Walks Around Britain

Each year, millions of dogs enjoy a walk in the countryside with their owners, but there are a few things to remember to keep the countryside a pleasant place for you, your dog and fellow walkers.

All our walks have details about whether you should keep you dog on a lead, and any potiential hazzards.

On this page is some great information and advice on walking safely and confidently with you dog.

Keeping your dog under control

Lead or no lead...

On a public right of way, you don’t have to keep your dog on a lead – but it must always be under close control. If you can not completely rely on its obedience, it is better to keep it on a lead. Flexible leads are available which will allow your dog the freedom to explore and give you the control of bringing them back to you when you need them to be.

On Open Access land, you must keep your dog on a short lead (up to 2 metres) between 1 March and 31 July, and at all other times when near farm animals.

Other people

Look out for cyclists, runners and horseriders – they can be startled by your dog – or your dog could be startled to them – so it’s always best to keep your dog on a short lead as they come past.

Even the most pet-friendly person can be made uncomfortable by dogs, so don’t let your dog approach other dogs or people unless they are happy with this.

Wildlife

Even well-behaved dogs can scare wildlife away from their young, and during the ground-nesting season of 1 March and 31 July this is extremely important. You can help protect our wildlife by keeping your dog on a short lead keeping to designated tracks during this time.


Farm animals

Livestock will often see your dog as a threat. Sheep and lambs will often run away from a dog (particularly if they are Border Collies!) Cows may become aggressive to try to protect their young.

It is an offence to allow a dog to worry livestock, and any dog doing so can be legally shot.

To prevent any problems, always keep your dog on a short lead near farm animals.

However, if cattle act aggressively, drop the lead and get yourself to a place of safety – your dog will be able to get clear of any danger on its own.

Clean up all mess

Don’t give your dog – and all other dogs - a bad name… always deal with your dog’s mess!

Take special care to not leave dog mess on paths or areas where people walk. Remember that arable crops and grass are used for producing food for people or livestock, so always clean up in farmland too. Scented baby nappy bags are great for this as they hide the smell until you can dispose of the mess safely. Old fashioned carrier bags are ok if well tied up.

In many areas, there are special waste bins for dog mess.

There are some fantastic accomodation providers who aren't dog-ist, and allow your canine friends to stay as well, so you can go on great walks in the countryside together!

North Wales

Cadair View Lodge
Log cabin accommodation on a mountainside in the south of the Snowdonia National Park

Click here for information about looking after your dog whilst out walking