The 8 Best Leash Accessories of 2023

Best Bag Dispenser

Kurgo Duty Bag Dog Poop Bag Dispenser

5

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So many bag dispensers are hard plastic containers that you snap onto the leash (or stuff in your pocket). They can dangle awkwardly and get in the way. This Kurgo option is very low profile—it slides on to the leash with a hook at the top and small Velcro straps. It's thoughtfully designed to attach to any leash. The only downside to the Kurgo Duty Bag is that it can hang a little loosely on thinner leashes, but attaching it to the handle loop prevented it from shimmying down the leash in our tests.

You can fit a roll of bags inside the zippered pouch or stuff in a handful of loose ones. It even comes with a roll of 15, ready to go. Thoughtful extras, like the metal hook for hanging used poop bags, has made the Kurgo our go-to poop bag dispenser. It's even machine-washable.

Best for Treats

Ruffwear Treat Trader Dog Treat Bag

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You can’t leave for a walk without some treats in this pet supply essential. This bag hooks onto your waistband, or you can snap it on with the enclosed nylon strap belt. The Ruffwear Treat Trader Dog Treat Bag has a roomy main compartment with a waterproof liner. It snaps open and shut with a sturdy magnetic closure and can be operated easily with one hand. There’s a small outside pocket where you can store a training clicker or spare poop bags. 

Although this dog training supply bag can be washed by hand, you may still want to put particularly smelly or wet treats into a disposable bag to make cleanup easier.

Best for Carrying Waste

Dooloop The Dooloop

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This simple gadget makes it easy and mess-free to tote along a full poop bag on your walk, without having to juggle it with the leash handle, treats, and other items. Just attach it to your leash and slip the soiled bag into the Dooloop's slot after scooping up your dog’s feces. The narrow slot catches the knot on the tied bag, so it stays on the Dooloop Dog Poop Holder securely, dangling in place until you get home.

The Dooloop is made in Maine of recycled plastic. It’s lightweight and comes in several colors. One tip: Replace (or supplement) the flimsy metal chain connector with a Velcro strap or a zip tie for more security.

Best Light

Nite Ize Spotlit Rechargeable Collar Light Disc-O Tech

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When you’re out walking your dog in the evenings or before the sun comes up, this bright collar light helps people spot you and your pup. You can choose from four colors (red, green, blue, or white) or opt to let the beacon cycle through all four. You can also choose between solid and flashing with a push of the button.

The Nite Ize Spotlit Rechargeable Collar Light connects to a collar or harness using a metal carabiner. Its battery life is around five hours, with charging done via micro USB cable (which isn’t included). At about 1.5 inches in diameter for the light and 2 inches in total length, the Nite Ize collar light may be too large for tiny dogs.

There's also a larger option, the SpotLit XL, for even bigger dogs.

Best Leash Message

Max and Neo Leash Sleeves

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Sometimes people come racing up to dogs on a walk, wanting to pet and snuggle them. You can slip a sleeve onto your dog’s leash to communicate some info about your pet like “In Training,” “Friendly,” or “Do Not Pet.” The padded sleeves attach securely with Velcro to most leashes.

The text is large and the colors are bright so people can see your message from far away and know how to react when they come close to your pet. Plus you’re giving back with each purchase: For every item sold, Max and Neo donates an item to an animal rescue.

Best Way to Go Hands-Free

Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Bungee Leash

4.7

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If you’re a runner or hiker and have a dog with great leash manners, a hands-free leash can make life easier on the trails. Features on various styles include bungees, handles, and padding. This one from Tuff Mutt has a shock-absorbing bungee to absorb the action if your dog pulls or you stop suddenly, without putting pressure on your dog's collar. Plus it offers an extra foot of wiggle room. 

The Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Bungee Leash uses a clip that glides along the waist belt as your furry friend moves from one side to the other. Should you need to take control of your pet quickly, two handles are available along the length of the leash.

The Bungee Leash comes in more than a dozen colors and includes reflective stitching for added safety during those early morning or late-night outings. Its adjustable belt can fit waists up to 42 inches.

Best Hand Sanitizer Holder

Bow Wow Pet Wear Dog Sanitizer Holder Keychain

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When you’re scooping poop and exploring the great outdoors, you might want to stop occasionally and disinfect. This hand sanitizer holder looks like a smiling puppy and holds most 1-ounce bottles. You can clip it onto a leash, belt loop, or backpack.

Bow Wow Pet Wear Dog Sanitizer Holders are also available in several other styles, including specific dog breeds, other animals, and hobby-themed keychains. The holders are made of easy-to-clean vinyl.