Leashes & exercise

It’s no secret that a well exercised and disciplined dog makes a happy and contented pet, so responsible pet owners need to make time to regularly exercise their animals.  Dogs must be leashed at all times in other public places to help you control them more easily and to increase the safety of other animals and people, except when in designated off-leash areas - view Exercise locations.

Just like you, your dog needs regular exercise. If possible, your pet should be walked every day, especially if you have an active breed or large dog. Regular exercise has many benefits for dogs. It calms your pet and helps reduce barking and nuisance behaviour. Exercise also builds bonds between owners and dogs which makes them happier and healthier pets.

To make exercise an activity that everyone can enjoy, it is important to keep your dog on a leash when walking in public areas.

Exercise on a leash

Exercising your dog on a leash provides your pet with positive mental stimulation and is extremely good for their health. Using a leash while exercising shows dogs who is in control and helps you react better to unexpected situations. Remember that many people are frightened or annoyed by dogs that are not leashed in public areas. Because you and your dog share public areas with other community members, you should always be considerate of other people. At no time should your dog become a nuisance or impede other people’s enjoyment.

To assist others seeing your dog whilst walking at night, Council suggests the use of a reflective device or collar.

Leash and exercising courtesy

Some people in the community may not share a love of dogs, so it’s important to respect their space and right to use public areas – pets need to be restrained and kept away from other people.  Even in off leash areas, it’s important to stop your dog from causing a nuisance or being aggressive towards other dogs.

Leash and exercise requirements

Dogs must be leashed at all times outside your property and you can only lead a maximum of two dogs at a time. Being a responsible owner means that you are responsible for the actions of your dog. It is your duty to clean up after your pet and to make sure that your dog isn’t disturbing other people and other animals.

Training and socialising

Training a dog to walk on a leash isn’t difficult – especially if started early. It takes time and patience but it will help your pet become socialised and interact safely with other dogs and people. See your vet or pet shop for further advice or help.

Penalties for not using a leash

Irresponsible owners who fail to walk their dogs on a leash when in public will face penalties including on the spot fines.  Compliance with leash laws is regularly checked to ensure that pet owners are taking their responsibility seriously.

Liability

Pet owners are responsible for the actions of their pets at all times – using a leash will minimise the risk. Proper restraint shows respect for the safety of others and the safety of your pet. Council has laws and they have to be enforced fairly and evenly to protect people and pets – using a leash is the law.

Off leash area

The Council provides a dedicated off leash area where owners may exercise their dogs.  Please remember to be considerate of others when using the off leash area, and remember that owners are responsible for the actions and behaviour of their dogs at all times.  Exercise locations