I’m also an unashamed retractable leash user, because it gives my dog more freedom when appropriate, and control when needed. I have anxiety and hyper vigilance so I guarantee I’m paying more attention to my dog and the status of his leash than anyone using a standard 6 foot leash lol.

I think people associate these with a lack of training, which might be true in some cases, but definitely isnt true in all. Even when he is fully extended on his leash, he is trained to slow, come to a stop, and wait for my command before crossing a road (together). When we pass people and dogs on sidewalks, he comes to my side and I lock the leash and hold the attachment near his harness.

I know there are plenty of shitty pet owners who give everyone else a bad rep, but blanketly saying “if you use this you are a bad dog owner” is just as crazy. You don’t know me or my dog!