How to Make a Paracord Dog Leash

With all of the uses and benefits paracord can offer at home and in the wild, it only makes sense that it makes a great rope for a DIY rope dog leash as well!

Today, we will explain what paracord is and the easiest way of how to make a paracord dog leash for your four-legged friend. We will also share some other great rope options you can use for creating DIY rope dog leashes for small and large dogs Let’s dive in!

What is Paracord?

Paracord is a water, mildew, and abrasion-resistant rope historically known for its use as a wartime tactical supply during World War II. Paratroopers would use this parachute (para) cord for dozens of things, including parachute cord for parachuting out of planes, and once on land, to secure camo nets, create pace counters, or tie rucksacks.

Today, paracord is used in various survival and tactical settings, and at home for crafting and making DIY rope dog leashes! In fact, there might be more Reasons Why You Need Paracord than not!

Types of Paracord

Paracord is categorized by both breaking strength, stretch, and minimum length per cord pound. There are six paracord types, but the most commonly used paracord ropes are the following three:

• Type I Paracord: Minimum breaking strength is 95 pounds, ideal for household use.
• Type III (Paracord 550): Minimum breaking strength is 550 pounds, most commonly used for crafting and survivalist needs. RopeHub also carries a Reflective Type III Paracord ideal for increased visibility and safety! Therefore, this all-purpose cord is what we recommend for your paracord dog leash DIY!
• Type IV Paracord (paracord 750): Minimum breaking strength is 750 pounds, and it is the best choice for survivalists and outdoor adventurers in need of a heavy-duty, reliable rope.

How to Make a Dog Leash out of Paracord

1. Determine How Much Paracord You Need

Use the material list for the exact braid pattern you intend to follow. The cord needed depends on the number of strands, braid, finished length, handle and attachment method, so a single multiplier should not be used for every leash.

Before cutting, confirm the pattern's cord allowance and leave room for its specified finishing method. The photo tutorial referenced below provides the original project's context; confirm its requirements rather than treating the former examples as a universal cutting guide.

2. Gather Your Supplies

When it comes to making your paracord dog leash, you will need the following materials:

• Paracord 550 or rope material of choice in one or two colors of equal length
• A snap hook for attaching the leash to the new collar
• Scissors
• Paperclip or lacing needle
• Lighter
• Tape Measure

3. Get to Work!

Follow along with our 6-step process outlined below for how to make a DIY rope dog leash out of paracord:

Step #1: Starting with your snap hook and folded paracord, double up the two sets of paracord strands and attach to the snap latch with lark’s head knots.

Step #2: Start creating a four-strand braid, tying the braid until 10” of loose paracord is left.

Step #3: Fold the remaining 10” of paracord around to the main body of the leash, leaving a loop big enough to fit around your hand comfortably.

Step #4: With a flat, straight paperclip or lacing needle, begin weaving the loose paracord back into the leash three or four times.

Step #5: Trimming the excess paracord and melt the excess paracord pieces into place with the lighter.

Step #6: Voila! Take your dog for a walk with their new paracord dog leash!

*For helpful photos to walk you through the leash-making process, visit Four Oaks Crafts!

Choose materials for your pattern

Browse Type III 550 Paracord for current color and length options. Match the cord and hardware to a tested pattern and your intended use.

A cord's advertised breaking strength is not the working-load rating of a finished leash. Knots, braids, hardware, wear and assembly affect the finished item; inspect it before use and do not use an untested DIY assembly when failure could cause injury.

If you need help comparing available materials, contact RopeHub. We can help with product selection, but this guide does not certify a completed leash.

More knot and cord projects

Explore our knot tutorials and RopeHub guides for more project ideas. Check the materials and instructions for each project before starting.