Dog Walking in Denmark: When to Use a Lead.
Exploring the Danish countryside should be an enjoyable and trouble-free experience for both you and your dog. However, dog owners are responsible for keeping their dogs under control and ensuring that they do not disturb other visitors, livestock or wildlife.
Under Denmark’s Nature Protection Act, dogs must generally be kept on a lead in forests and other natural areas.
Areas with Grazing Livestock.
Avoid taking your dog into fenced areas where livestock are grazing whenever possible. If you do enter, keep your dog on a short lead and give the animals plenty of space.
If cattle or other livestock chase or threaten you, let go of your dog’s lead rather than risk being injured while trying to protect it. Your dog will usually be better able to escape on its own.
Dogs on Danish Beaches.
The general rules for dogs on Danish beaches are:
| Period | Rule |
|---|---|
| 1 April to 30 September | Dogs must be kept on a lead. |
| 1 October to 31 March | Dogs may be allowed off the lead, provided they remain under your full control. |
Local rules may vary, and dogs are completely prohibited on some beaches. Always check and follow the signs at the beach.
Failure to keep your dog on a lead where required may result in a fine.
Why Must Dogs Be Kept on a Lead?
Some children and adults are afraid of dogs. They have the same right as everyone else to feel safe in the countryside and on the beach. Even if you know that your dog is friendly, other people do not.
Free-running dogs can also frighten and distress wildlife. Their presence and scent may prevent wild animals from returning to feeding grounds, resting places or their young. Dogs that roam out of sight may also chase, injure or kill wildlife.
Who Enforces the Rules?
In publicly owned forests, natural areas and beaches, the rules are normally enforced by the relevant authorities, including forest officers and nature rangers. In urban areas, enforcement is generally handled by the police.
Remember: The general rules still apply even when no signs are displayed.
