Top 3 reasons NOT to use a ​retractable leash!

The best way to use a retractable leash is to walk it over to the garbage and throw it away..! Yes, you read that correctly! 

1. There is very little to no control when using the retractable leash and it sends mixed messages.. the length of the leash comes is constantly changing and provides no continuity for the dog. 

2. Losing a dog while using this leash is a very common and preventable occurrence. The long length of feed of leash allows a dog to sprint forward with ample space before the lock catches. When they hit the end or when the owner locks it to to stop the dog, often so much speed and strength has built up it'll rip the handle mechanism right out of your hand. Not only does this cause the dog to get loose, but the heavy handle slams down behind the dog often freighting him thus making him run away faster. 

3. This type of leash is notorious for causing amputations and burns. Quick, sometimes unpredictable movements of a dog at the end go the long, fast moving, thin feed of leash often gets tangled around legs, arms, waists, necks and fingers of all people in its path. 

​Much better alternatives are a fixed four or six foot leash for regular walks and a long leash designed for dogs for hikes or field play!

                          Written by Jamie Ianello, IAABC-SBA