The invention relates to a winding device for an animal leash, in particular a dog leash (3), comprising a housing (1) which houses the leash and has an extension limiter and a retaining ring (4) having an engagement opening (5), the retaining ring having a pivotable retaining ring clip (4a) which is connected by means of a pivot joint (6) to the housing (1) such that in the unpivoted position of the retaining ring clip together with the housing (1) the retaining ring clip closes the engagement opening (5) of the retaining ring (4) and in the pivoted position of the retaining ring clip, the retaining ring clip exposes the engagement opening (5) of the retaining ring (4). In order to be able to use such a winding device in a simple manner to secure a dog in a motor vehicle in compliance with safety regulations, according to the invention, a locking tab (11) is arranged on the retaining ring clip (4a) at the end thereof facing away from the pivot joint or alternatively on the retaining ring (4) at the end thereof facing the retaining ring clip (4a) and, when the retaining ring (4) is open, can be inserted into a motor vehicle belt lock.
