The Canine Code: How Dog Walkers can Help Protect Wildlife

Dog walkers can help protect wildlife

Who are we?

Coast and Country Canines was set up to help dog owners enjoy natural spaces while protecting the wildlife that lives there.

The initiative was created by Bird Aware Solent in response to increasing pressure on coastal birds from everyday visits, including dog walking. Our aim is to build a community of dog owners who choose to walk in a safer, more enjoyable and wildlife aware way.

As dog owners ourselves, we understand how important it is to have access to the countryside. We also know that most of the time wildlife is disturbed, it happens unintentionally, simply because people don’t realise its impact.’ By championing responsible dog ownership and raising awareness of the problem, we aim to empower the community to be part of the positive change while out exploring the great outdoors.

With just a little extra awareness and planning, we can all make a big difference to the wildlife we love. OS maps are the gold standard for advice when exploring a new area, finding footpaths and locating hidden gems – we are excited to be teaming up with this expert organisation to raise awareness of wildlife aware dog walking.

What is bird disturbance?

If a wild animal has to stop, or even pause, carrying out any natural behaviour because of our presence, then we have caused disturbance.

Many people who love getting out in nature will already be keen observers of local wildlife. Along the coast, you might see birds feeding on exposed mudflats and sandflats between tides, or resting out on the water while they conserve energy and wait for the tide to drop.

In the Solent, this is especially important during the winter months, when migratory birds that have travelled thousands of miles rely on these habitats to build up their fat reserves. In summer, many shingle beaches also become breeding sites, where birds nest and raise their young – something we can enjoy watching from a safe distance.

Wildlife disturbance happens when an animal has to stop- or even just pause – its natural behaviour because of our presence. This can be easy to cause without realising.

Disturbance can be as subtle as a bird stopping its feeding to look up and assess a possible threat. But even small interruptions matter. Repeatedly being forced to stay alert or move away causes stress and uses up valuable energy, and birds may be pushed away from good feeding areas. During the breeding season, disturbance can also interrupt courtship, nesting or chick rearing – with potentially serious consequences.

To wild animals, all dogs appear as predators – regardless of how well behaved they are. This means birds will usually feel they need to move away if a dog gets too close.

How can using an OS map make your dog walk more wildlife-friendly?

Use your trusty OS map to spot any sensitive areas for wildlife along your route It can also help you plan a dog-friendly journey, particularly in places where stiles and livestock are a feature.

One of the easiest ways to look after nature on dog walks is to follow our simple Canine Code.

Being mindful of your surroundings and understanding your dog’s behaviour will help you keep you, your dog, and those around you safe. Consider how your dog reacts to wildlife, livestock, other dogs, unfamiliar people, or children. What steps can you take to make sure that everyone feels safe? Skills like training our dogs to come back when called or to walk on lead happily all make it much easier to enjoy nature respectfully.

By keeping dogs on paths and alongside us as we explore, we can keep them and the resident wildlife safe. Think about all the engagement games you can play while on your walk to keep their attention away from the birds.

By giving wildlife the space it needs to survive and thrive, we help protect the natural world on our doorstep, keeping it safe for everyone to enjoy. There are so many wonderful paths to explore, from footpaths and bridleways to accessible routes and national trails. By using your OS map and planning ahead for both your dog and local wildlife, you can create a safe, stress-free and wildlife-aware walk.

Keep an eye out for signs when you are out and about. They might highlight sensitive times of day (like low tide feeding), seasonal restrictions during breeding, safety information about livestock, as well as tips on wildlife to enjoy.

As well as planning ahead with your OS map you should also consider your dog’s needs, abilities and drives. What do they do really well, and what needs a little more work? To help, Coast and Country Canines have lots of free training guides and information available on its website to support wildlife aware dog walking.

We also have a wide selection of blogs for dog walking tips, advice and inspiration, and a range of walking routes around the Solent coast to help you find your next adventure.

So, grab the map, a pair of binoculars, your faithful hound (with their lead and poo bags) and of course your rucksack of snacks and supplies – and let’s get out there!

Being part of the Coast and Country Canines community is all about like-minded dog walkers choosing to walk in a safer, more enjoyable and wildlife aware way.