Walking dogs in woods – tips from the Woodland Trust

Woods are wonderful for dog walks. Sniffing out new smells and jumping over logs and tree trunks provides great exercise, stimulation and enrichment for our pets. The beautiful scenery, varied terrain and peaceful surroundings boost our own physical and mental health too. So, they’re hugely beneficial to both you and your dog.

Here, the Woodland Trust share some top tips for responsible walkies in the woods, ensuring dogs, people and wildlife can enjoy them in harmony.

 

1. Keep dogs close

When visiting our woods, please keep your dog in sight and under control at all times. We know there are lots of sights and smells to discover and they might be excited to explore, but dogs should be kept on a lead where signposted. This should be a short lead in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds, particularly during nesting season (usually March to July). Remember to be considerate of other visitors too.

 

2. Stick to paths

While it’s tempting to go off the beaten track and lose yourself in the leafy undergrowth, this can damage delicate wild plants on the woodland floor. Trampling feet and paws also disturb ground-nesting animals. Keep yourself and your dog on the paths to help wildlife thrive.

 

3. Clean up after your dog

People enjoy our woods for all sorts of reasons, but dog mess isn’t one of them. Please bag and bin any waste, and if you can’t find a bin in the woods dispose of it at home. Make the switch to compostable bags too – they’re much better for the planet than plastic bags. 

 

4. Don’t forget water on a hot day

Shady woods provide a cool escape on sunny summer days, but a long walk is thirsty work! Many of our woods are managed for nature, so there aren’t toilets and other facilities on site. Remember to pack some water for you and your dog to quench your thirst during your ramble.

 

5. Park with consideration

Think of others when you arrive at the woods. Avoid parking on verges and blocking access gates, and allow room for passing vehicles too.

 

6. Take litter home

No-one likes to see rubbish strewn around a beautiful woodland. But it’s not just an eyesore, it can be harmful for wildlife too. If you can’t find a bin in the woods, please take your litter home with you.

 

Find a wood for your next walk

We care for more than 1,000 woods across the UK. They’re free to visit and open all year round, so you and your pooch can enjoy leafy summer strolls, bold autumn colour or pretty spring blossom. Visit our website to find a wood near you.

 

Come and meet us at DogFest

We’ll be at DogFest 2021, shining a spotlight on the UK’s incredible woodlands. Pop along to our stand to find out how you can help us care for them and pick up a free tree to plant at home. Find out more.

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