Dogs and public rights of way
Information about dogs and public rights of way
- Q: Can a landowner stop me from taking my dog along a public right of way?
- Q: Does a dog have to be kept on a lead?
- Q: What if my dog cannot get over a stile?
- Q: Is the fouling of public paths by dogs an offence?
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Q: Can a landowner stop me from taking my dog along a public right of way?
A: It is generally accepted that dogs can be taken along a public right of way, although they must not stray from the line of the path.
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Q: Does a dog have to be kept on a lead?
A: There is no requirement for a dog to be on a lead unless a bylaw or order is in force. However, dogs should remain under close control and on the public right of way, and with some dogs the only way to do this in practice may indeed be to use a lead, particularly if there are sheep present. If your dog chases or attacks livestock or looks like it is going to chase of attack, the landowner or farmer would be entitled to shoot it. When taking a dog through a field with livestock be aware that they may chase the dog, particularly if they have young. Consider your safety and that of your dog.
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Q: What if my dog cannot get over a stile?
A: Stiles are the responsibility of the landowner but the landowner does not have to make stiles suitable for dogs.
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Q: Is the fouling of public paths by dogs an offence?
A: This is an offence if a relevant bylaw is in force, and could also be a common law nuisance. It is also an offence if the local Council has designated the land under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996. Dog fouling may also be a civil wrong against the landowner. Even where an offence is not committed it is still good practice to clear up after your dog. If you have a complaint about dogs fouling a public right of way, the local district council may be able to help in urban areas.
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