I also prefer the leather leash. I personally don't like the retractable leads (puppies or not) since I want my dogs to walk acceptably on a loose leash at all times. They get enough play time and sniffing time when we are not walking.

I especially hate it when someone walking their dog on a retractable lead will let their dog come into my yard and take a dump without cleaning it up. I don't let my dogs go anywhere but our yard and I don't think other people should let their dogs go in the neighbors yard!