A Long Rant Related to Obedience Training

[BarbV]

In the defence of flexi-leads, I think they are terrific when used properly.

When I only had Bacca, I used the flexi lead all the time. His recall was not sufficient for me to let him off leash, but it allowed him room to roam and run ahead.

However, whenever I saw either a person alone or a person/dog approach, I instantly retracted to have Bacca at my side. It takes only seconds to retract. I always had my eyes sharp looking for oncoming walkers or I would retract if I was rounding a corner where I couldn't see far enough ahead, so there was NEVER an opportunity for Bacca to go visit something uninvited.

It's always about education!

 

[tofu pup]

In the defence of flexi-leads, I think they are terrific when used properly.

When I only had Bacca, I used the flexi lead all the time. His recall was not sufficient for me to let him off leash, but it allowed him room to roam and run ahead.

However, whenever I saw either a person alone or a person/dog approach, I instantly retracted to have Bacca at my side. It takes only seconds to retract. I always had my eyes sharp looking for oncoming walkers or I would retract if I was rounding a corner where I couldn't see far enough ahead, so there was NEVER an opportunity for Bacca to go visit something uninvited.

It's always about education!

I second this! Flexis are an indispensable part of our show-kit. We use them only at the hotel, when the dogs need to potty. It lets them get some distance away from us (they do like privacy). In the right context (a big field, few or no other dogs around) and with care and know-how, flexi-leads can be great.

We have 6' leather leads that we use for in the car, or walking into or around the show building.

 

[Lahree]

Yes, but as pointed out, you are courteous with the flexi-leads. These people are not. At all. Period.

I mean I am having my dog sit waaaaaaaaaay off the path, and they let their dogs sniff my poor, trying-to-concentrate dog. I also had one guy stop and watch what we were doing! I could see him out of the corner of my eye and said something along the lines of, "I am training her not to jump and growl at other dogs and to watch me when other dog pass her so if you could go ahead and pass, I'd really appreciate it." Sigh.