13/10/2024
There was recently a dog on dog incident in which resulted in an upsetting outcome and since then a few other incidents have been raised regarding dogs off leads not being in control by their owner. Therefore we wanted to provide some advice to dog owners regarding on lead and off lead etiquette.
Engagement, focus, and reliable recall is required if your dog is off the lead. Your dog coming when you call them, is crucial. If you’re comfortable with your pet being off lead please ensure they have good recall in place.
Here are some tips below which will help make sure both your dog and other dogs have the best time off and on the lead:
• Keep your pooch away from other dogs that are on-lead. Many owners will keep their dog on lead for various reasons such as training, reactive behaviour towards other dogs or people, nervousness, not reliable recall, legal or health reasons (including if their dog is post-surgery and is on strict gentle walks).
• Be sure to keep a close eye on your dog at all times – they may wander into an area that you’re not familiar with when they’re distracted by the other dogs
• It’s important to monitor dogs playing in a group environment because things can quickly escalate, especially when a new dog is introduced to the group
• When your dog is off lead, you should keep them away from others that are on lead
• When passing another dog, whether on or off the lead, it’s good etiquette to put your dog on a lead.
• We’re dealing with animals, and even though they may behave well most of the time, it’s wise to have full control.
One of the main concerns is people who let their dogs bound over to other dogs - who may be on the lead or walking quietly beside their owner - usually with some person shouting after them “don’t worry, he’s friendly”
When you are out walking your dog, don’t let them dash up to other dogs - especially if they are on a lead. Dogs will be on lead for a reason. If you see an on-lead dog and your dog is off lead, call your dog back, give them a treat and put them on the lead until you have passed them.
If you can’t do that, don’t have your dog off lead around others.
Further advice and resources can be found on: https://orlo.uk/lUU9j
Regarding animal crime you can find information here: https://orlo.uk/f1lzw
[image taken from the respect the lead website]
