<p>Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are recognized as a promising material for the prevention of corrosion in metals and their alloys due to their unique structure, composition, controllability and anion exchange properties. However, traditional LDHs can only serve as a physical barrier for short-term protection. To provide additional intelligent self-healing functions, LDHs loaded with corrosion inhibitors have been developed to enhance the protective ability of the coating and improve the durability of the metal matrix. Despite this progress, there is currently a lack of a complete review summarizing the status of different types of LDHs nanocontainers and control of corrosion inhibitor release behavior. This paper reviews recent advancements in metal corrosion protection using LDHs loaded with corrosion inhibitors, including the preparation process and anti-corrosion mechanism of LDHs loaded with corrosion inhibitors. Additionally, factors affecting the release behavior of corrosion inhibitors are analyzed, and existing problems and future development trends are proposed and discussed.</p>