Stop screaming "don't worry my dog’s friendly" and show respect for all dogs.

humaneanimalrescue
Dec 7, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Dec 14, 2025

Why Keeping Your Dog on Leash Is an Act of Love and Respect

While letting your dog roam off-leash might feel like the ultimate expression of freedom and trust, the reality is more complex. An off-leash dog in shared public spaces faces risks that even the best training can't eliminate.

"But My Dog Never Runs Off..."

If you're thinking this, consider: dogs aren't machines. Even well-trained dogs can make split-second decisions driven by instinct, excitement, or fear. In shared environments where you can't control every variable, a single unexpected trigger can override months of training.

Rethinking What Dogs Actually Need

Here's something that might surprise you: dogs don't need to be off-leash to live fulfilling lives. Despite popular belief, most dogs don't require hours of high-intensity exercise or long-distance runs.

What dogs truly need is enrichment. This includes sniffing, chewing, digging, rolling, eating, and playing. Instead of fixating on steps, speed, and distance, let's shift our focus to quality experiences that let your dog simply be a dog.

The Reality of Off-Leash Risks

Dog rushes and attacks from off-leash dogs are more common than many people realise. Even friendly approaches can quickly escalate into dangerous situations, especially when other dogs or people aren't comfortable with the interaction.

What Your Off-Leash Dog Is Risking:

Unpredictability in Uncontrolled Environments

Your dog isn't a robot and will react differently in spaces you can't control. Unexpected wildlife, loud noises, or sudden movements can trigger instinctive responses that override training.

Wildlife Dangers and Conservation

I still remember seeing an off leash dog running up to an owner bountiful and so excited about the rabbit it had caught in its mouth in the early morning walk. Wildlife can pose serious hazards to your dog, from venomous snakes to aggressive native animals protecting their territory. Meanwhile, off-leash dogs threaten native wildlife populations, disrupting ecosystems that rely on careful balance.

Other People

Not everyone is comfortable around dogs. Some people have phobias, allergies, or past trauma. Children may be frightened. By keeping your dog leashed, you show respect for others sharing these spaces and prevent situations where strangers feel compelled to handle your dog, which introduces its own risks.

Other Dogs

Dog rushes and attacks often stem from factors beyond anyone's control: a dog's past trauma, fear, territorial instincts, or simply being caught off-guard. When an off-leash dog approaches a leashed dog, you're creating an unfair dynamic that can quickly turn dangerous.

When dogs are practising not responding, reacting and listening to their owners on leash and are rushed by another dog this can undo so much training and reinforce reactivity.

Hidden Environmental Hazards

Suburban areas commonly harbor unseen dangers: poisoned baits targeting pests that can kill dogs, parasites in contaminated water or soil, toxic plants, sharps and discarded items that dogs might ingest. These risks are real and frequently reported by veterinarians.

I see time and time again posts on the community facebook groups “anyone else's dog have gastro from the park?” - these risks are real and common.

Leashing Shows Respect

Ultimately, using a leash demonstrates respect for your community, for wildlife, and most importantly, for your own dog's safety.

Support Is Available

If leashing feels unmanageable or you're struggling with leash training, you're not alone. Here's what you can do:

Work with a fear-free trainer – Find qualified professionals who use positive reinforcement methods here
Use a long line – long leads (15-30 feet) give your dog space to explore while maintaining control
Communicate clearly – Add visible notes to your dog's harness or vest: "Anxious - Do Not Approach" or "In Training" like this one here
Educate yourself – Learn to read dog body language and understand what your dog is communicating here