There are several reasons why it's generally not a good idea to let your dog off-leash while walking on the street:

• Safety:

  • For your dog: Off-leash dogs are at a higher risk of being hit by cars. They can also run into traffic unexpectedly, causing accidents. Furthermore, they could encounter other animals that may be aggressive, leading to fights and injuries.
  • For others: An off-leash dog might scare or injure pedestrians, cyclists, or other animals. Some people are afraid of dogs, and an unleashed dog approaching them can be a frightening experience.
• Legal Requirements: Many cities and towns have leash laws that require dogs to be leashed in public areas. Violating these laws can result in fines or other penalties.

  For example, many jurisdictions have specific leash laws that can be referenced:

  • State Dog Laws from Animal Legal & Historical Center
• Unpredictable Behavior: Even well-trained dogs can be unpredictable. A sudden noise, a tempting scent, or another animal can trigger their instincts and cause them to bolt or act aggressively.
• Control: When your dog is on a leash, you have better control over their movements and behavior. This allows you to prevent them from getting into trouble, such as chasing other animals, eating something dangerous, or entering private property.