| 
  I also use the retractable leash but only when walking in my neighborhood.  There aren't many distractions and I started using them when Magnus was trained well enough to be on a leash in general.  
 When we're out in more public areas, like the park or dog friendly places, I only use 6' regular leash.  I made a stupid mistake of trying to grab the thin wire when Magnus tried running off and burned my hand.  (I panicked b/c the person was scared of dogs)
 |