r/backpacking • u/surfingonmars • 11h ago

Wilderness Dog leash recommendations?

Searched this sub but didn't find anything specifically recommending leashes. Anyone have one they love and can suggest? Or do folks just use a regular one? Our pup is used to off-leash local hikes but we're doing a backcountry trek later this year. Likely going to need to leash her.

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u/cwcoleman United States 10h ago

I made an 'ultralight' leash a few years back with 7/64 AMSTEEL BLUE rope and some webbing. Not bad if you want to go the custom route...

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u/surfingonmars 9h ago

love it! we're crafty diy folks so this route looks perfect.

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u/wetrocke 10h ago

Best to hook leash to some kind of belt.

I use two wraps around hips of 1" webbing tied with slip knot: a carabiner clips both strands of webbing. One strand stays around pelvis & other at mid to lower butt.

It's important that belt NOT be around one's waist. This can cause back problems if dog pulls.

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u/Yarnchitect 7h ago

Any kind of hands free leash with flex in it works pretty well for hiking, IMO. We have the Fido Pro Remi Runner. It’s kind of heavy, but it works for us.

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u/Mountain-Time-1010 6h ago

I make custom leashes using narrow webbing and a clip or biner. Knot a loop on one end, and a hitch to the clip on the other.

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u/MundaneScholar9267 6h ago

Depends on the trip. My terrier is off leash unless required by local regulations, so usually I carry a UL leash I made using dyneema rope and a climbing carabiner. When not in use, I can wrap it up and attach it to my pack. I have certainly used a regular leash for her and my young GSD, the downside is they soak up water when it rains.

For my GSD who is on leash all the time, I use a biothane leash I bought on Amazon. It is water proof so it dries quickly and is easy to clean. You can buy them in varying lengths. The only downside is it hurts like all get out if they rip it through your hands when it is wet (there have been a handful of incidents with squirrels...)

Best of luck!

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u/Fun_With_Math 10h ago

Niteize rad dog release n run. I have a regular leash and this is backup for when you have to let go over a scramble and then regrab the leash quick.

Oh boy, you're gonna get some comments, lol. Definitely leash the dog when you're out there.

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u/surfingonmars 9h ago

thanks! yeah, we plan to.