Leashes: Simple is Better
by Dr. Abby Sullivan
Why Your Vet Cringes at Flexi-Leashes (And What to Use Instead)
Let’s talk about the F-word in the veterinary world: flexi-leashes.
You know the ones—those retractable leashes that look like tiny tape measures and let dogs wander 87 feet away while their owners desperately mash a little button that only sometimes works. We get it—they seem like a great way to give your pup some freedom! But here’s why the veterinary (and dog trainer, and groomer, and literally-anyone-who-handles-dogs) community collectively winces when one comes clicking through the door.
1. You’re not in control.
We know your dog is super well-behaved—until a squirrel shows up, or another dog passes by, or a leaf dares to flutter incorrectly. The reality is, flexi-leashes give dogs way too much room to make questionable life decisions before you can react. And in tight spaces like vet clinics, sidewalks, or parks, that can mean chaos, conflict, or even injury. A traditional 4–6 foot leash keeps your dog safely in your orbit, and you don’t need cat-like reflexes to rein them back in.
2. They’re basically a lightsaber of injury.
The thin cord of a flexi-leash is the perfect combination of invisible and knife-sharp. We’ve seen fingers lacerated, thighs whipped, and people tangled in a high-speed game of “dog ping-pong.” Try grabbing that line when your dog bolts and it’s like trying to stop a runaway lawnmower with dental floss. Spoiler: it won’t end well.
3. They’re crowd (and clinic) chaos creators.
Imagine your dog on a 15-foot leash spinning joyful figure-eights around other clients, chairs, and the occasional unsuspecting chihuahua. While adorable in theory, it turns waiting rooms and sidewalks into obstacle courses. It’s stressful for everyone, including your dog.
So what’s a better option?
If you’re looking to give your pup some space to explore, opt for a long-line leash—something 25 feet or longer, made of durable nylon or biothane, and attached to a secure harness. These work great for training, hiking, or sniff-aris (that’s a sniffing safari) in open spaces where your dog can roam safely while still staying tethered to you.
We promise, we’re not trying to ruin the fun—just keep everyone safe, including your dog, other animals, and the people who love them.
Now go forth and walk wisely!
