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  I first learned about the dangers of retractable leashes when I adopted Gigi, a former racing greyhound, who is now a retired couch potato.  To be fair she is still very fast, but only for about 2 minutes once or twice a day…. The rest of the time she prefers to meander, sleep, or eat.

Greyhounds can reach a speed of 45 mph within their first six strides from a standing start.  A greyhound attached to a long lead or leash will snap its neck when the slack runs out.  For this reason, I, and every other greyhound owner I know has signed an agreement to NEVER use a retractable leash or tie their hound to a long lead.  

Well, you always want what you can’t have, so of course I researched retractable leashes to find out if greyhounds were the only breed in danger.  What I found were countless reports and reviews of injuries to humans and dogs. There are also accidental pet deaths related to retractable leashes.

Ok, I know…..  you and your pup LOVE your retractable leash.  Walking is easy, your pup can meander, and you don’t have to follow him in to the bushes or through the mud. It provides more freedom, more opportunity to sniff and explore.  I know, I get it!

Retractable leashes are great, until they are not. They may seem handy, like the perfect tether between you and your pup, but honestly, they are an `accident waiting to happen. I mean, you know about accidents right,  you don’t plan them, they just happen, that’s why they are called accidents.

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What are some of the common accidents that occur while walking your pup with a retractable leash?

A dog can be hit by an oncoming car.

Humans can be dragged.

The cord (leash) can wrap around a leg, an arm or a finger, causing burns.  What if you drop the handle, or its pulled out of your hands.  The plastic handle makes a lot of racket as it skids across the pavement… not to mention when it starts to retract and “chase “ your dog as he runs frantically to get away from the sound

Retractable leashes aren’t fool proof, they can get jammed.  If the lock sticks you won’t be able to “reel your dog in” fast enough to keep him from  approaching an unfriendly dog,  a child, or any other human that doesn’t appreciate your pups enthusiasm.

Did someone say SQUIRREL!?  By the time fluffy extends the leash to 15 feet or more, he is at a full run!  You have two choices …. Hang on and risk injuring your dog when he gets jerked back at high speed, hang on and break the retractable handle sending your dog off into the world without you.  Hang on and be dragged or get cord burns on your legs arms wrist and hands, or lose hold of the handle and send it clattering and bouncing after your dog.

From a training aspect, these leashes are not doing you or your pup and favors either.  Your dog will NEVER stop pulling.  He is being taught to pull and lean away because he is rewarded with more slack every time he does it.

Ok, I can hear your groaning, I know, you love that leash, but there are other options.  How about a six or eight foot leash.. either leather or a flat nylon are best.  With some patience and training, your pup will be prancing along beside you with leash to spare. you can choose safe spaces to stop and let the sniffing commence. 

How about a hands free leash?  This is worn around your waist, like a belt. It is attached to your core, giving you more strength, balance and leverage… it leaves your hands free for giving out rewarding treats.  These leashes are also great for people who power walk or jog with their dogs

There are also long line leashes which can be 20 feet long… this may sound as dangerous as the retractable leash but it is a safer option and should only be  used in wide open spaces during quiet times, and once your dog has adequate recall skills. 

In the end, the choice is yours, I’m just tossing the info out there so that you can be aware.  I wish you and your pup fun walks in the great outdoors together. Happy trails!