The highlight of the day for every dog is when it is a time for a walk. To make that activity more enjoyable for you as well as Fido, you should get a high-quality leash. If you are a small breed owner, you should consider getting yourself a retractable leash.
Standard ones are usually recommended for huge breeds because they can be quite hard to control once they start pulling. Smaller breeds aren’t that strong which means that you can use a retractable one when taking him for a walk.
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Best Retractable Dog Leash Reviews
Flexi Giant Tape Leash
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I will start this list with one of my favorite ones; the Flexi Giant Tape. This is extremely well-made, and it is designed especially for large breeds. It is 26 feet long which guarantees enough freedom for your pet. You won’t drop it so easily thanks to the ergonomically designed handle.
It also features the brake button that instantly locks it. In addition to that, it is neon-colored which improves the visibility during the night.
Flexi Vario Tape
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Another Flexi product on this list. This model is customizable and has a 26 feet long leash hidden inside the handle. This comes with interchangeable leashes for dogs that can weigh up to 110 pounds. It has a simple two-color design without any unnecessary features.
You can easily operate it with one hand due to its ergonomic soft grip that can be adjusted and a brake button. It also has short-stop breaking system which offers a reliable and fast response if your pet starts running.
Reflective Lead, Long by Kakadu Pet
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This is a good option for larger breeds. This is suitable for dogs that can weigh up to 110 pounds. It has a simple yellow and black design, and it is made out of high-quality materials that guarantee durability and reliability.
It has a simple lock button and release mechanism which allows you better control of your dog during the walks.
Flexi Durabelt
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This one can extend up to 16 feet, and is suitable for dogs that can weigh 150 pounds. This is made in Germany, and comes with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.
As soon as you put your hands on it, you will notice how good it feels to hold it. Its handle and leash are colored bright red which improves the visibility of the leash. It has a lock button which triggers stopping mechanism. Also, you will receive safety collar along with the directions on how to use this.
Flexi New Comfort Tape
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Another great option that can support weight up to 132 pounds. This can extend to 16 feet and has a simple two-color design. Just like the others on this list, the Flexi New Comfort Tape has a simple color-coordinated button that stops it from extending.
Also, it has an adjustable handle with ergonomic grip. You will have full control during the walks thanks to the short-stop braking system. You can also customize it with a box for treats or a LED lighting system.
What To Consider
If you compare a retractable one with a standard one, the first thing you will notice is that it has a handle. This handle will allow you to comfortably and easily control your pet during the walks. The first thing you will have to make sure is that the handle is well-made.
Always go for one with sturdy handles. Another important thing is the grip. You will need one with a handle that you can easily grip. You don’t want it to slip away if your dog pulls all of a sudden.
They are also considered safer due to the handle. If you wrap a regular one around your hand while walking your pet, you could hurt your wrist if it suddenly decides to chase after a cat. Some people lost their fingers because of the leash (shocking but true!).
That is why it is important to hold the handle firmly, no matter what. It is also better to use one with a wide chord opposed to those with a thin cord.
Thin chords can cut into things and get tangled. You should also look for models that offer you control over your pooch. Almost every model has a lock button somewhere on the handle that allows you to stop it at the desired distance.
This will stop your dog from wandering too far away. Even though there is a lock button, you should always pay attention how your pet behaves.
Every dog owner knows how much dogs get excited when they notice cat or a squirrel. If you don’t pay attention, your pet might surprise you and get in the trouble. This means that you will have still have to train your canine.
He needs to know that he has to return once you call his name. If your pet likes to pull, don’t think that a retractable one will solve that problem.
If your canine likes to pull during the walks, it can potentially pull you from an even greater distance if you allow him.
That is why it is crucial too teach your dog how to behave when on a leash. An untrained dog can hurt himself, especially his neck and surrounding area.
Also, there is always a chance for a leash to break. If that happens, your pet needs to obey your commands and return to you immediately.
Buying a high-quality, strong retractable leash can really help. This way you can rest easy knowing that it won’t break at the slightest pull but always remember to hold the handle firmly. If the description says that it is suitable for dogs that weigh up to 60 pounds, then don’t buy it if your pet is heavier. To make your job even easier, I have compiled my top 5 choices here.
Conclusion
Now you know more about the benefits of using a retractable leash while walking your dog. It is up to you to decide which is the most comfy fit. Just make sure that you remember everything that you have learned today when buying a leash and walking your dog.
