Dogs

LeashLocket: Review and Giveaway

by Carrie Boyko, CEB

I've made no secret of my concerns about retractable leashes. That's my disclaimer. However, I recently discovered that I can and do find the LeashLocket to be a useful tool for certain specialized applications. So, as I backpeddle on my previous notes, I'll explain why and how you can use this tool to your benefit.

If you and your dog enjoy hiking in the woods, a retractable leash allows you to give Fido some exploratory distance, without losing him to a scent among the trees. Of course any retractable leash will do this. What's special about the LeashLocket is its unique collar attachment feature. This is what won me over.

Hidden inside the package and out of view is the sturdy, elastic collar attachment. This can be removed and placed around any width dog collar. It has a heavy-duty snap that attaches to the collar and a magnetic snap that connects to the LeashLocket, holding it securely on your dog's collar until you need it again. It removes quickly and easily to allow you to give up that headache of carrying your dog's leash while he plays, or locating a place to store it safely.

Why would you want to attach the leash to Fido's collar? I can think of quite a few times when this may be handy:

You've arrived at the dog park and are wary of hanging your leash on the fence while you and Fido play. Simply attach the retracted LeashLocket to his collar and you can both be off and running.
If Fido's leash is connected to his collar and danger or excitement approaches, you can quickly grab the handle from his collar. It will release immediately and you now have control over the situation.
When you arrive at your destination with Fido, and he is no longer required to be on leash, you don't have to worry about where to put the leash. Simply attach it to his collar and when you're ready to leave, there will be no more seeking out your original stash.
I have to admit the handle is very comfortable to use. I have small hands and am reviewing a large LeashLocket, so I had my concerns about the comfort of using this handle. These concerns were quickly quelled when I grabbed it from Tanner's collar as a friend approached with his dog. I found myself examining the shape and realizing that it mimics my hand and therefore works perfectly without the typical loop handle.
A traditional loop handle is available for purchase on LeashLocket's site. For those who prefer their standard leash handle, this easy-to-attach handle can be hooked to the loop on one side of the LeashLocket, allowing you to hold the loop the way you may have become accustomed. This loop, being small and easy to store, will not diminish the advantages of the product significantly. It can easily be stashed in your pocket or hooked to a belt loop. I would not recommend attaching this loop to your dog's collar or leaving it on the LeashLocket, as there may be safety issues with this.
Having spent a couple of years in agility training with Tanner and Oliver, I can see how the LeashLocket may have some uses there. Basic training in agility often involves the use of a short leash on and off; sometimes that leash must be stowed. This storage position will allow it to be quickly used when needed without the additional step of reattaching it to the collar.
Finally, the large LeashLocket may appear heavy, but actually weighs only 4 oz., while the small LeashLocket weighs just under 3 oz.

Here's a nice video to give you a little better idea how easy-to-use this product is:

If you don't see the Rafflecopter entry form here, simply click on the post title and it will reappear just beneath this line:

LeashLocket recommends that their product only remain attached to your dog's collar when he can be supervised for safety. Additional safety information can be found on their website.
This giveaway is open to U.S. residents only. I was provided with a LeashLocket to review.Prizes available are a promotional courtesy offered by LeashLocket. I have not been paid to evaluate this product and the opinions provided here are my own. By entering the giveaway you agree to the terms of our Giveaway and Contest Rules.
All Things Dog Blog recommends that this tool be used at a heel length (walking beside handler) except when hiking, and only with dogs who are leash-trained properly without excessive pulling. Using a retractable leash when other people or animals are within range can be a trip hazard and would be a reason to shorten the length of the leash to a heel position.

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