Should a dog be on or off a leash?
This question could be controversial, as there are opinions for both sides. It also can be personal, because every owner and dog is different. We want to share some insight on the matter, so that you can learn more about leash etiquette and why it's so important.
For those with dog-friendly dogs
Not all dogs are friendly. You might have a sweet, curious dog that loves to play with other dogs, but some people do not. There are several reasons why some dogs are unfriendly towards other dogs. They may not have been socialized as a puppy, had a traumatic experience that makes them cautious against other dogs, or has a temperament that doesn't mesh well with unfamiliar canines. Off leash is not a bad thing, but if you're an owner with a dog off leash, and it runs up to a dog who does not do well with other dogs, it's probable your dog will be attacked.
A good rule of thumb is to always have your dog leashed when you are in a place with high dog traffic. If you are out somewhere, with no other dogs in sight, it's great to have your dog off leash. Leashes are not a negative thing. In fact, they help you keep your dog under control when it passes other dogs.
For those with dogs who need their space
If you have a dog that doesn't do well with other dogs, you know the importance of a leash. You almost always know what will happen when your dog comes in contact with another dog, which is usually some sort of conflict. When you are out walking your dog on the sidewalk and you see another dog and its owner coming in the opposite direction, you cross the street to the other side. You always avoid dog parks. Sometimes both you and your dog are anxious when you come to a park with other dogs. When you see a dog running towards you and your dog, you tense up and try to shield your dog. It can be hard having a dog that doesn't do well with other dogs. Some dog owners don't realize how stressful it is for you and your dog when they walk with their dogs off leash.
We know it can be stressful having a dog that needs its space. Don't worry. Your dog just needs extra care and precaution. And the best way to prevent something from happening is to keep them secure on a leash. You would hope that someone else with a dog would keep it on a leash as well.
Leashes are an important tool
Leashes are a good way to keep dogs safe and help keep them under control. When dogs are off leash and meet another dog, it's hard to anticipate how either side will react. Dogs, after all, are animals and react instinctively. It takes less than a few seconds for dogs to have a reaction with each other–for good or bad. Leashes allow you to get control of your dog if a fight were to break out. If either dog is off leash, it is opening a window for something harmful to occur.
Retractable Leashes
In our opinion, retractable leashes are not the best way to leash your dog. They are not dependable, especially if your dog starts running after something and you can't brake quickly enough. It's also difficult to keep your dog under control while using a retractable leash. Because dogs on retractable leashes are accustomed to roaming freely on the leash, it is much harder to control them if they come in contact with another dog.
We want to present you with this information so that you can make the decision about having your dog on or off the leash. It's respectful to have your dog on a leash in high dog traffic areas. Not only is it safe, but a good way to keep you in control of your dog. Remember, you and your dog are not the only pair out walking on the street.
Here are some helpful sites for more information about the importance leashing your dog:
