As professional dog walkers, the team at House of Paws has encountered a wide range of leash preferences among clients. One type, in particular, has always sparked a lively debate: the flexi-lead, or retractable leash. While they might seem convenient at first glance, offering dogs a sense of freedom, they pose significant challenges for handlers and dogs alike. Today, I'm sharing "Flexi-Leads/Retractable Leashes: A Dog Walker's Perspective" in the hopes that I inspire you to toss the flexi-lead and, instead, choose a safer option for you, your dog, and others in the community.
Perceived Benefits of Flexi-leads/Retractable leashes
On the surface, flexi-leads offer dogs more freedom to explore their surroundings. On an extended flexi, dogs can sniff, play, and reach other dogs, which can appeal to dog owners, especially those with smaller, more social dogs.
In addition, dog owners may like letting their dogs walk away while they remain in their entryway or yard, especially at night. On cold winter days, dog parents may be able to stay close to the front or back door while their pet does their business.
Finally, flexi-leads are sometimes used for recall training because of the distance they provide. I, however, believe that a traditional leash provides a better foundation for building a reliable recall. Standard leashes come in varying sizes, allowing you to strategically work your way to a further distance, without giving up control.
Loss of Control
Speaking of control, the perceived freedom of flexi-leads comes with a hefty price tag; namely, the handler's loss of control. A dog on an unlocked flexi-lead can quickly dart into traffic, chase after wildlife, or engage in potentially dangerous interactions with other dogs.
Additionally, managing multiple dogs on flexi-leads is nearly impossible. Think about a flexi-lead's clunky handles and knack for tangling around things. Before you know it, you could be wrapped in a cartoon-like situation that leaves you and the dogs in your care vulnerable to injury.
It’s not just about your dog(s,) but also the dogs around you. It’s harder to protect your dog and others in the community if he or she is too far away thanks to the flexi.
Potential for Injury
As mentioned above, the potential for injury is a significant issue surrounding flexi-lead use. The mechanism in the handle of the flexi-lead can break unexpectedly, causing harm to both the dog and/or the walker as it snaps out of place. Further, the unexpected noise of the snapping leash - and the fact that it's no longer connected to the handle - could send a dog running straight into traffic or other dangers.
Furthermore, the leash - attached to the handle or not - can wrap around the dog or handler's legs, leading to painful burns, lacerations, falls, and other accidents. Experts agree that flexi-leads are not ideal for most pet parents - learn more here.
Our favorite flexi-lead alternative
Our custom leash maker Rescue Rope Leads offers customizable and virtually escape-proof leashes. Their leashes are touted as fashionable, functional, and secure. The leashes they designed for House of Paws are made with a clip on one end & a slip lead on the other. Each leash can be customized in size, length, rope color, hardware color, and trim color, making them an excellent choice - both aesthetically and practically.
Use code PUPPYLOVE on their website for $5 off your leash order. Leashes retail for about $25 at the time of publication. Learn more about their use here.
Flexi-leads seem to offer comfort and convenience, but, at what cost? While they might seem like a decent option, the potential risks far outweigh the benefits.
As a pet care professional, I strongly recommend using traditional leashes to ensure everyone's safety and well-being. At House of Paws, we encourage you to provide our team with a standard six-foot leash for dog walking and dog adventure visits. We also reserve the right to request alternative handling equipment if we find that what you have provided has the potential for failure. By choosing a reliable leash and practicing proper leash handling, we create a safer and more enjoyable walking experience for your dogs as well as our pet care providers.
House of Paws offers dog walking, dog adventure, and dog sitting services. Contact us by phone at (314) 690-5154 or email us to Houseofpawspetcarellc@gmail.com to learn more. If you're ready to book services in one of our service areas submit a new client form to begin our registration process.
We proudly serve Eureka, Wildwood, Ballwin, Manchester, Maryland Heights, Des Peres, Fenton, Chesterfield, Valley Park, Ladue, Creve Couer, Town & Country, Kirkwood, Sunset Hills, Clayton, Webster Groves, Maplewood, The Hill, South City & Affton.
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