Your golden retriever deserves a leash that matches your gorgeous entryway, but custom designer leashes can run you up to $85. You’ve scrolled past the beautiful leather and rope leashes on Instagram that are simply out of your price range this month.
I have never been a big fan of store bought tote bags. They look like a second class citizen next to my carefully curated home decor. And when I go for my morning walks and Max sees a squirrel I want to have a bag that will look pretty good in the photos.
These 10 dog leash DIY designs cost under $15 each and are created in under 2 hours. Make a gorgeous custom leash and name for your next pup and keep her coat looking fabulous with homemade shampoo recipes that won’t strip her natural oils. These DIY dog leashes will quickly become your favorite home accessory to bring with you on your walks.
#1: Bright Pink Braided Rope Leash (Shock-Absorbing Comfort, Instantly Visible at Dusk)
If you are the owner of a dog who is attached at the hip with you, then you know how expensive dog leashes can be. The majority of people who own dogs opt to purchase expensive designer leashes that will only last for a few months. Instead, do your dog a favor and make this cute neon pink braided rope leash for only $12 in materials.
Eight feet of marine-grade climbing rope — one size large will work for dogs weighing 15 to 75 pounds — and one heavy-duty swivel clip, rated for 500 pounds, available at hardware stores for $4, make up your kit. The bright pink shows up from 50 feet away at twilight, making it more visible than the silvery reflective stuff that barely works when headlights catch it.
Cut your rope to be 6.5 feet long. Thread it through the ring on the swivel clip. Take back the other end 2 inches, and wrap tightly with waxed thread 15 times around both sections. For the handle, make a 6 inch loop at the other end. Braid the other three strands together for 4 inches at the handle end to make a padded grip. (It won’t burn your palm when you dog lunges after squirrels.) Seal the ends with a lighter for 3 seconds each to prevent unraveling.
Another fun function of having a rope on a harness, that I didn’t think about when I first started using a rope harness, is that the rope’s natural stretch absorbs shock that your Shepherd feels when they stop short at the end of their run. No more jerking forward on your shoulder when your dog hits the end of the run, and actually looking forward to taking your dog for a walk. Plus, this matches the aesthetic you’re building with your Best DIY Dog Collars: A Comprehensive Guide project from last month.
Just make sure to test your knots by hanging a 20-pound weight from the clip overnight. If the knot holds, it’ll safely handle your dog’s pulling power.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @woolandgrace
#2: Braided Paracord Leash with Neon Safety Stripe (No-Sew 30-Minute Project, Survives Any Adventure)
Did your neighbor ask where you got that new black and yellow leash you bought for your dog? Chances are when you told her “I made it in 30 minutes” she was shocked. This is a very easy paracord braided leash project which requires no sewing skills and just a pair of scissors, a lighter, and 35 feet of 550-grade paracord.
Cut 25 feet of black paracord and 10 feet of neon yellow paracord. Thread both paracords through a heavy-duty swivel clip rated for 500 pounds. The braided paracord makes a 6 foot leash that is 3/4 inch thick. This is a great length for medium to large dogs that like to pull.
Step 5: cobra weave. Start by threading the yellow cord around the black cord and then thread the right strand under the cord and then through the loop on the left side of the black cord. Repeat on the opposite side. Pull the knot fairly tight when finished. This should take around 15 minutes. Seal all the ends of the cord with a lighter flame for 3 seconds so that the ends do not fray.
The handle loop is made with a simple crown knot. Simply fold the last 8 inches back, weave the paracord through the loop twice, and pull snug. Because there are no stitches, there are no weak points to rip out. The paracord loop is comfortable to grip, even when wet. Nylon is slippery, and can be difficult to grip when hands are sweaty. Just like frozen dog treats keep your pup cool on hot days, this waterproof dog leash is perfect to use for rain, mud, or even beach trips.
We hiked 5 miles through creek crossings last weekend. I hauled the dog around on a leash and it dried completely on the front porch in 2 hours. I thought I’d share these dog chew treats for training. Let me know what you think!
Pro tip: Make an 18″ traffic handle using the same pattern, attach it 12 inches from the clip for crowd control at farmers markets.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @ydueeyeexist
#3: Twisted Cotton Rope Leash (Customizable Colors, Zero-Sew Construction)
“Your dog’s leash is so pretty!” This statement is becoming one that I am hearing more and more, and the response I get when they inquire where I bought it is always one of surprise. “I made it in 35 minutes” is usually the response I give when someone asks where I got my dog’s leash. The leash is made of a twisted cotton rope, and the knots are a simple knot instead of sewing, so this craft can be done with only the rope, a swivel clip, and a pair of hands.
For $6 you can buy 8 feet of 1/2-inch twisted cotton rope at any hardware store. Add a 300-pound-rated brass swivel clip (available online for $4). Available in navy and pink, this rope won’t look cheap like some you find at pet stores. Cut off 6.5 feet of rope, seal both ends of the rope with a lighter for about 3 seconds. Then thread the rope through the ring at the end of the swivel clip. Bring the rope back 3 inches, and tie a tight crown knot. Next, form the handle loop by tying the other end of the rope into a bowline knot. (YouTube how to tie a bowline once, and you’ll never forget it.) If you’re worried about the rope slipping out of your hand, wet it with water or spit and give it a good massage.
The twisted rope on the end keeps your palm from getting rope burn when walking your dog, so it’s much more comfortable on those 30 minute walks with my 60 pound Boxer. The rope will stop a dog going full speed at the end, and the knot won’t budge. If you are looking for more interesting projects, check out 10 Creative DIY Dog Bed Ideas for Your Furry Friend to make a matching bedroom for your pup. After muddy trail hikes, I just rinse the rope off with the hose and hang it on my coat hook to air-dry overnight.
Pro tip: I made three different colored leashes for only $20! And they are easy to change out…so I can make my pup’s leashes like I change out my throw pillows…now all she needs are some fluffy puppy throw pillows to match!
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @colorme.hippie
#4: Braided Paracord Leash with Bungee Handle (No-Sew 30-Minute Project, Stops Pulling Shock)
You will need 25 feet of 550 paracord, one swivel clip, two pink bungee grips, scissors, and a lighter. My dog used to jerk my shoulder when she would run at the squirrels in our yard, and this shock absorbing design changed everything.
Cut the paracord to 20 feet for the 6 foot long finished dog leash. Thread the paracord through the swivel clip but leave 10 feet on each side. Starting a four strand round braid, pulling tight every few inches. The bungee grip section will help absorb the pulling force. No more aching arm when walking the dog in the morning. End off with a cobra knot handle loop. Flame seal all the cut ends for 3 seconds.
i bought this bag from the store. its not bad looking and its pretty light. i gave it the orange and black tape treatment so it would really stand out 40 feet away when the sun is going down and everyone thinks im some pro who paid $45 for it online. all i did was take some old tape from camping trips and layed it across the bag and dragged it across the concrete floor 50 times. it looks new except for the slight fading on one of the grip sections.
She runs at the end of the cord at full speed after a rabbit, I never had a problem and did not break my wrist, because it seems that the bungee section stretched 3 inches, and the whole thing is rated for 550 pounds. If you want to build a bigger dog run, check out 17 Creative DIY Dog Run Ideas for Your Furry Friend for an ideas on the boundaries. swivel clip rotates smoothly after 4 months and never tangled.
Pro tip: Add a traffic handle 18 inches from the clip with a single cobra knot loop. Having a handle close to the clip is a good idea in tight spaces or crowded sidewalks. For perimeter training you might want to try 18 Creative DIY Dog Fence Ideas for Your Yard.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @biancajaneartist
#5: Hand-Braided Rope Leash with Swivel Clip (No-Sew Project, 30 Minutes)
My neighbor asks me where I bought the pretty leash every time she walks her dog. I smile, say “made it myself in half an hour”. The braided climbing rope catches the light in the most beautiful way and the brass swivel clip only cost me $4.50 at the hardware store.
I used 8 feet of 1/2 inch climbing rope (got mine at REI for $6). I also got one of those swivel clips rated for 400 pounds. I used a pair of scissors and a lighter. Cut the rope to 7 feet (it doesn’t have to be exact). Thread one end of the rope through the clip, then fold it back three inches. Wrap the rope tightly around the ring with the excess and make a fisherman’s knot. Light the ends of the rope with flame for two seconds to seal the ends so they don’t fray. Tie a 6 inch loop at the other end of the rope and seal the end with flame to make the handle. Use a fisherman’s knot wrapped around the rope 5 times to attach the handle.
the swivel on the lead doesn’t get twisted around so I don’t have to stop every 30 seconds to untwist it. easy to slide my wrist through that handle loop so I don’t drop it when my dog spots a squirrel and I need to grab my phone with both hands. the rope is water resistant so i hosed it down after walking in the mud three times and dried overnight on the hook.
Pair this with 13 Genius DIY Dog Stuff Every Pet Parent Needs to Try Today! to complete your homemade dog project. Match your dog’s leash to their collar color for the ultimate Instagram worthy look.
Pro tip: Make two identical leashes, in different lengths. 6 feet for walks in the neighborhood, 4 feet for downtown runs where your pup needs a little more control.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @cbknot
#6: Rainbow Ombré Rope Leash (Multi-Color Gradient, Everyday Adventures)
My neighbor stopped me on the sidewalk, for the third time this week, “Where did you buy that leash?” she asked. “No way you made that in 45 minutes!” she exclaimed. The rainbow gradient climbing rope is hot pink to purple to navy, I’m proud to say, and will cost you $12. I’m excited to turn our ordinary walks into Instagram-worthy events, while my dog gets a custom-fitted leash that actually works!
This design is 6 feet long. It is made of 5/8 inch marine-grade climbing rope rated for 600 pounds. Cut eight feet of rope, as you will need extra for the handle and hardware. Thread the rope through a swivel clip with a bronze finish, fold the rope back 3 inches, and wrap it tightly with the same thread color. Sew through the rope eight times in a box stitch. Create a 6-inch loop at the opposite end and sew through the rope in a box stitch. Seal the ends of the rope with a lighter flame for 2 seconds to prevent fraying. The swivel clip can rotate 360 degrees, so you can untangle it in one easy motion without stopping at every block.
The soft braided texture will not burn your palm when your dog sees a squirrel and lunges forward at full speed! Unlike webbed leads, rope distributes pressure on your hand. You can walk for 30 minutes without your hand cramping and your dog will be tired, happy and exhausted at the end of the day. The lead is waterproof and will rinse clean under the hose after a day at the park. It will dry completely overnight hanging on your coat hook.
Why not add a splash of color to your home with theses fun colorful leashes. I love how they look when hung on wall hooks instead of thrown in a drawer! If you’re building a custom pet space, make sure to check out 14 Creative DIY Elevated Dog Bed Ideas You’ll Love for fun matching furniture ideas or if you want to incorporate your pet’s space into your home’s decor, check out 16 Creative DIY Dog Crate Ideas for Pet Lovers.
Pro tip: Buy 50 feet of rope and make 3 leashes at once, spend $35 instead of $90 for 3 store bought leashes, plus you have a spare when the other gets “muddy beyond recognition”.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @colorme.hippie
#7: Dusty Rose Macramé Slip Lead (No-Collar Needed, One-Handed Control)
Your dog sees the hook for the leash and takes off for the door, before you’ve found his or her collar. With a slip lead design, the rope slides over his or her head in one motion, tightens gently behind the ears, and you’re out the door in 15 seconds.
You’ll need 8 feet of 1/2-inch cotton rope (great for dogs 15-60 pounds), one brass O-ring, and about 45 minutes. Cut your rope, thread one end through the O-ring to create a loop that can be adjusted in size, then work square knots down the 6 feet to make the handle section. The knot helps the rope from slipping through sweaty palms when you’re chasing that squirrel. Tie a hand loop at the end with some tight wrapping and fabric glue.
What is that? What is the slip mechanism? The slip mechanism is a collar that tightens up only when your dog pulls and lets go when your dog is walking by your side. So you will be able to give your dog gentle correction without choking your dog or having to readjust the collar all the time. This is just another way that you can create dog toys that are customized to fit your dog’s needs just like the following projects in the book 16 Creative DIY Dog Toys Your Pup Will Love.
The dusty rose color coordinates with the throw pillows on the bed and you can hang it on one of the hooks in the entryway and guests will think it’s your new décor. The cotton rope can be washed on the gentle cycle and air dried overnight. It’s so soft against my hands even after 200+ walks. If you’re looking for a project and are new to sewing, this one only takes half the time of 14 Easy DIY Dog House Ideas for Your Furry Friend!
Try this: . practice this technique 3 times before you take your dog for a walk so he doesnt get too excited when you try to do this at the door with a full blown tugging dog. http://youtu.be/3TkjSZrAIlM
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @ep_macrame
#8: Macramé Rope Leash with Tassel Handle (Boho Style Meets Bulletproof Strength)
Your neighbor has asked you where you bought your leash three times this week. She didn’t believe you that you made it in 45 minutes while watching Netflix. Made of braided cotton rope, this leash will surely start a conversation. It is strong enough to handle 70 pounds of pulling power!
You will also need 20 feet of 1/2 inch cotton rope (the softer kind, not the scratchy kind), one heavy duty swivel clip that can handle 300 pounds, scissors, and a lighter. Cut your rope to 8 feet. Thread it through the clip ring. Fold the rope back 3 inches. Wrap tightly with your remaining rope for 2 inches. The tight wrap will make a secure attachment point. Seal all the cut ends with the flame for 3 seconds so they do not become stringy and frayed.
I used the handle to create those pretty tassels on the ends! I braid three 6” sections of rope together, loop them together and wrap the base in a spiral with rope. This creates a soft grip that won’t burn my palm when he spots a rabbit and takes off down the sidewalk. The macramé design also absorbs shock better than flat webbing, so the handle isn’t as jarring on my shoulder when he greets me with his head. Just like with a recipe, sometimes it’s the little things that make or break a walk. Like picking out quality ingredients to make 12 Easy DIY Dog Treat Recipes Your Pup Will Love.
I wash it in the machine when it is muddy (gentle cycle, air dry). I have not washed my leash yet but it seems that it will get softer with each wash rather than stiffen up. (I’d probably wash it every once in a while anyways just to make it smell less doggy). One of my hiking friends told me her leash has gone through 30+ trail miles in the rain, dried overnight, and it still looks as though it was handmade/boutique.
Quick tip: I cut a length of ribbon just long enough to be placed under the handle 12 inches from the end (closest to the clip). I wrapped the same length of ribbon around my wrist 3 times and then under the first length of ribbon. Now when I am in a crowded area, I have a second handle to grab.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @jennylemons
#9: Braided Paracord Leash (No-Sew Rope Craft, Done in 45 Minutes)
My hands get sore after 20 minute walks. My dog pulls on the store bought leashes. This braided paracord leash is knotted instead of stitched so I don’t need to get out the sewing machine.
I always like to grab a 15 ft length of 550 paracord. It will handle 550 pounds of weight. They also have swivel clips that work great for storing your paracord. You can pick these up at your local hardware store. I use my sciccors to cut 3 5 foot pieces off of my 15 ft length of paracord. I thread all 3 pieces of my paracord through the ring of the swivel clip and fold back the ends 3 inches. I tie an overhand knot to secure them in place. Then I braid the 3 pieces of paracord tightly for 5 feet. I then cut off 8 inches of the braided paracord. I will loop the braided end into a handle and tie another over hand knot to secure the handle. Using a lighter I will seal the ends of all the cut ends of the paracord with a quick flame. That way the nylon won’t fray. So with all of that said and done it takes only 45 minutes for a beginner.
The cobra weave (shown in pink and teal) creates a cushioned grip without foam padding. You won’t have rope burn after an hour of walking your dog. Because it flexes around your hand, there is no cramping if your dog sees a squirrel and wants to veer off-course. The braided texture actually gets softer after 50 walks, yet the rope maintains full strength. Similar to other do-it-yourself dog products, it’s very affordable to customize (compared to store versions). Just like building your own dog run or dog house, you control the style.
Pick a paracord color that fits your aesthetic. I have a more earthy look that I gravitate toward (the hiking one or the neon ones) but this one is a bit more preppy with it’s navy and pink.
Pro tip: Have you ever made two leashes in one session? You will have a back-up when one is muddy from your trail adventures!
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @123paracord
#10: Braided Paracord Adventure Leash (Adjustable Multi-Position, Built for Your Strongest Puller)
Our 70-pound shepherd mix has decided that he likes to drag me across wet grass. The cheap pet store leash that he chewed through 2 weeks ago just frayed in another 3 spots. This design for a braided paracord leash can withstand a 500 pound pull and can be made for under $12 in materials and takes less than 45 minutes to make.
You will need 25 feet of 550 paracord in 2 different colors to create the stripe effect, 1 heavy-duty swivel clip (rated for large dogs), 2 metal O-rings, scissors and a lighter. Cut one 15 foot and one 10 foot piece of paracord. Thread both pieces of cord through the swivel clip and fold back 3 inches of the cord. Begin 4 strand braiding over under over under while tightening the braid every few inches. When you have braided 6 feet from the swivel clip slide both O-rings onto the working pieces of cord. The O-rings will allow you to clip the length for training (4 feet) or exploring (6 feet).
It has braided texture, giving him incredible grip even when soaking wet, which means no more rope burn when he lunges at squirrels. Unlike cotton rope that stays damp for hours, paracord dries in 20 minutes after rain. The adjustable clips can be used on busy sidewalks or let your dog run free in a park in 5 seconds. If you’re looking for some other ways to customize his space, check out these 12 Creative DIY Dog Gate Ideas for Your Home for some more handmade ideas. Pair this leash with another hardworking guy like these 13 Creative DIY Elevated Dog Bed Ideas for Your Furry Friend.
When you finish the handle loop you can fold the last 8 inches back on itself and wrap this with the excess paracord tightly for 2 inches. I sealed every cut end of the paracord with the lighter flame for 3 seconds to prevent unraveling. Clip this to something and pull hard on it to see if the hardware doesn’t budge and it feels like a thick climbing rope in your palm. If it passes the test then you’re ready to take it for a walk.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @gearoutside
Your Next DIY Dog Project Awaits
Here are some tips for making a custom dog leash that matches the vibe of your home. Don’t stop there! Check out these 14 Stylish DIY Dog Crate Furniture Ideas You’ll Love to keep the rest of your home in check too!
You crafty side needs a little outlet so why not try 7 Adorable DIY Dog Clothes Ideas to Try or even build 7 Creative DIY Outdoor Dog Kennel Ideas to build in your backyard.
Save your favorite design to use on your next craft day and your dog will have a new leash and you can brag to your friends.
Which one of these dog leashes will you make this weekend?
Amr Mohsen is a software engineer who traded his keyboard for a leash — at least on weekends. His love for dogs inspired him to share what he learns as a dog owner and enthusiast, bringing a detail-oriented, research-driven perspective to every article he writes. If it’s about dogs, he’s probably already looked it up twice.
