Can You Safely Walk Your Dachshund Off Lead?
As with all dogs, walks an essential part of a dachshund’s routine to maintain their health and wellbeing. As a dachshund owner, you may find yourself wondering, “can I walk my dachshund off lead?” In this blog post, we'll explore the factors to consider and provide insights into whether letting your dachshund roam free during walks is a safe and practical choice.
Training and Recall Skills
Dachshunds are known for their independent streak, and each dog has a unique temperament. Some dachshunds may have a strong recall and stick close to their owners, while others may be more prone to wander off in pursuit of interesting scents. Understanding your dachshund's personality is key to determining whether off-lead walks are a viable option.
Off-lead walks require a strong foundation in training and reliable recall skills. If your dachshund responds promptly to commands like "come" or "stay," and you've spent time reinforcing these skills in various environments, off-lead walking becomes a more feasible option. Consistent training plays a key role in ensuring your dachshund understands and follows commands reliably.
It is vital to not walk your dog off lead until they have good recall skills. If you can’t successfully recall your dachshund, this could put your dog into potentially dangerous situations, especially if they approach a dog that is nervous or unfriendly when they are uninvited. There is nothing worse than having an out of control dog charge at your nervous on-lead dog - and I can say that from experience, having had this happen to us with my dachshund on lead. Ensuring strong recall helps to protect not only your dog but also other dogs and owners too. A dog with poor recall could also run off into a road or other area where they could get injured, or worse, so it’s important to be cautious when introducing your dachshund to off-lead walking.
Local Lead Laws and Regulations
Check local laws and regulations in your area before deciding to walk your dachshund off lead. Some areas may require dogs to be on a lead for safety and control reasons. In the UK, you may have areas near you that are subject to Dog Control Public Spaces Protection Orders - these are often clearly marked with signage, but check with your local council to ensure you know the rules where you live. This can mean that there are certain public places where you can’t walk your dog at all, or where they must be kept on a short lead only. Respecting these rules ensures a good relationship with other walkers, pets, and the wider community.
Gradual Introduction
If you're keen on transitioning to off-lead walks, start gradually in a secure, enclosed area. In the UK, your local council may offer designated dog exercise areas or parks which are secure areas to exercise your dog. There are also many private owners of fields that offer secure spaces for hire for an hour or two to exercise your dog. When gradually introducing your dachshund to off lead freedom, a secure space gives you the chance to observe your dachshund's behaviour and response in a lower risk environment. Over time, you can expand the off-lead experience to more open spaces while remaining vigilant about potential risks.
If you're hesitant about off-lead walks or your dachshund's recall skills are a work in progress, consider using a long training lead or a retractable lead as this can also be a good middle ground. These options provide your dachshund with a bit more freedom while still allowing you to maintain control in various situations.
Walking your dachshund off lead can be a rewarding experience, provided you've carefully considered factors such as temperament, training, safety concerns, and local regulations. Always prioritise your dachshund's well-being and tailor your walking approach to suit their individual needs. With patience, consistency, and a keen awareness of your dachshund's behaviour, you can strike the right balance between freedom and safety during your walks together.
