Whether you’re on the hunt for new ways to exhaust your high-energy pooch or you simply love to ride a bicycle, you may have considered taking your dog out with you while you bike on the road.
But this is easier said than done: You certainly don’t want to take your dog out without a leash, but standard leashes are not at all appropriate for bike riding alongside your dog.
Fortunately, there are a number of leashes on the market that are specifically designed for biking with your pup. We’ll discuss some of the top models and how to best use them below.
Quick Picks: Best Dog Bike Leash
- Running Dog Bike Tow Leash [Best Overall] — The Running Dog Bike Tow Leash is the best-rated bike leash we found and it is built like a tank. It earned 5 stars from the American Pet Association and is designed for dogs up to 185 lbs.
- Walky Hands-Free Dog Bike Leash [Easiest to Install] — The Walky Hands-Free Bike Leash attaches to most bikes in minutes, plus the bike wand has a quick-release feature that makes it easy to switch from biking to walking without any hassle.
- Non-Stop Dogwear Bike Antenna [Best for Bikejoring] — Unlike the other bike leashes we reviewed, the Non-Stop Dogwear Bike Antenna is designed to let your dog run in front of your bike. This makes it ideal for bikejoring enthusiasts and owners of high-energy dogs.
How Do Bike Leashes Work for Dogs?
Trying to ride alongside your pooch presents a few unique challenges, so bike leashes are a little different from leashes designed for walking or running with your pup.
For example, you must be sure your dog doesn’t bump into your bike while you are riding. This could cause you to fall, and it may lead to injuries for your four-footer. A flexible leash may not allow your dog to venture very far away, but it won’t do anything to keep your dog from getting too close.
To help work around this problem, most bike leashes consist of a rigid arm (usually made from a metal) that is mounted on your bike. The arm sticks out to the side of your bike, and a flexible leash is attached to the end of it. This way, your dog can still run about, but it will keep him from getting too close to the bike.
Most bike leashes are designed to mount near your bike’s seat post. However, a few products (including one reviewed below) feature a frame that extends over the back wheel. The leash arm on these models extends from above the rear axle, rather than the seat post.
This provides a slightly different balance point than seat-post-mounted models do, which appeals to some riders and feels strange to others.
Biker owners may also want to consider the urban mushing sport of bikejoring – the major difference here being that your dog actually runs ahead and beside you, even pulling you along on the bike. It’s a team sport where dog and owner work together!
Bikejoring does require some training, but once you get your dog into the groove, it can be immensely fun!
Is Your Dog Suited for a Bike Leash?
Many dogs love running alongside their owner’s bike, but others are not cut out for the activity.
Before deciding to strap your dog to your bike, you’ll want to make sure your dog is well-suited for the task and meets the following criteria:
Medium to Large Size – Bike leashes don’t work very well for small dogs. Most leashes don’t reach down far enough to be safe for tiny dogs, and your little pup’s legs will tire pretty quickly anyway, negating much of the point of riding alongside him. You should also use caution when trying to use a leash with a very large dog, as he may be strong enough to pull you around and cause you to fall.
Generally Healthy – Running alongside a moving bicycle is hard work, and it is only suitable for dogs that are in good physical condition. It is a good idea to get your vet’s blessing before deciding to bike alongside your dog.
Trained to Walk on a Leash – If your dog doesn’t walk on a leash well, he probably lacks the discipline to be a good bicycling companion. At the very least, your dog should be good about walking in the heel position and stopping when you tell him to, before hooking him up to your bike.
Confidence – Insecure dogs may find the prospect of running beside your bike intimidating, which may make them hate the activity. Many dogs will need a bit of encouragement and reassurance at the outset, but confident canines will generally love running alongside you after they get used to the activity.
Characteristics to Look for in a Dog Bicycle Leash
Although most of the bike leashes on the market are relatively well-made, there are clearly differences between the best and worst options. Keep the following characteristics in mind when seeking a bike leash for your dog:
1. Keeps Your Dog at an Appropriate Distance from the Bike
One of the most important things for the comfort and safety of both you and your dog is the distance between your dog and the bike.
If your dog is too close, he’ll likely bump into your bike, and if he is able to wander too far from your bike, he could become injured from running into things. There is no hard-and-fast rule about the proper distance to maintain, and it will vary based on your dog’s size and behavior, as well as your riding style.
The best bike leashes have adjustable lengths, which help to provide some flexibility in this regard.
2. Compatibility with Your Bike
If the leash won’t fit your bike properly, it won’t do you any good, so be sure that the leash you choose will fit your bike before making your purchase. Most of the bike leashes reviewed above attach to the seat post of your bike; because seat posts are relatively consistent from bike to the next, the leashes described above will likely sidestep most compatibility problems.
3. Robust and Durable Construction
A bike leash won’t do you much good if it doesn’t keep your dog securely attached to you, so always look for leashes made from high-quality materials. Some of the best units are made from steel; others are made from aluminum, which, while lighter, isn’t quite as strong.
4. Left- or Right-Side Functionality
While most of the leashes we reviewed can be used on either the left or right side of your bike, a few models only work on one side. This may not be a deal breaker if you like everything else about the leash, but most owners will appreciate being able to mount the leash on either side of the bike.
5. Easy to Install
Some bike leashes are easier to mount on your bike than others, so be sure to avoid those that require many tools or steps if you aren’t mechanically inclined.
Nevertheless, most modern bike leashes attach to the seat post via a clamp mechanism, which most owners should be able to handle.
5 Best Bike Leashes for Dogs
The following three leashes are some of the best options available for bike-riding owners. Be sure that the one you select will work with your bike and suit your dog when making your choice.
1. Walky Dog Plus Hands-Free Bicycle Leash
Product
Details
- Patented design includes an internal shock-absorbing system and quick lock and release capability...
- High Carbon Stainless steel for strength leash installs on virtually any bike in under 5 minutes...
- Lets you safely walk your dog and ride your bike at the same time Length of Leash is Adjustable Can...
- Leash Has Military Grade Paracord 550-lbs pull strength, 7 strand Inner core 5/32 -4mm diameter.
About: The Walky Dog Bike Leash is a straight-arm leash designed to attach to the seat post of your bike. The Walky Bike Leash features a shock-absorbing system to help reduce the impact of your dog’s tugs and turns while you are riding your bike.
Features:
- Constructed of high-carbon stainless steel for maximum strength and durability
- Leash made from military-grade, 550-pound-test paracord
- Quick-release design makes it easy to release your dog upon reaching your destination
- Made in Germany
PROS
Most owners who tried the Walky Dog were very pleased with the way it performed. Most found that it was easy to install and worked well with their dog. Many owners also appreciated the ability to use the leash on either side of the bike.
CONS
While the majority of owners who tried the Walky Dog were happy with it, a number of owners complained that the seat post clamp would not tighten down sufficiently or required frequent re-tightening. A few owners also explained that they felt like their dog was too close to the bike while using the Walky Dog.
2. Bike Tow Leash Dog Bicycle Attachment
Product
Details
- American Pet Association 5 star safety approved for safely riding with your dog
- For energetic dogs weighing from 10 to 185 pounds
- Prevents tipping, tangling and steering sideways through unique design that takes in to account the...
- Fits on left side of most bikes, trikes and mobility scooters
About: The Bike Tow Leash Bicycle Attachment is a straight-forward, no-frills, bent-arm bike leash made with high-quality components and durable materials. It is designed to work harmoniously with your dog’s body to prevent accidents or falls, and is compatible with all bikes and dogs.
Features:
- Can be used with a bike or a wheelchair
- Tool-free installation allows you to mount the leash clamp quickly and easily
- Made in the USA
- Rated a 5-star product by the American Pet Association
PROS
The Bike Tow Leash received very positive reviews from most owners who tried it. Most praised the leash’s strength, durability, and construction, and found it easy to install and use with their dog. Additionally, several were happy to discover that the leash could be used on either side of the bike.
CONS
While most owners who purchased the Bike Tow Leash were happy with the durability, a few noted malfunctions after several years of use. A few owners were not happy with the lobster-claw-style leash clamps, and a few complained that the Bike Tow Leash was too expensive.
3. Petego Cycleash Universal Dog Bike Leash
Product
Details
- Bike leash comes set up for one dog to ride, if you have two dogs you must buy two of these units
- Innovative and safe dog bike leash
- Alloy extra-strong ultra light construction, keep your bicycle lightweight
- double clamp to allow two dogs to ride simultaneously, or switch dog side
About: The Petego Cycleash is a bent-arm bike leash that attaches to your seat post via a two-sided attachment clamp mechanism. Because the clamp is two-sided, you can ride with your dog on either side of the bike, or you can even ride with two dogs at a time (chariot-style).
Features:
- Alloy construction is very light and won’t alter your balance as much as heavier models will
- Ergonomic clamp design fits around any round seat post
- The leash arm features an EVA safe-grip handle and can be removed and used as a leash
- Made with shockless TPR technology for a smooth ride
PROS
Most owners liked the Petego Cycleash, and reported that it was easy to install and use. Many praised the product’s design, explaining that it kept their dog in a good position during bike rides and was easy to switch from one side to the other when necessary.
CONS
While many owners found the Petego Cycleash to work well, a decent number of owners complained about the product’s poor strength and lack of durability. Accordingly, this is probably not a good choice for owners of large or strong dogs.
4. Springer Dog Exerciser
Product
Details
- Biking with Your Buddy: The Springer Dog Exerciser is a hands free dog leash bike attachment that...
- Safety & Protection: The Springer uses a low-mounted, heavy duty steel spring to absorb up to 90% of...
- Quick Release: The leash has a “safety release” which instantly frees your dog should a post,...
- Kit Components: This kit comes included with an 18-inch leash, 3 safety releases, and 1 metal hook;...
About: The Springer Dog Exerciser is a universal dog bike leash, which is compatible with most touring and mountain bikes. It features a heavy-duty steel spring to help absorb your dog’s tugging and lunging, and it is easy to put on your bike or take off after you return home.
Features:
- The spring’s placement allows it to absorb up to 90% of the force your dog imparts when pulling
- Includes breakaway safety tabs to help prevent injuries
- You can raise or lower the arm up to 4 inches
- The Springer Dog Exerciser works on either side of your bike
PROS
The Springer Dog Exerciser earned high marks from most owners who tried it. It appears easy to mount to your bike, and most owners reported that it held up well during use. The ability to raise or lower the arm is a very convenient feature that should help you avoid banging your feet on the arm while pedaling.
CONS
A few owners complained that the bolts would loosen during the course of a ride, so you’ll need to bring a wrench with you to keep things tightened down. Additionally, while the breakaway safety tabs are an interesting idea, they probably make this leash a bad choice for dogs prone to running away.
5. Non-Stop Dogwear Bike Antenna
Product
Details
- FOR EVERYONE - The bike antenna is for beginners or professionals and fits all standard handlebars...
- HOW IT WORKS - Prevents the bungee line from getting tangled in your wheel or pedals. Now you can...
- WHAT IT DOES - The bike antenna is a metal extension with a very strong spring which guides your...
- EASY TO INSTALL - Use the pictures and videos on You Tube for easy installation. Designed by World...
About: Most bike leashes for dogs are designed to keep your dog to your side, but the Non-Stop Dogwear Bike Antenna is a bit different — it allows your dogs to run in front of you, which may be a better configuration for super high-energy pups. It’s also an ideal leash for bikejoring.
Features:
- Features a strong metal spring to help absorb pulls and tugs
- Fits most standard bikes
- Designed to attach to your bike below the stem
- Antenna arm can be removed without removing the handlebars
PROS
Most owners who tried the Bike Antenna seemed pleased with their purchase. It appears to effectively prevent tangles, and most owners reported that it was well-built. Several owners even mentioned that it worked well on crowded sidewalks and similar areas.
CONS
Mounting the Non-Stop Dogwear Bike Antenna seemed to be the most common source of frustration among owners who tried it. Several mentioned that it was incompatible with their bike, and the entire mounting process requires you to remove the handlebars.
Our Recommendation: The Bike Tow Leash Attachment
While most of the leashes in our review proved effective for owners who tried them, the Bike Tow Leash enjoyed the best user reviews and received the fewest reports of failure. Most found that it was very strong and durable, easy to mount and kept their dog in a good position during the ride. You’ll pay a pretty penny for the Bike Tow Leash, but because safety should always be your first priority, it is hard to find a better option for you and your pup.
Biking Safely with Your Dog
As with any other activity, you undertake with your dog, you’ll want to keep safety at the forefront of your mind. Serious injuries are certainly a possibility if something goes wrong during a bike ride, so keep the following guidelines in mind while biking with your pooch.
Never bicycle alongside an unleashed dog. Simply put, your dog should always be on a leash unless you are inside your home or in a safe, confined space (such as a fenced yard or dog park). Even the most obedient and clingy dogs have the occasional “SQUIRREL!” moment, so you must always keep control of your dog by using some type of leash.
Avoid holding your dog’s leash in your hand. Holding a standard leash in your hand while riding your bike is a recipe for disaster. Even those with impeccable bike-control skills will struggle to remain upright if their dog jerks to one side or the other. Besides, you don’t want to have to choose between injuring yourself or letting go of the leash if something goes wrong.
Don’t use a leash that attaches to your body. Using a running leash that attaches to your body is fine when you are on foot, but using these types of leashes while riding on a bike is a bad idea. Bike leashes attach to the frame of your bike (near the center of your combined gravity), but leashes that wrap around your body sit far above the center of gravity, and place you at risk for toppling.
Don’t travel in congested areas, if possible. Unless you have a very obedient dog, who sticks by your side despite the myriad sights, sounds, and smells you encounter on a typical ride, you’ll want to ride in relatively isolated areas. This way, you can avoid a lot of potential problems and distractions for your dog.
Don’t overdo it – your dog is running while you ride. Your bike provides you with a much more efficient way to cover distance than your dog’s legs do, so be sure you don’t overwork your dog while riding. Start with very short distances before building up to longer rides, always keep an eye on your dog’s energy level and provide plenty of water breaks and rest stops as needed.
Use booties for your dog if need be. If your rides take you across hot pavement or your dog has sensitive feet, be sure to fit him with a good pair of booties. They’ll not only help to protect his feet during the ride, they’ll also keep his feet cleaner too.
Use a harness rather than a collar if possible. Because you may need to tug a bit on your dog during a bike ride, it is usually best to use a harness for your dog, which pulls on his chest and shoulders, rather than a collar, which pulls on his neck. Never use a slip-lead, chain collar or similar device when riding a bike with your dog.
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Have you ever used a bike leash to ride with your pup? How did it work out for you? We hope you don’t have any stories about bad falls or injuries, but we’d love to hear about your experiences. Tell us all about it in the comments below!
18 Comments
February 12, 2023
Hi all, I’m new (at 73) to riding an electric tricycle. I loved riding my 3 speed English races when I was a kid, I was never home, either biking or skating!
I bought a beautiful Addmotor 3 wheeler specifically to run my 4 yr old Bernedoodle, Mellie. She is full of love, laughter and exuberance! I bought the Walky Dog Plus handsfree Dog Bicycle exerciser. It’s a great piece of equipment, attaches on the seat post and an easy disconnect feature. I loved it, that is until I used it. Still the equipment is excellent. Not for me and my 3 wheeler and my dog unfortunately. Using kept her by the back wheels where I couldn’t see her, and we had a mishap using it because of this, she got to far behind me too quickly , the cord wrapped around my left real wheel including the leash attachment. Took me a bit of time to figure out how to undo all of that, but thank goodness no harm to bike or dog or me.! Whopee!
My solution for now is a very long leather leash. I put the leash through the handle slip it on, adjust it so that there is not much leash left and it keeps her by my side where she needs to be so I can keep an I on her. We are both still learning the ins and outs of riding together, not yet use to paying attention to the front wheel to see what it is doing, so a learning curve for Mellie and me and more training for her, like Right, Left etc.
An added note, I live in a very active community so there are lots of people out all the tie with kids, dogs, bikes etc, most everyone is okay with me keeping her on my left, that’s where she and I are most comfortable, but some give us grief, lots walk their dogs with their noses in their phones, so I have to be very watchful.
Any ideas about keeping her close to my side are appreciated…I live in the Pacific Northwest so have very much enjoyed getting her out the last couple of days, got lost yesterday, took a trail, didn’t recognize where we came out lol, that trip took us 5 miles instead of just the 3 I’ve been going for while learning! happy biking everyone!
February 13, 2023
Hey there, Patricia. We’re so glad to hear that you’re enjoying biking with your gal!
As for keeping her by your side, we’d just recommend treating it like teaching a dog to walk in the heel position.
Check out that article, but essentially, you’re going to use positive reinforcement (tasty treats) to reward her when she is in the right spot. Over time, she should start to understand that it is awesome to be right by your side, and with even more time, it’ll just become where she hangs out.
Best of luck!
May 31, 2020
Just reading your Post and Video Enjoyed it very much, and Noticed Your Dog Leash is not very long, Now what brought me to your Site, I Have A Very Special Friend in Toronto, She was Walking on Sidewalk, to the Doctors yesterday, and A Bicycle, was Riding on the Left Side of Her, and the Dog was on a Leash Well the Dog decided to go to the Right of Her, and the Leash Caught her Right Across Her Waist, This is in Toronto My Friend, has Swollen Ankles Why she was Headed to the Doctors in first Place, well the Leash Took Her Down, she fell, and had to go to the Hospital Last night, Back Pain, she is 71 years old, and does not weight to much, Can you answer a Question for Me, Why was the Leash So Long, that the dog could wrap the leash around her waist, and is this not dangerous, i feel so sorry for her, she did not need this fall, and now is suffering with the Back Pain, any comment would be appreciated, thanks for Listening, bye
June 1, 2020
Hey, Sharon.
Sorry to hear about your friend! Bike leashes have to be long enough to prevent the dog from bumping into the bike.
But, the owner is still responsible for keeping the dog under control and preventing these types of accidents, and, as we said, not all dogs are well-suited for walking alongside bikes.
We wish your friend a speedy recovery!
March 29, 2020
In my experience with running up to 4 Siberians at once for off-season exercise with a MTB, any “Dog Walker” that attaches to the seat post and then to an active, hard pulling dog like a Sibe, is dangerous! Having anything attached that high on your bike allows the dog to affect your ride and balance FAR to much. A Product like the “Dog Tail” that attaches to the rear axle , is far safer and more manageable. I would encourage you to add the Dog Tail to your offering of products, for a safer dog walking/running experience for all involved.
February 12, 2020
Love the idea of biking with my 1 yr old Doberman that LOVES to run. Looking for Harness recommendation to go with the bike tow leash. Thank you
February 13, 2020
Hey, Debbie. Check out these running harnesses, which are ideal for running dogs — you should be able to find a perfect one for your Dobie!
Best of luck.
October 11, 2019
Is there any one in the savannah ga area doing Urban mushing are carting
November 6, 2018
Why are the bike leashes so expensive?? I am retired and on a strict budget.
October 10, 2018
How long of a ride is recommended for the beginners. My husky/malamute/cattle dog mix loves running, but is usually puffing alot afterwards. We ride for about 15 minutes during which he is mostly running. Is this ok or to long?
August 2, 2018
I have an adult 3 wheel bike and also need to exercise my medium lab. Tried the walky dog plus but no extender and I have to attach to front. I do not want her to close to those wide back wheels. She does well and is pretty smart so stays a good distance away. What do you recommend? Need your input!
October 17, 2018
I’m also interested in what would work for a three wheel bike. My mom and her 90 lb pup would greatly benefit from something like that!
October 18, 2018
Hey Karen – I wonder if the Scooter Noodle (http://www.alpineoutfitters.net/scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=236) would solve your problem – it’s designed to attach to your bike and keep a standard leash from getting tangled in the wheels. You’d still need to train your dog to stay in front or to the side of you, but this might be a better fit.
July 27, 2018
I have two akitas. I am confused what to use on my bike to ride with two large dogs
July 28, 2018
You’ll probably need a dog-friendly bike trailer or one of the leashes detailed here if they are running alongside!
July 30, 2018
Hey, Carol.
Biking with two Akitas may be quite the task! I’d recommend one of the “stroller” style carriers in the review Meg linked to (I like the Solvit Houndabout), but I don’t know that they’d be large enough for two big pups.
Otherwise, I’d recommend the Petego Cycleleash reviewed above (#2). It can be used for two dogs at a time.
Regardless of which one you choose, start slow and keep safety in mind! Best of luck!
May 17, 2018
I tried the woofcycle dog trotter just last night after having jogged my dog using a jogging leash. I have not had any issues with her while using this, but saw the benefit of using a bike leash. The dog trotter was not great – she jogged on it but would hit the arm on occasion and I could see she was uncomfortable with it. After the short ride I also noticed that with the pulling, the pivot point on the arm allowing it to be stored up and out of the way when not in use, was wearing down – after 10 minutes. I will be returning the product and am looking at other option that do not break the bank – until then it will be back to the jogging leash around my waist. The positive thing I can say about the dog trotter is that the installation and removal was quick and easy.
May 17, 2018
Thanks Matthew. Sorry to hear the Dog Trotter didn’t work out. Would love to hear updates on whatever you try next!