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We believe dog walking should be a safe and enjoyable experience for both pups and humans. Though retractable leashes might seem like the ultimate tool for giving dogs a bit of extra freedom, they come with risks that many pet professionals advise against. At Texas Ruff House, our dog walkers stick to good, old-fashioned fixed leashes, and for good reason! Walks should be safe, enjoyable, and stress-free, and while retractable leashes have a few perks, they come with surprising risks—for both pets and humans alike.
From the American Veterinary Medical Association to the Humane Society of the United States, leading pet authorities emphasize the safety benefits of a classic, fixed-length leash for dog walks. Their recommendations focus on keeping pets close, reducing accident risk, and fostering good leash manners.
With their extended reach, retractable leashes give pets more physical range, but this comes at a price. Imagine you’re out on a lovely stroll when your pup spots something enticing, like a squirrel or interesting leaf. If they’re on a retractable leash, they can shoot forward without any control, sometimes reaching up to 15 or even 30 feet away! This extra reach might sound fun, but it can leave dogs out of your reach in case of danger. Busy streets, other dogs, or simply getting tangled in obstacles and bystanders can make that “freedom” more stressful than it’s worth.
Retractable leashes are also prone to snapping, especially if your dog gives it a good tug. This means your pet could unexpectedly be off-leash, putting them in an unsafe position. And even when they don’t snap, both the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Kennel Club note that retractable leashes are also known to cause burns, cuts, and even broken bones if they wrap around a person or pet.
Consider this incident involving a Florida woman that highlights the dangers of retractable leashes. Daniella Abreu, a medical assistant, was injured when the retractable leash she used with her dog snapped and hit her in the face, causing severe injuries and the loss of vision in her right eye. This tragic accident underscores the risks associated with these leashes, which can snap under tension or cause injury if they recoil unexpectedly.
And then there’s the dreaded clunk. Ever accidentally drop a retractable leash? That noisy, clattering “chase” can spook even the bravest pups, sometimes causing lasting leash anxiety. With a standard leash, there’s no risk of a scary noise disrupting a peaceful stroll, so our furry friends can relax and enjoy the journey, free of noisy surprises.
Let’s talk about training, too. Retractable leashes don’t help much with leash manners; in fact, they can encourage pulling as dogs learn to push ahead for more distance. With a fixed leash, we can practice gentle guidance and encourage calm, walk-by-your-side behavior, which makes for a way better walk for both you and your pup! Our goal is to help reinforce good habits and keep each walk as smooth and relaxing as possible.
Our approach is rooted in keeping pets close and in control while they enjoy fresh air and exercise. Texas Ruff House’s Walking Club gives pets a great outlet to practice polite walking in a safe, loving environment, offering peace of mind for pet owners. All in all, our commitment to safety and happy pets is why we’ve stuck with trusty fixed leashes. They may not have the bells and whistles, but they allow us to give pets a safe, close, and enjoyable experience with every step. So, the next time you and your pup hit the pavement, consider giving a classic leash a whirl—your pet just might thank you!
Carla Tittle left the world of child education in 2015 to pursue her passion for helping people and their pets. Over time Carla has been able to cultivate a team of pet care experts and Texas Ruff House now services Pflugerville, Hutto, Round Rock, and Georgetown. As passionate pet owners ourselves, we know how important it is for your furry friends to receive the best care. Our daily visits make sure your pets get the exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need, giving you peace of mind while you finally take that long-awaited trip. From leash training and cat care to fun dog field trips, this blog is packed with expert tips straight from the pros in pet care!