This type of leash has a handle with enough cord to allow the pet to move 10, 15, even more than 25 feet beyond the owner.  The handle has a brake system to allow the owner to stop the release of cord when needed.  Now these leashes work best on dogs who are already under control on leashes.  Some will say they are only good for letting your pet out to potty because they do not allow the necessary control when walking especially with a large dog.  Many people seem to think their dog needs 10 to 30 feet of freedom when walking outside or at the pet store but that is just not necessary.  Letting your dog pull than far away from you in public can be very dangerous.  Just because your dog is friendly (at least by your standards) does not mean every dog is.  There is no rule that says dogs have to be friendly while at the pet store.  Furthermore, it is just inappropriate to let your dog run up to people and other dogs unless you ask first.  People will appreciate you doing so.  Most trainers will require you to use a four or six foot lead for teaching your dog obedience.  A four to six foot leash will allow for "free" time (where the dog does not have to be in "heel" position) and enable you to easily put your dog back in a controlled loose leash "heel" walk for the rest of the walk. 
 
There are safety concerns with retractable leashes so read the label when purchasing.  Even if you get the right size for your dog, there is no guarantee it will hold your dog.   The cord being so long can easily be tangled up when using this leash.  They are absolutely not intended for tie out purposes.  The warning on some of them is possible serious injury, ie amputation if the cord gets tangled around a body part.  If the pet gets loose with one of these leashes attached to them, they may panic and keep running because the handle that they are dragging may make them think something is after them.    As with all things, use common sense, read the label, ask trainers, vets and people you know who have handled animals successfully, etc. if in doubt about something.   

Once you decide to become a pet parent, there are some adjustments you have to make to ensure the transition is smooth once you bring your pet home.
If you're a first time owner, it will be relatively easy for your pet to adjust to his or her new space. If there are already animals at home, you will have to take more care with the introductions. Over the next couple of months we will explore different scenarios. Today we'll start at the beginning: a first time pet.

Set boundaries

Too much space at first can be overwhelming in a new area. Your cat or dog will want to explore wherever you let them, so limiting them to the
kitchen or family room at first will allow the pet to take its time in getting familiar with the new space. Also make sure you're close by, and they know you have not left them alone.

Keep a structured household

Make sure your pet knows where the litter pan or the door to the back yard is, where its food will be served, where to sleep, and when mealtimes are.  Try to be consistent with feeding, exercise and play times every day.

Keep introductions to a minimum

Your new pet doesn't need to meet everyone you know within the first week.  Let him or her get used to you and your family first, then slowly start inviting friends over to meet them. Once your guest has arrived, save the introduction until the animal is in a calm submissive state of mind;
chances are when the guest first arrives your pet will be excited and
possibly nervous, and that is not a good time to make introductions. Your
guest should refrain from giving your animal any attention until it is calm.

Exercise every day

This is the perfect time to establish your routine. Just like us, pets need daily activity to burn off calories and use up excess energy. Walking
your dog will not only provide you both with much needed exercise, but
will help establish your bond and let you assume the role of pack leader.
Playtime with your cat will keep it young and frisky, and will give you
hours of amusement and strengthen your bond.

I fell in love with Angel the moment I met her. She was just so sweet and she came right up to me and gave me a kiss. She was the perfect size and temperment for Madison and the first time they met they played great! Angel has made herself right at home with me and my family. She adores her sister Madison and Gideon (my parent's Doberman) is her partner in crime. When they are outside and they can hear sirens or whistles they stand next to each other and howl...it's so funny! Her daddy, Patrick (my fiance), thinks she is just the most precious thing ever! She has him wrapped around her little paw! At night she sleeps in bed with me and I think she gets more of my queen size bed than I do!  She is the perfect addition to my family and I don't know what I would ever do without her!

 

Forever loved by: Jessica Poole