Every dog loves going on walks. But what if you have two and need to walk both of them? Well, buying a dog lead splitter could be the answer to your prayers. A splitter is attachable to the clip of a regular dog leash and consists of 2 leash straps, one for each dog.
So, for this article, we decided to review some of the best lead splitters for dogs. For this, we considered clip security, comfort, durability and the methods used for ensuring the leads are non-tangle. Along with that, we also considered how much the leash reduces pull.
10 Best Dog Lead Splitters
Alright, so we discussed exactly what dog leash splitters are and how to choose them. So, let’s move on to our list of the best dog lead splitters available.
Our Best Pick:
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Among all the brands that we included in our list, it wasn’t too hard to pick which one is the best. RUFFWEAR has been known for the quality they deliver. So, it wasn’t much of a surprise that we chose their Double Track Coupler Leash. Their nylon material is durable and their hardware is sturdy. Most of the dog owners rated them high, too. Although, you might just need to add some extra bucks to get their premium quality.
1. Mighty Paw Double Bungee Leash
This bungee leash by Mighty Paw comes with a splitter so you can easily walk your 2 dogs together. It supports dogs up to 100 lbs which cover most dog breeds. But that’s not the best part… this leash comes with comfort-action bungee which absorbs most of the pull from your dog. This is especially useful for people who have heavy and strong dogs. What’s more, this bungee leash is tangle-free and comes with a rotatable attachment. Made with strong nylon, it’s also reflective which makes it more visible in the dark.
Now, coming to the great part… this dog leash comes with a free leash hook which allows you to hang it after use. Not to mention, it comes with a 100% money-back guarantee. At any moment, if you’re unsatisfied, you can return this leash with no questions asked. A great thing about this leash is that not only the clip between the coupler and leash swivel but the two clips for the dog collars swivel as well. This allows for better detangling.
With that said, a common issue is that the bungee leash can be a bit too heavy for small dogs. So, it ends up hanging and dragging against the ground. To avoid this, you’ll have to keep a certain amount of tension on the leash while walking your dogs.
Pros
- The splitter comes with a swiveling ring that prevents tangles
- Offers comfort-action bungee that absorbs your dog’s pull
- With a leash hook for ease of hanging when not in use
Cons
- A bit too heavy for small dogs
- Not great for dogs of different sizes as one may drag the other
- Not suitable for dogs that walk at different paces
#mightypawbungee hashtag on Instagram • Photos and videos
2. Caldwell’s Dog Lead Splitter
Made with industrial-grade polyester, this is simply one of the strongest dog lead splitters on the market. While we’re on the topic of sturdiness, it’s also worth noting that this coupler is completely waterproof. The leashes are adjustable from 11 to 20 inches which provides enough space for dogs of all sizes. The alloy ring used in this coupler attaches to dog leashes of all types and is quite strong as well. What’s more, the seller is quite confident of the fact that the leashes in this splitter would not stretch or break.
Interestingly, most customers are quite happy with what Caldwell’s Pet Supply Co. has to offer with this coupler. The highlight of this product is its ability to let you walk two differently-sized dogs together. Many customers reported that their large dogs and medium-sized puppies walked together on this coupler without any problems (once they had their vaccines).
With that said, it might not be the best option out there for smaller dogs like Shih Tzus since it’s a bit heavy for them.
Pros
- Made of durable industrial-grade polyester
- The waterproof splitter is adjustable from 11 to 20 inches
- With a strong alloy ring that suits any type of dog leash
Cons
- Mixed reviews on the durability of the plastic buckle adjuster for dogs that pull
- Tends to tangle when used on active dogs
- A bit bulky for small dogs
3. Snagle Paw Dog Leash Coupler
With tangle-free technology, Snagle Paw’s leash coupler is number 3 on our list. This one is also stretchable with bungee materials that absorb most of the pulling from dogs. You can alter the size of this coupler from 20 to 31.5 inches which makes it perfect for medium-sized dogs of around 30 lbs weight. The nylon used in the leashes is strong and non-stretch.
Like the Mighty Paw Double Leash, this one also has swivel clips which further reduces the chances of tangling. It’s a heavy-duty coupler that is perfect for medium-sized dogs. With that said, for a smaller dog, you’d want to go with the Lite version available from Snagle Paw.
Pros
- Boasts a shock-absorbing stretchable bungee leash
- Tangle-free technology with its swivel leash attachment
- Reflective stitching for added visibility at night
Cons
- The bungees give no control to dogs that pull
- May stretch up to 5 inches giving too much leeway for curious dogs to get too far
- The thick material of this splitter may be too heavy for small pooches
#snaglepaw hashtag on Instagram • Photos and videos
4. DCbark Tangle-Free Double Dog Leash
If you have a dog that’s 10-50 lbs and you’re looking for a pretty dual dog leash, then this one from DCbark is a great option to consider. It has an extremely comfortable handle with neoprene padding which enhances your dog-walking experience. You can adjust the lead’s length between 11-20 inches, depending on how you prefer it. The manufacturer uses weather-resistant nylon in this coupler which makes it a sound long-term investment.
Most customers are raving about the build of this product and how useful it is for their dogs. It sounds like a fantastic (and pretty) option for dog owners. With that said, it’s worth mentioning that you can’t detach one extender/leash from the coupler if you’re walking a single dog.
Pros
- Has a comfortable handle with neoprene padding
- Tangle-free and adjustable length
- Detachable extender or leash for walking one dog only
Cons
- Nylon material tends to fray over time
- The length of the leash is too short so dogs don’t have enough space between them
- Suitable for medium to large dogs only due to the heavy metal clips
#dcbark hashtag on Instagram • Photos and videos
5. U-Pick Dual Dog Lead
As the name suggests, this one comes with a 360-degree swivel on the leash attachment as well as the collar clips. If you hate being pulled around by your dog on walks, then U-Pick has a solution for that as well. This double dog leash comes with bungee leads that can extend from 20 to 35 inches with the necessary pulling force. Also, it has reflective stitching which shines in the dark, making it safer to walk in the night.
The manufacturer is so confident about the quality of this dog leash that they’re providing a complete refund guarantee in case this thing breaks by a pulling force of fewer than 100 lbs. What customers are loving about this leash is its soft padding that doesn’t put a strain on the hand even if you’re walking an awfully energetic dog.
Pros
- 360-degree swivel clasp design preventing tangles between dogs’ leashes
- Shock-absorbing bungee extension to absorb dogs’ pull
- Made from tightly-woven nylon with a padded handle for comfort
Cons
- Distance between dogs is a bit short promoting pulling between dogs
- The stretchable part tends to break easily, especially for dogs that pull hard
- The swivel and hooks may be too heavy for small dogs or puppies
6. PetEast Heavy-Duty Double Leash for Dogs
Peteast does a couple of really cool things with this double dog leash. For one, they’re one of the few double do leashes in the market that are adjustable in length. Also, it comes with a soft handle that reduces hand burns from aggressive pulling. Its bungee leash allows a considerable extension as well which further reduces the pull on the owner.
Peteast provides a nice money-back guarantee for 30 days and offers a 1-year warranty as well. What customers love about this leash is that it’s tangle-free in the truest sense, no matter how much their dogs criss and cross.
With that said, some customers didn’t like the clips on these splitters for dog leads, stating that they’d prefer stronger clips for bigger dogs.
Pros
- The length of the dog leashes is adjustable
- With soft handles to reduce discomfort from dogs’ pulling
- 360-degree tangle-free bungee allows extra length and support
Cons
- Mixed reviews on the durability of use on large dogs
- Clasps and hardware aren’t as heavy-duty as competing brands, although it makes it suitable for small dogs
- The stretchy area tends to wear out and lose elasticity after a few uses
7. RUFFWEAR, Double Track Coupler Leash Extension for Walking 2 Dogs
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Let your dogs explore outdoors without getting tangled by using the Double Track Coupler Leash Extension from RUFFWEAR. Its elastic wavelength webbing absorbs shock so both dogs stay comfortable while on the leash. The hardware used for the clips and rings is sturdy. The aluminum V-ring attaches to the main leash. While the Locking Crux Clip boasts a lightweight and ergonomic design. With RUFFWEAR, you can expect quality and even pair this coupler with other products such as their durable leashes.
Although the clips to the dog’s collar are easy to connect, many dog owners shared that it easily disconnects too. This usually happens when the dog’s harness pushes the clip back and unhooks the dog from the coupler. Another con is that the clasps may rust if the coupler gets wet frequently. Otherwise, most reviews appreciate the features of this RUFFWEAR product. However, it may be priced a bit higher than the competition.
Pros
- Tangle-free, stretchy, and comfortable for two dogs
- Sturdy aluminum V-ring to attach the leash and clips to the collar
- Lightweight which is ideal for small to medium dogs
Cons
- Clips may easily disconnect especially with active dogs
- Metal clips are not rust-free
- This coupler is priced a little bit higher than the rest
#ruffweardoubletrackcoupler hashtag on Instagram • Photos and videos
8. Dual Doggie Gel Rope Leash
Got heavy and active dogs that pull and cause rope burns on your hand? Well, the Dual Doggie Gel Rope Leash from WIGZI is the solution to that. Taking your pooches for a walk is such a breeze with the comfort of the soft liquid-filled handle of this leash. On top of that, it rotates 360 degrees to automatically untangle your dogs during the walk. Aside from that, each of the two metal clasps on the leashes rotates 360 degrees, too. So, your dogs will walk with more freedom and fun. Most of all, the rope is reflective for visibility at night adding another safety feature to the product.
Because this leash is lightweight and has less heavy hardware, it is suitable for small to medium breeds. However, the length of the ropes is not adjustable. So, it may not be ideal for usage in busy city streets. According to some reviews, the gel handle tends to leak a sticky liquid after some time. There are also mixed reviews on the longevity of the product.
Pros
- 360-degree swivel both on the connector next to the handle and the collar clips that automatically untangle the dogs
- Comfortable soft liquid gel handle
- Reflective material for added visibility in low-light conditions
Cons
- Leash ropes are not adjustable
- The soft liquid gel handle leaks out after some time
- Have reports about the fraying of the ropes, or breaking of the clips in just a few months of use
#wigzi hashtag on Instagram • Photos and videos
9. YOUTHINK Double Dog Leash
Get the extra rope length that you need with the Double Dog Leash from YOUTHINK. With its dual padded handles, you can choose to shorten or lengthen the rope and still hold it with ease. YOUTHINK uses abrasion-resistant nylon to make sure the product is durable. Not to mention, it also boasts a 360-degree tangle-free clasp that prevents the leashes from getting twisted. Plus, the length of the splitter is adjustable so you can decide to give them more room or keep them secure.
The stitching on this dog leash is reflective so it’s visible at night. And the best part of this product is it offers a poop bag conveniently attached to the leash. You can also use it to store treats, money, or other tiny items you need during your walk. However, because of the extra adjustment hardware, the bonus poop bag, and two extra handles, this leash is a bit heavy. So, it’s not ideal for small dogs. Some pet owners mentioned the metal rings are strong enough for big dogs that pull during walks. It also doesn’t feature flexible or shock-absorbing bungees on the splitter.
Pros
- Adjustable rope length on the splitter
- Dual padded handles so you can shorten or lengthen the rope
- Comes with an attached small bag where you can store treats and poop bags
Cons
- Added features creates a heavy leash weight which may be too much for small dogs
- Ropes on the coupler are not elastic to absorb your dog’s pulling
- Metal hardware breaks easily on strong dogs that pull during walks
10. Tacobear Dog Leash Dog Dual Adjustable Splitter Lead
Another simple yet functional coupler we’ve added to this list is the Dog Dual Adjustable Splitter Lead from Tacobear. It features a 360-degree swivel attachment for tangle-free dog walks. The straps of the coupler are adjustable. So, you can change the length according to the size of each of your dogs. It also features luminous reflective stitching that spans the entire length of the leash. So, your dogs can still be spotted even in low light conditions.
Each strap boasts a 3-inch width making it durable for large dogs. However, it may be too much for small dogs. Also, the handles of this product may not be the most comfortable one in the market. Especially if your dogs are active and strong. Even if the splitter is adjustable, it may still be too short for some breeds. And, there isn’t any other size available.
Pros
- Features a 360-degree swivel attachment that prevents tangled leashes
- Adjustable splitter length
- Luminous reflective stitching on the entire rope
Cons
- Too thick and too heavy for small breeds and puppies
- No soft padding or any comfortable feature on the handles
- No other available sizes to choose from
What is a Dog Leash Splitter?
If you haven’t simultaneously walked dogs on different leashes, then let me assure you that you’re not missing out on anything fun. In fact, both dog leads often end up tangling with each other which leaves you in a total mess.
However, there’s an answer to that – dog leash splitters. As the name suggests, they split a lead by embedding three clips:
- one clip on the leash,
- one clip on the first dog, and
- one clip on the second dog.
To do that, manufacturers add a rotatable clasp at the leash-end of the splitter. That allows the dogs to move around without tangling their leashes together.
Also, with such a lead coupler, you’ll reduce the pull that comes with walking dogs on different leashes. But not just that, it would also provide you with more control over the dogs which is important since it’s illegal in many countries and states to walk dogs without proper control over them.
Here are a few benefits of buying a splitter for dog leads
- More control
- Non-tangle
- Durability
- Less pull
- Added comfort
How to Choose the Right Dog Lead Splitter?
We’ve discussed how useful a splitter for dog leads can be. However, that’s the easier part. What’s hard is to actually find a lead splitter that’s not just high-quality but also a good bang for your buck.
But that’s where we come into the picture. In this section, we’ve reviewed 10 of the best dog lead splitters in the market based on customer experience, quality, durability, ease of use, and security.
Your Dog’s Size
Not every leash splitter is made for all types of dogs. With bigger dogs, there’s a chance that the splitter might tear apart. Although the lead’s strength plays a more important role in this, however, it would be useless without a dog leash splitter that can withstand a larger and stronger dog.
Length
Usually, you’re looking for a longer leash. However, go with that same mindset while buying a leash coupler and you’d be regretting it two weeks from today. The thing is, you shouldn’t buy an extra long dog lead splitter because it’ll add to the length of your dog leash. If it’s too long, it’ll end up allowing your dog to stray too far away on walks.
However, if the length is too small, it wouldn’t allow both your dogs their personal space. And that’s quite important. Dogs (like us) enjoy their personal space and at times like to explore their surroundings on walks. So, make sure they have enough space to do so.
Material
The material of a dog leash is certainly important since its strength directly depends on it. Generally speaking, most couplers use Nylon which is usually stretch-free and great against the elements.
Your Dog’s Strength
This one’s pretty similar to the point about your dog’s size. But it isn’t necessary that only larger dogs would be stronger. At times, medium-sized dogs can also turn out to be a handful during walks. So, make sure you respect your buddy’s strength and buy a strong and sturdy lead splitter for dogs.
Standard vs Retractable Leads
While buying a lead splitter, you’ll need to consider whether your dog lead is retractable or not. The thing is, when retractable leads pull, they pull on the dog’s collar. However, if you add a dog lead splitter at the end, your retractable lead would first pull at the splitter and then distribute the pulling force to both leads before pulling both dogs.
As you might imagine, this would reduce the pulling force to a great extent. So, your retractable dog leash might not even be that useful if you’re considering a lead coupler.
Dog Lead Splitters – FAQs
So, there you have it, folks. In this article, we discussed everything about lead splitters for dogs and suggested some of the best couplers and double dog leashes in the market.
However, lead splitters aren’t all that common and it’s natural for you to have a few unanswered questions by now.
So, in this section, we’re going to have a crack at some of the most frequently asked questions about dog lead splitters.
To walk two dogs, you can either use a double dog leash, buy a coupler or use 2 separate dog leashes for your dogs. Whichever option you choose, it’ll have its pros and cons with it.
For example, if you buy a double dog leash, it might increase the stress on your shoulder due to excessive pulling. In essence, dog walks or hands-free jogs with a double leash could turn out to be an overburdening workout session for you. On the other paw, don’t ever buy a coupler that uses poor quality clips. They would snap the instant your dog pulls hard and that can lead to a major setback. In case you go with separate dog leashes for each, you’re going to run into some tangling issues soon. And the issues don’t just persist while walking… it’ll probably take you 15 minutes detangling both leashes after the walk.
With that said, I still think that buying a dog lead splitter or double dog leash is a lot better than using different leashes for each dog… especially if your dogs don’t pull aggressively.
There’s no safety threat of using lead splitters for dogs. However, the threat might be to those around your dog. You see, if your dog leash or splitter isn’t made with the finest quality materials, it might tear apart. Even if the leash is sturdy, the clips and other hardware matter a lot as well. If they’re not strong enough, you could end up with a dog on the loose.
Also, if you’re a bit worried about how far away your dogs can stray from you and each other, then there are lead splitter options available in the market that are adjustable. So, if you’d like to keep your dogs close to you for safety, then that’s not an issue as well.
Almost all lead splitters for dogs are non-tangle. Indeed, these splitters often have a 360 swivel mechanism which allows the clips to completely rotate as the dogs move around. This rotation helps your dogs avoid tangling while they explore on walks.
If you’ll go through our list of the best dog lead splitters, then you’ll see how each of them is non-tangle. So, that’s pretty much a good example of how common this feature is.
This really depends on your dogs. Surely, there are dogs out there that would easily walk together on a splitter for dog leads. But that doesn’t ensure that yours would. It all boils down to how accepting your dogs are of each other. If they don’t have a good time otherwise, then they won’t magically be okay on walks together.
With that said, the only reason why some dog lead splitting ventures fail is mostly due to the dogs not being compatible enough. Another point to consider here is whether your dogs walk at the same pace. If they don’t, then you need a lead splitter that allows some stretch and individual space for dogs.
The answer is simple. It’s easier to walk dogs on a lead splitter than on multiple leashes. With a lead splitter, you can free up one hand, have all your concentration diverted on one leash, and also reduce the overall pull on your body. It certainly reduces the tangling between multiple leashes as well as most lead splitters have the ability to swivel 360 degrees.
So, if that sounds useful to you, then you’re certainly better off with a dog lead splitter.
Walking your dog is so much fun. But walking tow dogs at the same time can be hard. These dog leash splitters will not only make walking easier, it will also allow you and your dogs to enjoy outdoor activities.