Do Extending Leads Give Dogs the Wrong Message?

Keats

Keats

Active member
I'm not talking about training leads - but those retractable leads that come wound up in a plastic box/handle with a button to lock or re-wind or let out the lead. They are a bit of a bug-bear for me especially when walking along a pavement and somebody has a dog on such a lead and the dog is meandering every which way and getting IN the way. I've also observed dog owners using such leads, at their longest, when the dog is relieving itself. They are conveniently far enough from the dog to maybe not notice what's going on and therefore they don't clean up after the dog has finished.

I'd love to have a reason to complain rationally about them rather than simply sounding like a grumpy old git :mad:;)
 
I use those leads when we're out having fun and honestly never thought that it might be incorrect. Most parks have trails for walkers and runners. Are people walking their dogs on them too? My dog and I stay off the trails so we aren't in the way and I don't want people to run up and try to pet her. Sadie is a friendly dog, but you never know. I guess my advice is to not make eye contact and keep walking straight ahead. You could also tell them that you're afraid of dogs if they insist on allowing the pup to invade your space.
 
Retractable leads have their place in training, but not in public. They aren’t going away anytime soon so if you see someone using one inappropriately just get the heck out of the way ?
 
It's true that some people use them without inconveniencing others @HereSadie but out on open trails is different to being on sidewalks. Away from other people I can see how such a lead would give the dog a bit more freedom to roam harmlessly while being controlled. But in other situations, I feel quite strongly that a dog on a lead should be kept close at the heel of its mistress/master.

@Kirsten - yes, that's what I mean, not in public. For training maybe, but there are also leads designed for training.
 
Most professionals will advise not to use these types of leashes. I do agree they can be bad in most cases! I am guilty of using them but in a controlled manner. I use this type of leash on my own dog but he is definitely, hmmm well most of the time respondent to my cues :)

Many will also say it reinforces pulling because the leash is always taught. I find some dogs will learn quickly which leash they are on with some good guidance.

I am always on the fence with this tool.

NOTE: I must add it can be very dangerous in the wrong hands if not careful eg. many cuts on hands and legs along with many dogs meeting when they shouldn't be.
 
Yep. Definitely has dangerous potential in the city. I used to use them when I lived on the beach. It was easier than a long line dragging all the sand and seaweed everywhere, but I went to the beach at 5 AM and was usually the only person out there. People use them all the time in the cities I have lived in including here in Colorado. That said...I still think off leash is a worse offense which everyone around my city feels entitled to...despite leash laws. But I digress.

You have to pick your battles. If you see someone using a flexilead and being cognizant and careful go up and give them your support. It makes for a better dog community.
 
I even used to use a flexilead with a head halter (gasp...I know). It worked for my particular scenario at the time, but I wouldn’t do it now or advise either these days. There was a time when I was a diehard equipment snob (don’t ever use this, only use this piece of equipment), but after training many dogs in many environments I’m not so set on equipment.
 
Keats said:
But in other situations, I feel quite strongly that a dog on a lead should be kept close at the heel of its mistress/master.
Click to expand...

I never use these types of leashes, but I know exactly what you are talking about when it comes to sidewalks or paths. I love dogs, but I dislike owners who allow their pets to get in the way of other people. Why anyone thinks that it's okay is beyond me.
 
I don't think you're being grumpy at all, it's just that sometimes people might not think the same way that another person thinks. Some pet owners will let a dog run all around on the super long leash thinking that they are being kind to the dog (and they are being kind in a way) by giving the dog lots of freedom, but some people don't look beyond that, so they don't see that they are also being inconsiderate to others with their same dog pleasing actions.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top