Devon Wildlife Trust is urging dog owners to keep their pets on short leads now that birds are nesting, species are emerging from hibernation and to protect grazing livestock. 

Experts say dogs off leads are one of the biggest causes of wildlife disturbance – this is particularly problematic when many species are breeding and vulnerable either on or near the ground. 

Ground-nesting birds such as curlew, corn bunting and skylark, are particularly at risk. Research shows that 66% of ground-nesting birds are in decline in the UK, compared to 31% of other species.  

Dogs can also be a threat to sheep, cows and other grazing livestock, with regular problems reported on land owned by Devon Wildlife Trust. Dog waste is dangerous for wildlife too, as it can carry diseases, scare away animals and fertilise soils, affecting the natural balance of fragile habitats. 

Dog owners can help wildlife if they: 

• Keep dogs on short leads on nature reserves and the wider countryside 
• Clean up after animals and dispose of dog waste in bins or at home 
• Avoid using nature reserves if walking large groups of dogs  

Many of Devon Wildlife Trust’s 59 nature reserves welcome responsible dog walkers but instances of loose dogs disturbing wildlife, livestock and people have led it to act. Now the charity, which manages many of Devon’s best-known beauty spots including sites at Dunsford (Dartmoor), Bystock Pools (East Devon), Warleigh Point (Plymouth), Meeth Quarry (North Devon) and Andrew’s Wood (South Devon) is issuing a public plea with spring fast approaching.

Penny Mason, Director of Wilder Living at Devon Wildlife Trust, says:

“I am a dog owner myself, and I know that exploring the countryside with your dog is a way that many people connect with and enjoy nature. But Devon Wildlife Trust and many of our partners are experiencing increasing issues linked to dogs on our nature reserves. Dogs off leads routinely disturb ground nesting birds and other wildlife. They have attacked livestock that we use to support conservation grazing and dog fouling is a perennial problem that spoils enjoyment of our sites for staff and visitors alike. Fear of dogs is also a big barrier for some people visiting green spaces where they run free.

Wildlife has been increasingly squeezed into smaller and more fragmented places. Where we have established nature reserves, we do need to make sure wildlife has the space and peace to thrive. This is why we ask dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead and clear up after them. By following this simple request wildlife and people will benefit.”

Jenna Kiddie, head of canine behaviour at Dogs Trust, says:

“A countryside dog walk is understandably popular, especially as we move into the warmer months. But owners have a responsibility to keep their dog under control, including around livestock and wildlife, to ensure they do not worry other animals or stray onto neighbouring land for everyone’s safety and wellbeing.

“This can be managed by ensuring dogs are kept on a short lead, and close to their owners, whenever livestock are nearby, within seeing, hearing or smelling distance or whenever their presence is likely to be expected. It is important to remember that chasing is normal dog behaviour, and that any dog is capable of chasing, irrelevant of breed, type, age or size.

The impacts of dogs off leads in wild places include trampling nests and scaring adult birds away from their young. Vulnerable chicks can perish if left alone for too long. Disturbances can also affect feeding and foraging behaviour – wildlife is less likely to breed and feed in areas where dogs are encountered. 

The law states you must keep your dog on a lead no longer than two metres between 1^st March and 31^st July when on any open access land to protect ground-nesting birds.  

The Countryside Code outlines that dogs must be controlled to avoid disturbing farm animals or wildlife. Farmers are, by law, entitled to destroy a dog that injures or worries their animals. 

Jenna Kiddie, Head of Canine Behaviour at Dogs Trust, continues:

“Training has a crucial role to play and at Dog School we teach owners how to ensure their dog walks nicely on their lead around distractions – such as the sights, smells and sounds of other animals. We would encourage dog owners to visit our Dog School website for more information on training techniques, or to book onto training classes. 

“For dog owners living in rural areas, we emphasise the importance of habituating young puppies to livestock. This should be done gradually and considerately so the dog and livestock alike are able to feel positively and safe in close proximity to each other, again with the dog always on a lead and under control.

“As a responsible dog owner, you can also ensure that everyone is able to enjoy countryside walks and protect wildlife by ensuring you pick up after your dog and dispose of dog waste appropriately.”

Responsible dog owners who keep their dogs on leads during nature's busy season will also be helping wildlife by:  

• Lessening the negative impacts of dog poo and urine.
• Preventing dogs jumping in ponds, which can disturb aquatic wildlife. Insecticides found in dog flea treatments also pollute waterways. 
• Reducing risks to other animals, including farm livestock.