Dogs pulling on leads cause large number of hand and wrist injuries in UK, study shows

Experts say hooking fingers under a dog’s collar can cause finger fractures, while wrapping the lead around the wrist, hand or fingers can cause serious injury if the dog pulls suddenly. Photograph: Clare/Stockimo/Alamy

Walking your dog may be good for you and your canine companion, but research shows it can also be dangerous.

While the health benefits are numerous – encouraging increased activity levels and physical exercise, improving cardiovascular health and weight – researchers found that being pulled on the lead increases the risk of falls and injuries.