![](https://res.cloudinary.com/petrescue/image/upload/c_limit,w_700/v1718267013/sfcpknpktkg4g9lb237d.jpg)
Last updated: 1 Jul, 2024
Published on: 11 Jun, 2024
How to Respect Dog Boundaries On & Off Leash
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/petrescue/image/upload/c_crop,g_custom/v1718094271/aic9ao12wzdpmxpws8bb.jpg)
When it comes to off and on-leash areas, respecting the needs of every dog is important for a safe and fun adventure for all. Just like humans, dogs have their own preferences and comfort levels when it comes to social interactions. Let's hear from some of our furry friends about why giving space is so important.
There are many reasons why a dog might need space:
Nervousness: Like Phoebe and Zarla, some dogs can get anxious around others and need a gentle approach.
Phoebe, a young pup who loves playing with other dogs in an off-lead area says “I can get a bit nervous when I'm on the lead. Sometimes, my human and I just need a bit of space to feel comfortable and ready to go!"
“Off-lead areas are my favourite so I can join in on the fun and chase balls without being uncomfortable! But I do get a bit anxious when meeting new dogs on lead during walks." says Zarla
Walk with your best friend (furry or human) this September to help homeless pets find their best friend.
Post-Operative Care: Dogs recovering from surgery need to avoid rough play to heal properly.
Training: Puppies in training need focused time with their guardians without distractions.
Malfy, a very young pup, loves being off-lead but is also learning the training basics! He says “I love it when my human lets me off-lead! I get to say hi to other dogs and explore new smells and sights, but I listen out for my name and run back to my human if they call. I know they're just trying to keep me safe!"
Health Issues: Unwell dogs might not have the energy for social interactions.
Age: Older dogs, like Tiger, Rosie, & Obi need peace and quiet.
Rosie, who loves her peace and quiet on walks, says “I absolutely love my sniffy walks on lead with my humans (and tiny human!) While I am obsessed with people, I'm not really interested in making any furry friends. What can I say, as a lady in my retirement years I know what I do and don't like on walks!”
“I'm pretty indifferent to other dogs on walks, but I really value my personal space on walkies. I prefer a calm and quiet on-lead area where I can relax and sniff out all the smells without any unexpected encounters." says older boy Obi.
Tiger, a senior boy with arthritis says: “I enjoy a leisurely stroll these days, those youngsters zooming around off lead and bumping into me sure give me a fright! That's why me and my human visit on-lead walking spots."
Wildlife & Environmental Protection: Leashed dogs are less likely to disturb or harm native wildlife, which is particularly important in ecologically sensitive areas. Protecting our environment and its inhabitants is an added benefit of following leash etiquette.
Leashing your off-leash dog as soon as you see another dog on a lead is a simple and wonderfully considerate gesture for fellow dog guardians and their furry friends. By leashing up our dogs when we see an on-leash dog, we can relieve a lot of stress for both the dog and their guardian.
Maintaining a respectable and safe distance or giving the dog and their guardian time to move is essential for everyone's safety and comfort. By understanding and respecting these needs, we can ensure that all dogs and their humans have a positive experience, whether they're exploring off-lead areas or enjoying a peaceful on-lead walk.
Image Credits: Phoebe, Zarla, Obi, Malfy, Tiger & Rosie via their guardians.