Everyone tends to think that their dog is exceptional and well-behaved, and won’t create any trouble if let off the leash. The reality is that it doesn’t make much difference. You could have the best-behaved dog in the world, and it would still be right for you to find the best leather dog leashes online and ensure they’re secured to it whenever you go out.
But why? If I know my dog is fine off the leash and there’s normally no bother, why should I start leashing the dog now?
The Law Often Requires It
While there’s no blanket national law specifically demanding dogs be on leashes at all times, there are specific rules laid down by local councils all over each state. It is required by law, however, that you keep your dog under control when walking it, and the best way to do that is by keeping the dog on a leash as your “default” setting.
Because Other Dogs are Ill-Behaved
You might think that your own dog is fine off the leash because they are well-socialised, get along well with other dogs, and never cause any bother (as far as you can see). Sometimes, however, that’s not the real problem. The problem might be your dog getting into trouble because of the bad behaviour of other dogs.
If your off-leash dog approaches a more aggressive dog from behind, for instance, the other startled dog might lash out at your own dog. Not all problems that can come a dog’s way are down to its own behaviour and personality. Therefore, it’s better to keep your dog leashed where you can keep him/her protected.
It’s Critical for Your Dog’s Safety
Most tragic accidents that happen with people’s dogs do so because something “unexpected” or “out of the ordinary” occurs. You think the dog is fine off the leash because up until now, fortunately, nothing has happened. But all it takes is one stray movement into a busy road or a chance encounter with a stronger and more aggressive unrestrained animal for that tragedy to occur.
Furthermore, when on the leash, you can better monitor what your dog is smelling and possibly even eating from the ground. This means you can help better prevent your dog from getting certain diseases communicable through other dogs’ excretions.
Leashing Your Dog is Being Mindful of Others
When you’re a part of the community, you have to remember that not every rule and regulation is about you. You might not like the dog leash rules, and possibly think them “overkill” but to others they might be of some considerable importance. For instance, it’s quite normal that some people have fears or phobias related to dogs. They feel intensely uncomfortable around dogs, but when they are leashed it can at least help them feel more at ease. Big dogs can also be a hazard around young children, not even for fear of biting or aggression, but just that their boisterous nature could knock infants (and even the elderly) over on the ground!
This sense works in both directions, of course. People who don’t like dogs may well prefer it if a town or city council just banned anyone from owning one. They understand, however, that that wouldn’t be fair or reasonable. Leash rules are, therefore, more like a compromise.
Use a Leash to Identify Yourself as a Responsible Dog Owner
Finally, if none of the above reasons have convinced you of the merits of keeping your dog on a leash then just consider this: using a leash proves that you are a responsible dog owner. When the dog is leashed, the chance of any trouble occurring or any accusations flying are massively reduced. Therefore, show everyone you’re a responsible dog owner by just putting your dog on a leash when you go out.
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