Q: I usually walk my golden retriever, Jake, on a retractable leash, which we both love. Our local park requires dogs to be on leashes no longer than 6 feet and bans the use of retractable leashes. Would you give me some ammunition so I can convince them to change their policy?
A: Sorry, I can’t. Retractable leashes are dangerous for dogs—and humans, too—and they teach dogs lessons they shouldn’t learn.
A retractable leash extends up to 26 feet and rewinds into its large, spring-loaded plastic handle. That means Jake can bolt to the end of his leash and then be halted abruptly, which can cause a torn windpipe, herniated spinal discs, or a broken neck….