Introduction

Should I buy a retractable dog leash for my dog?

Being a dog owner comes with many activities and responsibilities. Dog walking and training are some of them. When you take your furry friend out for a stroll or evening jog, a proper leash is what you need.

Puppies grow to be adult dogs over time, and it is vital to get the right leash for every stage of their growth. Make frequent checks on the collars fit. To make your dog safe, confirm if you can slip two fingers underneath the collar comfortably. Leashes give you the much-needed guidance for a comfortable walking pace so that your steps match those of your dog. Apart from that, straps aid in stopping dogs frightening other people, running in traffic, chasing other animals and relieving themselves in inappropriate places.

Leashes come in different materials and types which make the decision of choosing the right one overwhelming. They include standard, adjustable, martingale and retractable leashes. Lately, retractable dog leashes have risen in popularity which has subsequently led to unending debates whether they are appropriate or not. This article will focus on retractable dog leashes.

Retractable leashes are adjustable to allow your dogs to decide how closely they will be behind you during a walk. They enable the dog to walk you by controlling the pace and environment. Their handles are designed to fit a human hand comfortably. A button controls cord length. There are new models in the market equipped with fancy features.

Tip: even the best quality leashes are prone to accidental damage or loss. Your puppy can chew up a rope during train. For this reason, I recommend having a backup strap in case such an incident happens.

Pros of Retractable Dog Leashes

1. The locking mechanism with a plastic handle enables varying degrees of length which allow your dog freedom of movement. They can explore new locations, smell interesting spots and run on ahead without you always stopping along the way.
2. They are suitable for training or practicing sessions. Look for a safe and isolated area for this. Use treats to make the process fun for the dog.
3. Your dog gets to enjoy more exercise. A retractable leash allows your puppy to walk faster or run while you follow them from behind. The distance allows the dogs to roam and “be dogs.”
4. Keeping on both your pace and your dog’s pace. By choosing to use a retractable leash, your dog will walk on their pace, and you can walk at yours too.
5. It gives shy puppies or puppies that are difficult to potty some privacy and distance from their owners to conduct their business.

Cons of Retractable Dog Leashes

1. They give the dog more than the specified distance from the dog owner which limits their control. A situation like this can quickly turn dangerous. The handles are also bulky and subject to being pulled out of the hand by the dog resulting in a runaway puppy.
2. They are difficult to reel in quickly which puts your dog at risk if in trouble as the reaction time is not enough. The distance from the dog owner given by the leash disallows safe control of dogs with reactivity disorders.
3. The use of retractable leashes is not allowed in some areas.
4. Possible strangulation because of excess lines and rope burns.
5. Unsuitable for dogs with reactivity which includes barking, growling, and bulging.
6. Like other retractable devices, retractable leashes can malfunction over time. They can either refuse to retract or extend.
7. Using retractable leashes on big and vigorous dogs is hard.
8. Dogs need lots of patience when undergoing training on how to use a retractable leash which can be both time and money consuming.

Conclusion

Leashes offer dog owners the luxury of controlling their dogs throughout the different training stages. They are a necessity or accessory as opposed to being optional. Because some states mandate the compulsory use of leashes in public places. You can buy them from online stores like eBay and Amazon, pet shelters, and pet stores. The choice of purchasing a retractable dog leash or not is up to you. Take off the leash when you are not training or supervising your puppy to avoid potential choking or worse. Different straps create different reactions and tensions from your dog. After going through the above pros and cons, I believe you will make an informed decision