When we talk about the importance of using a leash in public, we often get comments like:
“My dog actually listens, why would I need a leash?” or
“My dog walks in a perfect heel, I don’t need a leash.”
This perspective reflects the view that if your dog is friendly and reliable off leash, then there’s no need to use one. But a leash does a lot more than just keep your dog connected to you. It’s a signal of safety that goes a long way towards making public spaces more accessible and inclusive for all.
A Quick Note on Context
When we talk about “off leash dogs” in this post, we are not referring to designated off-leash spaces, such as fenced dog parks or trail systems where dogs are explicitly allowed to be off leash.
We’re talking about shared public spaces where leash laws are in effect: city sidewalks, most neighborhoods, parks, playgrounds, and on leash trails.
Not Everyone Loves Dogs Like You Do
If you’re reading this, you’re probably a dog lover. You might be comfortable around most dogs, even big ones. You might enjoy meeting dogs in public, or at the very least, not feel threatened when you see one.
But that’s not true for everyone. For many people, dogs can be a source of anxiety, fear, or even trauma. Here are a few reasons why:
Past negative experiences. Some people are simply uncomfortable around dogs, or have limited experience around dogs. Others have had scary experiences or even been attacked by a dog. Even one frightening encounter can leave a lasting scar.
Medical or mobility challenges. For someone with limited mobility, balance issues, or a disability, the prospect of managing an encounter with an off leash dog can feel extremely unsafe.
Lived or Generational Trauma. It’s important to recognize that fear of dogs is not irrational. In fact, it’s rooted in lived experience, cultural context, and even history.
Dogs have been used as weapons throughout U.S. history - to enforce racial violence and to intimidate and terrorize people in marginalized communities. That history shapes how people feel about dogs today. In many cultures, dogs are not viewed as beloved household pets. They're viewed with caution or skepticism.
Other Dogs Deserve Safety Too
It’s not just people who are impacted by off leash dogs. Other dogs are, too.
Many dogs are fearful or reactive around other dogs. For them, the sudden sight of an off-leash dog can trigger panic or defensive aggression. Many dog guardians specifically choose to visit on leash spaces because of this.
The reality is that most dog attacks in public occur when an off-leash dog attacks an on-leash dog. One incident like this can alter a dog’s life forever. A previously calm dog can become anxious, reactive, or even aggressive after a single bad experience. Their guardian may spend months or years working to rebuild trust and confidence.
You may think that having your well behaved dog off leash affects no one. What you may not see are the people who see an off leash dog and avoid the area entirely, or choose a different route to avoid taking a risk. "My dog is well behaved" means absolutely nothing to someone who doesn't know your dog, and needs to make a choice from afar about how (or whether) to use a public space.
The “But My Dog Listens” Argument
You might be thinking: “But my dog really is trained. They would never hurt anyone. They stay right by my side.”
Here’s the truth: as much as we’d like to think we’re fully in control, dogs are sentient beings with free will. Even the most reliable dog can panic, bolt, or act aggressively under certain conditions. No one intends for their dog to attack another dog, be attacked, run into traffic, or chase wildlife. But sadly, these things happen all the time, because the world can be unpredictable. This is even more true in congested public spaces.
Leashes help to mitigate this risk for you, your dog, and for others.
Leashes as a Nonverbal Cue
Dog guardians know how much communication happens through body language and nonverbal cues. We watch for subtle changes in posture, ear positions, and facial tension. We know that dogs respond to visual cues in their environment to gather information and determine whether they feel safe.
A leash is no different. It’s a visual signal to the world that clearly communicates: “You’re safe.”
When others see your dog on a leash, they don’t have to wonder whether that dog might suddenly approach or charge. They don’t have to do an emergency U-turn or come up with an escape plan in case things go south.
It’s one small action that helps create a feeling of safety for others.
Leashing as an Act of Community Care
We believe that everyone has a right to feel and be safe in shared public spaces.
At its heart, using a leash isn’t just about following the rules. It’s about communicating to others that you care about their experience enough to modify your own behavior.
It’s a small act of community care in a world that feels more divided every day.
How to Be a Thoughtful Leash Advocate
Maybe you’re already convinced, but you’re not sure how to talk about this with others. Here are some ways to advocate for leashing without shaming:
Lead by example. Keep your dog leashed in on-leash spaces. Others notice. The more responsible dog owners who follow leash laws, the more others are inclined to do so, building a culture of mutual respect and inclusion.
Share your perspective. Don’t blame or shame or you're likely to provoke a defensive reaction. Instead of “You’re breaking the rules,” try, “I’ve seen a lot of dogs get scared when approached off leash, so I always leash mine here.”
Focus on inclusion. Remind others that public spaces are for everyone, and leashing makes them more accessible.
Final Thoughts
Everyone has a right to feel safe in public.
Using a leash may feel like a mild inconvenience to you, but it could make this difference in someone else feeling safe enough to access a shared public space.
