Belt vs. Cord – this is one of those questions where you could ask 10 different people which is best and the answers will be 50/50, but since I’ve used both (with both dogs) I can tell you it does make a difference depending on the size of your dog.

Corded Leash
The corded leash has been around quite some time and is the initial design with retractable leashes. It uses a nylon rope which is tied in a knot and wrapped around a spool within the leash case, the opposite end having a clip of some sort attached to it. The size of the rope is typically different depending on the ‘strength’ rating you need for the size of your dog; bigger dogs need stronger rope.

• Pros – The corded leash works great and doesn’t get crimped or tangled while wrapping up inside the spool. It’s very strong and can resist rubbing against things like walls, tree branches and rocks. Smaller, corded leashes are also a little less weight than small belted leashes, but that changes when you start getting to bigger units.

• Cons – I can really only think of two; 1) as I mentioned above the end is typically tied in a knot … and this is done by some person in some factory. While some companies add an epoxy or glue to keep the knot from coming loose, I have had it happen once. And 2) with active dogs, this rope is notorious for causing burns or cuts if the dog starts running around you (or someone else).

Belted Leash
Because of the potential of corded leash cuts, manufacturers needed to find an alternative design to help alleviate this problem while still keeping the leash as strong as possible; thus the belted leash was born. Also known as a tape leash, the design is similar to a corded leash but instead uses a thin, nylon ‘belt’. It is wrapped around the spool, attaching in a variety of ways; pinched, sewn, crimped and, in some odd cases, stapled. Yes, I did say stapled.

• Pros – The belted leash is a bit easier on the body parts if you should get tangled up in them. The flat belt will rub against your skin and could cause a burn but reduces the chance of a cut. The belt itself is amazingly strong and can also resist rubbing against rocks, trees, etc. In some cases (especially with larger versions), the belted version can be a little lighter than it’s larger-breed corded version. This is key if you’re going to be going on long walks with your 100lb+ household horse.

• Cons – The only downside to the belted leash is the fact that it can sometimes twist and tangle inside the housing, causing it to stick and not retract. This, however, really only happens with cheaper versions. Suggested leashes, like the Flexi Explore Retractable Belt Dog Leash, has a unique anti-flip belt opening that actually works.

Which One is Best?
This, of course, is really up to you, but in my professional dog-walking opinion (with my dogs, not yours), I would suggest a belted leash for all occasions. The only time I might suggest a corded leash is if you have a small dog where it’s weight won’t be an issue if it starts running around the neighbors legs or an older dog that, well, doesn’t really run around at all. But I have to say, whichever one you go with, get a quality leash. Remember, you get what you pay for and if you get a cheap Walmart special, expect it to have issues sooner than later. This is your dog and, to some, a family member. You’ll spend a LOT of money on a proper carseat for you child, why not spend a little extra on a safety device for your pet?