Dog Walking Etiquette 101

Most of us love seeing dogs enjoying their freedom on footpaths and trails, and for the well-behaved, relaxed dog that stays close and ignores distractions, off-lead walking is a wonderful thing.

But if keeping your dog close and under control feels like a challenge - particularly around corners, junctions, on-lead dogs, livestock, elderly people, pushchairs, cyclists and small children - it might be worth considering whether off-lead is the right choice just yet. Building effective recall, teaching them to stay close when asked, and helping them to ignore other dogs and distractions unless invited to approach, are all really worthwhile goals to work towards.

And please don't worry

- nobody's dog is perfect! They will sometimes break a heel or a stay and embarrass us by checking somebody's pocket for treats, sneaking a ninja sniff at a passing dog, or taking just a little too long to come back when called. We've all been there, and it happens to everyone. The key is that on the whole, we're genuinely working towards control and safety, with courtesy and consideration for others around us.

Dog Walk Etiquette: Don't be One of 'Those' People

The attitude of 'let them get on with it', 'it's not my problem', or 'my dog is friendly' is something many of us have probably said at some point - but it's worth understanding that this approach can actually cause real distress to other dogs and their owners, and can even have legal consequences.

By all means enjoy off-lead time with friends and other dogs in a suitable space - that's what it's all about! Just be mindful about blocking gateways with dogs running loose as others approach, and if a fellow dog walker asks for a little space to pass, please do take a moment to get your dog under control. It's a small act of kindness that means a huge amount to those who need it.

It's also worth knowing that the law does take this seriously. Under Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act, a 'dangerously out of control' dog is defined as any dog, of any breed, that causes - or creates reasonable fear of - injury to any person or assistance dog. This means that if someone feels unsafe because your dog approaches with excitement or aggression, jumps up, barks at them, or otherwise worries them in any way, this could potentially lead to a prosecution. The penalties can be significant:

Non-aggravated offences can carry:

6 months imprisonment An unlimited fine A control order placed on the dog A destruction order placed on the dog Disqualification from owning an animal

Aggravated offences carry even more serious consequences:

Up to 14 years imprisonment if a person dies as a result of being injured Up to 5 years imprisonment where a person is injured Up to 3 years imprisonment where an assistance dog is injured or killed A control order or destruction order placed on the dog Disqualification from owning an animal

Start Today and Improve Over Time

Dog walking etiquette can start right now. There is a wealth of support out there - welfare groups,

forums, behaviourists, trainers, books and webinars - so if you're finding things tricky, please do reach out. Nobody expects perfection, but ignorance is unfortunately not a defence in law, so it's always worth being informed.

At Balance Behaviour we are so proud of our community and the commitment so many of you show to responsible, considerate dog ownership. It can be really disheartening when that hard work is undermined by difficult encounters out on walks. So let's all look out for each other - dogs and humans alike - and be part of the solution.

If you ever need advice or support, we're always here to help.

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