17: Managing excitement during the start of walks

Decision Theme: Managing excitement during the start of walks

The beginning of a walk is often the most energetic moment. Excitement peaks before settling into a rhythm.

Before switching to this lead, those first few minutes often felt chaotic. I considered this retractable option because I wanted controlled flexibility during that high-energy phase.

After using it consistently, the change was subtle but meaningful. The lead allows initial excitement without sacrificing control. Over time, the dog adjusted to the smoother response, and those early moments became calmer.

For owners dealing with energetic starts rather than constant pulling, this balance makes daily walks easier to manage.