At this time of year, I love getting out into the countryside. Fresh air, open spaces, and a break from the busy streets are great.
However, heading out into rural areas, we have extra responsibilities, especially around livestock.
Whilst you may trust your dog thoroughly and they are well-trained, it is never worth taking the chance.
Thinking ahead can keep your dog and the animals around you safe.
Follow the Countryside Code
When you visit the countryside, it is important to remember the country code, as this helps protect the land, the wildlife, and the working farms we share it with.
- Close every gate behind you.
- Stick to signposted paths and public rights of way
- Take all litter home with you
Leaving gates open can allow animals to escape.
Straying off paths can damage crops or disturb nesting birds.
Even small bits of rubbish can harm animals or spoil someone else’s walk.
It only takes a few seconds to make the right choice.
Meeting Livestock on Your Walk
Spring is a busy time in the fields.
Calves and lambs are everywhere.
If you see Liquorice on your walk, stop and think carefully before entering the field.
If you can take a safe alternative route rather than crossing the field. If you have to cross the field, then please
- Keep to the edge
- Move quietly and steadily
- Keep your dog on a short lead
Remember, mothers of cows, sheep or indeed any animal will be protective of their young just like we are
If cattle do start to approach you, keep calm, don’t make any sudden movements, and try to slowly walk away without running. As a general rule, once you start moving away slowly and they can see you are not a threat, they will lose interest.
Understanding Sheep Worrying
Sheep worrying covers more than attacks.
It includes chasing, barking at, or disturbing sheep.
Even playful dogs can cause stress that leads to injury or miscarriage in pregnant ewes.
I think about the farmer too.
Sheep are a huge investment for them.
Losing sheep to worrying can mean serious financial problems.
Dog faeces left on grazing land can spread diseases.
Some infections can kill unborn lambs or make entire flocks sick.
The law treats sheep worrying as a criminal offence.
You could face a fine or even prison if your dog worries sheep.
Don’t take the risk and keep your dog on a short lead
Advice I Follow When Walking My Dog in the Countryside
Every time I walk in rural areas, I stick to simple rules:
- Keep my dog under control at all times
- Stay on public rights of way
- Use a lead during lambing season
- Keep my dog on a lead if I’m unsure how they’ll behave
- Watch for livestock that may have been moved into new fields
Farmers work hard to care for their animals.
If they feel their livestock is under threat, they have the legal right to shoot a dog.
If they take action, they must report it to the police within 48 hours.
Nobody wants to be in that situation.
Keeping your dog under control protects everyone.
Why Farm Animals Are Not Pets
It’s easy to think of sheep and cows as gentle and friendly.
But I remind myself every time—they are not pets.
I don’t stroke them.
I don’t feed them.
I don’t let my dog get close to them.
Even the calmest dog can frighten livestock.
Animals may see any dog as a threat, no matter how small or well-behaved they seems.
When I walk near livestock, I stay alert.
I keep my dog close and calm.
I plan my route and make changes if needed.
How You Can Keep the Countryside Safe
Small actions make a big difference.
When you walk your dog in the countryside, you help keep it safe for everyone by:
- Closing the gates behind you
- Keeping dogs on a lead near livestock
- Sticking to marked footpaths
- Taking litter home
- Respecting farmers’ land and animals
It doesn’t take much to walk responsibly.
It keeps your dog safe.
It protects the animals and wildlife that share these spaces with us.
When you walk in the countryside, you are a guest.
Please treat it with care and help preserve it for future walks and generations.
By thinking ahead, following the rules, and keeping my dog close, I make sure our walks are safe and stress-free for everyone.
If you plan a countryside walk soon, think about your route, surroundings, and dog.
It only takes a little preparation to enjoy the countryside the right way.