Barkly Personal Alarm Dog Leash: Our Review
Published on October 30, 2025
When searching for quality pet gear, especially as a certified veterinary technician, I aim to choose companies or businesses that value safety, efficiency, and overall wellness of both the pet and pet parent. Recently, I was informed about The Barkly Leash and the fact that it is a personal alarm dog leash. The Barkly leash is not just a dog leash with a safety alarm, but also includes a strobe light to help deter potential assailants or gain attention of passerbys.
This was particularly of interest to me being that safety and security of both myself and my dog are a top priority, especially when out on walks alone. Barkly is a women-owned company that is blending a stylish leash with the modernization of carrying personal alarms and safety equipment, all in one item.
Barkly also was co-founded by a veterinarian, which gives me additional confidence that this product is well engineered and created to benefit those at both ends of the leash. When choosing the right leash, consider both your own comfort and your dog’s experience. The goal is to ensure every walk is enjoyable, safe, and stress-free so you can both make the most of your time together.
It is risky to wait until after a tragedy or dangerous event to revamp you and your pet’s safety routine; proactivity is key. This review will involve discussion of safety features, comfort/usability, dog reactions, and overall value of The Barkly Leash.
What is the Barkly Leash with Safety Alarm?
This personal alarm dog leash will not only safely keep your pup near you during outings, but will become a comforting safety tool to have on hand in the event of something dangerous.
The retractable, tangle-free tape leash is 14-feet in length with a quick lock mechanism, giving your dog measured doses of freedom as you allow, but keeping them easily at one length of the leash if the lock is engaged.
The included alarm is 130 decibels, sure to grab the attention of anyone up to 1800 feet away, and this in combination with LED strobe can also deter potential assailants from approaching.
The Barkly leash comes in various sizes (XS-L) so dogs from under 10 pounds up to 100 pounds can safely enjoy the benefit of this retractable dog with leash with safety alarm.
Batteries for the alarm are replaceable to continue to give you and your pup peace of mind with your walks for years to come. This modern-styled leash also has an ergonomic grip that can be used in either hand.
My Review of the Barkly Personal Alarm Dog Leash
Upon receipt of the Barkly personal alarm dog leash, I was immediately impressed. The outer packaging came in a lilac box matching the product, and the handle felt instantly comfortable in my grip. The thumb rests easily on the locking mechanism, not the alarm button, so it is not easy to mistakenly trip the alarm/strobe effect at unwanted times.
It is, however, designed for one-handed braking/locking the leash due to placement of the button. Even with physical disabilities limiting my hand’s movement and grip, I was able to comfortably use this product with only one hand. The product overall feels of substantial quality materials and craftsmanship, yet is not too heavy either.
The alarm is quickly accessible with one hand as well, and when the panic button is held down for two seconds both the strobe and alarm begin. The sound emitted is similar to that of a home alarm system and is sharp and rapid, creating a sense of urgency and quickly dissuading individuals from continuing a potentially dangerous approach as the LED strobe serves to support this.

When I utilized the alarm feature in trial, my dog was not scared, but actually grew more concerned about me and came back to my side to see what was going on. This was positive in my opinion, so that I know if we find ourselves in a potentially unsafe situation and I engage the alarm, my dog will return to me very quickly. Living in Florida, I’ve found that this leash holds up well against rain and mud, suggesting it would likely perform just as well in colder conditions.
The outer plastic can be wiped clean and the tape leash spot cleaned as needed.
Who Could Use This Dog Leash With Safety Alarm?
I believe the Barkly leash is a safe and effective option for the right dog. While the built-in alarm can serve as an excellent deterrent against potential threats, it could startle dogs with sound sensitivities, phobias, or lower confidence levels. However, the quick lock mechanism works smoothly, easily, and effectively, giving you control over how far your pup may roam in an instant.
The Barkly Personal Alarm Dog Leash is a thoughtful choice for pet parents who walk at night, go on solo walks, or live in rural or suburban areas. It offers an added layer of safety and peace of mind, without the need to juggle extra gear. While it may not be the best fit for very small dogs, strong pullers, or pups sensitive to sudden sounds, it’s a smart, well-designed option for most everyday walks.
How to Get Your Own Barkly Leash
The Barkly leash with built-in personal safety alarm is available through Barkly’s website and through Amazon. It is available for $49.99. This is a fair cost for the efficacy of the product, being that it combines a high quality retractable tape leash with multi-modal safety equipment all in one hand-held item.
Safety is harder to maintain when you’re juggling multiple devices. The leash simplifies that, and currently comes in lilac, black, and a neutral oat color.
Final Verdict
The Barkly leash stands out for its fresh, innovative design and thoughtful safety features, making it a smart choice for pet parents who prioritize security and style.
It’s best suited for confident dogs without sound sensitivities. Beyond its practicality, the Barkly leash also makes a unique and meaningful gift, especially for solo walkers who already have all the usual pet gear.
I plan to keep using mine on every walk to help protect both me and my dog on our daily adventures.