09/06/2024
Dogs off lead
We all complain because it is an issue, we as dog owners need to be more aware, mindful, considerate of other people and their dogs.
Firstly there is no blanket law for dogs to be on a lead. There are orders to say that dogs need to be on a lead in certain areas, such as beaches, parks well public areas.
The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2011 for NI has given powers to councils to force dog owners to keep their dogs on lead, ban dogs from designated areas, and to issue a Fixed Penalty Notice, to anyone braking council rules.
Letting your dog off lead when out walking-
Everyone wants their dog to be off lead to have a run around, sniff, explore etc freely. Which is fine
as long as you are totally sure that your dog does the following-
Responds to your verbal cues, your dog should come to you when called.
With lots of distractions such as crowded places, your dog needs to obey you no matter what!
Using a retractable lead is a really good way to give your dog more freedom, whilst still under control. This way you are sure you have control and your dog is safe.
What to do if your dog is off lead, runs off and doesn’t listen to you-
1 Don’t panic – stay calm
2 Do not chase – chasing will make your dog run faster as they may think it’s a game.
3 Get their attention calling their name to start, use a whistle, bring a toy, make a funny noise.
4 Do Not Scold – This will scare your dog, and could damage your relationship with them, and make them lose trust in you. So praise when they come back or when they look at you.
Recall training is key for your dog listening to you, and coming back to you to.
Making training for this needs to be fun so make it a game with a few treats to start, then fade them away. Lots of praise is also very important all of this makes coming back more attractive.
If anyone is working on this and maybe needing a bit of help, I can do this I’m happy to help.
Contact me on Facebook, Yell.com, Nextdoor and good old fashioned phone 07587340461. I’m Adrianne at Cody’s Barkey Bakes Dog Walking, Pet Visits, Dog Behaviour and Training. Fully Insured and Fully Qualified as a Behaviourist and Trainer.
Thanks for reading!