06/14/2026
Retractables vs Long Lines
Retractables have their place + in my opinion it's not on a trail with tons of potential triggers such as bicyclists & other dogs especially if dogs are reactive, nervous, not fully trained for recall yet, etc.
With a retractable leash there will be a malfunctioning latch eventually but with a long line (10 feet or longer) we have our hands directly on the leash + have full control to bring our dogs back immediately + when necessary switch it up by keeping them by our side.
I wouldn't recommend either leash if your dog 1) isn't conditioned to be neutral (unbothered) by triggers 2) has unreliable recall.
I still would not choose a retractable for any reason because of the following:
1️⃣ The handle is awkward + bulky
2️⃣If the handle drops, it is loud + scary when it "chases" after dogs
3️⃣ The thin leash can easily break = lost, hurt, or worse dogs
4️⃣ When the thin leash wraps around dogs + people it can potentially cut skin abrasions + much worse
5️⃣ Untangling 2 retractables between 2 dogs is hard to do quickly
6️⃣ Buying the wrong size appropriate handle is dangerous
7️⃣ A retractable "coupler" aka 2 leashes for 1 dog is a recipe for the worst chaos possible
⚠️ Reminder: Dogs should NOT be walking ahead if they are 1) pulling 2) have selective hearing 3)don't have 100% reliable recall 4) are reactive. They should instead be walking in "heel" aka slightly behind the handler in a "follow" state of mind.
The Teacher's Pets
