Wheelchair-friendly leash systems

BLD’s exclusive Wheelchair Leashes have been developed for people that have quadriplegia, those with limited strength, limited hand dexterity and/or arm movement, and anyone who simply needs a user-friendly option that is convenient to use with a wheelchair. Designed to work with our specially designed Leash Hook Attachment, these Wheelchair Leashes can have multiple positions for different tasks and activities.

• The first and only dog leash specifically designed for wheelchair users 
• Hands-free leash attaches to the wheelchair with a special hook
• Tangle-free design prevent snags and hang-ups
• Available in premium leather or Brahma soft-grip material all with high quality, durable hardware
• Satisfaction guarantee and a LIFETIME WARRANTY
• see PDF: Complete Wheelchair Leash Info Packet 

There are three design options. Click the tabs above to see details of each design, sizing, material options, and other details. 

Consider downloading and printing out the Complete Wheelchair Leash Info Packet to review at your leisure. This document includes everything you need to know.

All wheelchair leashes are adjustable! We use a special adjustment called a Conway buckle to provide several inches of adjustment at the “dog end” of the leash. This provides approximately five to ten inches of length adjustment, depending on the leash style.

#1 Standard Quad WC Leash

#1 Standard Quad WC Leash

This is the most common leash we’ve made for our clients with quadriplegia, so we’ve made it one of our standard options. The Standard Quad Wheelchair Leash has two positions: long and short. Large rings are strategically placed to connect the leash onto the Wheelchair Hook Attachment.

The leash features a regular leash handle to make it easy to use as a regular leash. The O-ring on the handle drops onto the hook to attach the leash to the wheelchair. This long position is a good length for the dog to maneuver around the wheelchair.

What makes this leash special is the big ring used to shorten the leash – to bring the dog in close next to the wheelchair. A large Double-Ring sticks out away from the leash so it’s easy to target onto the hook.

The dog-end of this leash adjusts from 16-24″ (40-61 cm) in length for keeping the dog at a close working position. It’s adjustable so you can make it exactly the right length to prevent the leash from getting caught or tangled in the wheels while allowing the dog to move with and lay down next to the wheelchair.

Available in 2 overall lengths:

• 40 inch Standard Quad Wheelchair Leash (101 cm): The handle section is 16″ (41 cm) from the handle ring to the Double-Ring, with the dog end of the leash at 16-24″ (40-61 cm).
• 48 inch Standard Quad Wheelchair Leash (122 cm): The handle section is 24″ (61 cm) from the handle ring to Double-Ring, with the dog end of the leash at 16-24″ (40-61 cm).

How to use the Standard Wheelchair Leash:

1. Drop the handle ring onto the Wheelchair Hook to attach the leash to the wheelchair. This will be the longest position.
2. To shorten the leash, drop the double-ring onto the Wheelchair Hook (over the first ring).
3. To lengthen the leash again (to open a door, go through a doorway or retrieve an object, for example) simply lift the double-ring off the hook to lengthen the leash.
4. Use it as an ordinary leash by taking it off the hook.

#2 Trainer's WC Leash

#2 Trainer's WC Leash

This two-position leash is specifically designed to be used by trainers who work with multiple client/dog teams. The Trainer’s Wheelchair Leash is similar to Option #1 in length but has a fully-adjustable large O-Ring that can be positioned at any length along the leash for the short position when dropped onto the Wheelchair Hook Attachment.

The adjustable ring is handy when you switch it to another wheelchair that requires a different leash length for the dog to work close. This leash can also help you determine which leash length or options will work best for the client, so they can later order their own leash that fits their needs.

The leash is 4 feet long (48 in./122 cm) and has our classic Conway adjustment buckle at the “dog end” of the leash to shorten the overall length up to 8 inches. To adjust the close position on the leash, simply slide the ring to the right position. Leash is used the same way as the Standard Wheelchair Leash.

ONLY recommended for training applications, as the ring is not fixed, and is not designed to hold a specific position over a long period of time.

#3 JJ Special WC Leash

#3 JJ Special WC Leash

**highly recommended!**

Originally custom-made for a client, this leash with three adjustable positions is quickly becoming a customer favorite. The JJ Special is designed to be compatible with most wheelchairs (manual or motorized) to allow for a short, medium, and long length. Three adjustable sections of leash are connected with O-rings which drop onto our specially designed Wheelchair Hook. This leash ends in an O-ring—a separate Traffic Lead handle can be clipped onto the O-ring to use as a regular leash if desired.

Each section adjusts 16-24” (40–61cm) in length so you can make each section the length you need to be safe for you and your dog. In the short position, the leash will allow your dog to work close to the chair without excess slack in the leash to get caught or tangled. The medium position may be perfect to allow the dog to get behind the wheelchair to go through a doorway, to move in front of the wheelchair, or to lay under a table. At full length, the leash has plenty of room for retrieving or relieving. The overall length of leash is 4-6 feet (122-183 cm) depending on how each section is adjusted. You’ll make a one-time adjustment to each section so that the dog can perform their work without getting the leash tangled or caught in the wheels.

Assistance from a friend may be required to make the original adjustments.

 How to use the JJ Special:

1. First, drop the giant O-ring at the handler end of the leash onto the Wheelchair Hook. This creates the long position.
2. Next, drop the giant O-ring in the middle of the leash onto the Wheelchair Hook to use the medium leash position.
3. For the short position, drop the third giant O-ring onto the hook. The leash is now looped up onto the hook to prevent the excess leash from dragging or snagging on objects or wheels.
4. To return to a longer length, simply lift one or two rings off the hook.
5. If desired, clip on a separate traffic lead handle to use as a regular leash.

Sizing & Measurement

How to determine the leash length:

To determine the length for your leash, it’s always best to measure real-life scenarios with your wheelchair and dog. These measuring instructions will guide you, and you can find measuring videos on our website. You may need a friend to assist for accurate measurements.

Wheelchair Leash for use with Hook Attachment: Measuring Instructions

1)   Determine a point where you want the leash to attach to the wheelchair. Choose a location that is within reach of the user and that is structurally sound so not to damage any part of the mobility device.

2)   Attach an ordinary old leash on the dog’s collar or harness.

3)   Hold the leash or loosely wrap the leash around the previously determined point on the wheelchair so you can accurately see how the leash will work in each length position on our wheelchair leashes.

4)   Now, have the dog perform some ordinary tasks. Be sure the leash is short enough to prevent the lead from becoming trapped in the wheel and/or motor, yet long just enough for the dog to comfortably maneuver and perform the tasks.

A) First, ask for tasks that keep the dog close to the wheelchair. Examples: have your dog lie down, sit and walk next to the wheelchair. Remember the leash will have several inches of length adjustment.

B) If you are ordering a leash with 2 positions: have the dog perform tasks that require slightly longer leash. IE: getting in front of or behind the chair to go through a doorway; laying down under a table; retrieving a dropped object that is relatively close.

C) If you are ordering a leash with 3 positions: have the dog do tasks on a longer leash. IE: open a door; retrieve an object a bit further away; relieve, take a break, etc.

5)   For each task position, measure the old leash from the attachment point on the wheelchair to the dog’s collar (or harness).

6)   Repeat each task and measure a few times to yield the most accurate results.

Material & Hardware Options

Hardware:

We use only the highest quality hardware—most of our hardware is stainless steel or solid brass for durability and longevity. Stainless steel bolt snaps are standard on all of our wheelchair leashes. Other leash snaps are available by special request, please see page 22 of the info packet.

Leash width:

Medium half-inch width (12.7 mm) is recommended for most dogs and people as it’s sturdy for any size dog, yet not too heavy

Leather: Constructed with sturdy, elegant braids

• Medium 1/2 inch (12.7 mm)—Medium half-inch width (12.7 mm) is recommended for most dogs and people as it’s sturdy for any size dog, yet not too heavy

• Large 5/8 inch (14 mm)—A substantial leash that’s not too bulky, large hardware

Brahma: Constructed with screw posts

• Medium 1/2 inch (12.7 mm)—Medium half-inch width (12.7 mm) is recommended for most dogs and people as it’s sturdy for any size dog, yet not too heavy
• XL ¾” (19 mm)—A heavy leash with XL sized hardware, only for large to giant dogs

These products are intended for use with fully trained service dogs/assistance dogs/pet dogs that have excellent leash manners. We’ve designed all of our Wheelchair Leash options to manually detach from the wheelchair in the event of an emergency situation. Why? Because it’s simply a smart idea!

Only you can determine if letting go of the leash and attaching it to your wheelchair is the right choice for you and your dog.

Attached leashes (fastened to a person, wheelchair, or another mobility device) are not safe for all dogs and/or users of wheelchair/mobility devices. Please choose your equipment wisely and use it responsibly.

Do not use wheelchair leashes with an untrained dog. Not for dogs that pull on the leash. Wheelchair leashes must NOT be used with dogs that lunge or are difficult to control, as this could be very dangerous. Additionally, DO NOT USE FOR PULLING A WHEELCHAIR.

Please note: If your strength or dexterity is limited, you may need assistance from a friend to install the wheelchair attachment and make the initial adjustment to the leash. Once attached and adjusted, the leash will remain at the desired length and is easy to connect to and remove from the wheelchair.

Welcome to the first and only custom-made dog leashes specifically designed for wheelchair users! 

These accessible wheelchair-friendly leashes are designed to prevent the leash from getting caught in the wheels, and to allow people with limited dexterity and strength to manage their own dog's leash.

Wheelchair leashes are a BLD specialty. We understand the unique needs of people who use wheelchairs and specialize in finding accessible solutions for your dog leash requirements. Because each person, wheelchair, and dog are different, custom wheelchair leashes ensure you get the right equipment to make life with dogs more convenient and safe!

This leash design is created especially for people with low dexterity and strength, including for people with quadriplegia. Nicknamed "the quad lead," this style of leash attaches to the wheelchair via our Wheelchair Hook Attachment. 

Quad leads can be a single length, or multiple lengths for various tasks and activities. Every wheelchair leash we made has a an adjustable length at the dog-end of the leash because an inch or two can make the difference for whether the leash get's caught up in the wheels. 

Features and Benefits of Custom Wheelchair Leashes

• Hands-free leashes that attach to the wheelchair
• Tangle-free designs prevent snags and hang-ups
• Options available for people with limited strength, low dexterity, quadriplegia, etc.
• Available in premium leather or Brahma soft-grip material
• High quality, durable hardware
• Satisfaction guarantee and a LIFETIME WARRANTY

Click here to access the Wheelchair Leash Information Booklet. This PDF will show and explain all of the options available. 

Warranty and info about our leather and width/size can be found below.

All the Details

There are a lot of things to consider when ordering a custom wheelchair leash. We have created an info booklet to guide you through the options. 

Click here to access the Wheelchair Leash Information Booklet. This PDF can be printed out to read at your leisure.

Questions? Contact us. We’ll make suggestions based on our experience so you can get just what you need! We recommend reading through the information first so we can answer your questions and help you make an informed choice.

Videos

Safety Notes

These products are intended for use with fully trained service dogs/assistance dogs/pet dogs that have excellent leash manners. We’ve designed all of our Wheelchair Leash options to manually detach from the wheelchair in the event of an emergency situation. Why? Because it’s simply a smart idea!

Only you can determine if letting go of the leash and attaching it to your wheelchair is the right choice for you and your dog.

Attached leashes (fastened to a person, wheelchair, or another mobility device) are not safe for all dogs and/or users of wheelchair/mobility devices. Please choose your equipment wisely and use it responsibly.

Do not use wheelchair leashes with an untrained dog. Not for dogs that pull on the leash. Wheelchair leashes must NOT be used with dogs that lunge or are difficult to control, as this could be very dangerous. Additionally, DO NOT USE FOR PULLING A WHEELCHAIR.

Please note: If your strength or dexterity is limited, you may need assistance from a friend to install the wheelchair attachment and make the initial adjustment to the leash. Once attached and adjusted, the leash will remain at the desired length and is easy to connect to and remove from the wheelchair.

Do you struggle to keep your dog’s leash from getting tangled in your wheelchair? Is holding the leash difficult, or not even an option? BLD’s Wheelchair Leashes and specially designed attachments might be the answer you have been looking for.

The Quick-Release Wheelchair Leash System is a short, single-length leash that can quickly be attached or detached from a wheelchair. The leash clicks on and off of your wheelchair with an easy to use quick-release buckle or special shackle snap. Add the optional handle, and it can be used as an ordinary leash. A belt loop is also available for those that wish to attach the leash to their belt.

The QR Wheelchair Leash System is modular so you can combine the parts to meet your needs. Parts include:

1. Detachable Leash
2. Chair Attachment
3. Optional separate Handle and/or Belt Loop

Info about warranty, leather and width/size can be found below

Detachable Leash:

One end of the Detachable Leash has a regular leash snap to attach to the dog’s collar or harness. The other end is made to connect to the chair attachment you choose. 

The leash can be made in your choice of material, color, width, and length.

The secret to a safe Wheelchair Leash is selecting the right length! Please measure for the length you’ll need. The listed leash length is the overall size of the leash when attached to the wheelchair, which includes the chair attachment. It is adjustable by several inches and can be fine-tuned once attached to the wheelchair and the dog (Initial adjustment may require a helper).

All hardware comes standard in stainless steel/chrome (silver finish). *Not all components are available in brass/gold color.

Part #2: Wheelchair Attachment

Wheelchair Attachment:

The WHEELCHAIR ATTACHMENT mounts to the wheelchair. Easy to install on any part of the chair’s frame, tubing or armrest with a simple yet sturdy Velcro wrap. Chair attachments include a swivel to prevent tangling and can be made in either of the two styles, explained below. Chrome/silver hardware is standard.

• Standard Quick-Release buckle (standard QR) is a metal side-release buckle – just pinch the sides of the buckle to release. The male end of the buckle is on the chair attachment. Brass/gold hardware is available by request. *Note: swivel is only available in silver.
• Shackle Snap ($) is a sturdy and secure panic snap that releases instantly by pulling the tab, even under load. The stainless steel shackle is on the chair attachment. The leash will be made with an O-ring to clip into the shackle. The Shackle option requires more dexterity to attach the leash than the standard option, however, it releases in an instant by a hard tug on the release tab. Many clients choose this option if an assistant helps with leashing up the dog.

Part #3: Handle and/or Belt Loop

Optional Separate Handle and/or Belt Loop: 

• 12” Traffic Lead Handle ($): To use as an ordinary leash when detached from the wheelchair, simply add a 12” Traffic Lead Handle. The handle is a simple loop with a leash snap that clips onto the ring included at the end of the detachable leash. The Traffic Lead Handle will be made to match the color and width of the leash.
• Belt Loop Attachment ($): If you wish to be able to wear the leash hands-free while standing or walking, the Belt Loop allows you to connect the leash to your belt.

Videos

How to install a Quick Release Wheelchair Lead

(standard side release buckle shown)

Measuring

Measuring instructions for Quick-Release WC Leash:

1. Determine where you want the leash to attach to the wheelchair. Choose a location that is within reach of the user and that is structurally sound so as not to damage or interfere with any part of the mobility device.
2. Attach an ordinary old leash on the dog’s collar or harness.
3. Hold the leash or loosely wrap the leash around the determined attachment point on the wheelchair, at a length that is comfortable for the dog to stand, walk, and sit next to the wheelchair.
4. Be sure the leash is short enough to prevent the lead from becoming trapped in the wheels and/or motor, yet long enough for the dog to comfortably get behind or in front of the chair to go through a doorway and common tasks.
5. Measure the old leash from the attachment point on the wheelchair to the dog’s collar or harness.
6. Select the leash length that best fits your measurement. If borderline, select the larger size.

Material & Hardware Options

Hardware:

We use only the highest quality hardware—most of our hardware is stainless steel or solid brass for durability and longevity. Stainless steel bolt snaps and premium metal hardware are standard on all of our wheelchair leashes. 

Other leash snaps or a built-in collar are available by special request.

Premium Leather:

Our leathers are incredibly durable, yet flexible. We use thinner leather for these leashes to keep them lightweight. Choose from two widths:

• Regular half-inch wide (12.7 mm) is recommended for most dogs and people as it’s sturdy for any size dog, yet not too heavy.
• If you like a wider, heavier leash and larger hardware, select the wider 5/8″ (or 3/4″ option in Brahma).

Brahma Soft-Grip—a vegan leather alternative:

Brahma Soft-Grip is constructed with webbing on the inside and a durable, non-tacky PVC coating on the outside. Easy to care for: just wipe clean with soap and water. Assembled with screw posts for durability. This material is heavier than leather (in a comparable width), and does not soften over time the way leather does. Black is the most popular color for wheelchair leashes, but assorted bright and classic colors are also available. 

• Regular half-inch wide (12.7 mm) is recommended for most dogs and people as it’s sturdy for any size dog. Brahma is heavier than leather.
• If you like a wider, heavier leash and larger hardware, select the wider 3/4″ option in Brahma.

Available Brahma Colors:

• BLACK- most popular
• COBALT BLUE
• BRIGHT MINT GREEN
• BRIGHT PINK
• HUNTER ORANGE (high visibility)
• PURPLE
• TEAL

Regular half-inch wide (12.7 mm) is recommended for most dogs and people as it’s sturdy for any size dog, yet not too heavy.

If you like a wider, heavier leash and larger hardware, select the wider 5/8″ (or 3/4″ option in Brahma).

These products are intended for use with fully trained service dogs/assistance dogs/pet dogs that have excellent leash manners. We’ve designed all of our Wheelchair Leash options to manually detach from the wheelchair in the event of an emergency situation.

Only you can determine if letting go of the leash and attaching it to your wheelchair is the right choice for you and your dog. Please choose your equipment wisely and use responsibly.

Attached leashes (fastened to a person, wheelchair, or another mobility device) are not safe for all dogs and/or users of wheelchair/mobility devices. 

Do not use wheelchair leashes with an untrained dog. Not for dogs that pull on the leash. Wheelchair leashes must NOT be used with dogs that lunge or are difficult to control, as this could be very dangerous. Additionally, DO NOT USE FOR PULLING A WHEELCHAIR.

Please note: If your strength or dexterity is limited, you may need assistance from a friend to install the wheelchair attachment and make the initial adjustment to the leash. Once attached and adjusted, the leash will remain at the desired length and is easy to connect to and remove from the wheelchair. The attachment stays on the wheelchair when the leash is not in use.

BLD’s exclusive wheelchair Leash Hook Attachment is designed to work on nearly any type of wheelchair (power or manual) to conveniently hold a leash.

The Leash Hook Attachment is designed for people with quadriplegia, those with very limited hand and arm movement, or for anyone who needs a convenient, hands-free way to manage their leash with their wheelchair. This special hook is designed to be used with our Wheelchair Leashes, but can be used with your own leash.*

This is the hook attachment only (leash not included). Save $5 EACH when you buy two or more! 

BLD’s Leash Hook Attachment is handmade in Colorado using a specially fabricated hook mounted to a stainless steel plate that is securely fastened to a sturdy nylon webbing and Velcro wrap. The inside of the attachment is lined with gripping material to keep it in place. A separate piece of grippy material is also included to add extra holding power or diameter to the tubing if needed.

The Hook itself is designed to pivot with the gravity of the leash so the leash does not come off accidentally, but can be lifted off at any time.

Easy to install with no tools required!

We’ve made the attachment as easy to mount to the wheelchair as we can, although some clients may need a friend to help with the initial installation.

The Leash Hook Attachment wraps around a part of the wheelchair with Velcro.  It can be mounted to the tubing, frame, or around the armrest of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. Velcro doubles back onto the wrap to create a strong and secure mount.

When selecting the location to attach the hook, be sure to choose a part that is structurally sound, appropriately sturdy, will not interfere with the function of the device, and within easy reach of the user. Also, be sure the chosen location will not cause damage to the wheelchair should the leash be pulled or get caught on something. If using around a wide part of the wheelchair, such as an armrest, the Extender Wrap will be required.

Ideas to consider:

Using more than one scooter/wheelchair? Consider ordering a hook for each mobility device.

Some clients prefer to use a two hook system. You may prefer to have a hook to connect the end of the leash and a second hook to hold the rings that shorten the leash. This prevents accidentally removing the whole leash when lengthening the leash.

Sizing & Measuring

Measuring:

Measure the circumference around where you want to attach the hook. Select the orientation to match the part of the wheelchair you will attach it to (vertical or horizontal).

* Whatever leash you use, please be sure it is the right length; it should be minimal and short, without excess to drag or get caught on objects or in the wheels, and must have an O-ring to drop onto the hook. Please read the safety considerations in the Safety Note tab.

Sizing:

Standard Hook Attachment fits diameter of tube/frame up to 1.5″ (3.8 cm)
Circumference of up to 5″ (12.5 cm)

With extender wrap, Hook Attachment fits diameter up to 4″ (10 cm)
Circumference of up to 10″ (25 cm)

Wheelchair Leash Sizing:

Regular half-inch wide (12.7 mm) is recommended for most dogs and people as it’s sturdy for any size dog, yet not too heavy. If you like a wider, heavier leash and larger hardware, select the wider option. In leather, the wider option is 5/8″, and in Brahma it is 3/4.”

Safety Note

Safety Considerations:

These products are intended for use with fully trained service dogs/assistance dogs/pet dogs that have excellent leash manners. We’ve designed all of our Wheelchair Leash options to manually detach from the wheelchair in the event of an emergency situation. Why? Because it’s simply a smart idea!

Only you can determine if letting go of the leash and attaching it to your wheelchair is the right choice for you and your dog.

Attached leashes (fastened to a person, wheelchair, or other mobility device) are not safe for all dogs and/or users of wheelchair/mobility devices. Please choose your equipment wisely and use responsibly.

Do not use wheelchair leashes with an untrained dog. Not for dogs that pull on the leash. Wheelchair leashes must NOT be used with dogs that lunge or are difficult to control, as this could be very dangerous. Additionally, DO NOT USE FOR PULLING A WHEELCHAIR.

Please note: If your strength or dexterity is limited, you may need assistance from a friend to install the wheelchair attachment and make the initial adjustment to the leash. Once attached and adjusted, the leash will remain at the desired length and is easy to connect to and remove from the wheelchair.

Warranty

We stand behind the quality of our products. Bold Lead Designs’ handcrafted leather & Brahma products that we make in our workshop are guaranteed against defects in materials and craftsmanship for life!

If your leather or Brahma leash, training equipment, or harness ever breaks or is damaged from regular use, simply contact Bold Lead Designs for a replacement or repair at no charge. There is no time limit. This is the best warranty in the industry.

Warranty is limited to replacement or repair of covered product only, and does not cover things outside of our control such as chewing, neglect, misuse, normal wear, external trauma or damage from an accident, or customer alterations. Customer is responsible for all related shipping costs.

FYI: Even if the item is not covered it often can be made functional again with a repair for a reasonable cost.

Exclusions: Items we don’t make in our workshop, such as accessories and consumable items, and items made of cloth/fabric are excluded. Non-leather and non-Brahma items, bldBASICS, any item sold  "as-is", used, on clearance, that is imperfect and any item marked with a star is excluded from this warranty or guarantee. Some customized options may be excluded from warranty; such excluded items will be sold with information indicating a warranty is not included.