Dog owners warned of £2,000 fine for this simple mistake

53% would take their pooch on a staycation, as May half-term approaches

Dog owners are being warned of a £2,000 fine if their dog is found in a public place without a name and address on their collar, as per The Control of Dogs Order 1992. 

With another May bank holiday and half-term just around the corner, many are getting ready for their UK staycations, with over half of dog owners set to bring their furry companions along with them*. From gentle strolls to longer hikes, owners will be keen to let their dogs run free, particularly in less populated areas, and may forget some often-overlooked musts. 

With this in mind, Edward Creaser, dog expert and Director of the Natural Dog Food Company, has shared his tips for ensuring you and your dog avoid any unintended fines and keep to The Countryside Code.

“The Countryside Code is a set of official guidelines designed to help visitors enjoy rural areas responsibly. If you’re walking your dog in the countryside, following the Code helps preserve the natural beauty of the landscape and supports local farming and wildlife conservation.”

1. Respect Wildlife, Livestock, and the Landscape

• Stick to marked paths and public footpaths to prevent damage to crops and habitats. Do not allow your dog to trample on wildflowers, disturb plants, or remove natural features such as stones or fallen branches.
• Keep your dog on a short lead near livestock or wildlife. Even the most obedient dogs can be tempted to chase sheep, cattle, deer, or nesting birds.

2. Keep your dog under control

• Whether on or off the lead, your dog should always be within sight and responsive to recall.
• Be especially careful around waterfowl, ground-nesting birds, and woodland areas where your dog might be tempted to chase animals or venture into dangerous terrain.

3. Clean Up After Your Dog

• Always carry dog waste bags and dispose of them in designated bins or take them home.
• Never leave dog mess behind—it can harm livestock, spread disease, and spoil the countryside for others. Owners can be issued with a fixed penalty notice of up to £100 or a fine of £1000 if prosecuted for not complying with regulations. 

4. Follow local dog walking rules

• Some areas may have seasonal restrictions or by-laws requiring dogs to be on leads at certain times, such as during lambing or bird nesting seasons. To find out about dog leash requirements in a new area, you can check the local council’s website.
• In nature reserves and national parks, check signs for specific rules—some may have dog-free zones to protect sensitive habitats.
• Always respect signage and any instructions from landowners or rangers.
• If your walk takes you to a beachy hotspot, make sure there are no bans on dogs, as hundreds of locations have introduced restrictions until the end of September.

By following these guidelines and ensuring your dog is properly identified, you can enjoy worry-free adventures in the great outdoors while being a responsible pet owner and countryside visitor.