Many owners claim they can’t live without their retractable leashes, while many experts say, “Well, you should.”  There are many reasons that owners and experts differ on the retractable leash debate.  It is not that the leash is evil or unnecessary; in reality, most owners don’t know how to properly use one, causing danger to the pet and other people.  Whether or not you should use a retractable leash depends on a number of things.  It’s up to you to evaluate your situation and determine if you and your pooch are retractable-leash ready.

 

First of all, a first-time-leash walker should never be started on a retractable leash.  The instructions on the retractable leash even state this.  A retractable leash should only be used with dogs that have been trained on a traditional leash.  The dog should understand basic obedience commands, and the owner should be able to maintain control over the dog.  The problems with retractable leashes arise when the dog is not properly trained to use the leash and when the owner cannot handle or is not paying attention to the dog.

 

So, what are problems with retractable leashes?  If you start a pet on a retractable leash, then the way the leash gives and takes can cause the dog to pull.  Not only will the dog be 20 or 30 feet ahead of you, he will be pulling you along.  Part of leash training is showing the dog who’s “boss.”  By allowing him to pull ahead, you are showing the dog that he is the boss.  For people who have an understanding of the “dominant” dog, then the leash can be a reinforcer, showing the dog that he is dominant. 

 

Many people believe that the dog has “more freedom” on the retractable leash.  If you are not an experienced handler, then the dog can have all the freedom he wants.  The leash has a brake button that stops leash from extending any further.  If you see your pet is about to get into trouble, then theoretically you can brake the leash.  However, dogs’ reflexes are quick.  If the dog is already 20 feet ahead when he sees a cat, he may pull the leash out of your hand before you have time to brake.  The fact that the leash grip is heavy does not help your case.

 

Perhaps the biggest problem with retractable leashes is the inattentive owner.  Retractable leashes require that the owner pays more attention to the dog, making sure that the leash doesn’t get wrapped around anyone or anything.  For owners who enjoy talking on their cell phones while walking or walking with other dogs and owners, the retractable leash is a hazard.  All it takes is a few seconds of inattentiveness for a dog to get itself into loads of trouble. 

 

Retractable leashes are not necessarily bad as long as they are handled and used appropriately.  Every dog should start out on a traditional leash.  The owner should take time to train the dog with appropriate leash behavior.  Once the dog understands the basics of walking on a normal leash (i.e. he’s no longer pulling, he pays attention to the owner’s commands, etc.), then a retractable leash can be introduced.  The leash should be introduced in an open area where others are not around.  The owner and the dog should get the feel of the leash.  Since the dog has more freedom, he’ll likely wander around, so the owner needs to know how to pass the leash around his or her body, avoiding entanglement.  Once the dog and owner get accustomed to the leash, then it can be used.  However, retractable leashes should never be used in public areas or busy streets, since the owner may not have full control over the dog.

 

A retractable leash is not bad as long as the dog and owner are both trained on its use.  A first-time-leash walker should be wearing a traditional leash.  Once he gets accustomed to leash training, then a retractable leash can be introduced.  Perhaps the most important part of the retractable leash is the person holding it.  Owners need to be able to control their dogs.  They also need to be able to recognize and handle potentially harmful situations.  Retractable leashes should not be used in public or on busy streets.

 

This article was provided by pet super store an online pet store that features great pet products this months including: dog car seats covers and dog carriers.