I don't use a retractable leash for walks. I use a regular leash. But when we are on road trips I use the retractable leash to take them potty. It kinda freaks my girls out if I walk beside or behind them while they are looking for a potty place. So now I just put the retractable leash on and let them walk around while I stand in one place. They get the job done faster that way!

Mine were afraid of the retractable leash at first but now it don't faze them a bit.