Dangers of Unleashed Dogs
Wouldn’t it be easier if dogs weren’t restrained by a leash? It sounds fantastic, but it would come with many risks. We recommend limiting your dog’s off-leash adventures to securely fenced areas or safe areas where you are confident there are minimal risks. We will outline some of the most common risks associated with allowing your dog to be unleashed.
- Your dog may get hit by a car. You may think your dog is “street smart,” but that may not be the case. Many dogs are hit by vehicles each year. All it takes is your dog to wander in the street a little bit. You cannot always count on drivers to avoid your dog.
- Your dog may chase animals. A strong instinct of a dog is to chase. When off-leash, dogs will be more apt to chase squirrels or birds. Chasing after an animal (or object) can also cause your dog to get hit by a car. They will focus on the thing they are chasing, not other surroundings.
- Your dog may encounter aggressive dogs. Unfortunately, this occurs more often than expected. Remember that just because a dog is friendly doesn’t mean all dogs are the same way. Dogs are like humans, and everyone is different! Dog fights can be scary and costly. Avoid this at all costs.
- Your dog may eat something toxic. Off-leash dogs may make bad choices. Unleashed dogs may discover harmful and poisonous items on the ground, such as rat poison, contaminated dirt, and toxic plants. Swallowing items such as this will lead to costly surgeries.
- You may be fined if your dog is off-leash. Did you know that keeping your dog off-leash is against the law in several cities? You could be fined if your dog is caught off-leash in a public area where leash laws are in place.
Unless your dog is a total pro at “recall,” it is best not to risk your dog being off-leash. We recommend that you explore unique places that are fenced-in and allow for dogs to be off-leash. You may also acquire a longer leash to give your dog the freedom they enjoy.
