Tatum's real good on a short leash and harness so we've never tried the retractable one. Our obedience class teacher does not recommend retractable leashes at all because it doesn't teach the dog to stay close by your side. Of course what she was trying to teach was the "controlled walking". I suppose if you don't mind your dog getting farther away, the retractable would work really well. The only time Tatum is on a leash though is when we go to the ballpark or vet or something and at those times I want her to be in my total control. There have been times I've had to literally pull her through the air (leash attached to body harness, of course) to avoid a fast approaching dog. You wouldn't have nearly that much control with the retractable. Just a thought in case you hadn't considered that aspect....
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~ Angie |