I understand your view, and I realize we are in basic agreement as well. I however see no loss in ability honestly...If I did, I wouldn't do it as I like quick reaction times...but we aren't running high speed rabbits either in open fields on a regular basis...although our dogs have caught some small game when on outings in the woods. Our dogs are for family protection and some use them to catch hog sized game...and our dogs can easily out maneuver such animals. So for me, it has been a non-issue and is all gain to do a moderate length dock...for there are no spilled drinks, knocked over candles, kids eyes aren't hit, no injured tails, etc.