Is it illegal to let my dog off the lead in the UK?
DOG owners love nothing more than being able to let their pets roam free when out on a walk.
Many are left wondering what the rules are on when you have to keep your dog on a lead out in public.
Is it illegal to let my dog off the lead in the UK?
While it isn't illegal to let your dog off its lead in the UK, you do have to take extra precautions.
It is advised that dogs stay on their lead in certain areas including near a road, at a children's play park, and near sports pitches.
Beaches may be a popular place for people to take their dogs, but owners need to check for bans and if leads are compulsory.
Make sure you always check the area for signs before letting your dog roam free.
And of course make sure your dog is fully trained before letting it roam free, so it will come back when called.
Where can you walk a dog off its lead?
Dogs are able to be off their leads in a whole host of places.
Some of the more favourable places for dog walkers are large expanses of land such as parks and wooded areas.
When your dog is off its lead, make sure to keep them within eyeshot.
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While your pet may generally be friendly to strangers, try to stop your dog from approaching anyone it doesn't know.
Some parks will have designated dog areas for your four-legged friend to run free.
How much could I be fined for letting my dog off its lead?
You may be fined if you break the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO).
Local authorities may impose a PSPO in areas that can require dogs to be on a lead or ban dogs from an area altogether.
Breaching a PSPO can mean a £100 on the spot fine.
Larger fines can be imposed if your dog is off the lead and not under control.
Wherever you decide to walk your dog, always ensure you have bags to pick up after it or you could face a fine.