Walk your dog without a leash: what law says and best practices

Promener son chien sans laisse : ce que dit la loi et les meilleures pratiques

Walking your dog freely, without the constraint of a leash, offers a real pleasure for many owners. Observing your four-legged companion Exploring and playing freely can greatly contribute to your physical and mental well-being. However, even if the vision of a dog -playing dog is pleasant, it raises important questions about the legal regulations and the responsibilities of the owners.

Legal framework of the dog walk without leash

French legislation does not include a specific law which generally imposes the holding of dogs on a leash in all public spaces. This flexibility may seem surprising, but it is part of a more local and adaptive approach to the management of public space and cohabitation between users.

Article L211-22 of the Rural Code is particularly relevant in this area. It stipulates that mayors are responsible for taking all the necessary measures to prevent the rambling of domestic animals, including dogs and cats. In this context, they can decide to impose the leash for dogs in certain areas, or even to require that dogs are muzzled, according to local necessities and the challenges specific to each municipality.

Distinction between dogs in freedom and dog in rambling

According to article L211-23 of the rural code, a dog is considered to be in a state of rambling if it is no longer under the effective surveillance of its master, out of reach, or if it is far from more than a hundred meters, except in the context of a hunting action or when it keeps or protects a herd.

Advice to avoid rambling:

    • Recall training: Make sure your dog responds reliably to recall orders, which is essential to prevent wandering and guarantee its safety.
    • Constant monitoring: Keep your dog at sight and voice at all times.
    • Use of suitable accessories: Devices such as whistles or bells can be useful for maintaining sound contact.
    • Respect for legal limits: Be aware of specific local regulations concerning the walk of dogs.
  • Identification and recording: Make sure your dog has a medal with his identification information.

Where can you walk your dog without a leash?

For a walk without enriching and safe leash, here are some places where you can let your dog explore freely, depending on the seasons and local rules:

  • Beaches outside the summer season:

    • Brétignolles-sur-Mer beach, Vendée : Imagine your dog gambling on the soft sand in autumn or winter, without a leash to hold it back. It is possible here from fall to spring!
    • Porsmilin beach, Finistère : A real paradise for dogs from September to April, where they can run freely along the water and play in the waves.
  • Welcoming parks and forests:

    • Fontainebleau, Île-de-France forest : A large forest playing field where dogs can stretch their legs on certain routes, perfect for an adventure day.
    • Miribel-Jonage park, Rhône : This park offers dedicated spaces where your four -legged companion can run at ease, while enjoying the surrounding nature.

Each of these places offers a special setting where your dog can enjoy freedom while respecting the environment and the rules in place. Before leaving, a small verification of the current rules will guarantee you an outpatient without worries. These getaways are a great way to strengthen links with your pet while allowing it to fully enjoy nature.

Seasonal regulations

Throughout the year, dogs must imperatively remain under the supervision of their master and not move away at more than 100 meters. From April 15 to June 30, a ministerial decree requires that dogs be held on a leash outside the forest aisles. It is essential to respect this rule for the preservation of fauna during its breeding period.

Improve your dog's recall

To improve your dog's recall and make each walk a moment of complicity, remember to use Marly & Dan educational treats. They are perfect for encouraging positive behavior and strengthening learning in a spirit of play and reward.

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In summary, the walk without a leash offers enriching freedom for your dog, but requires in -depth knowledge and compliance with local laws and regulations to ensure everyone's safety. By following these tips and using appropriate educational tools, such as Marly & Dan treats, you will contribute to harmonious and safe cohabitation in audiences. Good walks, always with responsibility and attention!