Some of the off-leash fringe have accused me of misrepresenting the American Kennel Club's position on leashing ones dog in public. Below is an exceprt from their website:
AKC's Position Statement on the Right to Keep and Enjoy Dogs
The American Kennel Club recognizes the special obligation of dog owners, not only to their pets but also to their neighbors. The AKC supports "curbing" and clean-up ordinances, leash laws, nuisance laws, and other reasonable regulations designed to ensure that dogs and their owners remain respected members of their communities.
I don't think there's much room for confusion.