Why Retractable Leashes Are Dangerous and Should Be Banned
A dog walking calmly on a 6-foot leash with its owner, showcasing the benefits of controlled walks and safe leash options.
Retractable leashes are a popular choice for many dog owners who want their dogs to have more freedom while still maintaining some level of control. However, these leashes come with several significant dangers, both for the dog and the owner. In this blog, we will explore why retractable leashes are hazardous and discuss safer alternatives that offer better control and security for your dog.
What Are Retractable Leashes?
Retractable leashes are designed to give your dog more freedom to explore while still allowing the owner to reel them in when necessary. The leash is wound inside a plastic casing and can extend anywhere from 10 to 26 feet or more. When the dog reaches the end of the leash, the owner can push a button to lock the leash in place or reel it back in.
While they may seem convenient, retractable leashes can be a safety hazard in a variety of ways.
The Risks of Retractable Leashes
Retractable leashes might seem like a convenient way to let your dog explore, but they come with significant risks that every dog owner should be aware of. The thin cord or tape used in retractable leashes can break easily, posing a danger to both you and your dog. If the leash breaks, the dog could dart into traffic or get tangled, leading to injuries. These leashes also lock too late to prevent dangerous situations, making it difficult for you to stop your dog in time.
“Retractable leashes give dogs more freedom, but they don’t offer the control you need in unpredictable situations,” says Denise Bozenski, founder of Fetch This Canine. “I've seen countless injuries, including burns, abrasions, and fractures, that result from the way these leashes function. The thin cord can snap quickly and cause serious harm.”
Learn more about Denise HERE!
Injuries to Dogs
One of the most concerning risks is the potential for serious physical injuries to your dog. If the retractable leash locks suddenly, it can cause a painful jolt, putting unnecessary strain on your dog’s neck, spine, or joints. Additionally, the thin cord or tape can become tangled around your dog, potentially leading to cuts or abrasions. There’s also the risk of the leash snapping, leaving your dog unsupervised and at risk of running into dangerous situations.
“Dogs can get severely hurt when a retractable leash locks at the wrong time. It doesn’t just harm the dog physically; it can also cause emotional stress from unexpected movements and jerks,” Denise explains. “I’ve worked with dogs who have been terrified after being yanked by retractable leashes, which makes it even harder to train them in the future.”
Injuries to Owners
Retractable leashes are equally hazardous to owners. If the leash gets caught on something or the dog jerks suddenly, it can lead to painful burns or cuts, especially when the thin cord is wrapped around the hand. There have also been many ankle and calf injuries reported due to the cord. The mechanism inside retractable leashes can also malfunction, locking the leash unexpectedly and causing the dog to pull abruptly, potentially knocking the owner off balance and leading to falls.
“I've seen people trip or fall due to the recoil force of a retractable leash, especially when the dog runs off suddenly. The leash gives way too much freedom and not enough control, which makes it harder to react quickly to prevent accidents,” Denise notes.
Find out how ecollar training can help you get beter control of your dog during works at our blog, How E-Collars Enhance Balanced & Holistic Dog Training.
Injuries to Other People or Animals
Because retractable leashes extend up to 16 feet or more, they also increase the chances of the leash getting tangled around other people, other dogs, or objects. The sudden jerking or entangling of the leash can result in injuries to others, including falls, cuts, and burns. The situation is even worse if the dog encounters another dog or animal, as the long leash can lead to dangerous interactions before you have a chance to intervene.
“When a dog is allowed to roam freely with a retractable leash, it can get into a situation where it either attacks another animal or gets attacked. These situations escalate very quickly when you can’t reel your dog in fast enough,” Denise says. “It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and have the right equipment to control your dog.”
Why Retractable Leashes Should Be Banned
Given the numerous risks that retractable leashes pose to both dogs and owners, it's easy to see why they should be banned or at least avoided. In many places, laws and regulations already restrict the use of retractable leashes in certain public areas due to their potential hazards.
Limited Control
Retractable leashes give dogs too much freedom, especially in high-traffic areas or places with other animals. They can quickly get tangled or pulled into dangerous situations, putting both the dog and its owner at risk.
Training Issues
The lack of control also makes it difficult to train a dog properly. With retractable leashes, you cannot easily correct a dog’s behavior when it pulls or behaves poorly. Instead, it reinforces bad habits, making it more difficult for owners to achieve positive results with training.
Risk of Injury
Whether it’s the thin cord snapping or causing injury from jerking, the potential for harm is too high to justify their use. Additionally, they make it harder to respond quickly in an emergency, especially if the dog is off-leash and the leash locks at the wrong time.
Get information and tips on how to get your dog to stop pulling on the leash by visiting our blog, How to Stop Your Dog from Pulling on Leash.
Better Leash Alternatives
Thankfully, there are safer, more effective alternatives to retractable leashes that still give dogs some freedom while ensuring you have control. Some great options include:
Standard 6-Foot Leash
A standard leash is simple, durable, and provides ample control. You can choose from a variety of materials, including leather, nylon, and rope, depending on your needs.
Adjustable Leash
Adjustable leashes allow you to change the length depending on the situation. These are a great alternative to retractable leashes, as they give your dog some room to explore without compromising control.
Training Leas
A longer leash designed specifically for training, these leashes are ideal for teaching recall or allowing more freedom without risking harm. They typically range in length from 15 to 30 feet.
Harness and Leash Combination
A good quality harness paired with a leash offers better control, especially for dogs who tend to pull or get distracted easily. This setup ensures that your dog is safe while still able to explore.
A Safer Way to Walk Your Dog
While retractable leashes may seem convenient, the risks they pose to both dogs and owners are not worth it. Whether it’s the potential for injury, lack of control, or negative impact on training, there are far better alternatives that allow for safe, enjoyable walks. Always opt for a standard leash or one of the other safe options to ensure both you and your dog are protected while out and about.
If you’re ready to take control of your walks and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience for you and your dog, consider training with Fetch This Canine. We can help you develop a balanced walking routine and teach you how to handle pulling and reactivity on walks. Contact us today to learn more! Get started HERE!
FAQs
Are retractable leashes legal?
A: While retractable leashes are legal in many places, some areas, such as certain parks or dog-friendly spaces, restrict their use due to safety concerns. Always check local regulations before using one in public spaces.
Can retractable leashes cause neck injuries to dogs?
A: Yes, the sudden jerks and locking mechanisms of retractable leashes can cause strain on your dog’s neck and spine, leading to injuries. It's best to use more controlled leash options, such as harnesses and standard leashes.
How can I stop my dog from pulling without a retractable leash?
A: Using balanced training techniques can help reduce pulling. A good training leash paired with ecollar training can provide better control, allowing you to correct behavior effectively during walks.
