shiba Inus, some are better suited for different personalities. You’ll need to know how well your dog behaves on a leash in order to choose the best leash for them.

Leash Features to Consider

Some leashes come with built-in features that others don’t, like built-in doggie bag holders or LED lights. Besides these additional items, there are a few key features you need to consider when picking out a leash for your Shiba Inu.

Length

Length is important because you need to know how far you’re willing to let your dog roam while on the leash. 6 foot leashes are recommended for Shiba Inus, but if you feel that’s too long you can always opt for a shorter size.

Durability

Durability is crucial when it comes to leash choice. If you don’t have a durable leash, you could put you and your Shiba Inu in danger. If you have a dog prone to chewing, we recommend getting a leash that’s made of strong, durable material like leather or metal.

Visibility

Visibility is especially pertinent if you walk your dog at night. You’ll need a leash that’s brightly colored, made of reflective material, and easy to spot during non-daylight hours to ensure that both you and your dog are safe during your nighttime walks.

How to Train Your Shiba Inu to Walk on a Leash

The most important lesson you have to teach your dog when leash training them is that pulling will get them nowhere. You cannot let your dog drag you along while they’re on the—have to know you’re the one in charge and calling the shots.

To avoid giving your dog too much power, make sure to not give any affection when they’re misbehaving or pulling on the leash. This association will make them think their behavior is acceptable, when it’s exactly the opposite.

One training exercise you can do with them is entirely non-verbal, and similar to the game “Red Light, Green Light.” You pull the leash taut and stop walking (red light) to show your dog that means it’s time to stop. Relax the leash and start moving (green light) to show it’s time to go.

Best Leashes for Shiba Inus

Our comprehensive list of leashes best suited for Shiba Inus will take away your guesswork, so all you have to consider is your dog’s personality and which leash you think will fit into your home the best.

TUG Nylon Tape Retractable Dog Leash

Best Retractable Leash

This TUG nylon retractable leash comes in three stylish colors: blue, white, and white/orange. This leash can handle all breeds of dog, from small to large, making it perfect for your Shiba Inu. Plus, it’s got an easy-grip, ergonomically designed handle and non-slip surface for optimal grip.

TUG has a patented tangle-free design, and this nylon woven leash can move up to 360 degrees with no tangles! It’s got a fast-acting lock and brake system at the push of a button, only aided by its durable internal coil for consistent, constant retraction.

Pros

  • Versatile between many breed sizes
  • Weather-resistant chrome-plated closure
  • Quick locks the nylon lead instantly

Cons

  • Should only be used for dogs who are leash trained
  • Handle can be heavier than other leashes

ZippyPaws Climbers Mountain Original Climbing Rope Dog Leash

Best Rope Leash

This ZippyPaws leash comes in four different colors: black, teal, blue, and purple. The 6 foot long leash is made of authentic, ⅔ inch thick mountain climbing rope and secures onto your dog’s collar with a heavy-duty snap hook.

It’s versatile for most breeds and sizes, and perfect for both neighborhood walks and outdoor adventures. Plus, the material is reflective as well, which means you and your pup are safe when using this leash at night as well as during the day.

Pros

  • Great for energetic dogs
  • Firm, comfortable grip thanks to woven material
  • Withstands leash chewers

Cons

  • Not for use on small breed dogs
  • Can be too thick for some people’s grip

CollarDirect Multifunctional Leather Dog Leash

Best Leather Leash

This leather dog leash comes in three different, stylish colors: black, brown, and pink. This CollarDirect leather leash can be adjusted for length, ranging from 4 to 6 feet. It also adjusts to accommodate more than one dog or for hands-free walking.

The leash is made of full-grain genuine leather, a soft, non-allergenic material that provides comfort and durability during use. It also contains heavy-duty metal snap hooks to make sure your Shiba Inu stays secure during your walk.

Pros

  • Thick enough to endure possible pulling
  • Adjustable length of lead
  • Optional use for two dogs

Cons

  • Metal hooks can rust quickly
  • Material on back of leash can be rough

Frisco Solid Nylon Dog Leash

Best Nylon Leash

Just like Frisco’s solid nylon collars, these leashes come in four colors: black, red, pink, and blue. Because of this, you can mix and match or coordinate these leashes and collars however you want! This nylon leash comes in extra small to large sizes, ranging from 4 to 6 feet long.

The high-quality woven nylon is perfect for taking your Shiba Inu on their daily walk and is specially equipped for dogs up to 80 pounds. Plus, the bolt snap closure is coated in nickel for an extra polished and sleek look. The nylon has an Ulta-Weld seal for comfort and strength, too.

Pros

  • Hand loop is comfortable to use
  • Range of nylon widths, up to 1-inch
  • Perfect for everyday use

Cons

  • Not for dogs that are being leash trained or pull frequently
  • The fabric where the hand loop and buckle attaches is glued, not stitched

WAUDOG Glows In The Dark Dog Leash

Best Leash for Nighttime Walks

While this leash is not actually solar-operated or battery-operated to glow in the dark, it is extremely reflective thanks to its fluorescent teal color. Made of Collartex material, this leash is waterproof and easy to spot during the darkest of nighttime walks.

Thanks to its durable material and soft, easy to grip texture, this leash is meant for comfortable, long-lasting use. It’s also fashioned with a titanium-colored aluminium alloy carabiner that adds an extra sleek aesthetic appeal in addition to its durability and safety.

Pros

  • Comes in 4-foot and 6-foot lengths
  • Great for dogs up to 132 pounds
  • Made of highly reflective fluorescent Collatex material

Cons

  • If used while raining, the material becomes slippery
  • More expensive than other leashes

Tuff Mutt Hands Free Bungee Dog Leash

Best Hands-Free Leash

This hands-free dog leash comes in three different colors: gray/teal, gray/purple, and gray/yellow. This Tuff Mutt leash is perfect for those looking to get in shape and seasoned runners alike. This leash is great for physical activities like walking, running, and hiking.

The belt that attaches around your waist is lightweight but strong, recommended for use on dogs up to 100 pounds. There’s reflective fabric in case you’re out at night, and comes with two control handles to give you the option of keeping your dog close to you when braving crowds.

Pros

  • Lead expands from 48 to 60-inches
  • Sliding metal clip that allows your dog to move without tripping you
  • Bungee material “bounces” to bring your dog back to you

Cons

  • Dogs accustomed to running at heel will leave fabric draped between you, which could cause tripping
  • Belt can be too big for those with small waists

OmniPet Chain Dog Leash with Leather Handle

Best Chain Leash

OmniPet has perfected a chain leash that stands up to heavy chewer Shiba Inus and will not fray or break precisely because it’s metal and not fabric. The leather handle strap comes in two colors, black or brown, and is made of high-quality material for comfort and strength.

These chain leashes come in 4-foot or 6-foot lengths, and are categorized for lightweight, medium weight, or heavyweight dogs. Plus, the metal chain is incredibly durable and more lightweight than other brands of chain leashes.

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • High-quality metal for chain and closure
  • Lighter than other chain leashes

Cons

  • Wrapping the leash around your hand for extra control can hurt due to the chain material
  • The description doesn’t specify that the “lightweight” option has a smaller clip opening, which can lead to issues when hooking your dog’s collar to the leash

Harness Lead Polyester No Pull Dog Harness

Best “No-Pull” Leash

This no pull dog harness is combined with a leash, so all you have to do is slip the harness onto your dog and the leash is already built in There are five colors available: red, blue, pink, orange, and—mix of blue and lime green. This harness comes in small/medium and medium/large sizes.

This lead specifically discourages pulling when on walks by gently tightening around your dog’s torso when they pull away from you. This pressure is released when they stop pulling against you. Because of this built-in system, do not jerk or correct your dog when in the harness.

Pros

  • Great for puppies and leash-pullers
  • Machine washable, but must hang to dry
  • Made in the USA

Cons

  • Pressure can be put on dog’s neck when in harness
  • Not chew proof

Leash Boss Duo Reflective Double Dog Leash Coupler with Handle

Best Leash for Two Dogs

It’s not uncommon for families to have more than one dog, so we wanted to include a leash that can accommodate two dogs at once for maximum efficiency during walks. This leash is best suited for medium to large size dogs and is built with reflective stitched nylon material.

This leash is only 1-foot long, but the coupler leads adjust from 11 to 20-inches and even allows you to remove the traffic handle to use separately, or attach a different, longer leash to the coupler itself. This leash is especially good for dogs who are prone to pulling while on a leash.

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • Made of strong nylon webbing
  • Can adjust coupler lengths to walk dogs of different sizes easily

Cons

  • Too bulky for small dog breeds
  • Not good for dogs prone to chew

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that even with all the information we’ve provided, you’ll still have some questions. Here are our most asked questions.

How do I wash my dog’s leash?

It depends on the material. Some leashes are perfectly safe to go through the washing machine and then hang dry. Others will only become damaged that way. Unless the directions explicitly state that it can be washed, spot treatment is the best way to go.

How do I know which leash is best for my Shiba Inu?

The good news is these leashes were hand-picked as top contenders for all Shiba Inus, so you’re choosing from an already highly curated list. You just need to consider your Shiba Inu’s individual personality and what will work best for them—but choosing a cute color couldn’t hurt!

Can my dog play with their leash?

No. Leashes are meant to be used by you and only in the presence of your dog with your supervision. If left unattended, Shiba Inus prone to chewing could ruin a perfectly good leash. Keep it tucked away and out of their reach until it’s time for their walk.

Do I ever need to replace my dog’s leash?

Yes! Replacements can happen for a variety of reasons, from misplacing a leash to having one break. Obviously you’ll want a leash that lasts long term, but if you choose one that isn’t working for you or your dog, there’s no shame in replacing it with a new one that’s better suited to you both.

Conclusion

Shiba Inus are wonderful dogs with big personalities and deserve a leash to match. From brightly colored options to some more subdued, you’re sure to find the perfect leash in both style and type thanks to this comprehensive list.

Remember that when picking out a leash it’s not just about your Shiba Inu, it’s about you too. Don’t settle for an uncomfortable leash that doesn’t feel right for you. You and your dog need to be as comfortable as possible when going out together, so make sure you keep both of you in mind when choosing a leash.

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