Just Say No to Retractable Leashes!

It’s no secret that I’m not a fan of retractable leashes.  I understand why they are used and were initially thought of as the latest and greatest leash option.  My dislike:

• Lack of control
• Actually, that’s no control for most of those on the opposite end of the leash
• Your dog thinks it’s large and in charge
• The dog that your friendly fido is approaching isn’t thrilled with the retractable leash continually extending as an uncontrolled dog is barking and running toward them.  (Add to that fido’s human yelling above the barking that their dog is friendly   =)

The retractable leash is ok if you are taking your dog out for a potty break and want to give it space to sniff around without letting it off leash.  Beyond that, unless it is kept retracted, I don’t recommend this leash for training or when control is needed.