How one dog walk changed everything: The story of LEALE
We are LEALE, a Zurich-based company founded with a single purpose: to make life with dogs simpler, more stylish and more joyful through thoughtfully designed accessories. Our brand name comes from the Italian word leale, meaning “loyal” – a reflection of the bond we share with our pets.
Where it all began
The idea for LEALE was born on walks with Toni, our miniature bull terrier and Chief Cuteness Officer. What should have been moments of calm and connection often felt like a juggling act. Holding bags, an umbrella, or just trying to keep my hands warm in winter made me wish for a smarter solution – one that would allow me to attach the leash to my body and walk freely while keeping my dog safe. So I turned to hands-free leashes - but they were never quite right. They didn’t fit properly, weren’t adjustable enough, or lacked the elegance we wanted. Instead of compromising, we decided to design the leash we couldn’t find.
Image: Michael, LEALE's co-founder, with Toni, our Chief Cuteness Officer
Who we are
I’m Sara, a product manager turned founder. Together with my partner Michael, an R&D engineer with an eye for problem-solving, we began sketching, prototyping and rethinking what a leash could be. What started as frustration grew into our flagship and best-selling product: the Effortless Leash: a 3-in-1 design that adapts to every body and every walk. In May 2025, after a year of testing and refining, we officially launched our first collection. We manage the company end to end, from product design to logistics, out of our apartment in Seefeld, Zurich.
Image: Sara and Michael, the co-founders of LEALE.
Click here to read more on how we developed the Effortless Leash.
Beyond the leash
LEALE is still small and self-funded. As foreigners in Switzerland, we didn’t arrive with a ready-made network – but with determination and a vision. Every product we’ve created has been designed at our office table, refined through trial and error and brought to life with care and intention.
Quality and sustainability also guide our choices. Our leather is a natural byproduct, chosen for its durability and longevity, and we’re committed to replacing plastics wherever possible with sustainable alternatives.
Image: Our biodegradable mailer bags.
But LEALE is about more than materials. As a female-founded and female-led company, we want LEALE to stand as an example of empowerment, independence and inclusion.
Image: Sara on a Zurich old town walk with Yuuki, our dog model.
LEALE began with a simple question: what if everyday dog walks could feel easier, smarter and more beautiful? The answer is not just a product, it is a philosophy of human- and pet-centered design and creative problem-solving. For us, innovation means crafting tools that are intuitive, durable, and inclusive – while also bringing elegance into daily life.
At its heart, LEALE is about living beautifully with your pet and finding confidence in products that reflect both purpose and style.
