Dogs in the Countryside: Livestock, Nesting Birds and the Rules

In the countryside, keep your dog on a leash around livestock and, in spring and early summer, where birds nest on the ground. In England and Wales, dogs must be on a leash on Open Access land from 1 March to 31 July. Always pick up after your dog, stay on paths where asked, and check local rules in national parks and nature reserves.

A dog on a short leash walking along a moorland path in spring heather — Spring on the moor: leash on, birds nesting.

Around Livestock

Sheep, cattle and other farm animals can be injured or killed by a chasing dog, and owners can be prosecuted in many countries. Keep your dog on a leash near livestock. If cattle threaten you, let go of the leash and get yourself to safety; your dog can usually outrun them. See dog law basics.

Ground-Nesting Birds

Birds such as skylarks, lapwings and curlews nest on the ground on moorland, heath, grassland, dunes and beaches. A dog running through can scare parents off nests, and eggs and chicks can be lost. In spring and early summer, keep your dog on a short leash or under close control in these places and stick to paths.

The Rules: They Differ by Country

England and Wales: the Countryside Code says to keep dogs on a leash around livestock. On Open Access land you must keep your dog on a leash from 1 March to 31 July, and around livestock at any time; the same applies at the coast around livestock. Check gov.uk.
Scotland: the Scottish Outdoor Access Code asks you to keep dogs on a short leash or close at heel near farm animals, to avoid fields with young stock, and during the breeding season (usually April to July) on moorland, forests, grassland and loch or sea shores. Check outdooraccess-scotland.scot.
United States: many national parks allow pets only on certain trails and require a leash; state parks and local areas set their own rules. Check the park's website before you go.
Elsewhere: national parks, nature reserves and beaches often have dog rules or seasonal bans. Check signs and official websites.

Pick Up, Every Time

Dog poo can spread illness to people, livestock and wildlife. Bag it and bin it, or take it home, even in fields and woods. Don't leave bags hanging on trees.

Gear for Country Walks

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A short, strong leash for livestock and nesting areas, a long line for safe freedom where allowed, poop bags with a dispenser, and a high-visibility vest so your dog is easy to spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Countryside questions, answered.

When is ground-nesting bird season?

Roughly spring to midsummer. In England and Wales, dogs must be on a leash on Open Access land from 1 March to 31 July.

What should I do if cattle chase us?

Let go of the leash and get yourself to safety. Your dog can usually outrun cattle.

Do I need to pick up poo in the countryside?

Yes. It can spread illness to people, livestock and wildlife.

Can I walk my dog in US national parks?

Often only on certain trails and on a leash. Check the park's rules first.