Say No to Extension Dog Leashes

Retractable leashes have gained popularity among dog owners because they allow dogs to feel free while still adhering to leash laws. They have a thin cord or webbing wound around a spring-loaded device inside a plastic handle. Most retractable leashes have a button on the handle to stop the cord from extending. While many dog owners like to allow their dogs more freedom, there are some downsides to extension dog leashes.

Here are the top reasons to say no to extension leashes:

1. Retractable leashes are prone to breaking, especially with larger dogs. The cord or webbing can easily snap if your dog is moving quickly enough. 
2. The longer length can quickly get wrapped around your legs, causing tripping, cuts, and rope burns if pulled suddenly. 
3. Retractable leashes range in length from 10 to 26 feet. This distance can put your dog at risk as they move further and further away from you. At this distance, they can easily step in front of a car or come in contact with an aggressive or unfriendly dog.
4. The length of the leash makes it very challenging to quickly control your dog in an emergency situation. If your dog approaches an unfriendly dog and you are 26 feet away, it will be very challenging to get your dog away from the other dog.
5. Dogs can suffer from whip-lash when running to the end of the leash and coming to a sudden stop. This can cause neck wounds, chest injuries (if using a harness), and injuries to the spine.
6. The handles of retractable leashes are bulky and can easily be pulled out of your hand.
7. Believe it or not, the noise created by the retractable leash can scare many dogs. This can escalate quickly because the more your dog moves, the more noise the leash makes. This can create fear of the leash or going on walks.
8. Retractable leashes are prone to malfunction, either refusing to extend or retract over time.
9. If your dog is not trained to walk politely on a leash, you are encouraging them to walk freely. This retractable leash keeps tension on the collar or harness, encouraging pulling.
10. Other owners do not know how close your dog can get when walking on a retractable leash. This is especially problematic with reactive or aggressive dogs. Even if the other dog owner is being responsible with their dog, they do not know how close your dog can get to theirs, causing a lot of anxiety for everyone.

Professional dog trainers highly discourage retractable leashes because they can put you, your dog, and other dog owners in dangerous situations. Remember, you will likely encounter other people and dogs on your walk. Even if your dog is well-trained, another dog can easily change the environment and cause problems. The safest leash for your dog is a 6’ leather leash. This type of leash is soft for hands, does not cause rope burn when pulled, and keeps your dog close enough to keep them safe during your walks.