Retractable Leads/People!

**IRescue452** · 10-25-2005, 10:36 AM

I don't have the problem of holding onto the lead. My problem is the dogs actually snap the little nylon line that comes out of the handle. I don't understand why nobody else seems to have this problem, my dogs are only 25 and 45 pounds and for the most part trained to heel, until they see a squirrel, and I've seen bigger dogs pull on the leads.

**finn's mom** · 10-25-2005, 10:39 AM

I don't personally like them, I've seen them break too many times, burn people's legs, people drop the handle and either hit the dog or another person with it...I had one previously with my dog, Bruno, and, will never have another one.

**PJ's Mom** · 10-25-2005, 10:47 AM

Both of my dogs walk on retractable leashes and I've never had a problem controlling either of them. Bailey does like to take off after a squirrel from time to time, but I keep the leash short and she doesn't make it very far.

**Lobodeb** · 10-25-2005, 11:40 AM

IMHO, this sounds more like leash training issues moreso than the type of leash. I use a retractable with Maggy and have no problems. I've used the traditional on her too and just prefer the retractable. She likes to go off and sniff things and her retractable leash allows her to do that. If I see something/someone coming then I tighten up the leash so she's close to me. Kids always think she's this sweet little puppy so they run to try and pick her up not knowing that a) she's full grown and b) she bites! I also like the retractable when we cross the streets so I can keep her close to me.

As far as burns and slices, I found that the less expensive retractables with a thin cord tend to burn more than the more expensive that have the wider nylon lead. Retractables probably aren't good for bigger stronger dogs who have the strength to snap them. My little 10 pounder isn't going to snap anything but a piece of string.

**AllAmericanPUP** · 10-25-2005, 01:58 PM

Originally Posted by IRescue452

I don't have the problem of holding onto the lead. My problem is the dogs actually snap the little nylon line that comes out of the handle. I don't understand why nobody else seems to have this problem, my dogs are only 25 and 45 pounds and for the most part trained to heel, until they see a squirrel, and I've seen bigger dogs pull on the leads.

dogs can usually pull on these leads all they want and they usually wont snap.
but if a dog runs or jumps forwards then that quick jolt is what usually snaps the leash...

**areias** · 10-25-2005, 02:28 PM

There's also the issue of if your dog hits the end of the lead, what kind of damage can occur (whip lash, neck problems). Plus...if a dog is on a retractable leash a lot, they get used to that pressure on their necks and when you go to use a regular leash, they think that pressure=go forward.

**finn's mom** · 10-25-2005, 02:33 PM

Originally Posted by areias

There's also the issue of if your dog hits the end of the lead, what kind of damage can occur (whip lash, neck problems).

You have the same issue with a regular leash. I mean, Finn is pretty good on leash, now, but, if he sees a squirrel, he bolts. And, it's no easier on his neck than a retractable leash reaching it's full length.

**lv4dogs** · 10-25-2005, 03:11 PM

Originally Posted by finn's mom

You have the same issue with a regular leash. I mean, Finn is pretty good on leash, now, but, if he sees a squirrel, he bolts. And, it's no easier on his neck than a retractable leash reaching it's full length.

I was thinking the same thing.

**Lobodeb** · 10-25-2005, 03:15 PM

Originally Posted by lv4dogs

I was thinking the same thing.

And, Maggy uses a harness, for that same reason. I think it's the same thing as with the Greenies, accidents are going to happen. Neglect helps things along, but if you watch your dog and your dog is trained, then you're obviously much better off.

My 2 cents.

**Neo_lover** · 11-29-2005, 02:00 PM

I hate retractable leashes!

Not only do you have no control over your dog, they can hurt people! I dont know how many times I've seen people tripped by them, and last week when i was at the dog beach someone had their dog on a retractable leash and my dog was off leash and went to go play with their dog, but the other dog didnt want to play so i went over and grabbed Sam's collar. The leash wrapped around my arm and the dog took off and the leash cut my arm! I have this really huge gash in my arm right where my elbow bends! Those leahses just arent safe!

**Jessika** · 11-29-2005, 02:27 PM

I hate retractable leashes for that reason! If you're going to be in public or walking on the sidewalk, your dog NEEDS to be close to you for that exact reason!!!

Too many times have customers come in to petco with their dogs on retractable leashes fully extended and while checking the customer out the dog wanders off and ends up knocking over all kinds of stuff and ARGH!! Eitehr train your dog to have MANNERS or get a 4ft leash!!!