The tape leash lead is a problem on windy days because it has a lot of air resistance at full extension --it  actually flaps around. Prefer a cord type leash instead of tape for that reason. My German Shepherd hated it so much he turned around and bit through it in a flash. Uh, oh! The remaining tape retracted inside. You cannot open this model. Barbed metal studs for a one time press fit...get it? But I forced it open anyway. The flat metal spring came off the reel exploding into a ball of spring steel the size of a soccer ball. Clunk in the trash. True story. Went back to the corded leash (different brand) and now appreciate that one a lot more! It has lasted for 6 months of walks with my 100+ lb. Shepherd. And he often explodes into a run here in the country. I walk him on an electric scooter at 6 MPH for over an hour a day. Lots of fun for both of us. This rinky dink "Flexi" brand was pure garbage and that is where it went. For you with your little rat on a rope doggie it will probably last longer than your dog -- so keep perspective.
The tape leash lead is a problem on windy days because it has a lot of air resistance at full extension --it  actually flaps around. Prefer a cord type leash instead of tape for that reason. My German Shepherd hated it so much he turned around and bit through it in a flash. Uh, oh! The remaining tape retracted inside. You cannot open this model. Barbed metal studs for a one time press fit... get it? But I forced it open anyway. The flat metal spring came off the reel exploding into a ball of spring steel the size of a soccer ball. Clunk in the trash. True story. Went back to the corded leash (different brand) and now appreciate that one a lot more! It has lasted for 6 months of walks with my 100+ lb. Shepherd. And he often explodes into a run here in the country. I walk him on an electric scooter at 6 MPH for over an hour a day. Lots of fun for both of us. This rinky dink "Flexi" brand was pure garbage and that is where it went. For you with your little rat on a rope doggie it will probably last longer than your dog -- so keep perspective.