Many people use retractable leashes because they think it provides their dog more freedom to explore. However, many experts caution that retractable leashes actually create a safety hazard to both you and your dog. Reasons these leashes can pose a safety risk to humans and dogs include:
- The length of retractable leashes, some of which can extend up to 26 feet, allows dogs to get far enough away from their humans that a situation could turn dangerous. A dog could run into the street, make uninvited contact with other dogs or people, be approached by an aggressive dog, or approach a dog that is not comfortable with other dogs, and look aggressive approaching another dog. It can then be nearly impossible to get control of the situation with a thin cord on a retractable leash.
- The thin cord can break, especially when a powerful dog is on the other end. If a dog takes off at full speed, the cord can snap which puts the dog and whatever he is chasing in danger, and the cord can snap back and injure the human.
- If a human gets tangled up in the cord of a retractable leash, or grabs it in an attempt to reel in their dog, it can result in burns, cuts, and even amputation. In addition, many people have been pulled right off their feet by a dog that reaches the end of the leash and keeps on going.
- Dogs can receive injuries as a result of the sudden jerk on their neck that occurs when they run out the leash, including neck wounds, lacerated tracheas, and injuries to the spine.
Data collected by the Consumer Product Safety Commision in 2007 showed that 16,564 hospital-treated injuries associated with leashes were reported. Of those, about 10.5% involved children 10 and younger; and 23.5% involved injuries to the finger. While the data does not specify the type of leashes, they say it’s likely the amputations were caused by retractable leashes.
For dogs who have not been trained to walk politely on a regular leash, retractable leashes can have a negative effect and can actually train dogs to pull, the exact opposite of what we want. Experts recommend using a thick nylon or leather six foot leash, and most training classes require use of a regular leash as well, so it makes sense to use the same type of leash outside of class for the best training results.
Studies show that walking is great for you and your dog, so using the safest leash for both of you will make your walks much more enjoyable and rewarding!
References:
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2009/03/retractable-leashes-pose-problems-for-people-and-their-pets/index.htm
https://humanesocietyhbg.org/2020/12/01/the-problem-with-retractable-leashes/