Are extendable leads good for dogs that pull?
Presley Larson
2025-06-21 05:17:38
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Although in some circumstances it can be done well. The questions is: should you use them? Longer lines can give a dog who isn’t safe off the lead the option for more exercise and exploration. One of the biggest reasons is due to injuries. One of the other big arguments against these leads is the lack of control. When your dog has that length of lead and is ahead of you, there is no way for you to stop them stepping into the road. Interactions with other dogs whilst on these leads also can cause problems with dogs getting tangled and stressed and fights more likely to occur. A relatively minor problem with retractable leads is delays in learning about appropriate lead walking. Probably not. The only real benefit can be offered with a safer alternative such as a long line which we would recommend instead, or going to a private freedom field. If you absolutely must then it should only be with a small breed dog, away from other dogs and people and always attached to a harness.
Emma Tromp
2025-06-12 10:35:58
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However, when it comes to controlling pulling behaviour, fixed leads offer several advantages over retractable leads. Improved Control: Fixed leads provide better control over your dog's movements compared to retractable leads. With a fixed lead, you have a consistent length, allowing you to maintain proximity and guide your dog's behaviour effectively. This control is crucial in teaching your dog proper walking manners and preventing pulling. Reduced Reinforcement of Pulling: Retractable leads can inadvertently reinforce pulling behaviour. The extended length of the lead encourages dogs to explore, run ahead, and pull. Training Consistency: If you are working on training your dog to walk politely on a leash, using a fixed lead provides consistency in your training approach. With a retractable lead, the varying lengths can confuse your dog and disrupt your training efforts. By opting for a fixed lead instead of a retractable one, you can enhance your control, promote safer walks, and establish better communication with your dog.
Michelle Hauck
2025-05-31 16:39:35
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If your dog is not used to being on a lead or continuously pulls on the lead, then this lack of training is amplified on a retractable lead. The sooner your dog learns good leash discipline the better. Retractable leads allow your dog to explore areas safely and under your control. Owners should only extend a retractable lead as much as necessary. Allowing the leash to extend too long will create too much slack – which means there will be a lot of leash out of your control. Letting dog’s sprint away from you and extending the lead too much takes away this control. It also can be very dangerous to let a dog sprint while on a retractable lead, as if you need to hit the break this will cause them to jerk backwards which can cause harm to their throat or spine. Injuries can occur if the dog sprints ahead and the owner presses the lock-break in a panic, causing the dog to quickly jerk back. This can choke the dog and damage to the wind pipe and spine.