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Written by Paul
Dr Paul Manktelow is a vet who’s worked for almost 20 years on the front line in some of the UK’s busiest veterinary hospitals. As Chief Vet in the Charity Sector, he leads a team of vets and nurses that treat thousands of pets every year. Paul also appears regularly in the media as a TV and radio presenter, writer, public speaker and podcast producer.
A dog walk should be one of life’s simple pleasures. But every dog owner knows there are moments where things can change in seconds…an off-lead dog charging over, a nervous dog reacting, a sudden chase after livestock.
With dog-related incidents on the rise in the UK, being aware, prepared and in control has never been more important. These aren’t just good habits for training, they can also keep you on the right side of the law.
Why Control Matters
Under Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act, your dog doesn’t have to bite to land you in legal trouble. If someone feels threatened, or if your dog causes injury to another dog or livestock, you could be held responsible.
The safest way to protect both your dog and yourself is by having effective recall, using an appropriate lead, and staying alert to your surroundings.
The Lead Debate: Why Shorter is Safer
It’s tempting to give dogs more freedom with an extendable lead, but in busy areas these can actually make it harder to control them. Many trainers recommend leads no longer than 1.5 metres in public places, especially if your dog’s recall isn’t perfect.
A shorter lead:
- Prevents lunging or sudden approaches to people and dogs
- Makes it easier to navigate crowds and narrow paths
- Reduces the risk of tangling or tripping hazards
If you want to give your dog more space to explore, choose an enclosed area or a quiet, open space where they can be safely off lead.
Recall: More Than Just a Command
Reliable recall is one of the most important skills any dog can learn. It’s not just about avoiding embarrassment when your dog ignores you, it’s a safeguard against legal and safety risks.
Practice recall regularly in different environments and with distractions. Use high-value rewards and keep sessions short and positive. A dog that returns immediately when called is far less likely to end up in a risky situation.
Real-Life Examples from the Field
In The Consult Room podcast, I shared a walk where I spotted a puppy on a fully extended lead bouncing from side to side on the path. I leashed my own dog, Rodney, to avoid an unwanted encounter. Despite politely asking the owner to shorten their lead, the puppy still approached and tensions rose. It was a perfect example of how quickly a simple walk can escalate.
Gemma Taylor from Blue Cross described similar experiences, shouting polite warnings to other owners, only to be ignored. She makes a habit of scanning ahead for potential issues and putting her own dog on a lead well before contact. That small step often prompts others to do the same.
Why Awareness is Your Best Tool
Good control starts with good observation. Avoid being distracted by your phone, and keep an eye on the environment ahead. Look for:
- Off-lead dogs in the distance
- Narrow paths or blind corners
- Livestock in nearby fields
- Children running or cycling towards you
Taking action early can prevent situations from escalating.
Education Makes a Difference
If you want to learn more about staying safe and within the law, the Responsible Dog Ownership Course (RDOC) run by Blue Cross is an excellent resource. It covers the legal responsibilities of dog ownership, how to interpret canine body language, and practical tips for managing your dog in public.
Listen to the Full Conversation
Hear real-life walking scenarios, practical training tips, and legal insights in my full conversation with Gemma Taylor on The Consult Room podcast:
🎧 Could Your Dog Land You in Court? Why Responsible Dog Ownership Matters
Most dog incidents are preventable with a mix of training, awareness and common sense. A shorter lead in busy places, reliable recall, and early intervention when you spot a risk can make all the difference, and could keep you and your dog out of serious trouble.
