I still remember the first time I swapped my old stiff leash for a soft dog leash with padded handles—it felt like a game-changer. No more sore hands after long walks, and my dog seemed more comfortable too. If you’ve ever had your palm rubbed raw from a rough nylon strap, you’ll know why switching to a soft leash is worth it.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through why soft dog leashes are so popular in 2025, what makes them different from regular leashes, and which ones are best for different walking styles. Whether you’ve got a playful puppy, a strong puller, or just want a more comfortable walking experience, I’ve rounded up the top picks to help you out.
| Quick Look: When I tested different leashes, the FunTags 6FT Reflective Dog Leash and PetiFine Heavy Duty Double Handle Leash stood out for comfort and control. For a budget-friendly option, I liked the Awpland Soft Foam Dog Leash, while the PetBonus Two Point Control Leash worked best for training sessions. My personal favorite for everyday walks is the Made to ROAM PillowWalk™ Rope Leash—it feels incredibly soft in hand. |
Comparison Table for Soft Dog Leash
1.FunTags 6FT Reflective Dog Leash with Soft Padded Handle
I’ve used plenty of nylon leashes before, but this one really stood out. It feels way more premium than most basic leashes I’ve tried. The padded handle saved my hand from rope burns on longer walks, and the reflective stitching gave me peace of mind during evening strolls. At 6 feet long and 1 inch wide, it strikes the right balance between control and freedom for medium to large dogs.
Features
- Comfort-padded handle to prevent hand strain during walks.
- Strong nylon fabric with high-density webbing for durability.
- Reflective threading across the leash for better night visibility.
- 360° swivel clasp to stop tangles and twisting.
- Available in 12+ colors and multiple lengths/widths.
What Works?
I really liked how the padded handle stayed comfortable even on 30-minute walks. The reflective stitching actually lit up well when car lights hit, which made night walks safer. The swivel clasp also worked perfectly, keeping my dog from tangling himself around me.
What Does Not Work?
The leash feels a little stiff during the first few uses, though it softens over time. I noticed the reflective stitching isn’t as bright in direct sunlight. Also, bigger pullers might stretch the nylon slightly after a few months, which is something I’ve seen discussed in elastic dog leashes that handle pull differently.
Who Should Buy This?
I’d recommend this leash to anyone walking medium to large dogs, especially if you take evening walks. It’s a great pick if you want comfort at an affordable cost. If you value both safety and durability, this leash is worth it.
2.Awpland Soft Foam Dog Leash – 5 FT x 2/5″
I recently tried the Awpland Soft Foam Dog Leash, and I was genuinely impressed by how comfortable the 5 ft long, 2/5″ thick leash felt in my hand. The foam-padded handle completely protected my palms, even when my 40 lb Labrador pulled hard. Made of strong nylon rope, it held up perfectly during daily walks, jogging sessions, and backyard play. It’s lightweight but surprisingly durable, and I didn’t need an extra collar for training thanks to the adjustable slip lead design.
Features:
- Foam-padded handle for ultimate comfort and protection from pulling
- 5 ft length and 2/5″ width, suitable for small, medium, and large dogs
- Heavy-duty nylon rope with leather lock for strength and durability
- Adjustable slip lead design; no extra collar needed
- Ideal for training, walking, jogging, hiking, or backyard activities
- Multiple colors available: Yellow, Blue, Green, Pink, Purple, Orange
What works?
I really liked how the padded handle prevented hand fatigue even after 30–40 minutes of walking. The 5 ft length gives me enough control without feeling restricted, and the nylon rope is strong enough to handle my dog’s sudden tugs. It also tightens gently when my dog pulls, making training much easier and less stressful.
What does not work?
The soft foam handle is chewable, so I had to make sure my dog didn’t gnaw on it when unsupervised. For very large or extremely strong dogs above 70 lbs, I felt the 2/5″ width could be a bit thin. Also, the leash doesn’t have reflective stitching, so night walks require extra caution. If you want a closer look at options for better control and comfort, check out short dog leashes.
Who should buy this?
If you have a small to medium dog under 70 lbs and want a comfortable, easy-to-hold leash for daily walks, this is perfect. It’s also great for owners looking for a slip-lead that doubles as a training tool. I’d recommend it for anyone who wants a soft, durable, and reliable leash.
3.PetiFine 4FT Heavy Duty Dog Leash – My Take
I recently tried the PetiFine 4FT Heavy Duty Dog Leash on my medium-sized dog, and I loved how solid yet soft it felt. At 4 ft long and 1 in wide, it’s strong enough to handle dogs up to 80 lbs comfortably. The double neoprene-padded handles made my hands feel stress-free even on a long 2-mile walk, and the reflective stitching gave me extra peace of mind during early morning strolls. Plus, the upgraded metal clasp felt super secure, and I could easily attach my doggy bags to the D-ring.
Features:
- Heavy-duty tightly woven nylon construction
- Double neoprene-padded handles for comfort
- Ergonomic alloy metal clasp and D-ring
- Reflective stitching for visibility in low light
- Available in multiple colors: Black, Blue, Green, Grey, Pink, Red, Rose
What works?
The leash handled my 50 lb dog without any strain and gave me full control during sudden lunges. I especially loved the extra traffic handle—it made emergency stops easy. The reflective stitching really stood out on a 6 a.m. walk, and I felt safer jogging with my dog.
What does not work?
It took me a couple of walks to get used to the double-handle system, which felt bulky at first. If you have a very small dog under 15 lbs, it might feel a bit heavy. Also, the leash could be a little stiff initially, but it softened after a few uses. This leash is similar to options listed under best leashes for strong dogs.
Who should buy this?
I’d recommend it to anyone with medium to large dogs who pull or need extra control. It’s perfect for morning jogs, evening walks, or hikes on uneven trails. And if you’re tired of flimsy leashes snapping, this one’s built to last.
4.PetBonus Two Point Control Dog Leash
When I first tried the PetBonus Two Point Control Dog Leash, I noticed how effortlessly it reduced my dog’s pulling thanks to its double-clip system. The soft padded handles made my 30-minute evening walks feel almost effortless, and the reflective stitching kept us visible during nighttime strolls. With a 4-foot conversion option, it quickly adapts from a two-point training lead to a single leash. Over 600 people bought this last month alone, and with a solid 4.4-star rating from 582 reviewers, I felt confident this leash was worth trying.
Features
- Soft padded handles that made my hands feel comfortable even on long walks
- Double-clip system that gently redirects pull across two points for better control
- Reflective stitching for safe nighttime walks
- 360° swivel clip to prevent tangles as my dog moves
- Converts easily to a 4-foot single leash for everyday use
- Made of durable nylon and metal, built to last
- Works with no-pull harnesses and supports front-control steering
What Works?
I loved how the double-clip system gently reduces pulling, making walks much calmer. The soft padded handles felt great in my hand, even during a 40-minute brisk walk. Plus, the reflective stitching actually made me feel safer walking after sunset.
What Doesn’t Work?
I noticed the leash can feel a bit heavy if your dog is under 20 lbs. It also requires a compatible no-pull harness to get the full benefit. Sometimes the clips can be tricky to attach quickly when you’re in a hurry. This design works similarly to options in anti-pull dog leashes.
Who Should Buy This?
If you have a medium or large dog who tends to pull, this leash is perfect for training and everyday walks. I’d also recommend it for evening walkers who need reflective visibility. Anyone tired of tangled leashes or sore hands will appreciate the soft padded grip and dual-clip design.
5.Made to ROAM Premium Everyday Leash – Vermont Weekends, 4ft
I recently tried the Made to ROAM Premium Everyday Leash on my 35-pound Labrador mix, and I was instantly impressed. The leash is crafted from 12mm ultra-soft woven nylon, and at 4 feet long, it felt lightweight yet secure in my hands. The aviation aluminum carabiner clips on effortlessly with one hand, making errands and quick walks a breeze. After multiple walks, I noticed my hands stayed completely comfortable, even when my dog got excited. With over 1,100 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this leash has clearly become a favorite among dog owners like me.
Features
- Made from 12mm ultra-soft woven nylon for a gentle, comfortable grip
- Aviation aluminum carabiner clips on and off easily with one hand
- Sleek rubber-coated metal clamps for a polished, durable finish
- O-Ring included for attaching accessories or holding essentials
- Available in 15 colors and 4-foot or 6-foot lengths to suit your walking style
- Lightweight yet secure design, perfect for everyday walks
What works?
I loved how soft the leash feels in my hand, making even a 30-minute walk effortless. The lightweight carabiner is a game-changer for quick clips in and out of the door. I also noticed that the 4-foot length gives me just enough control while still letting my dog explore comfortably.
What does not work?
This leash isn’t built for dogs that pull heavily, so my energetic Labrador sometimes felt a little too free. It’s also not designed as a training leash, so I had to use a separate training lead during behavior sessions. If your dog chews, the nylon rope might show wear faster than a heavy-duty rope. It’s similar to some options listed under best leashes for big dogs.
Who should buy this?
If you want a soft, comfortable leash for everyday walks and errands, this is perfect. I’d recommend it for small to medium dogs, or larger dogs that are well-behaved on a leash. It’s ideal for anyone who values a premium feel, lightweight design, and a stylish walking experience.
5 Buying Guides for Soft Dog Leash
1. Choose the Right Material
When I first switched leashes, I realized that soft nylon or padded rope makes all the difference. I found that leashes around 0.4–0.6 inches wide feel comfortable in hand without cutting into my palm, especially on longer walks. Always check the material for durability and softness.
2. Consider Your Dog’s Size & Strength
I’ve walked dogs from 20 lbs to over 70 lbs, and the leash’s strength really matters. For medium to large dogs, I prefer leashes that can handle 20–60 lbs of pull, like the PetBonus Two Point Control Leash. Small dogs don’t need heavy-duty clips, so lighter leashes work fine.
3. Look for Extra Features
Handles, clips, and reflective stitching can change your walking experience. I love leashes with padded handles and 360° swivel clips, which prevent tangles and reduce hand fatigue. Reflective stitching is a must if you walk after dark—I’ve noticed it keeps me visible from 30–50 feet away.
4. Decide on Training vs Everyday Use
I always keep two leashes: one for casual walks and one for training. A two-point control leash like PetBonus is perfect for teaching my dog not to pull, while a simpler single-lead leash works for errands or quick walks. Think about how you’ll actually use the leash daily.
5. Check Conversion & Adjustability
I love leashes that adapt to different scenarios. The ability to convert a leash from two-point control to a 4-foot single lead has saved me in crowded areas and when I need closer control. Adjustable length and easy clip options make walks safer and more comfortable for both me and my dog.
Final Thoughts: Soft Dog Leash
After trying a few soft dog leashes, I can honestly say the right one makes walks so much easier. The PetBonus Two Point Control Leash gave me comfort, control, and peace of mind during both daytime and nighttime walks. I noticed less pulling, no tangled leash, and softer handles for my hands. If you want stress-free walks with your dog, this leash is definitely worth trying.
FAQs: Soft Dog Leash
1. What makes a soft dog leash better than a regular leash?
From my experience, soft leashes are gentler on your hands and your dog’s neck. The padded or foam handles reduce pressure, and flexible materials like nylon or rope feel much more comfortable during long walks.
2. Can I use the PetBonus Two Point Control Leash with any harness?
I found it works best with no-pull harnesses. While it can attach to standard collars, the dual-clip system really shines when paired with a front-control harness for training and reducing pulling.
3. Is this leash safe for night walks?
Absolutely. The reflective stitching along the leash made me feel visible even on dimly lit streets. I could see cars and cyclists noticing us from 30–50 feet away, which added peace of mind.
4. Can this leash handle large or strong dogs?
Yes, it’s great for medium to large dogs. I’ve used it with dogs up to 70 lbs, and the dual-clip design distributes pull evenly, giving me better control and making training much easier.
