Retractable Dog Leash: Advantages And Disadvantages

There are many types of leashes on the market that suit your pet’s needs and anatomy. The growing popularity of the retractable leash may make you think this is the best option for your four-legged friend. But there are also a number of disadvantages that are likely to change your mind.

The “freedom” of the retractable leash

Conventional leashes, even just simple ropes with a knot at the end, can feel awkward and not very ergonomic to both the owner and the pet. The retractable leash design fits more in the owner’s hand and has a button to control its length.

If you have trained your dog correctly and believe that it will be able to resist any external stimulus, on the street or in the park, this solution is certainly adequate. The animal will know that it is being controlled but, at the same time, it will be able to move with greater autonomy.

The various types of retractable leashes can measure up to eight meters. They allow the dog to smell or explore the environment ‘freely’. For a large dog, these retractable leashes are usually not very comfortable, since the internal mechanism can be easily broken by sudden blows.

Risks of the retractable leash that few people know

The feeling of control and “false” freedom, which we talked about earlier, can lead to a series of consequences for the psycho-physical well-being of the dog. In the list below we have summarized all the possible problems that can be triggered by the use of this type of leash:

• A dog lacking basic self – control  is not suitable for this retractable leash. The eight meters of extension are excessive for an animal with an unpredictable temperament. You will not be able to avoid fights with other dogs, attacks on people and more.
• The type of cable can cause several problems. One of the most common is squeezing the owner’s legs or those of another person. You may lose your balance and fall to the ground. Being very hard and thin, it can also cause injuries to the hands and legs.
• It should not be used if the vane still does not obey your orders. For example, to the simple “Come back” or “Come here”. This type of leash will reduce your authority over the animal, triggering a kind of  tug-of-war that you won’t always be able to win.
• Being very thin, the cable runs the risk of not being seen. This can be dangerous for cyclists, motorcyclists or people who could trip over it. If, then, it gets entangled in the vegetation or on some sharp element, the leash will be useless and you will risk that the dog runs away, free.

• Retractable leashes depend on a plastic mechanism which is usually not very strong. The value for money may not be advantageous compared to that of more conventional leashes.

Alternatives to the retractable leash

Although traditional leashes may seem uncomfortable or even cruel to the animal, the main problem is that owners usually don’t train their dogs properly. They end up arguing with them over basic actions, such as keeping the dog at his side, forbidding him to put his nose in a certain place, and stopping a possible fight with another similar one.

As you have seen, however, there are many more disadvantages than pros to using this type of leash. Of course it is practical, modern, it has a less aggressive aspect, if you like. But it is important that the dog is always clear  who is in charge and that you can have direct control over him.

Depending on the size, age and type of temperament, the vet will surely be able to give you some good advice about the alternatives to the retractable leash. But, remember, without  proper upbringing and healthy training, there is no leash to hold.