09/09/2025
There’s a saying that applies perfectly to dog ownership: just because you can, it doesn’t mean you should.
Yes, your dog may have brilliant recall. Yes, they may trot at your side like a magnet. But letting them off-lead near roads or livestock isn’t about trust—it’s about risk. One unexpected distraction, one moment of instinct over training, and disaster can strike.
Dog training is about more than teaching commands—it’s about keeping your dog, and others, safe. A common question owners face is whether to allow their dogs off-lead. While good recall is essential, the decision isn’t just about ability; it’s about responsibility.
Roads are never safe places for off-lead dogs. Even the most obedient dog can be startled by a car horn, a cyclist, or a sudden noise. A single dash into the road could result in an accident, endangering your dog and others.
Livestock areas carry legal and ethical responsibilities. Whether your dog is used to being around livestock and horses or not, if they are not yours it should common sense to slip your lead on. An intrusive or chasing dog can cause stress which can lead to spooking, miscarriages in pregnant animals, injuries from stampedes, or worse.
When to keep the lead on:
Around roads or traffic of any kind.
Near livestock, horses, or wildlife.
In public areas where dogs must legally be on-lead.
When off-lead can be safe:
In secure, fenced spaces.
In designated dog areas.
On open land with no livestock or traffic risk, where recall is reliable.
Training your dog gives you the option of freedom, but responsible ownership means knowing when not to use it.
