Retractable leashes are long leashes & have been found to pose a hazard as they can offer a very quick jerk when tension is taken up, resulting in a fall or injury.  This kind of leash is not suitable for dogs that pull or are not trained to walk obediently on a loose leash.  An unruly dog on a retractable leash can be very dangerous because the leash could potentially become tangled around you, your dog, a stranger, a stranger's dog, or other objects.  If the dog lunges forward and tugs the leash handle from your grasp, your pet could get loose and run out into a busy road. When dropped retractable handles can reel in at high speeds, thus hitting the dog causing injury and could potentially traumatize the dog.

It's important to choose a leash that's easy and comfortable for you to hold using your leash grip. I recommend picking a leash no longer than 4-6ft.  Most dog owners find that a 1 or ⅝-inch nylon leash is the most comfortable for everyday walking. Sometimes a nylon leash can be too thick for you to grab a few layers of leash comfortably in your fist.  However, if the leash is too thin; that can pinch or even cut your skin if the dog suddenly pulls or lunges.  Cotton rope leashes are highly absorbent making it easy for the leash to absorb rainwater or urine resulting in a soggy or heavy leash. Morning dew can also breakdown fibers in the leash causing it to weaken.  Cotton rope leashes are also not chew-proof so if your dog doesn't understand proper leash etiquette; a rope leash is probably not the best choice.  If you have a dog that tends to bite their leash, a chain leash can be a good solution and can make a good training aid if you're teaching your dog not to chew his leash because metal is much heavier, therefore making it stronger than other leash types.  A metal leash also has a comfortable leather or nylon handle for the handler.  A major drawback is if you leave a metal leash outside, it will quickly rust.  However, these leashes are extremely strong and last for years if properly cared for.  Leather leashes often feel more comfortable in the hand than nylon or chain but leather is difficult to clean especially after a muddy walk, and the material is not weather-resistant. So, you'll need to keep your leather leash out of the sun and in a dry place.

Most common mistakes while holding a leash are:

1. Putting your whole hand through the leash loop & holding in the palm of your hand. Like someone would hold on to a handle to water ski.

2. Wrapping the leash around your hand, wrist, or arm.

3. Holding onto the leash while trying to pick up waste. Your furry loved one can get distracted in an instant and take off while you're not prepared resulting in injuries. The safest method to pick up waste is to simply put the leash down and step on it.

Your dog might pull hard enough on the leash to pull you right over, potentially causing serious injury, including broken bones, torn ligaments, and sprained tendons in your fingers, arm, hand, or wrist. Females are more susceptible to injuries from dog walking verses men. and the risk increases with age.

I discovered, at least for myself the proper way to hold a leash is to use a hold that will give you a strong enough grip to control your dog, but will allow for a quick release.  Essentially there are many methods you can use, but I find for myself that this works best for me.